So, it's been awhile since I wrote something on this blog. Just got caught up doing work and stuff.

But with anyone who's been up to the news lately, there's many things slated for Singapore this 2010. Resorts World opened this month. There are some woorks to be completed with Universal Studios but everyone's so excited to get a dose of adrenaline rush with the rides they are offering.

I just don't happen to love those kind of adrenaline rush though, so not looking forward to that. I do however, would love to get a glimpse of movies coming to life so on second thought, I might just queue up.

And of course, I'll write how it goes.

Another thing that Singapore's looking forward to is the opening of Marina Bay Sands Singapore. All who are fond of casinos are surely gonna have their hands full. I personally would love to take my chance on the Skypark. I'm not keen on heights but having a 360 degrees view of the island must be worth it, so I'm saving some guts for those.

And, oh yeah, the Youth Olympics.

The first ever Youth Olympics will be held this August on the 14th-26th. It'll be inaugural so all of Singapore is gearing up for it. Ticket are now even available.

Gotta be some one of a kind event.

Though with everything that's slated for singapore this year, I'd bet we'll have loads of it.

One of a kind events, I mean.

So, this is gonna be short.

And I'll be in touch soon...=)

The challenge really is to choose which attractions you'll wish to experience. Now, if you're on a Sentosa package that wouldn't be such a problem as you're whole itinerary in the island is being taken cared of. You'll only have to choose which package will mostly appeal to your sense of adventure.Sentosa tour packages can be purchased at Sentosa Station (Vivocity Lobby L, Level 3).

Getting around Sentosa on your own is quite alright too. That way you can take your own sweet time in exploring each and every attractions. You don't have any schedules to stick to and leaves you more time to get those pictures perfectly taken.

Personally, having tried both, I like to have a go at it on my own. But then, that's just me. You may like your tour completely organized whereas I simply avoid anything that remotely resembles a schedule if I can get away with it.

Now, some of the attractions you'll encounter in Imbiah Lookout are as follows:

Images of Singapore

You'll get a glimpse of Sinapore's history of cultural diversity. They have these wide collections of books, garments and other stuff from different ethnic culture that would descriptively show its visitors the essence of Singapore.

Best for tourist with a penchant for getting the feel of the culture of a certain place.

Tiger Sky Tower

Towering 131 meters above sea level, the Tiger Sky Tower will treat you to a breathtaking 360 degrees view Singapore, Sentosa and even some part of neighboring countries of Malaysia and Indonesia. It offers a great vantage point in taking pictures of the whole island.

Butterfly Park and Insect Kingdom

I've never been to this place but judging from its name, it must be every entomomologist's paradise.

Skyride and Luge

This is actually rides. The Skyride is more like a cable car but it's not enclosed. There's just  you and the sky above or the depths below and of course, your seat that's dangled on a rope.

The luge is like a go-kart that will cruise you downhill along a 650 meter paved track. It's pure excitement to feel the wind in your face and the rush of adrenaline.

Sentosa Cinemablast and 4D Magix.

Going to the cinemas has never been this real! It's a completely different experience as it engages all your senses and the Cinemablast has this simulator that would induce you to feeling the excitment and thrill of the ride.

The Merlion is also one of the attraction in Imbiah Lookout but since this is such a compelling icon, I'll give it the respect it deserves by writing a different post for it. Do watch out for it!

My friend, along with her boyfriend came to visit me in Singapore just a couple of days ago. And for 2 days I've just been voted to become their official tourist guide.

I really didn't mind playing the part since I love exploring the whole island just about as much as any tourist. Though after getting us lost one time too many, I highly doubt I'll be able to make a career out of it.

Anyway, so there I was planning our itinerary and with only 2 days to cram all the sightseeing activities. (No, make that 1 and half day since they're going back home on the last day.)

It's a no brainer really.

Sentosa would make an excellent tourist destination for a whole day of playing tourist.

Getting There

Sentosa is accessible through Harbourfront. It's easy to get there via the MRT however, it's just as easy to take bus # 65, 80, 93, 188, 855, 10, 30, 97, 100, 131, 143, 145, 166 to take you there.

Once there, you have many options to get to the island:

Sentosa Bus

This is one bus that's hard to miss as it's the only bus that's orange colored. You'll get to board this bus at the Harbourfront Interchange and it will take its passengers to alight at Beach Station, Sentosa.

Bus going to Sentosa

A bus ticket costs $3.00 and can be purchased at Harbourfront Interchange Ticketing Counter.

Operating hours are as follows:

(Sentosa – HarbourFront Bus Terminal | 10 – 20minutes frequency):
7am – 12mn (Sun – Thu & Public Holidays)
7am – 12.30mn (Fri, Sat and eves of Public Holidays)

Last bus leaving from Beach Station to HarbourFront Bus Terminal:
12mn (Sun – Thu & Public Holidays)
12.30am (Fri, Sat and eves of Public Holidays)

Sentosa Express

Express train going to Sentosa

The Sentosa Express is a personal favorite. This colorful LRT certainly adds to the allure of being transported to a different, magical place.

With Sentosa Express, you can choose where to alight as it stops on 3 stations, namely: Sentosa Integrated Resort (due to open next year), Imbiah Station and Beach Station.

You can get onboard Sentosa Express at VivoCity (Lobby L, Level 3).

Tickets costs $3.00 per person and can be purchased at the following locations:

*  All Sentosa Express stations (except Waterfront Station)
* Cable Car Ticketing counters at Mt Faber and HarbourFront Tower II
* Ticket vending machines at all Sentosa Express stations (except Waterfront Station)

Operating hours are as follows:

First train – 7.30am
Last train – 10pm

Beach Station:
First train – 7.30am
Last train – 10pm

Car/Taxi

Of course! Singapore is all about convenience. What more convenient way to go to Sentosa than hailing a cab or going there with your own car.

Just don't expect to get away with the fees. There's a $2.00 per car charge on top of the $2.00 per person admission charge. With taxis, you only need to pay the admission fee of $2.00 per person on top of the taxi fare.

There are lots of designated parking lots at the island so, no worries there.

Cable Car

Cable Car Going To Sentosa

I rode on a cable car the first time I went to Sentosa. It was an exhilarating experience. Sad to say that this will be unavailable to the public until early next year for some major upgrading.

Guess we'll just have to wait and see til then, huh?!

There you go. The different means to go to Sentosa.This list is as far as I know. You know of any more, please share it with us by leaving a comment below. (Discounting flying and swimming please. For now, let's just stick to what ordinary humans can do.)

Everything.

I sometimes have this impression that if there's any country that can boast of being fanatical about its organization, that country must be Singapore. It's so methodical to the point of being so predictable.

So I find it a great irony that Singapore should have a kind of weather that is its complete antithesis.

If there is something you can count on the weather down here, its that it's bound to change anytime it wishes to. One minute, the sun is shining with all its glory. The next moment, it's raining as if there's no tomorrow.

Take today, for instance, as I was starting to write this post, I was all set to complain about the heat. With the sun shining and the temperature at an all time high, I thought I was going to explode.( If you hear a case of human combustion in Singapore, you'll have an idea who that might be.)

Anyway, so there I was, all sweaty and about to turn on the airconditioning when the sky started to darken and a few minutes later, it's starting to drizzle and moments later still, it was all raining so hard.

And that's NOT an isolated incident. It happens all the time. All year round.

The weather here doesn't seem to have an idea what summer is or that it should only be raining during rainy seasons. If it does,it simply ignores that rule of nature.

Two years living here and you'd think I'd have learned to be prepared for its fickle weather.

I never learned that lesson. I've never been fond of bringing an umbrella. And I was getting confident in my ability to forecast Singapore's erratic weather.

Big mistake.

Just last week I came home all drenched and looking as if I just had a shower with all my clothes on.(It was partly because of an insensitive driver, by the way.) It was not one of my good moments, I tell you.

Sometimes, I'm having this absurd feeling that the weather's out to play games with me. If for some reason, I badly want it to rain, the sun shines with mockery. Another time I want the sun for some insane reason or another, and it all goes raining.

I know, I'm getting paranoid and weird here. But try to experience unexpected shower and being subject to the mercy of high speeding, inconsiderate drivers or try feeling so much heat you'd think you're exploding. See how that feels.

But I'm not complaining. Me? Complaining? Heaven forbid, if you ever get that idea while reading this.

I'm awesomely, highly, mightily thankful Singapore doesn't have four seasons.

Given this capricious weather, that's just too much to contend with.

Pasir Ris Park in Singapore

Exercise has never been high on my list of favorite activities. Though it certainly didn't show when I spent almost half the day biking at Pasir Ris Park.

Singapore, although limited in land area, has allocated considerable space for parks. Pasir Ris Park is among those and is considered as one of the largest parks in Singapore.

It is easily accesible. You can get there by taking Singapore MRT and alighting at Pasir Ris MRT station and riding on bus # 403. Likewise, if a few blocks walk doesn't bother you, you can take bus # 3, 5, 6, 12, 17, 21, 89, 354, 358, NR7 and alight Downtown East. From there, you walk a few meters and locating Pasir Ris park wouldn't be that troublesome if you just ask around.

Biking in Pasir Ris Park

Several activities can be done in the park. For one, as I just mentioned, you can bike along the full stretch of the park which would amount to 6.6 km in length. In our case, let's just say, we probably didn't make  it halfway. The heat was really scorching and we were really pressed for time. (Yeah, I know what you think: excuses, excuses.)

But I say, we sweated away a year's worth of accumulated fats. (Anyhow, that's what I'd like to think.)

Pasir Ris Park playgound in Singapore

Another facilities anyone might enjoy at the park is the playground. Pasir Ris Park has a large playground which the young ones and the "young once" might enjoy. This is located on the western end of the park.It has features such as play stations, slides, and 'space-nets' for the kids, as well as rope climbing, cableways, and basketball courts for the older ones. We got a kick out of trying the slides,the bridge, and the circular thing which spins you around.

Enjoying Pasir Ris Park playground

Heh, I know, I guess we belong to the "young once" group and we enjoyed it as any fun-loving adult would.

There's also the 3 storey high Bird Watching Tower for the bird watching hobbyists. We never got to try it out and to tell you honestly, I really don't know what the fuss is all about. Birds are practically everywhere on this island. My precious itouch once got pooed by a bird while I was strolling and fiddling my ipod. I've never been fond of birds since then.

Barbecue pits are also all over the park. You can spend the whole day with your family or friends doing barbecue. Though you'd have to rent the pit at any SAMS station anywhere in Singapore. And if getting your hands dirty - so to speak - isn't your thing, there are also restaurants along the park. What's even better is there are two alfresco eating outlets by the seaside in the park.

Mangroves in Pasir Ris Park

If nature and the ecosystem is particularly your thing, there are mangrove areas on the park and boardwalks are even built to make the mangrove forest easily accessible to visitors. You'll get to see mud crabs, mudskippers and mangrove genera of Rhizophora and Brugiera. Marine biologists out there, this area of the park might strike your fancy the most.

Aside from all that I've mentioned above, many more activities can be done at the park. Some people go there for jogging. Others, cycling or kayaking or just to spend quality time with their family by having a picnic in the grass. And the more innovative ones do their yoga in the  park. Still, there are those who spend their time on the park for their "emote" moments away from the hustle and stressful city surroundings.

As for us, our whole time there was spent most on biking then we had some rest. Afterwards, we spent some time scouring the hawker center inside the mall for sumptuous lunch. (So much for exorcising a year's worth of fat.)

I went home body aching and fully vindicated with my aversion to exercise. The way I see it, exercise is simply overrated.

Escape Theme Park Singapore entrance

Escape Theme Park is no Disneyland - that I can tell you. However, an afternoon in this theme park might do loads of good in quenching that restless and tireless spirit.

Escape Theme Park is located in Pasir Ris - one bus stop away from Pasir Ris MRT station if you ride bus # 403 from there. Alternatively, you can take bus # 3, 5, 6, 12, 17, 21, 89, 354, 358, NR7 to take you to Downtown East.

Once again, it was one of those days again where me and my friends have the time with nothing to do (that rarely happen nowadays), so we decided to check out this theme park.

We purchase for ourselves tickets at the entrance for S$17 each which is reasonable considering it's ride-all-you can anyway.

There are many rides in the theme park but I'll be talking only of the rides that really caught my attention and got stuck in my memory - figuratively and literally.

Flipper - our first ride in Escape Theme Park Singapore

We started with the flipper. It looked harmless enough, sort of like that kiddie teacup ride and looks like a circular seat that spins around while whizzing you higher and higher and higher.....Which is nothing really - except for someone who is really afraid of heights which I happen to be.

But I survived that ride mainly because it was the first ride and I'd rather die than chicken out on the first ride while children almost half my age seem to be really enjoying it.

The second ride was the Red Baron. This is for the entire family. Your dog to your grandparents can ride without any real danger of heart attack. I don't even know why I'm mentioning this.

After that boring ride, my friends reached a general consensus to ride something more daring and as the most screams generally came from the Pirate Ship, that's the most logical next stop.

It doesn't look harmful as well. It just looks like an innocent ship with poles at both ends that anchors it. And it just swings back and forth. This looks like another boring ride except that people are really screaming and by the time the ship stopped, some are even vomiting. I've seen a girl crying. uh oohh....

That very instant, I had the sudden urge to get lost in the crowd. And I have to say, I almost pulled off my disappearing act if not for one of my pesky friend who noticed my initial reaction to the vomiting and the screaming. Needless to say, I went and rode that monster.

Now, I know what it feels like to have your gut pulled out of you. That's definitely what I felt during the whole time we were swinging back and forth.

The Inverter in Escape Theme Park Singapore

And as if that weren't enough, my relentless friends now eyed another monster of a ride called The Inverter. Funny that it's called that way, it literally fits with what it can do - inverting you in every position imaginable. Which would have been pretty okay with me as it can only induce dizziness at worst. The thing is, it does the inverting thingy at, to my estimation, 10 stories high.

Forget my pride, I was thinking of Murphy's Law while looking on and hearing the screams of the riders. You know, the law that says: "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong." I'm not much of a pessimist (most of the time, anyway), but suppose there's any truth to it (it is a law after all), then what?

The Inverter in Escape Theme Park Singapore

I decided to pass up and save my butt. And I was rather emphatic about it too. It's just that my friend was already holding my arms and grabbed me with all her strength, effectively blocking me from going out of the queue. We were already causing a commotion and eventually my self-respect won in its battle with  fear.

After that ride, I swear, I felt cheated out of my $17. I didn't pay with my hard earned money just to have them toss me around like that.

When my nerves calmed down a bit, we decided to get ourselves wet with Wet and Wild. It would've been a really nice ride except that I found out to late that it is Asia's highest flume ride. I don't mind getting myself wet. I don't mind being splashed around. What I do mind, however, is they'll scale you to an incredible height and drop you headlong into a splash!

Kind of makes me wonder afterward why I have to put up with all of this. Its funny, really, how people are willing to pay just to be given the chance to scream their heads off.

Then, we went off in search of the next ride. I was feeling very wary then. I was thinking of a resolute excuse to pass up. And I was already cooking up a mood that would effectively tell my friends to back off.

Daytona Go-Kart at Escape Theme Park Singapore

Then, they decided to have a go at the Go-Kart for the last ride since we were already running out of time. That was when all the excuses I was thinking of earlier suddenly vanished. I love the go-kart! They have this beginner's track and the advanced track. We opted for the advanced track. There was a long queue ahead of us, but I don't mind. By the time it was our turn, we were all set to zoom our way to the track.

The ride was nothing short of exhilarating. It more than made up for my earlier grumblings. Three turns at the track made my sour mood dissipate in a rush of utter thrill.

There were still other rides worth checking out. There was the kite ride, ferris wheel, bumper boats, Choo Choo Train and the Haunted House (it was close for renovation that time). Though I think we would have looked funny in many of those rides as it looks like they are especially for children.

The day ended in high note for me, thanks to the go-kart. And I went home thinking they sure know how to name the place appropriately - the whole time I was there, my main concern was how to escape there ALIVE! So, would I be willing to pay again to go there?

I'm never saying never as I know how obstinate my friends can be sometimes though I'd probably spend my whole time there queuing for the Go-Kart.

Yeah yeah, I know I'm such a chicken, who cares? Sue me.

I've put together 10 travel advice  to anyone who wishes to spend their holidays in Singapore. I am in no way saying that this is right or wrong, correct or not. However, it's something borne out of my two years experience living in Singapore - an endeavor of a very opinionated person.

Whether you read it purely for entertainment or view it as a truth like the bible or something, it is entirely up to you. Either way, I appreciate you taking the time to read.

And don't forget to tell me what you think.

1. Smile. Be courteous. If there is one universal travel tip, this one is it. We're all some sort of traveler in our own way so being courteous really goes a long way. Besides, smiling is still the best way to approach a stranger so its really imperative just in case you need some help.

2. Abide by the rules. This is a universal travel tip as well but if its your travel habit to come and go as you please, you may want to make an exception for Singapore and be at least familiar with their rules. Singapore is very serious in its law implementation. Basic things you should know like throwing garbage only in rubbish bins. Not spitting at public places. If its a no smoking area, then, no smoking it is. And oh yeah, chewing gums are strictly prohibited. I know, most of these are just plain common sense but just to be safe, be familiar with those. I mean, there many ways to get in trouble in Singapore, but breaking one of their rules is definitely the surest way.

3. Have at least your passport with you at all times. You never know when you might just need it. There are some things you can buy only if you have some sort of identification with you. Or you might just encounter random checks (though this seldom happens).

4. When in doubt, just ask. This is the part when travel tip # 1 comes in handy. Locals and residents are used to being asked all the time by tourists, so its definitely no trouble. I should know, I have had my share of asking and being asked and it's still the best way to go.

5. Plan beforehand your budget and stick to it. One of the nicest thing about Singapore is that they are always tourism oriented. That's why if you are a traveler, you have your choice of  accommodation from the cheapest hostels to the luxurious 6 star hotel. Same thing goes for Singapore transportation, flights, shops, and food. So if you have no plans of maxing out your credit card til kingdom come, better plan a budget and stick to it.

6. Buy a Singapore guidebook. This is NOT a must but its infinitely better than spending most of your time in Singapore figuring things on your own.

7. DO NOT wear any uncomfortable footwear. Take it from me. Don't make the same stupid mistake I made. High heels and nice shoes have its place in a woman's wardrobe. But it definitely does not have its place when you go sightseeing.

8. Bring an umbrella with you. Or anything that can protect you from severe heat of the sun and heavy rains. Singapore weather has its unpredictable mood swings. Maybe that's why in all my time here, I've never heard of a weather broadcast. The weather here simply doesn't want to cooperate.

9. Low crime doesn't mean no crime. Singapore has one of the lowest crime rate in Asia. But let not the statistics fool you to stupidity and leniency. You still hold the ultimate responsibility for your well-being and your things.

10. Enjoy. Don't mind me. I just like to ramble sometimes. You go on and do the things you set out to do. Have a blast. Have loads of mementos of your trip. Have fun. Be safe. ENJOY !

Marina Bay Singapore

If Orchard Road is the shopping capital of Singapore, I say, Marina Bay area must be the landmark capital of Singapore. But then again, that's just me. Guess you'll just have to see for yourself.

Taxi is the easiest way to get there. Though taking the public transport is just as easy. If you're taking the MRT, Marina Bay is the nearest MRT station and that's on the red lane. Bus is a good alternative too as there's many buses that usually passes that route. You might want to check out bus #10, 57, 70, 97, 162, 196, 400, 402, 700, NR1, NR2.

Once you're there, you have to check out the different Singapore landmarks nearby. There's just many of those within vicinity I bet that by the time the day is through, you'll have enough pictures to start a photo gallery.

Here are some you may want to explore:

The Esplanade

The Esplanade Singapore

It'll be hard to miss this monstrous display of fine architecture. The Esplanade is to Singapore much like the Sydney Opera House is to Australia.

This durian shaped dome is primarily a performing arts center boasting of 5 auditoriums, outdoor performance spaces, and a mix of offices, store, and apartments.
It has provided a panoramic backdrop of Marina Bay with its blatant and unusual architecture.

The Singapore Flyer

The Singapore Flyer - World

Another humongous infrastructure easily visible at a distance since it towers 42 stories high which easily makes it the tallest observation wheel in the world.

It closely resembles a ferris wheel which I honestly thought it was, at first when construction was just going on.

Well, technically I was right, its just that more than offering breathtaking views of the city as well as the neighboring islands of Batam, Bintan and Johor, the Singapore Flyer has also become major destination for the lifestyle aficionado. Its now offering several different packages catering to different events. Right now, they're offering sky dining with your own butler no less.

Merlion Park

A tour in Singapore is never truly complete unless you get to visit the national icon of Singapore - the Merlion.

A stroll in Marina Bay would eventually lead you to a park with a half lion, half fish, white, water spewing statue on the banks of Singapore River. If you've seen that statue with that fitting description, then congratulations! You've just met the world famous Merlion.

Don't miss the merlion cub, a miniature of the merlion few feet away.

Suntec City Mall

This is one of the largest shopping malls in Singapore second only to Vivocity in Harbourfront. I especially like going to this mall when they're having one of those mall wide sale. Singapore IT shows and the great Singapore Sale are some of those times.

So, while you're in the Marina Bay area, I strongly urge you to  visit this Suntec City Mall. Who knows? It may be that time of the year when the stars conspire to give you that very thing you've been wanting to buy. Though, I highly doubt the stars has anything to do with it. But hey, you never know. So while you're there, you may also want to check out the Fountain of Wealth and join the throngs of  people who looks weird walking around the fountain for good luck.

As I said, it doesn't hurt. It might just stack the odds in your favor.

Upcoming Attraction - Marina Bay Sands

Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resort

Now, as if the weren't enough, the Marina Bay Sands is slated to open next year.

Marina Bay Sands is Singapore's first integrated resort (though at least one more is going to open in Sentosa). A fine piece of architecture by itself (going by the construction plan pictures), it will be a distinctive world-class development with a comprehensive range of amenities such as three 50-storey hotel towers, one-million square feet of convention facilities, two 2,000-seat theatres for entertainment shows, one-of-a-kind ArtScience Museum, theme attractions, luxury retail, fine dining and casino gaming.

Now, if that hasn't made an appeal to your wanderlust spirit, I don't know what else can.

So there. Another excellent reason to be visiting Singapore.

Don't just take my word for it. Be part of the excitement and explore the picturesque Marina Bay. I'm sure, aching lower extremities aside, it'll definitely make your day.

You have any nice experience in Marina Bay, Singapore? I'm sure everyone would like you to share. Or if you have any question, be sure to leave a note and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Whether you're a foreigner looking for business opportunities in Singapore, or someone who wants to seek employment or you could be one of those transients playing tourist in this country, chances are, you're bound to transact with any one of those friendly government representatives.

I'm talking about the different agencies of the Government of Singapore which handles different affairs.

As such, I have listed some helpful  information that Singapore tourists and foreigners are likely to use.

Ministry of Manpower (MOM)

Address : 18 Havelock Road, #07-01 Singapore 059764
Tel :         65341511 (PABX)Telephone Enquiry Service (CallMOM): 64385122
Fax :        65344840/65325646
website:   http://www.mom.gov.sg

Map

If you're seeking employment in Singapore or if you wish to employ a foreigner in Singapore, Ministry of Manpower is where you'll have to process the necessary papers for legal employments in Singapore.

They are also in charge of releasing work permits and employment passes to those who are eligible. You can go there personally or submit your application online.

Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA)

Address: ICA Building 10 Kallang Road Singapore 208208718
Tel :        63916100
website : http://www.ica.gov.sg

Map

ICA is primarily concerned with the security of Singapore's borders and is reponsible to ensure against entry of undesirable persons and cargo by land, sea and air.

You know the first Singaporean you'll get to meet who'll check all your travel credentials? Well, that's them.

You're also bound to give them a visit if you're applying for permanent residency or student pass.

Also, if you are planning to visit Singapore, you can check here if you need to have a visa to enter Singapore.

Singapore Customs

Address: 55 Newton Road, #10-01Revenue House Singapore 307987
Tel:         (065) 6355 2000
Fax:        (065) 6250 8663
website:  http://www.customs.gov.sg

Singapore Customs is a government agency under the ministry of finance. This is the agency responsible for the implementation of customs and trade enforcement measures including those related to Free Trade Agreements and strategic goods.

So, if you're bringing some goods to Singapore and you're quite not sure if it's taxable, click here for more information on this.

On the other hand, if you are a tourist departing from Singapore, you can click here to see if you are eligible for some tax refund.

Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)

Address: 10 Anson Road #05-01/15 International Plaza Singapore 079903
Tel:         (65) 6248 6028 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (65) 6248 6028      end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Fax:         (65) 6225 1676
website: http://www.acra.gov.sg/

If you're thinking of starting a business in Singapore, ACRA is the appropriate government agency that handles this.

You can read their guide to starting a business in Singapore if you are a foreigner. Click here.

Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS)

Address: 55 Newton Road Revenue House Singapore 307987 (Opposite Novena MRT Station)
Tel:         1800 356 8300
Fax:         (+65) 6351 3636
website: http://www.iras.gov.sg

Map

If you are employed in Singapore, you're likely to get acquainted with this agency which handles taxes.

IRAS is the agency of the government where you'll have to file your tax.

Similarly, if you also have questions regarding GST and other types of taxes and fees, you can visit their website for more information on this matter.

I have listed those government agencies in Singapore that a tourist or foreigner would likely seek assistance from. Though, if you have other concerns and questions, you can drop a message below or you can contact me and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Alternatively, you can also check out this helpful link, they may have the information that best suit your unique concern.

All the same, I wish you all the best in Singapore.

I used to think the country's so small, and I know how to read and communicate in English I couldn't possibly lose my way around here. It'll be a walk in the park...

WRONG.

That way of thinking is reminiscent of the first time I tried to set out on my own here in Singapore. And it's the same way of thinking that made me spend most of the day trying to find my way back home. You couldn't imagine my relief when I found an MRT station.

You see, the best advice I could probably give to anyone who wish to explore Singapore by public transport is always find the nearest MRT station. Know the nearest MRT station from where you're staying. So that in the remote possibility that you are indeed, lost and pride (or budget, whichever's the case) dictates that you stick to public transport, the MRT is your best bet.

Having said that, it would be wise to equip yourself with the free MRT guide available in all MRT stations. It would look like this:

MRT/LRT transportation map of singapore

I can only say that it would be best if you get acquainted with the different lanes and the different interchanges. At least, that's how I got started (I can only speak so much from experience, anyway).

The first few days I was here, I always had that guide with me. No kidding. I practically thought it was my own lifesaver in an unfamiliar ground.

Now, that's a bit dramatic, I know. But that's how I felt then - having been lost and all.

But I wouldn't dwell too much on MRT simply because I know that anyone with common sense can easily figure it out. With the help of that MRT guide, of course.

Taking the bus is another matter though. It was certainly a test of patience for me. Coming from a place where drivers are at the right side of the road and being someone who sometimes have difficulty in left/right orientation, I have to admit, it was quite a challenge for me.
But it was a challenge I was able to overcome with repeated attempts and with the help of a bus guide which can be bought at any bookstore in Singapore. Amazon also have one if you would like to get a copy beforehand.

But if you want to do without that bus guide, that's quite alright too, just keep in mind the bus numbers that passes by where you're staying. Anyway, they have these really helpful bus route guide plastered on the bus stop of the buses that pass that way. And you can ask anyone to assist you with those. ( I had my own share of asking and being asked so I should know that this is the most practical thing to do.)

Now that I'm more or less adept at taking public transportation, I prefer taking the bus anyday than taking the MRT. Why? Well, you only have to ride on an MRT during peak hours to know what I mean. Good luck with the crowd.  I only take the MRT when its not the peak hours and when I'm pressed for time, but not too pressed to take a cab.

But if you are planning on staying for awhile in Singapore and wants to acquaint yourself with the bus routes, then, that guide is a handy thing to have around while getting around in this neat labyrinth of a country that is Singapore.

Given time, It'll be a walk in the park, I tell you.