Living In Singapore

About Singapore -

Geography

The Republic of Singapore is an island city-state off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Although an island of 728 square km, Singapore is safe from both natural disasters and crimes.

Climate

Singapore has a tropical rainforest climate with no distinctive seasons. It is famous for high humidity, unpredictable weather and warm temperature, ranging from 22 °C to 34 °C (72° to 93 °F). Loose and light summer clothing is recommended although proper attire is still required in schools.

Races/Religious/Languages

Singapore is a multi-racial country which has four races – Chinese, Malays, Indians and Eurasians – and foreign talents from many different countries living together harmoniously. With such a diverse culture, Singapore is also multi-religious.

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Singapore positions itself as a key educational hub in Asia. Studying in Singapore offers a foreign student a rich experience – both academically and culturally.

Financial Matters

Cost of Living —

When you plan your budget, it is good to consider the various common items you may need to purchase. Below is a compilation of standard expense items you are likely to spend on a monthly basis (in Singapore Dollars).

Items	Cost (S$)	Remarks
Accommodation	550 – 1500	Depends on location
Utilities	50 – 80	May be included in accommodation
Food	300 – 450	3 meals per day
Public Transport	100 – 150	Depends on your travel
Telecommunications	20 – 50	Depends on your usage
Books and Stationery	20 – 399	Depends on your need
Personal Expenses	100 – 200	Depends on your usage

On average, you will need about S$750 to S$2000 a month, depending on the kind of lifestyle you want.

Banks —

You can open an account with a local or international bank. Local banks include DBS (POSB), UOB or OCBC. International banks include Citibank, Bank of China, Bank of India, CIMB or HSBC. To open a savings account, visit any bank with your passport, Student’s Pass and Letter of Admission to Trinity International College.

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) —

Once you have opened a bank account, you can apply for an ATM card. This useful card allows you to withdraw money from the bank’s ATM machines and conduct various transactions such as topping up your EZlink card. ATM machines are fully automated and available 24 hours. Network for Electronic Transfers (NETS)
You can also use your ATM card to make NETS payment for your purchases. NETS is a cashless payment transaction system that deducts the exact purchase amount directly from your bank account, at the point of sale.

Money Changers —

Other than banks, you can also change your foreign currencies with licensed money changers. These outlets are usually located within shopping malls and commercial centres; popular ones are People’s Park Centre, Orchard Shopping Centre, Centre Point and Lucky Plaza.

Shopping & Eating

Shopping in Singapore —

Pastime Favourite

Singapore is a country that never stops shopping or eating – the two favourite pastimes of Singaporeans! There are many exciting shopping malls that feature top and local brand names, great eating outlets and world-class restaurants which offer a wide selection of cuisine and local delights.

There are shopping malls everywhere, from the bustling Orchard Road to the warm and friendly suburban neighbourhood centres. You can shop at the popular Orchard Road area for designer clothes, electrical gadgets, the latest imported fashion accessories and togs. For basic necessities or a good bargain, visit one of the many suburban malls and local shops located in the heart of housing estates.

Eating in Singapore —

Eating

With such a wide variety of local and international cuisines here, you are certainly spoilt for choice. If you are hungry, just hit one of the favourite places:

Neighbourhood Hawker Centre or “Kopitiam”  (Coffee Shop)
Modern Food Courts e.g. Food Junction and KOPITIAM
Fast Food Chains e.g. McDonalds and Burger King
Café or Restaurant e.g. Coffee Beans and Starbucks
One of the best places to try some of Singapore’s favourite local fare like laksa, chicken rice or nasi lemak is the open air hawker centre. These hawker centres are usually the cheapest places to eat. Popular hawker centres include Lau Pa Sat, Chinatown Food Street and Maxwell Street.
You can also eat in air-conditioned comfort food courts at reasonable prices. Food courts are usually located in shopping malls.

Singapore’s Laws

You should also be aware of Singapore laws especially those relating to the Immigration and Customs Authority and the Ministry of Manpower. These include, but are not limited to, immigration requirements, laws on driving, drugs and alcohol abuse, employment, smoking, traffic and littering

IMPORTANT POINT: IGNORANCE OF THE LAW IS NO EXCUSE TO BREAK THE LAW,
THE RESPONSIBILITY LIES ON EVERYONE TO KNOW THE LAW.

Immigration

All international students studying in Singapore must have a valid passport and a Student Pass from the ICA (Immigration and Checkpoint Authority).

Employment

International Students are not allowed to work in Singapore without a Work Pass Exemption from the MOM (Ministry of Manpower). 

Driving

All drivers must be in possession of a valid Singapore driving license and the vehicle must be insured. 

Drugs

Possession of Controlled Drugs is presumed to be for trafficking, an offence which can carry the death penalty. 

Alcohol Abuse

Any offense committed while being intoxicated (drunk) is punishable under the law. Drunk driving is a serious offence. 

Smoking

Smoking in specific public places and indoor restaurants is prohibited.

Traffic

Jay walking is an offence.

Littering

Littering, spitting and vandalism (with graffiti) in public areas are serious offences.