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Singapore is much more expensive than other South-East Asian countries, which
may come as a shock if you are travelling on a shoestring budget.
You can still stay here without spending too much money, as long as you can
forego the temptation to run amok in the shops or indulge in luxuries you may
have craved while travelling in less-developed Asian countries.
It's possible to stay in Singapore for US$25 a day, if you stay in hostels
and eat cheaply. If you're staying in mid-range hotels and eating at good restaurants,
US$80 is a more realistic daily minimum.
Currency
Singapore dollar
Use our Currency
Converter to check the exchange rate that corresponds to your local currency.
Meals
Budget: US$3-12
Mid-range: US$12-20
Top-end: US$20 and upwards
Lodging
Budget: US$15-30
Mid-range: US$30-100
Top-end: US$100 and upwards
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 travellers' cheques for emergencies. You'll find moneychangers in shopping
centres all over Singapore.
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.
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