Tipping in Singapore.
Tipping is not usual in Singapore, because most expensive hotels or restaurants have a service charge, in this case tipping is discouraged. However you may give tip to the porter, who helps carrying your luggage. Hotel staff that open taxi’s door, they may expect to get tip for providing good service.
Taxi driver don’t expect a tip, they may round down the fare. However if it is 10c or 20c above or even dollar, they may expect you a tip. This is similar with round up the fare. Actually you could opt not to take the change, if you find they are very friendly and provide good service.
Actually tipping is not practiced in Singapore, you may find sign in Changi Airport, prohibiting tipping. Just consider their culture in respecting visitor, they provide good service so that you could enjoy your travel in Singapore.
Bargaining in Singapore.
Singapore is much more expensive than other South-East Asian countries and the strength of the Singapore dollar against most currencies has seen substantial rise in cost for most visitor. However you may bargain some items for your souvenirs or ask about discount in expensive hotel. As happens in many countries, some luxury items or souvenirs are not fixed prices.
It is unnecessary to bargain for everyday good or transport. Many shops and department stores have fixed prices for clothes and luxury items. Some small shops in the tourist area, especially electronic shops, don’t display prices. In this case bargaining is almost always required. You can ask the prices, or any special offer in product, like antique items, handicraft, or tourist items.
Even sometimes small shops show a price tag, it doesn’t mean you can’t bargain. You should ask about discount items, and know the regular prices. Some small traders put only a small mark-up on goods, while others are very greedy, you should select the items and get the regular prices.
