Tourist Useful Information

No Smoking
Besides air-conditioned areas such as shopping centres, restaurants, entertainment outlets and cinemas, smoking is also an offence on the SMRT (Singapore Mass Rapid Transit system), public buses, taxis and in lifts. Recently, the smoking ban has also been imposed on public eateries and within a five-metre radius from most building entrances, except for allocated smoking areas that are clearly marked with bright yellow paint. A maximum fine of S$1,000 may be imposed on first-time offenders.

Tax Refund Schemes
To enjoy tax-free shopping in Singapore, simply look out for retailers that display the “Tax Refund” logo on their shop front and spend SG100 in a single receipt to qualify.

About the tax refund schemes

Taxi Fare
You can get a taxi at taxi stands, flag one along the street, or book one by phone. During peak periods (e.g. 7.00am to 9.30am on weekdays and 5.00pm to 11.00pm daily), rainy days or festival seasons, the demand for taxis is expected to be high. You are therefore encouraged to book a taxi by calling any of the taxi companies’ booking hot-lines. Please note that a booking surcharge is applicable.

Taxi fares are metered. The fares are based on a flag-down rate and the distance travelled. The flag-down rate ranges from S$2.80 to S$3.20 (depending on the type of taxi). Midnight/Late Night, Peak Period, Public Holiday, City Area and other location surcharges may also apply and these vary between operators. Please check with the taxi operator or driver for the metered rate and surcharges that are applicable before you board the taxi.

To book a taxi, please call the following numbers:
Comfort Taxi / CityCab: (65) 6552 1111
Premier Taxis: (65) 6363 6888
Smart Cab: (65) 6485 7777
SMRT Taxis: (65) 6555 8888
Trans Cab: (65) 6555 3333
Private Yellow Top Taxi: (65) 6293 5545

Inform the operator where you are and note down the taxi number given. When the taxi arrives, confirm with the taxi driver on the booking and destination. Please note that a booking surcharge of S$3.50 for current booking or S$5.20 for advance booking is applicable