Here are some tips that will make your next trip to Singapore enjoyable.
Pre trip
- Get a fee-free credit card, preferably from MasterCard. You will see in a minute.
- Install the Fairprice app and register yourself.
- Register using Google or Apple id or email.
https://help.fairprice.com.sg/hc/en-us/articles/360021634372-How-do-I-sign-up-for-an-account - Add your credit card to the app
https://help.fairprice.com.sg/hc/en-us/articles/360042437931-How-do-I-add-or-delete-my-credit-debit-card-details
- Register using Google or Apple id or email.
In Singapore.
Install Grab or CDG Zig to get cab.
Both apps require a local number to register. You will need to get a local sim on arrival for these apps. Note Grab charges fee for Visa card. That MasterCard would come in handy. You can flag a cab and pay via credit card, most of the time. Check with the driver first. Note: cabs cruising empty are hard to find.
You do not need a transport card to travel on public buses and trains. Just pay by tapping your credit card. For buses, you must tap out or be charged full fare. You can use Apple watch or your phone to pay.
The company SimplyGo will group your transactions from trains and buses and charge them to your card every few days.
All stations have lifts or elevators for the disabled. Almost all buses have ramps. These are usually located at the exit.
If you need groceries, visit any FairPrice store (normal, Finest, Xtra), and you can pay using the FairPrice app. No platform fees included. You can use the same app to pay for purchases at the Unity pharmacy. If you have purchased enough groceries through the app, you can use the accumulated points to pay for the next purchase/meal.
For food, visit any Kopitiam food court or coffeeshop and pay with the FairPrice app for a small discount (10%). Please note that the stall with the sign “Seafood restaurant” usually does not use the app payment and only takes cash. Ask before ordering. It won’t be Michelin Star food, but it can be a taste of Asia all in one place. If you are ordering steamed fish or crabs. To prevent bill shock, ask for the estimated price before ordering.
Grab is the local equivalent to Uber, providing transport and food delivery.