Society of Interdisciplinary Research
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SINGAPORE VISA and LOCAL INFORMATION
Visa Requirement
Visitors from most countries do not require a visa for entry into Singapore. However, there are a few exceptions. Before traveling to Singapore, individuals planning to attend the conference MUST consult Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)’s website to clarify visa requirements. Alternatively, you can get in touch with your local consular office for information.
Language
English is widely spoken in Singapore.
Other official languages are Mandarin, Malay and Tamil.
Weather
Singapore is a sunny island with no distinct season all year round. It has an average temperature ranging between 25ºC (77ºF) to 31ºC (88ºF) so do bring along your sunglasses, caps or hats and swim gear!
Due to its geographical location and maritime exposure, it is like a tropical rainforest. Rainfall is a common occurrence, especially in November so do be prepared. These showers are usually refreshing and provide respite from the sun.
Currency
The local currency is the Singapore dollar (SGD).
Money changing services are readily available at the Singapore Changi Airport, and at many shopping centres and hotels in the city.
You may also choose to withdraw money using major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) from any automated teller machines (ATMs), which can be easily found.
Telephone
The international dialling code is +(65).
With international roaming service, you can directly dial the 8-digit local phone numbers without adding +(65)
Goods and Services Tax
Goods & Services Tax (GST) is 7% in Singapore.
Spend at least SGD 100 a day from a retailer to qualify for refunds.
Enjoy tax-free shopping at retailers that offer the Tax Refund service.
At other retailers, ask for GST Refund Forms and keep your receipts to get your refunds processed at the airport right before you fly out of Singapore. Tax refunds do not apply if you’re leaving by land or sea.
Explore Singapore
Visitors who prefer to explore Singapore on their own may find the links below useful. Most of them provide information on getting to the place by public transport:
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The Original Singapore Walks bring people into places most other tours don't. Pre-booking is not necessary.
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Explore the nature reserves in Singapore: Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserves for bird-watchers; Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the Southern Ridges for those who love trekking; Labrador Nature Reserve for those who like a sea view and some history of Singapore.
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Have a relaxing day in laid-back Pulau Ubin, an island that's home to Singapore's last villages or "kampongs". At the same time, visit Chek Jawa for a piece of Singapore's ecosystems.
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Visit local farms and buy some fresh produce.
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Go museum-hopping or catch a performance while in Singapore.
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Take in the Singapore skyline on the Singapore Flyer.
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Tour the new Marina Barrage, Singapore's first reservoir in the city.
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Spend a day on Sentosa Island.
Electricity
Electricity in Singapore is 230 Volts, alternating at 50 cycles per second.
Outlets in Singapore generally accept 1 type of plug: two parallel flat pins with ground pin.