Joanna James
Travelling in Singapore is a breeze; an excellent transport system means you can easily explore the country in comfort. Listed below are public transportation options to consider.
Bus services in Singapore are provided by two services; the SBS Transit service distinguished by red and white buses and the SMRT service which consists of yellow buses. Each service ply's on its own network of routes and covers every part of the country. These public bus services are operational from 5.30 am to midnight and charge fares on distance; just about all buses in Singapore are air conditioned. There are also special night bus services such as NightRider and Nite Owl that offer extended transportation hours but charge a slightly higher fee. Then there are the 'Feeder' bus services that run within a neighbourhood, terminate at the start of a major bus route and charge a flat rate. If you are in a rush the premium Bus Plus service promises shorter ride times for slightly higher fees.
Singapore's MRT lines commenced in 1982; comprising at the time of North-South and East-West lines service has grown to provide a fast smooth and efficient service. The most popular apartment types in Singapore today are those that can boast close proximity to MRT stations providing guests with easy connections to top attractions. The Circle Line orbiting underground bypasses busy interchanges cutting down on travel time. The more recent Light Rapid Transit system or LRT provides an intra-town loop service by helping passengers switch from the MRT to LRT in order to reach outer destinations in town. Guests at The Heritage Singapore can walk to the MRT just 15 minutes away in order to explore the city while conveniently by passing the congested streets. And while the MRT can get crowded at peak times you can be assured the service is always well maintained and clean.
Ez-Link is a card that is linked to the rail and bus services in Singapore. The card is similar to a credit card embedded with a tamper proof chip. Simply tap the card at the turntable of the MRT or consoles at the entrance to buses and your fare will be deducted from the pre-loaded balance on the card. Card values can be topped up at the MRT and bus stations; this can be done at a counter by providing cash or automatically at one of the top up machines placed at the stations.
There are eight taxi companies in operation throughout the country; these are Yellow Top Taxi, CityCab, Trans Cab Services, SMART Automobile, Prime Taxi, Premier Taxis, Comfort Transportation and Smart Taxis. Taking a taxi means your journey is faster, more comfy and private; fares run on a meter system that although is fair and outright is not very economical; compared to buses or trains. However, a taxi driver does not have to run on a stipulated route and knows which roads to take in order to avoid traffic blocks.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
