Information Guide for KBSI 2024
KBSI 2024 will be held in Singapore, a vibrant metropolis known for its cleanliness, efficient public transportation, rich diverse cultures, and a cuisine that blends flavours from different influences. Overseas visitors to the island city-state may find general information on visiting Singapore at this page. For more information, visitors may refer to the country’s tourism portal and app (iOS/Android).
Immigration and Visa Requirements
Visitors to Singapore, including Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, are advised to check the Immigrations and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website for the latest information and requirements to enter Singapore. Visitors holding foreign passports are advised to check with your local consular office and the ICA website on visa requirements.
General Information
Climate
Singapore has a daily temperature typically within the range of 25-35ºC, frequent heavy rainfall, and high humidity. Indoor environments, including the conference venue, are typically air-conditioned. Visitors are advised to bring an umbrella in the case of rain and a light jacket for indoor areas.
Time Zone
Singapore’s time zone is UTC+08:00. There is no daylight-saving time. You can use this time zones convertor to convert to your local time.
Currency
Singapore’s currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD, or S$). SGD1.00 is typically valued around 0.70 – 0.80 USD. Money changing services can be found at the Singapore Changi Airport and malls around Singapore.
Water
Singapore’s tap water is safe to drink (more information on Singapore’s tap water can be found at the Public Utilities Board page on water quality), although bottled water can be readily found in supermarkets, convenience stores, and drinks stalls in local hawker centres and food courts.
Cuisine
Singapore's eateries boast a diverse array of cuisines, from Western to Asian food, catering to every taste and budget. The city-state is particularly well-known for its local street-fare concentrated in hawker centres and food courts. More information on local cuisine options can be found at the dining page in the Singapore tourism portal website. Visitors may also browse restaurants at the following websites: Chope, Quandoo, HappyCow (for vegans), or have food delivered to their hotel rooms using the following services: GrabFood, Deliveroo, foodpanda.
Navigating Singapore
Public Transport Network
Singapore’s public transport is known for its efficiency, punctuality, and extensive coverage. Singapore’s public rail network, known as Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), is complemented by a public bus network. Maps of the rail network are available at the Land Transport Authority website. Information on payment options are available at the Singapore Tourism portal. A tourist pass is also available here.
Ride Hailing and Taxis
Taxis in Singapore can be flagged down on the street or hired at taxi stands. Taxi charges are metered, with various surcharges applied depending on the time, origin, destination, and route of the trip. Visitors may also consider ride-hailing applications from taxi services and other companies, including Grab, Gojek (iOS/Android) and ComfortDelgro.
Digital Connectivity
Electricity
Singapore uses the "Type G" British BS-1363 type power outlets. Please refer to this webpage for more information on the socket type. The voltage of power outlets in Singapore is 220-240 volts AC. Visitors from countries with different voltages (e.g., US, Canada, Japan) are advised to check the voltage compatibility of their devices with Singaporean wall sockets.
Cellular Network
Singapore’s 3 main cellular network providers, Singtel, M1, and StarHub, offer island-wide 5G coverage. For phone calls, Singapore’s international calling code is (+65).
Wi-Fi Network
Singapore has public Wi-Fi access at many locations through the Wireless@SG network. Users may refer to the Infocomm Media Development Authority website for more information on connecting to the Wireless@SG network and coverage locations.
Additional Information
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping is generally not expected in Singapore, although customers may be charged a 9% Goods and Services Tax (GST) and a 10% Service Charge. Visitors to Singapore may be eligible for a GST refund under the Tourist Refund Scheme.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in many areas in Singapore, including most indoor areas, parks, and public transport facilities. Smoking is also prohibited on the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) campus where KBSI2024 is held, aside from designated smoking areas. Individuals caught smoking in a prohibited place are liable to pay a fine of up to SGD1,000. Vaping and e-cigarettes are banned in Singapore. Visitors may refer to the National Environmental Agency website for information on smoking prohibition in Singapore, and the NTU website on designated smoking areas on the NTU Campus.
Emergency Contact Numbers
Police: 999
Ambulance Services: 995 for emergencies (1777 for non-emergencies)
Suggestions for accommodation
Conveniently located close to malls, business facilities and public transportation, this is the perfect stay if you want to be connected, yet have a quiet sanctuary among nature. Look out onto verdant landscaping and take in views from in the roof garden and sky terraces.
Cuddled by lush greenery, Park Avenue Rochester is a blissful urban retreat whether you are here for business or leisure. Located a short walk from Buona Vista MRT Station, and just minutes away from business districts located in the Western and Central part of Singapore like One-North, Science Park, International Business Park and Mapletree Business City, it is a perfect place to stay with a pool, gym and many dining options nearby.
Getting to and around the KBSI Venue
Getting to the KBSI Venue
The NTU Campus is served by public bus services 179, 179A, and 199. Drivers may travel via the PIE and use the Jalan Bahar (Exit 36), or Pioneer North (Exit 38) exits. More information on getting to NTU can be found here. Attendees wishing to use this shuttle service may register for the service in the conference registration form.
Map of NIE
Attendees may refer to the NIE campus map to navigate to the location of the venues.