Shopping Hours

You needn't keep a sharp eye on your watch when you're shopping in Singapore. A good many stores and some smaller shops are open daily from 10am to about 9pm, or even 10pm. Our island also enjoys the reputation of being one of the safest places to be in, so provided basic precautions are taken, you can have peace of mind to shop and walk around well into the night.

Shop Tax Free

A 3% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is levied in Singapore. The GST will be refunded if more than S$300 is spent (receipts of S$100 or more can be pooled from shops displaying the Tax Free Shopping sticker).

You may cash your Tax Free Shopping Cheques at Cash Refund counters located at Changi Airport upon your departure. However, if you prefer, just mail your stamped Tax Free Shopping Cheques and you will receive your refund in the form of a direct transfer to your credit card account or a bank cheque. A small handling fee will be deducted from the GST amount.

Prices and Bargains

The local newspapers will give you a fair idea of prices to expect. The next best thing to do would be a quick price comparison within the shopping mall. You're bound to find the same item sold in several outlets within the complex.

There's no need to worry about whether you're getting the best bargain in department stores. All items come with price tags and fixed prices are the rule. Many small retailers also practise price tagging but are often flexible when approached for a discount on the goods. Ask the retailer for his "best price" and then counter-offer with realistic prices until both of you reach a mutual agreement.

Credit/Charge Cards

Almost all stores accept major international credit and charge cards. Should you come across a shop insisting on adding a surcharge, do contact the local office of the card company so that corrective action can be taken.

Money Matters

Banks throughout Singapore generally open at 9.30am and close at 3.30pm Mondays to Fridays, and 9.30am to 11.30am on Saturdays for transactions of travellers' cheques and other financial matters. For convenience, ATM machines are open round-the-clock.

Keep a look-out for these machines displaying Plus and Cirrus signs at all banks and most shopping centres.

Money Changers

Apart from the convenience of exchanging money at all banks and hotels, money can also be exchanged wherever the sign "Licensed Money Changer" is displayed. You can't miss them as there are usually a few in almost every shopping complex.

Warranty

Check that the guarantee card for your purchase bears the correct brand name and model number and is endorsed with the shop's stamp. International guarantees can be obtained for many goods, usually for a 12-month period. However, you may have to ask for them and the price may be raised slightly. Some guarantees have limitations, and though international, may not always be applicable world-wide.

Most shops will comply with your requests for guarantee statements, but if one is not forthcoming, it may be best to simply shop elsewhere.

More Tips

For electronic and electrical goods, always check the voltage and cycle. Some equipment can be used in all countries, while for others, special adapters may be required. Singapore's voltage is 220 to 240 volts AC, 50 cycles per second.

If you are having clothes tailor-made, establish a clear understanding about payment. It is wise to just leave a deposit when ordering, with full payment following only after you have inspected the completed garment for workmanship and fit.