Singapore🇸🇬
Singapore is an island city-state located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Malaysia to the north and is known for its cosmopolitan culture, high-tech industries and finance sector. Singapore's relationship with its neighbouring countries is generally stable, characterised by bilateral trade and cooperation on regional issues. Singapore is known for its unique blend of traditional and modern architecture, bustling hawker centres, and green spaces like the Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The country's strict rule of law and investments in education and infrastructure stand out. Top attractions include the iconic Marina Bay Sands, the shopping district of Orchard Road, and the historic Chinatown and Little India.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid littering: Strict laws and hefty fines are enforced.
- Avoid public transportation during peak hours: It can be very crowded.
- Avoid Jaywalking: It's against the law and fines are in place.
- Avoid failing to flush public toilets; it can result in a fine.
- Avoid outdoor activities without sunscreen; the sun is strong year-round.
- Avoid making derogatory comments or gestures in public or online that may hurt racial and religious sentiments.
- Avoid smuggling drugs: Singapore has stringent laws against drug trafficking, including capital punishment.
- Avoid disrespecting symbols and activities related to the national identity of Singapore: These are made enforceable under sedition laws.
- Avoid chewing gum: Importing, selling, or manufacturing gum is banned.
- Avoid non-licensed taxis; always use licensed cab services or trusted ride-sharing apps.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Singapore is known for its low crime rate, largely due to its strict laws and efficient legal system. However, incidents of petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded places. Singaporeans in general highly respect the law, resulting in fairly safe living conditions, although it is always prudent to take precautions, especially in crowded areas.
Terrorism 💣
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Terrorism is low in Singapore, mainly due to the country's stringent security measures and proactive approach in dealing with potential terror threats. The Internal Security Department actively thwarts threats to national security, maintaining a peaceful society. There have been no significant terror incidents in the country.
War ⚔️
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Singapore has not been involved in any wars since its independence in 1965. As a small city-state, it emphasizes diplomacy and peaceful resolution of international disputes. Its strategic location has also allowed it to maintain good relations with other countries.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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The country is relatively free from natural disasters. However, it experiences frequent flash floods due to its urbanised environment and high rainfall. Notably, flash floods in Orchard Road in 2010 were caused by intense rainfall amidst a thunderstorm.
Medical Care 🏥
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Singapore has high-quality medical care services, evidenced by its state-of-the-art hospitals and well-qualified health professionals. Its healthcare system is ranked among the best in the world.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Singapore has extremely high-quality tap water which can be consumed directly without the need for filtration. The water is well-treated, and quality checks are regularly conducted.
Disease Burden 🤒
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The general health of individuals in Singapore is high, with the country boasting a high life expectancy. However, there are occasional outbreaks of diseases such as Dengue fever and the recent COVID-19 pandemic.
Corruption 💸
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Singapore is rated highly for its integrity and transparency, with corruption levels very low. This is largely due to strict laws and harsh penalties for corrupt practices.
Safety for Women ♀️
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Singapore is generally safe for women, with low crime rates and a respectful society. However, as in any urban area, maintaining situational awareness is recommended, especially when travelling alone at night.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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While Singapore is relatively safe for LGBT people, societies' perceptions towards sexual orientation and gender identity are conservative. Though violent incidents are rare, discriminatory practices and legal challenges subsist.
Censorship 📺
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The government maintains tight control over the media and intrudes into citizens' privacy to a certain extent. This is justified by the government as a necessary measure for maintaining harmony in the multi-racial and multi-religious society.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Singapore's public transport system is excellent, highly efficient, and well developed with an extensive network of buses, trains (MRT), and taxis. However, incidents like the MRT breakdown in July 2015 have raised reliability concerns.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world due to its stringent laws and effective law enforcement. However, like any place, tourists should maintain personal safety precautions to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing in crowded places.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
There are numerous foreign embassies located in Singapore, including the U.S. Embassy at Napier Road, the British High Commission at Tanglin, and the Australian High Commission at Napier Road.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
No specific vaccinations are required for travellers from most countries. However, if you're travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission, proof of vaccination is needed.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
There are few dangerous animals in Singapore. However, as the country is tropical, it is home to various species of snakes, though bites are rare. The city-state's parks and water bodies also house monitor lizards and jellyfish, which are generally harmless to humans but should be approached with caution.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Requirements depend on the visitor's nationality. Residents of most countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia and many European countries, don't need a visa for visits of 30 to 90 days.
💲 Currency
The currency is the Singapore dollar (SGD). Money can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and Bureau de Change kiosks found in city centres and shopping centres.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Most establishments accept major credit cards. However, it's best to keep some cash for small vendors and street food stalls.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Singapore is well suited for work and travel with opportunities for expat work mainly in finance, IT, and teaching. However, obtaining a work visa can be challenging as it requires a job offer from a Singapore-based company.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Living and traveling in Singapore can be expensive compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Accommodation, dining, and popular tourist activities can come at a high price.