Work
Work opportunities for foreigners are limited. While Singapore does have a fairly large expatriate European community, this is more a reflection of the large representation of overseas companies than a shortage of skills in the local labour market. However, the vacancies pages of the Straits Times are crammed with job notices.
In the great majority of cases, foreign workers obtain employment before they come to Singapore. One of the main reasons for this is the high cost of accommodation and car ownership, which overseas companies normally cover. The overwhelming majority of locally available positions are for domestic servants and unskilled labourers.
Some foreigners arrive in Singapore and find work. Business experience, economic training and easily marketable job skills are your best bet. Some travellers have picked up temporary work as waiters. Finally, check out Contact Singapore (www.contactsingapore.org.sg/home.htm), where jobs are posted; you might find something suited to your talents.
Business hours
In Singapore, government offices are usually open from Monday to Friday and Saturday morning. Hours tend to vary, starting at around 7.30am to 9.30am and closing between 4pm and 6pm. On Saturday, closing time is between 11.30am and 1pm.
Shop hours vary. Small shops generally open from 10am to 6pm weekdays, while department stores and large shopping centres open from 10am to 9pm or 9.30pm, seven days a week. Most small shops in Chinatown and Arab St close on Sunday, though Sunday is the busiest shopping day in Little India.
Banks are open from 9.30am to 3pm weekdays (to 11.30am Saturday), while top restaurants open at lunchtime and in the evenings. Bar opening hours vary widely.
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