Tipping

Most hotels, restaurants and similar establishments add a 10% service charge and a 3% goods and services tax to the bill.

Tipping isn't customary in Singapore. It's prohibited at the airport and discouraged in hotels (except for bellboys, who generally receive S$1 per bag) or restaurants that levy the 10% service charge.

Restaurant wait staffs don't receive a percentage of this service charge, except in the more progressive establishments, which need to retain the best waiters and waitresses. Hence, after experiencing some Singapore service you may begin to wish that tipping were the norm.

Taxi drivers don't receive tips from Singaporeans, some of whom become upset when they see tourists tip.

Bargaining is falling by the wayside, but tourists should still expect to haggle for luxury items and souvenirs in shopping centers like Lucky Plaza.

It is unnecessary to bargain for everyday goods or transport.