Dangers & annoyances

Singapore is a very safe country with low crime rates. Pickpockets aren’t unknown, but in general, crime isn’t a problem – unsurprising, given the harsh penalties handed out to offenders. Drug trafficking carries the death penalty, which is regularly executed (pardon the pun). In the words of Nancy Reagan, ‘Just say NO!’.

Smoking in all public places earns a S$500 fine. You can smoke at food stalls and on the street (as long as you put your butt in the bin). Jaywalking (crossing the road within 50m of a designated crossing) could cost you S$50. Littering could set you back S$1000. Ouch.

While you're there

Medical services

Gleneagles Hospital (6470 5688; www.gleneagles.com.sg; 6A Napier Rd; 24hr)

International Medical Clinic (www.imc-healthcare.com) Tanglin Clinic (6733 4440; 04-20 Tanglin Shopping Centre, 19 Tanglin Rd; 9am-6pm Mon-Fri, 9am-noon Sat) Jelita Clinic (6465 4440; 02-08 Jelita Cold Storage, 293 Holland Rd; 9am-5.30pm Mon-Fri, 9am-1pm Sat)

Mount Elizabeth Hospital (6731 2218; www.mountelizabeth.com.sg; 3 Mt Elizabeth Rd; 24hr)

National Dental Centre (6324 8910; www.ndc.com.sg; 5 Second Hospital Ave; 8am-5pm Mon-Fri)

Raffles Hospital (6311 1111; www.raffleshospital.com; 585 North Bridge Rd; 24hr)

Singapore General Hospital (6321 4113; www.sgh.com.sg; Level 2, Block 1, Outram Rd; 24hr)

Health & Medical Kit

Travelers from countries where there is an incidence of yellow fever need to have immunization records on arrival in Singapore. There are excellent medical facilities in Singapore. There is a high risk of dengue fever. Visitors should avoid poorly cooked food, particularly seafood, and be cautious of certain types of fish that contain biotoxins even if cooked. Health care is excellent but also very expensive and medical insurance is advised.