Practical Information: Sentosa Island

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Major mobile providers include Singtel, StarHub, and M1.

SIM Card Options

Tourist SIM cards at Changi Airport.
Passport is needed for registration.
ESIM digital connectivity.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in many public spaces.

Accessing Internet

Free Wi-Fi at Changi Airport, malls, cafes.
Tourist SIM cards include data.
Portable Wi-Fi device rentals are present.

Language & Translation

Official Languages: English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, Tamil.

Language Support

English is widely spoken and understood.
Translation apps assist with other languages.
Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Important Phrases

Learning a few phrases can be appreciated.

Basic Greetings

Malay: Selamat datang, Terima kasih.
Mandarin: Nǐ hǎo, Xièxiè.
Tamil: Vanakkam, Nandri.

Postal Services

Postal Basics

Post offices across Singapore.
Stamps at post offices or convenience stores.
Mail sending is reliable.
Package services are available.

Mainland Post Office Locations

General Post Office (GPO)
Changi Airport Post Office
Orchard Post Office
Various neighborhood branches

Connectivity Tip

Activating an eSIM prior to arrival can streamline immediate connectivity.

Business Hours & Schedules

Plan your activities around typical operating times in Singapore.

Retail & Malls

Generally 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily for shopping hubs.

Hawker Centers

Hours vary; some early morning to late night, many operate daily.

Banks & Offices

Banks typically Monday-Friday, government offices 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM.

Banking Hours & ATMs

ATMs are widely available across Singapore.

Cash Access

ATMs are common in malls, MRT stations.
Most ATMs operate 24/7.
Locate ATMs near bank branches.

Public & Religious Holidays

Singapore observes several public holidays.

Holiday Considerations

New Year's Day, Chinese New Year, National Day are observed.
Major malls and attractions usually stay open.
Crowds may be larger at attractions during holidays.

Airport Services

Essential Airport Perks

Priority Pass for airport lounge access.
Compensair for flight delay compensation.
Luggage services are available.

Other Airport Facilities

Free public Wi-Fi.
Duty-free shopping.
Transit hotels for convenience.

Planning Ahead

Verify specific attraction and business websites for precise timings.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Respect local customs and traditions for a pleasant experience.

Greeting Customs & Attire

A handshake is common. Modest dress is advised for religious sites.

Social Practices

A handshake for formal greetings.
Remove shoes before entering homes, mosques, temples.
Modest dress with covered shoulders and knees at religious sites.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is not customary or expected.

Food Practices

"Choping" (reserving) tables with tissue packets at hawker centers.
Use provided utensils; no upright chopsticks in rice.
Return trays and clear tables at hawker centers.

Photography & Privacy

Photography is generally permitted in public areas.

Picture Taking Guidelines

Ask for permission before close-up photos of individuals.
Obey signs prohibiting photography at religious sites or exhibitions.
Respect privacy if someone declines.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Strict laws against drugs, littering, and chewing gum.

What to Avoid

Strict anti-drug laws with severe penalties.
Heavy fines for littering.
Illegal to import or sell chewing gum (medical exceptions apply).

Important Legal Notes

Regulations to Follow

Smoking restricted to designated areas.
Gambling legal only at licensed casinos.
Public displays of affection kept to a minimum.

Other Prohibitions

Strict laws against vandalism.
Jaywalking is strictly enforced.
No eating or drinking on public transport.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Social Dynamics

Generally conservative society.
Homosexuality decriminalized late 2022.
LGBTQ+ travelers find general safety, discretion is noted.

Dress & Behavior

Modesty in dress is generally observed.
Discussion of sensitive topics needs care.
Public displays of affection are generally discouraged.

Cultural Awareness

Observing local norms creates positive interactions and experiences.

Accessibility Information

Singapore has made efforts for traveler accessibility.

Mobility Infrastructure

Singapore and Sentosa have invested in accessible facilities.

Features for Mobility

MRT and many buses are wheelchair-accessible.
Sidewalks are well-maintained with ramps at crossings.
Major attractions, malls, hotels are typically wheelchair-friendly.

Accessible Attractions & Transportation

Many attractions are accessible.

Accessing Experiences

Universal Studios, S.E.A. Aquarium, Gardens by the Bay are accessible.
All MRT stations have barrier-free access.
Taxis or Grab for accessible rides.

Services for Sensory Impairments

Support for visual or hearing needs is present.

Support for Visual/Hearing

MRT stations feature tactile guideways.
Some public spaces feature Braille signage.
Assistance dogs are generally allowed in public spaces.

Resources and Organizations

Agencies and websites for further accessibility details.

Information Channels

SG Enable, a government agency for persons with disabilities.
Singapore Tourism Board (STB) website for attraction accessibility.
Contact specific attractions for features.

Transport for Various Needs

Public Transport

MRT stations equipped with lifts.
Many buses are ramp-equipped.
Well-maintained sidewalks for ease of movement.

Specialized Transport

Accessible taxis and Grab services are available.
Singapore Cable Car accommodates wheelchairs.
Sentosa Express is accessible.

Accessibility Advice

Verify specific attraction or hotel features before your visit for optimal planning.

Practical Information