TRANSPORTATION
Singapore Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) is a modern, cheap, air-conditioned and speedy train service that operates all over the island. Pick up A Quick Guide to MRT Travel from the Station Control Room to help make life a little easier. There are three main lines –
- North-South Line – from Marina Bay to Jurong East
- East-West Line – Changi Airport / Pasir Ris to Boon Lay
- North-East Line – Harbour front to Punggol
The MRT is a great way to travel from Changi Airport to the city centre (or you can get an airport transfer). The trip takes approximately 27 minutes and operates at an average frequency of 12 minutes. The cost for a single trip from the Changi Airport to City Hall Station is SGD $1.40. To use the MRT you must purchase an ez-link card or use the Singapore Tourist Pass. Ez-link cards can be bought or revalued at any TransitLink Ticket Sales Office which are located in most MRT stations and bus interchanges.
For more information call the TransitLink Hotline on 1800 366 8900 or visit the SMRT website
Buses
There are two main bus operators in Singapore: SBS Transit Ltd and SMRT Buses Ltd. There are thousands of buses on this island to help get you from Point A to Point B. The services run through the day and both operators have special Night buses. Find out about fares and timetables on the official websites:
SBS Transit Buses
SMRT Buses
Taxis in Singapore
There are over 15,000 air-conditioned taxis operating in Singapore. Taxis are an easy, no-fuss way to travel around the city and surrounding areas. They can be flagged down or met at a taxi stand 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The taxis are metered, however, certain pickup spots and times could add a surcharge onto your fare.
What to wear
The weather in Singapore is hot and humid, casual t-shirts and denim shorts soon become your best friends, the less layers you wear the better and try to stick to fabrics such as cotton blends, polyester/spandex, linen and silk – these are lightweight, breathable, absorb perspiration and allow your body heat to escape.
Things to be aware of
For visitors, it is important to note that even relatively minor violations (such as spitting on the sidewalk) are considered offenses. And there are fines issued for just about any offense including smoking in public places, jaywalking, littering and even chewing gum on the MRT.
Penalties for drug offenses include the death penalty. Even shoplifting is considered a rather serious offense in Singapore, with penalties that include a few months of prison time. Other punishment may also be imposed for other lesser offences. However, the beauty is there is hardly any policeman or soldiers on the road and you must be very lucky to see a policeman or a soldier.
