Lying Almost on the Equator, Singapore Is A

Updated October 2010

Index Page

Welcome to Singapore

- Arrival to Singapore - Immigration Matters 4-6 - Prohibited Goods - Declaration to Customs

Time Climate 7-8 Electricity

Money & Costs

- Opening a bank account - Banks - Transfer of Funds 8-11 - Credit Cards

- Money Changer - Exchange Rates - Cost of Living

Safety & Security 11-12

Public Transport

- Bus Services - Mass Rapid Transit(MRT/subway/metro) 12-14 - Taxi Services

- Driving Licence

Postal services Telephone Services 15-17 Mobile Phones

Index Page

Other matters

- Accompanying Family - Employment & Internship - Food - Dining Out 17-21 - Health Care - Health Tips - Common Singaporean Aliments - Entertainment in Singapore

Culture Shock 22

Pre-departure Checklist 23

Arrival Checklist 24

Useful Telephone numbers

25-26 - Emergency contact numbers - Embassies / Consulate

Frequently asked Questions(FAQ) 27-29

3 Welcome to Singapore

Welcome to Singapore, a truly inspiring city where East meets West, Asian heritage blends with modernity, and sophistication happily co-exists with nature to create a uniquely harmonious ambience. Discover totally unexpected and distinct experiences in this energetic, vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Embark on your lifetime adventure in Singapore!

Whether it‟s a vibrant urban buzz that you are looking for or something more resutic and rural, Singapore has much to offer. Besides being renowned for its high-tech wizardry and established commercial environment, Singapore is also known as the garden city with abundant greenery.

And welcome to SMU – your ultimate adventure starts with us! The Office of International Relations (OIR) at SMU has prepared this guide to prepare you for your new home with SMU. So thumb through these pages and let your fingers do your walking through this marvelous island which we call Singapore.

Arrival to Singapore

The academic year of SMU usually commences in the first week of January (Spring Semester) and the third week of August (Fall Semester), you are advised to arrive one week earlier before classes begin. You will then have time to get over any jet lag and settle in, find your way around, make new friends and be well prepared to start a new experience with SMU.

Immigration Matters

Complete the Disembarkation / Embarkation form, which you will receive on the airplane, taking special care not to omit anything. You will present this with your passport to the Immigration Officers at the airport in Singapore.

Please retain the portion of the Disembarkation / Embarkation that will be given to you as this is required for the application of Student‟s Pass.

**Information source: www.ica.gov.sg

Prohibited Goods

Prohibited Liquors and Cigarettes - Intoxicating liquors and cigarettes marked with the words „SINGAPORE DUTY NOT PAID‟ on the labels, cartons or packets are not allowed to be brought into Singapore. Cigarettes with the prefix „E‟ printed on the packets are also not allowed to be brought into Singapore.

4 Other Prohibited Items

 Chewing gum (except oral dental and medicated gum)  Chewing tobacco and imitation tobacco products  Cigarette lighters of pistol or revolver shape  Controlled drugs and psychotropic substances  Endangered species of wildlife and their by-products  Firecrackers  Obscene articles, publications, video tapes/discs and software  Reproduction of copyright publications, video tapes, video compact discs, laser discs, records or cassettes  Seditious and treasonable materials

Certain goods are controlled and allowed entry into Singapore only when you produce the IN permit or authorization from the relevant authorities.

If you wish to know more about these items, please refer to the following link; http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trav/dut/Controlled+Goods.htm

IMPORTANT

There is no exemption of cigarettes brought into Singapore. You are required to declare the number of packets. If you do not declare, you will be imposed a fine of $200 per packet or per 20 sticks or part thereof for first time offenders and $500 per packet or per 20 sticks or part thereof for subsequent offenders.

Do not carry goods for other people. If the goods are or contain dutiable, controlled or prohibited items, you will be held responsible. Under the Singapore law, the penalty for the illegal importation of controlled drugs such as heroin or morphine is death. Under the Singapore law, you are required to open, unpack and pack your baggage when the Customs officer wishes to conduct an examination of your baggage. This is to give you full control over the entire proceeding i.e. you can determine the manner of the opening, unpacking and packing of your personal belongings. This would also prevent any unintentional damage to your baggage or belongings.

If you have inquiries, please check with the Customs and Excise Department at the Customs Call Centre: Tel: (65) 6355-2000 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trav/

Declaration to Customs

When you arrive at the Customs checkpoint, you are required to declare fully and correctly all dutiable, controlled or prohibited items that you are carrying. If you are not sure whether a certain item is dutiable, controlled or prohibited, please check with the Customs officer on duty. All such goods and their import license or authorization where applicable, should be produced to Customs at the entry point for examination. Making a false or an incorrect declaration is an offence under the law.

Singapore customs operates the Dual Channel System – the Red and Green Channel – for expeditious clearance of travelers at all its entry checkpoints including Changi Airport, Tuas Checkpoint, Woodlands Checkpoint, Woodlands Train Checkpoint, Singapore Cruise Centre, and Tanah Merah and Changi Ferry Terminals.

Green Channel

Red Channel

If you have prohibited, controlled or dutiable goods or goods exceeding your GST/duty-free concession, you should seek Customs clearance at the Red Channel. If in doubt, please seek Customs clearance at the Red Channel.

WARNING: It is an offence under the law to proceed to the Green Channel with taxable goods which, exceed the tax-free allowance or goods for which no tax-free allowance is granted.

There is no limit on the amount of currency you can bring into Singapore.

6 Bona fide travellers are entitled to duty-free allowance for spirits, wine and beer only if all of the following conditions are met:

(a) You are 18 years old or above; (b) You have spent 48 hours or more outside Singapore immediately before your arrival; (c) You have not arrived from Malaysia; (d) The liquors are for your own consumption; and (e) The liquors are not prohibited under section 38 of the Customs Act.

You will given one of the options below:

Option Spirits Wine Beer

A 1 Litre 1 Litre 1 Litre B - 2 Litres 1 Litre C - 1 Litre 2 Litres

There are no concessions on cigarettes and other tobacco products. This is in line with the Singapore governments‟ campaign to discourage smoking.

Time

Singapore is eight hours ahead of GMT / UTC (London), two hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time (Sydney and Melbourne), 13 hours ahead of American Eastern Standard Time (New York) and 16 hours ahead of American Pacific Standard Time (San Francisco and Los Angeles). So, when it is noon in Singapore, it is 8 pm in Los Angeles and 11 pm in New York the previous day, 4 am in London and 2 pm in Sydney.

Climate

If you come from a temperate climate, the first thing that hits you is the heat. Temperature ranges from 24o to 33o C (75-90oF) with an average daily maximum relative humidity of 84.3%. Rain falls all year round but is most abundant from November to January. Rainfall occurs mostly as sudden showers. It is a good idea to carry an umbrella whenever you go out. Be careful about changing your favorite dress or shirt out to dry in direct sunlight, the color will fade. Wear light, comfortable, cotton clothing to beat the heat. For Singapore's latest weather condition, visit the Singapore Meteorological website at http://app2.nea.gov.sg/3hnowcast.aspx

7 Average daily temperatures (o C min and max) and month rainfall (mm)

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Max o C 30 31 31 31 31 31 30 30 30 31 30 29 Min o C 23 23 23 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 23 23 Rainfall 244 161 184 178 171 162 158 176 170 194 255 288 (mm)

Electricity

If you are bringing electrical equipment, please note that the standard voltage for electrical appliances in Singapore is 230 volts, 50 cycles. The electrical outlets are mainly for 3 pin plugs. Adapters can be easily purchased in Singapore allowing you to use the 2 pin plugs.

Money & Costs

Currency for Singapore is in Singapore Dollars (SGD). Singapore is much more expensive than other South-East Asian countries which may come as a shock if you are traveling on a shoestring budget. You can still stay here, though, without spending too much money if you can forego the temptation to run amok in the shops or indulge in luxuries you may have craved while traveling in less developed Asian countries. It's possible to stay in Singapore for under S$50 a day, if you stay in hostels and eat cheaply. If you're staying in mid-range hostels and eating at good restaurants, S$100 is a more realistic daily minimum.

Tipping is not usual in Singapore: expensive hotels and restaurants may impose a 10% service charge, and a gratuity is not expected in excess of this. Bargaining is falling by the wayside, but tourists should still expect to haggle for luxury items and souvenirs. It is unnecessary to bargain for everyday goods or transport.

Banks

Most banks open from 9:30am – 3pm/4pm on weekdays and 9:30am – 11am/1pm on Saturdays. It is best to check with individual banks on their operating hours.

Opening a Bank Account

Different banks have different requirements as well as different types of savings and checking accounts. You may wish to bring enough cash or traveler‟s cheques to cover your expenses while deciding on the bank you wish to open an account with. Charges are subject to change so do check with the bank.

Note: It is not necessary to open a bank account unless you are planning to do money transfer.

8 DBS Bank (Raffles City Branch) (with ATM) 252 North Bridge Road #02-26A/B Raffles City Shopping Centre Tel: 1800-111 1111 Operating hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30am to 4:30pm / Sat: 8:30am to 1:00pm Directions: 10-15 minutes walk from SMU Administration Building

POSBank (Funan Branch) (with ATM) 109 North Bridge Road #03-31/32 Funan The IT Mall Tel: 1800-6339-6666 Operating hours: Mon – Fri and Sat: 11:00am to 7:00pm Directions: 10 minutes walk from SMU Administration Building An initial deposit of S$500 is needed. Student would also need to maintain a balance of $500 in the account to waive the $2 service fee per month. Documents needed are the passport and student pass. There will be a charged fee of S$5.00 for early account closure within 6 months.

UOB (North Bridge Branch) (with ATM) 231 Bain Street #01-29/39 Bras Basah Complex Tel: 6337 3610 Operating hours: Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 4:00pm / Sat: 9:00am to 12:30pm Directions: 5 minutes from SMU Administration Building Please bring along your Student’s Pass, Passport and an initial deposit of S$1000. An average balance of S$500 has to be maintained otherwise a service charge of S$2.00 per month will be imposed. There’ll be a S$30 charge to close the account.

OCBC (Branch on SMU campus) (with ATM) 70 Stamford Road #B1-43 (Li Ka Shing Library) Tel: 1800-6438-3333 Operating hours: Mon-Fri: 9:00am to 4:30pm / Sat: 9:00am to 11:30am Please bring along Passport, Student Pass, SMU Student Card. An average balance of S$500 has to be maintained otherwise a service charge of S$2.00 per month will be imposed. There’ll be a S$30 charge to close the account.

Networks for Electronic Transfer Pte Ltd (NETS)

Another widely-used method of payment is NETS, which allows you to make payment with your Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card. Payment can be made with your ATM card at all participating vendors advertising the NETS sign.

9 Transfer of Funds

Students may receive additional funds using bank drafts made out in Singapore dollars and drawn from a Singapore bank. These can be credited to your accounts and drawn in 1-2 days. Telegraphic transfers may also be made indirectly through another bank to your local bank account.

Note: The length of money transfer (account to account) takes up 4-6 working days. For Bank drafts, please call hotline – 1800-6222-8333 for more information, usually takes one hour to process (there will be commission + postage charge depending on the countries’ currencies).

Credit Cards

All major credit cards are widely accepted, although you're not going to make yourself too popular after a hard bargaining session for a new camera if you then try to pay for it with your Visa card. ATMs are widespread, although it's probably still a good idea to take cash and travelers' cheques for emergencies.

Note: Credit cards are not widely used in Supermarkets and in some restaurants in Singapore unlike in the Western countries. It will be wise to carry some cash with you at all times.

Tips: It will be good to purchase a cash card from the Post Office/Bank/Petrol Stations and top it up. It will come in handy for print, photocopies, postage, etc where credit card cannot be used.

Money Changer

Money changing facilities are available within the airport terminal and in shopping centers all over Singapore.

If you do not have any Singapore currency with you, you should change at least S$300 in notes and coins to cover immediate expenses such as hostel fees, transport and food.

Exchange Rates

For latest currency rates, please refer to this website at http://www.asiaone.com/html/currency.html or http://www.xe.com/ucc

Licensed money changers usually give a better rate than most hotels and banks, you are advised to check foreign exchange rates and use your discretion when changing foreign currency.

10 Cost of Living

Singapore has one of the highest living standards in the world. Daily necessities and luxuries are readily available. To familiarize yourself with the different goods and services you will consume, we suggest you make a budget. This way, it will be easier to manage your spending. The cost of living in Singapore may be higher than in your home country. Ask for advice from someone who knows a lot about consumer goods prices before making major purchases.

When planning your budget, remember to: • put aside the amount needed to pay for your housing deposit, rent and commission for housing agent • ensure that you have the money to renew your immigration documents (application for student pass) • have a safety fund of at least $500 for unforeseen expenses

Below is a sample of the living costs.

Food S$140 – S$180 per week per person (depending on individual student‟s lifestyle, eating out in restaurants cost more)

Items Average Price Fresh Beef (Airflown) S$12.63 per kg Chicken S$ 3.99 per kg Pork S$ 5.70 per kg Sole Fillet S$15.80 per kg Fresh Milk S$ 1.90 per litre Bread S$ 1.75 per 400 gm loaf Rice S$ 9.50 per 5 kg Coffee S$ 5.75 per 200 gm Tea S$ 5.30 per 100 tea bags Sugar S$ 2.23 per 2 kg Apples (small apples) S$ 2.00 for 5 Coke S$ 0.80 per can (Source: NTUC FairPrice)

Transport: S$15 per week (public transport) S$20-$35 per day (taxi).

Safety and Security

Some of the major physical concerns people have when coming to live in a foreign country are always safety and security. If you come from a country where crime is not so well controlled, you may be pleasantly surprised to see that Singapore has a well-deserved reputation for being safe and relatively crime free. The citizens are remarkably honest and taxi drivers have been known to chase after passengers who have left wallets, packages, and baggage behind. The society, in its media and newspapers, praises those citizens who have done astonishingly honest things, like returning a large amount of money found on the street to the owner.

11 Major crime is dealt with severely and swiftly. The death penalty is mandatory for possession or dealing in illegal drugs or firearms; for use of a firearm to cause bodily harm; and for murder and rape. Vice are also considered crimes:

 Public solicitation is forbidden;  The only legalized gambling is horse-racing and the Singapore sweepstakes (both under government control);  Pornography in all forms is banned;  Public drunkenness is also banned.

Advice to foreigners: At the street level, citizen exposure to law enforcement is more in reference to minor rules and regulations than major offences. All criminal laws are national laws and all laws apply equally to all citizens and to foreigners as well. Foreigners who break the laws are subjected to the same penalties as Singaporeans.

Please refer to page 25-26 of this guidebook for useful telephone numbers such as emergencies / help lines.

Public Transport

Singapore‟s transport system is comparable to the best in the world. Known for its high levels of efficiency, comfort and safety, this comprehensive network of buses, taxis and Mass Rapid Transport (MRT) ensures access to almost every corner of the island. All housing estates, the central business districts, main civil and shopping areas not only enjoy comprehensive coverage but also low rates as well.

Fares may be paid in cash or by EZ link card, which can be used on both the MRT and buses. You can buy your ez-link card from any TransitLink Ticket Office (TO) – bring along your student‟s pass. The ez-link Card costs S$15.00 inclusive of S$5.00 card cost and S$10.00 stored value. You may add value to your ez-link Card at any TransitLink (TO), Add Value Machines or General Ticketing Machine (GTM) at MRT and LRT stations. If you have insufficient value to complete a journey, you have to add value to your Card before you are able to use it again.

Exchange students are not eligible to apply for the subsidized student concession cards.

For more information, call the TransitLink Hotline at 1800 767 4333 or visit the ez-link website; http://www.ezlink.com.sg/index.jsp

Quick Reminders: Do not use more than one ez-link Card at the same time.

12 Bus Services

Two bus companies in Singapore offer services from 5:30am to midnight daily;

- Singapore Bus Service Transit (SBS Transit) http://www.sbstransit.com.sg/transport/trpt_bus_overview.as px

- SMRT Buses Ltd (SMRT) http://www.smrtbuses.com.sg/transport/bus/DEFAULT.HTM

Extended night services cost slightly more. SBS Passenger Relations Centre – SBS operates an answering service, which offers advice on how you can get to your destination by bus:

Hotline: 1800-287-2727 Operating hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00am to 5:30pm Sat: 8:00am to 1:00pm

Save your coins for bus rides (buses accept exact fares only). Check with the bus driver on the appropriate fare for your destination.

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)

Completed in 1990, Singapore‟s rail transit system now comprises of 5 main lines (North-South, East-West, North-East and the Circle Line) operating from 5.30am to 12.30am at frequencies of 3 to 8 minutes. MRT Hotline for Enquires: 1800-6336-8900 Operating hours: Mon-Fri: 7:30am to 12:30pm, 1:30pm to 6:30pm

For information on train fares, please refer to http://www.smrt.com.sg/trains/fares.asp

13 Taxi Services

Mode of Transport Cost Taxi (fares vary among companies) S$2.80 for the first km + S$0.20 for every 385 metres thereafter or less up to 10km S$0.20 for every 45 secs of waiting or less

There are more than 15,000 air-conditioned taxis in Singapore. Some surcharges (not shown on the meter) include: S$3.00 to S$5.00 surcharge for every trip from Changi or Seletar Airport.

Surcharge of 50% of the fare is payable from 12 midnight to 5.59am.

Additional charge of S$3.50 is payable for taxis booked by telephone during peak hours, $2.50 for off-peak hours (S$5.20, if booked for a specific time).

Additional charge of S$1.00 on the eve of public holidays and on the day of public holidays.

Peak period charge is 35% of the metered fare & payable during the periods of : Mon-Fri: 7:00am to 9:30am Mon-Sat: 5.00pm to 8.00pm

Surcharge of S$3.00 is payable for taxis hired within the Central Business District (CBD). During the periods of 5:00pm to 12.00am, Mon –Sat

Comfortcab / CityCab Dial-A-Cab Service: (65) 6552-1111 Website: http://www.cdgtaxi.com.sg/home.mvn

SMRT Dial-A-Cab Service: (65) 6555-8888 SMRT website: http://www.smrt.com.sg/taxis/taxis.asp

Driving Licence

To drive in Singapore, you need a valid international permit accompanied by your foreign driving licence. To convert your driving licence to a Singapore driving licence, you must sit for a Basic Theory test in order to drive long term on Singapore roads. Registration for the test costs S$6.00. If you will be driving in Singapore, bring your current home driver‟s license and an International Driving Permit issued by a motoring association in your country. Conversion of foreign driving licences can be done at the Traffic Police Department, 10, Ubi Avenue 3, Singapore 408865. Telephone number: 6547-0000. Please note that driver‟s seat is on the right.

Postal Services

The communications networks in Singapore are generally fast and efficient, and mobile phones are in evidence everywhere. Singapore‟s postal system is predictably efficient, with letters and cards often reaching their destination within three days. Stamps are available at post offices (some have vending machines operating out of office hours), and some stationery shops and hotels. Aerogramme to all destinations are 50 cents. You will find fax and telex facilities in all major post offices too. Letters to local addresses is 26 cents (first 20 grams).

Airmail Postage Rates Letter (first 20 Postcard grams) Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Africa, S$1.10 50 cents America, Europe and the Middle East Asia & the Pacific 65 cents 50 cents Malaysia & Brunei 45 cents 30 cents International Fax IDD rates + S$1 per page Local Fax S$1 per page + 3% GST

Operating hours: Mon – Fri: 8:30am – 5:00pm Sat : 8:30am – 1:00pm

Postal rates (Telephone: 1605 – within Singapore)

Website: http://www.singpost.com.sg/

Nearest post office at Bras Basah Complex, diagonally opposite SMU Administration Building.

Telephone Services

Public payphones accept phone cards or coins in denominations of 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents and S$1. All card phones provide the following services using a phone card.

a) International Direct Calling b) Subscriber Trunk Dialing (STD) for Malaysian calls c) Local calls

Phone cards are available in denominations of S$2, S$3, S$5, S$10, S$20 and S$50. They are sold at all Post Offices and photo shops. The Singtel Worldcard is a card that can be used for overseas calls, available in denominations of S$10, S$20, S$50. There are many comparisons of rates for international prepaid calling cards such as:

1. Newcall Prepaid 9. Tele-Card Cards 10. ToneCard 2. Phoenix Card 11. Wherever Cards 3. Pinnz Global 12. Yap Time Cards 4. Sakok Telephone 13. Chat Chat Cards International Calling 5. Singtel Worldcard Card 6. Starhub 14. N-Tel HomeConnect Communications 7. Sunpage Cards 8. Talk Talk Cards

Please use the toll-free access 1800 number to check the comparison of rates. Certain cards may offer good rates for certain countries. (Rates are subjected to change without prior notice)

Tips: The best deal is the Phoenix card, but you can always compare different cards. Phoenix charge different rates if you call from a phonebook or from home (cheaper from a home phone) and from a hand phone.

Mobile Phone

Singapore has a high density of mobile phones and pager ownership. The cellular penetration rate is a high of 85%. Mobile phone services are provided by SingTel, MobileOne (M1) and StarHub. Paging services are provided by SingTel Paging, M1, Hutchinson Paging and Sunpage.

16 To apply for these services, bring proof of identity and your mobile phone (if you have one) to any of the service providers

 Singapore Telecommunications Ltd: http://info.singtel.com/  Mobile One (Asia) Pte Ltd: http://m1.com.sg/M1/site/M1Corp/  StarHub: www.starhub.com  ST Sunpage Pte Ltd: www.sunpage.com.sg

If you have a GSM 1800/900 hand phone, bring it along as it will be of good use and easy connection in Singapore.

You can buy a hand phone in Singapore for cheap and have a three months subscription, but be careful not to buy a fake one. Compare and check thoroughly before purchasing.

Tips: Various hand phone models are sold at SIM LIM SQUARE, 7-eleven shops – at reasonable prices.

Don’t Let Calling Home Eat into Your Budget

Phoning Singapore from Abroad

Dial the international access code (given below) + 65 (country code) + number Australia 0011 Ireland 010 UK 00 Canada 011 New Zealand 00 USA 011

Phoning abroad from Singapore

Dial 00 + IDD country code (given below) + area code (minus initial 0) + number Australia 01 Ireland 353 UK 44 Canada 1 New Zealand 64 USA 1

Accompanying Family

SMU does not provide sponsorship for your family members to reside in Singapore with you. Should you wish to bring a family member with you to Singapore, please enquire at the Singapore Embassy, Consulate, or High Commission in your country for more information.

Employment and Internship

Full-time matriculated International exchange students cannot exceed work of more than 16 hours within a week during the school term. SMU does not assist exchange students secure internships. Students are advised to seek assistance from the Embassy or source on their own. Please refer to the link below for work permit requirements by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM): http://www.mom.gov.sg/foreign-manpower/working-in-singapore/Pages/default.aspx

Food

Buying fresh food – Fresh food can be bought at supermarkets and wet markets. The gory aspects of wet markets take some getting used to. The smell of fish is very strong. If you cannot get used to seeing piles of chicken gizzards and livers spread out on tables or pigs‟ heads hanging from hooks you can shop more comfortably at the supermarkets where everything is neatly cut and wrapped in cellophane.

Water – It is perfectly safe to drink tap water in Singapore. To let your system get used to the change, boil your drinking water for the first week or two.

Chili – Singaporeans use chili in most foods. If you are unable take spicy food, be sure to inform the proprietor when you order, do not wait until after you have been served.

Monosodium glutamate(MSG) – MSG is added in most foods as a flavor enhancer. However, this can cause adverse reactions in people who cannot take it (dry mouth, swollen hands, palpitations, difficulty in breathing and tightness at the back of the neck). If you are allergic to MSG, tell the proprietor to leave it out of your order.

Dining Out

Singapore is a food paradise that offers a wide variety of choices when eating out. Some of the best food can be found in local food centers. Sharing of tables is a common practice. Get a table, note the number, then look at the pictures at the stall to order. Give the stall operator your table number and wait for your food to be delivered to the table and pay only when it arrives. Although some stalls may have the self-service sign, others will usually deliver the food to your table. When ordering seafood, check prices and do some comparing with the other seafood stalls before making your order.

Food centers and food courts have numerous stalls offering a range of food and beverages under one roof. Prices range from S$2 for a bowl of noodles in non-air conditioned centers to S$3.50 in an air-conditioned food court. A hamburger at a fast food restaurant costs S$1.10, while a value meal with a burger, fries and a drink costs S$4.50 upwards. Fast food ranges from S$3 to S$7 per person, depending on what you order. Mid-range dining in al fresco restaurants can cost about S$20 per person. Fine dining at up-market restaurants can work out to about S$80 per person.

18 Most dining bills come with a 10% service charge, 1% food and drink and 4% percent Goods & Services Tax.

Tips: SMU is located in downtown Singapore with all sorts of cuisines, food options, entertainment locations and cultural activities. Eat your way through Singapore City! You will never go wrong starting a conversation on food topics with a Singaporean!

Health Care

In Singapore, you can eat virtually anywhere and not worry, and the tap water is safe to drink. Vaccinations are required only if you come from a yellow fever area and Singapore is not a malarial zone. The main health concern is the heat: it is important to avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids.

Dehydration or salt deficiency can cause heat exhaustion. Take time to acclimatize to high temperatures and make sure you get sufficient liquids. Salt deficiency is characterized by fatigue; lethargy, headaches, giddiness and muscle cramps, and in this case salt tablets may help.

Medical facilities in Singapore are of a high standard and are readily available. A visit to a general practitioner costs around S$30. Singapore‟s public hospitals will accept self-referred patients. Singapore General Hospital is just south of Outram Road, near Outram MRT.

Health Tips

It's easy to catch the flu bug or to develop a heat rash in our tropical climate, where it's torrential rain one minute and burning sunshine the next. Some advice on staying healthy. Most foreigners face the problem of trying to stay healthy during their first few weeks or even months in a new country. Besides the change in time zones, there are changes in climate, diet and lifestyle to deal with. Also, in all that hassle and worry that comes with relocation, most don't have the time nor the energy to exercise and eat right. Staying healthy in Singapore isn't particularly difficult - the government is pushing it in a big way, and there are plenty of gyms, jogging tracks, parks and swimming pools available to everyone.

Common Singaporean Ailments

Obviously the heat and humidity are 2 factors you will have to get used to when you arrive here. It's summer all-year round, with thunderstorms suddenly striking out of nowhere. The tropical climate can lead to problems like heat rash, athlete's foot, colds and flu. Other common ailments include sore eyes, heat exhaustion and minor skin irritations.

The best ways to combat these problems on your own are to drink lots of water (beyond thirst) and to keep as cool and clean as possible. Avoid tight fitting clothing, rubber sneakers and keep your feet clean and dry by changing your socks regularly and using foot powder. Whenever possible, a thin T-shirt, bermudas and a pair of running shoes are all you need. It is also not uncommon for Singaporeans to shower twice a day.

19 Your diet should be light and balanced - don't over-indulge in all that tasty but oily food you will find in Singapore with alarming ease. Vitamins and supplements are optional but you may find Vitamin C supplements especially useful in this part of the world. And of course, exercise and proper rest are must.

Entertainment

Singaporeans play as hard as they work. Daytime entertainment can range from concerts, choirs or watching cultural performances, matinee shows and cinema. With sunny weather all year round, outdoor sports like ultimate Frisbee, swimming, wake-boarding and running are local favourites.

You can visit the Singapore Tourism Board website for the latest events happening in Singapore: http://www.yoursingapore.com/content/traveller/en/experience.html

Dancing & Clubbing – Be Merry

Singapore‟s exhilarating nightlife makes it a truly exciting city. Take your pick from exciting bars, clubs, discos, karaoke pubs, the Night Safari and even the odd late-night poetry recital. Visit Zouk, a trendy nightclub and winner of the BEST NIGHTSPOT EXPERIENCE 2010. Ladies‟ night usually falls on a weekday but not specifically on the same day – depends on the clubs. It means free to enter and free flow of alcohol drinks to all ladies. Nightclubs usually close at 3am in Singapore unlike in the western countries where they close at 6am.

SMU Campus – Located next to several of the hottest spots in Singapore like Chjmes, New Asia Bar, Equinox, Raffles Hotel, the Esplanade, Boat Quay, Clark Quay & Bugis Village.

Enjoy a vigorous academic curriculum and experience the dynamic and vibrant city life and night life all at once! You can‟t get any better else where besides at SMU!

Boat Quay – A trailblazer of the Singapore entertainment scene – Boat Quay is a zone offering an eclectic mix of high end restaurants and alfresco dining and lively bars and pubs. Boat Quay is arguably the favourite place to “chill out” for most professionals and expatriates. With a close proximity to the office towers, these groups of people look for a quiet yet energetic atmosphere to wine down and recharge for the following day‟s „battle‟ at work! Groups of working people who head down to Boat Quay surely cannot be wrong about this zone‟s charm.

Getting there: Getting there: Take a public bus or the MRT that runs conveniently through this bustling hive of activity. After midnight, simply hop into one of the many metered taxis available.

Clarke Quay – Clarke Quay is a colourful kaleidoscope of buildings housing antiques, old-world curios, gifts and knick-knacks, restaurants, casual eateries, hip cafes, jazz clubs, blues pubs and more. At night, the entire zone is a sight to behold with all five blocks of restored warehouses are

20 lit up and beam with a quirky alternative to mainstream clubbing genres. There is international presence in terms of partying options and truly, this is a convergence point for our friends from around the world as music from 1960s go blaring for everyone to groove.

Clarke Quay offerings an integrated venue option for everyone: the party is not always confined to the buildings alone. There is a fountain which grooves to the mood of the night as it steals many pub goers glares from the seats right up till the pavement outside the pubs. http://www.clarkequay.com.sg/index.htm

Getting there: Take a public bus or the MRT that runs conveniently through this bustling hive of activity. After midnight, simply hop into one of the many metered taxis available.

Orchard Road – Lifeline of Singapore‟s shopping scene during the day, Orchard Road pulsates to a different beat at night, showcasing bars, discos and nightclubs to please all revelers. Many of the best known discos are located in hotels here.

Check out: Hard Rock Café (theme restaurant, ‘live’ bank and disco)

Getting there: Getting there: Take a public bus or the MRT that runs conveniently through this bustling hive of activity. After midnight, simply hop into one of the many metered taxis available.

Esplanade and One Fullerton – Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay resides along the prime waterfront of Marina Bay. Being a performance arts centre, it showcases world-class programmes and houses renowned restaurants and pubs that are bound to satisfy everyone! Sitting nearby is One Fullerton, the happening stretch of clubs, pubs and cafes that opens till late for all party goers and those who love to chill out and enjoy the cool sea breeze.

Check out: Harry’s Esplanade (Jazz pub); Max Brenner’s Chocolate Bar, Makansutra Gluttons Bay - Singapore's best street food, under the moonlight by the bay.

Getting there: Esplanade is just a 10-minute walk from the City Hall and Esplanade Stations through an underpass which also links four shopping centres – Citilink, Raffles City, Marina Square, Suntec City and Millenia Walk.

Dealing with Culture Shock

What is it?

“Culture shock” is the name given to a feeling of disorientation or confusion that often occurs when a person leaves a familiar place and moves to an unfamiliar one. Coming to Singapore from another country you will encounter many new things. The food is not the same as it is at home, and the people look, speak, and act differently than the people at home. To cope effectively with culture shock, you must first realize that you are not alone; it happens to everyone. Many international students experience the same feelings upon their arrival in Singapore.

Coping with Culture Shock

To cope effectively with culture shock, you must first realize that you are not alone; it happens to everyone. Many international students experience the same feelings upon their arrival in Singapore. Here are some ideas that might be helpful:

 Maintain your perspective Try to remember that thousands of people have come to Singapore from other countries and have survived.  Evaluate your expectations  Keep an open mind People in Singapore might do or say things that people at home would not do or say. But the people in Singapore are acting according to their own set of values, not yours. Try to find out how they perceive what they are saying and doing, and try to avoid evaluating their behavior using the standards you would use in your own country.  Learn from the experience Moving into a new culture can be the most fascinating and educational experience of your life. It gives you the opportunity to explore an entirely new way of living and compare it to your own. Be prepared to live with different cultures under the same roof, different cooking, sanitary, habits, etc.  Get Involved Joining clubs is a great way to meet people, make friends, and relieve stress. Certainly you want to study hard, but take time to meet Singaporean students and share the richness of your knowledge and culture with others.  Visit the Office of International Relations(OIR) / Centre for Counseling & Guidance A discussion with International Relations staff can help in achieving a useful perspective on culture shock and the learning possibilities it implies. Counselors at the Centre for Counseling & Guidance are also available should you wish to speak to them. The Centre for Counseling & Guidance is located at the Administration Building, Level 7.

The secret of success, then, is to keep yourself busy. When you share your life and culture with others, you will enjoy the greatest benefit.

Pre-departure Checklist

 SMU Acceptance Letter  FORM 16 (For student pass collection)  Possess a valid passport  Enquire at the Singapore High Commission regarding visa requirements, if required you must have applied and received a visa for entry into Singapore.  Necessary travel arrangements.  Financial arrangements, done so that you have enough money to cover travel expenses, living costs on arrival.  Check procedures for transferring funds to a bank in Singapore.  If necessary, applied for an exit visa from your home country.  Medical / Health Insurance Certificate (if applicable) - the coverage for your overseas study.  If you wear glasses, get a prescription from your eye doctor.  Health examination and any immunizations required for travel and residence in Singapore as stipulated on the official yellow card of the World Health Organization (WHO). If possible, get a copy of your medical record from your physician and a vaccination record from your physician. If you are under regular medication, get an adequate supply and prescription from your physician and bring any medical documentation you have access to.  Driving License (if applicable).  Credit card – Please check with the credit card centre of the percentage of charges of overseas‟ cash withdrawal before you undertake several transactions.

Please take note that all student exchange students are expected to attend the orientation. Students who attend the orientation have fewer difficulties adjusting.

To help exchange students settle in quickly, the Office of International Relations will be organizing programmes in both semesters. The orientation day is normally scheduled prior to the commencement of each semester. During Orientation, you will also meet new friends, have a chance to get over any jet lag and above all, by sharing expectations, anxieties and experiences, begin to prepare physically and emotionally for the commencement of classes.

Other items which can be purchased in Singapore include:-

1. Informal light clothing 2. Bath towel and toiletries 3. Pillow and bed sheets 4. Spare pair of spectacles and medication 5. Alarm clock 6. Camera 7. Calculator 8. Dictionary (bilingual) – If your native language is not English 9. Sports equipment (racquets, etc.) 10. Formal wear for presentations

23 You may prefer to bring than buying the above items as you may have to pay at a higher price for good quality items.

Arrival Checklist

1. Complete the Disembarkation / Embarkation form and present this with your passport to the Immigration Officers. Please retain the Disembarkation / Embarkation form as it is required for the application of Student‟s Pass. 2. Change your money at the currency exchange counters at Changi Airport if necessary. 3. If necessary, you may leave your baggage at the Left Baggage Counters (Tel: 6546-2738) in Basement 2 of Terminal 1, or Departure Hall of Terminal 2 (approximately S$5 per bag for 24 hours). 4. If you require urgent overnight accommodation, you may book a room at the Singapore Hotel Association Counter (open between 7am to 11pm daily) in the Arrival area of the airport. 5. Alternatively, call Transit Hotel at Changi Airport Terminal 1 (Tel: 6542-5538) and Terminal 2 hours‟ stay. Additional hours are charged at S$10.20 per hour. 6. If you have made arrangements with your buddy for arrival pick-up at the airport, proceed to the pre-arranged meeting area. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, bus or the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) train and make your way to your residence. 7. Check into your residence during office hours (or as previously arranged). 8. Collect your student pass at Singapore Immigration and checkpoint Authority with your IPA letter, Form 16, passport and other necessary documents. 9. Open a bank account; finalize the accommodation fee, and all other necessary matters. 10. Collect SMU student card and verify documents at SMU. 11. Attend the SMU Orientation for the International Student Exchange. During Orientation, you will also meet new friends, have a chance to get over any jet lag and above all, by sharing expectations, anxieties and experiences, begin to prepare physically and emotionally for the commencement of classes. 12. If at any time after your arrival you are unsure of what to do and where to go for information, please contact the Office of International Relations (OIR).

Useful Telephone Numbers

Prefix the following numbers with 65 (country code) if calling from another country. There is no city code.

Police Tel: 999 (toll-free) Fire Brigade / Ambulance Tel: 995 (toll-free) Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) Tel: 1800-221-4444 (24 hours Emergency Counselling) Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) Hotline Tel: (65) 6391 6100 (24-hour automated hotline for information on their services and procedures. Customer service officers are available from 8am - 5pm, Mon to Fri and 8am - 1pm, Sat) International Calls Tel: 104 Time of day Tel: 1711 Weather Tel: (65) 6542 7788

Embassies / Consulates

The majority of foreign missions observe normal working hours of 9am to 5pm, though it is not out of the ordinary to find some embassies working only in the morning or having shorter opening hours, especially with regards to visa applications. Almost all embassies are closed on Saturdays. It is therefore recommended that you call ahead to check on the office hours before visiting.

American Embassy 27 Napier Road, Tel: 6476-9100 Australian High Commission 25 Napier Road, Tel: 68364100 Embassy of the Republic of Austria 600 North Bridge Road #24-04/05 Parkview Square, Tel: 63966350/51/52 Royal Embassy of Belgium 8 Shenton Way #14-01, Tel: 62207677 Embassy of the Federative Republic of Brazil 101 Thomson road #10-05, Tel: 6256-6001/02 British High Commission 100 Tanglin Road, Tel: 64244270 (Visa & Consular) Embassy of the Republic of Chile 105 Cecil Street #25-00 The Octagon, Tel: 62238577 (General) 25 Canadian High Commission 1 George Street, #11-01, Tel: 68545900 Embassy of the People's Republic of China 150 Tanglin Road, Tel: 64180252 (Protocol & Administration) Royal Danish Embassy 101 Thomson Road #13-01/2 United Square, Tel: 63555010 Embassy of Finland 101 Thomson Road #21-03 United Square, Tel: 62544042 French Embassy 101/103 Cluny Park Road, Tel: 68807800 Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany 50 Raffles Place #12-00 Singapore Land Tower, Tel: 65336002 Embassy of the Republic of Hungary 250 North Bridge Road #29-01/01A Raffles City Tower, Tel: 68830882 High Commission of India 31 Grange Road, India House, Tel: 67376777 / 62382537 Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia 7 Chatsworth Road, Tel: 6737-7422 Embassy of Ireland 541 Orchard Road #08-00 Liat Towers, Tel: 62387616 Embassy of Israel 24 Stevens Close, Tel: 68349212 (24-hr line) Embassy of Italy 101 Thomson Road #27-02 United Square, Tel: 62506022 Embassy of Japan 16 Nassim Road, Tel: 6235-8855 Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan 20 Raffles Place #14-06 Ocean Towers Tel: 65366100, 65362367, 65361407 (Consular) Embassy of the Republic of Korea 47 Scotts Road #08-00 Goldbell Towers, Tel: 62561188 Embassy of Mexico 152 Beach Road #06-07/08 The Gateway East Tower, Tel: 62982678 Consulate of the Kingdom of Morocco 300 Beach Road #02-01 The Concourse, Tel: 63929881 Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands 541 Orchard Road #13-01 Liat Towers, Tel: 67371155

New Zealand High Commission 391A Orchard Road #15-06/10 Ngee Ann City, Tower A, Tel: 62359966 Royal Norwegian Embassy 16 Raffles Quay, #44-01 Hong Leong Building, Tel: 6220-7122 Embassy of the Republic of Peru 390 Orchard Road #12-03 Palais Renaissance Tel: 67388595 / 67388740 Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines 20 Nassim Road, Tel: 6737-3977 Embassy of the Republic of Poland 435 Orchard Road #17-02/03 Wisma Atria, Tel: 62359478 Embassy of Portugal 143 Cecil Street, GB Building #06-02, Tel: 62242256 Embassy of the State of Qatar 8 Temasek Boulevard #41-02 Suntec Tower 3, Tel: 65939900 Embassy of the Russian Federation 51 Nassim Road Tel: 62351834 (Reception Desk) High Commission of the Republic of South Africa 331 North Bridge Road #15-01/06 Odeon Towers, Tel: 63393319 Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain – 7 Temasek Boulevard #39-00 Suntec Tower 1, Tel: 67259220 Embassy of Sweden TripleOne Somerset 111 Somerset Road 05-01, Tel: 6415 9720 Embassy of Switzerland 1 Swiss Club Link, Tel: 64685788 Embassy of the Republic of Turkey 2 Shenton Way #10-03, SGX Centre 1 Tel: 65333390, 65333391 (Chancery & Consular) Royal Thai Embassy 370 Orchard Road, Tel: 6737-2644

Have a Great Trip!

As you begin your university studies in Singapore, we would like to make your transition, both to university life and to a new country, as easy and enjoyable as possible. I would like to assure you that we at the Office of International Relations would do our best to make your stay in SMU and Singapore a pleasant and memorable one.

On your part, you can help us to help you by being as well informed as possible about the way of life in SMU and Singapore, and by making sure that you interact actively with as many of your fellow students as possible, as well as with your professors. The student exchange programme will enable you to gain international exposure, different cultural experience and personal development.

Well, now you are ready for Singapore! It is been a long time coming, but it is now time to step on the plane and have the experience of your life! Let your ultimate adventure begin!

28 Frequently Asked Questions

Student’s Pass

1. How do I collect my Student‟s Pass?

On your arrival in Singapore, you will be given a Social Visit Pass for 2 weeks / 1 month. During this period you must apply for a Student’s Pass. Please bring the individual IPA Letter (In-Principal Approval letter) and other documents stated below to the Immigration of Customs & Authority (ICA). Collection of the Student’s Pass must be done in-person, a letter of authorization will not be accepted.

2. What do I need to bring for the collection of Student‟s Pass?

 Passport with valid social visit pass  Disembarkation / embarkation card  SMU Acceptance Letter  IPA letter  Completed Form 16  1 passport photo  Medical report from approved hospitals / clinics in Singapore (for studies which are 6 months or more)

3. How long is the process?

Processing the student’s pass at the Immigration of Customs & Authority will take approximately 3-5 working days (during peak period). It must be done in person as required by the immigration authority.

4. Do I need to go for a medical check-up?

With effect from 1 March 2000, ICA requires all applicants for long-term passes including student’s pass to undergo a medical examination, which includes a general physical medical examination, a chest x-ray and a test for AIDS-causing Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The examination must be conducted by approved hospitals / clinics in Singapore.

This rule applies to visiting Singapore for 6 months and above, on purpose of education.

5. Can I remain in Singapore after my student‟s pass expires as my flight is only confirmed after the expiry date?

If you wish to stay in Singapore after the expiration of your student’s pass, or if application of extension is made after the expiration of your student’s pass, you may apply for a social visit pass through the visitor services centre, ICA (4th storey). Please bring along a confirmed air ticket for your departure.

If your social visit pass expires, you are deemed to be unlawfully residing in Singapore and will be liable to payment of a maximum fine of $500, failing which you will be charged in court.

6. What should I do if I terminate my studies early?

On early termination of your studies (eg. withdrawal or refused re-admission) at the University, students should bring their student’s pass to the ICA within 7 days of cessation of their studies for cancellation.

7. Should I inform ICA if I have changed my address?

Yes, you should inform ICA once you have moved. Notification can be made personally to ICA. You will have to fill up the change of address form and submit your passport, student’s pass and disembarkation / embarkation card for updating purposes.

8. I will be visiting Singapore for the first time. Are there Customs formalities I should observe when I arrive at the airport?

You may wish to visit the Singapore Customs and Excise Departments homepage on Guide for Travellers at http://www.customs.gov.sg/leftNav/trav/Arriving+in+Singapore.htm

9. Where can I obtain general information on visiting Singapore?

You can obtain information on Singapore’s tourist attractions from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) website, New Asia Singapore at www.newasia-singapore.com

10. Are there any vaccination requirements for foreigners visiting Singapore?

Visitors coming from or who passed through any country which is partially or wholly endemic for yellow fever or cholera within six days prior to their arrival to Singapore are to produce recognized certificates of vaccination. A yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is especially required from travelers who within the preceding six days have been in or have passed through the countries listed in the Travellers’ Health at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm

11. I am a foreigner. How do I know whether I need visa to visit Singapore?

You can refer to this website at http://www.ica.gov.sg/page.aspx?pageid=96&secid=94 - for the list of countries whose national require visas to enter Singapore.

SMU Pre – Survival Guide for Inbound International Exchange Students Published by Office of International Relations Singapore Management University

Every effort has been made to provide information that is current and accurate. The Office of International Relations, Singapore Management University, cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions and/or misinterpretations.

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