Currency
Euro has been implemented since 2002 and is legal tender in Germany, Holland, Italy, Austria, France, Belgium, Finland, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Greece and Luxembourg. Please change the relevant currencies if you are visiting Switzerland, England, Denmark and Sweden. It is recommended that you change your currency in Singapore to get a better exchange rate. Major credits cards are accepted in big department stores.

Visa Requirement
Tourist visa is not required for Singaporeans. If holding foreign passport, please ensure you have the valid visas.

Time Difference
Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands & Switzerland are 6 hours behind Singapore.

Great Britain is 7 hours behind Singapore.

The time difference is subject to daylight savings.

Electricity
In Europe, the electricity used is 220/ AC 50Hz. However, the electrical sockets require a two-pin plug configuration which is different from that in Asia. Before using any electrical appliances, check the voltage, if necessary, obtain a transformer. It is advisable to bring along an adapter plug as different hotels require different plug prongs.

Telephone services
There is GSM network coverage in Europe, therefore mobile phones can work when roaming with a dual band or tri band handset. IDD service is also available at all hotels and post offices.

Climate:

Season and Clothing
Spring (Mar-May: 10-20°C) Long sleeve, gloves and warm coats

Summer (Jun-Aug: 23-33°C) Light clothing and warm jackets (especially in Switzerland)

Autumn (Sep-Nov: 10-20°C) A mixture of light & warm clothes & a god warm coat

Winter (Dec-Feb: -5- -10°C) Woolen sweater, socks, gloves and mufflers. A good warm jacket / coat.


Water and hygiene
Generally, hotels in Europe do not provide hot drinking water. It is advisable to drink mineral water. For your convenience, it is recommended to bring one or two bottles during your travel.

Travel insurance
Prior to departure, it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses in case of injury or illness, loss of personal belongings, flight delays etc.


Tipping
It is customary to tip the European Guide and Driver in recognition and appreciation of their services.

A guideline for tipping is as follows:

Local Guide/Assistant : Euros 2.00 – 3.00 per person per day

Driver : Euros 2.00 per person per day

Porter : Euro 1.00 per luggage per way

Restaurant : 1 – 12% of total bill

Taxi : 10 – 20% of meter fare.

Travel information TURKEY

TRAVEL INFORMATION AUSTRALIA

TRAVEL INFORMATION TAIWAN

TRAVEL INFORMATION KOREA

TRAVEL INFORMATION EUROPE

TRAVEL INFORMATION EGYPT

TRAVEL INFORMATION NEW ZEALAND

TRAVEL INFORMATION CHINA