Hiring a Car while on Holiday in Singapore

The multicultural southeastern island country of Singapore is a great destination for travelers. The city is visited by many for business, leisure, education, health a more. Known as the Garden City due to its numerous parks and nature reserves this modern densely populated country has much to offer its many visitors. Home to fabulous restaurants, great shopping, fun theme parks and fascinating sites; visitors will find plenty to keep them busy during their stay in this modern yet culturally rich country. Those visiting Singapore will find it fairly easy to explore the city’s sights and shopping areas such as Sentosa Island, Universal Studios, and Orchard Road in the extensive public transport connecting most of the popular tourist attractions and shopping areas. The fastest way to get around the island is in the MRT (mass rapid transit) train system, while the bus too is convenient and economical. However taxis are available for those wanting to travel in comfort, to more out of the way destinations that are not accessible by bus or MRT. Another option for those wanting their own private transport would be to hire a car, although this is the least popular transport option available in the country, it is a good option for those visiting with family. Travelers who are intent on renting a car could pre plan and book their car online before arriving in the city or hire a car once they are in Singapore. There are many reputed car rental companies that visitors could choose from depending on their requirements. However visitors should be aware that renting a car from one of the major rental companies may cost a minimum of $100 per day for a small car. This does not include gas or electronic road pricing (ERP) Fees. Requirements for those renting a car include having a foreign license in English or a foreign license that is not in English needs to be accompanied by an official English translation or an international driving permit. The roads in Singapore are in excellent condition and are well marked; making it easy for tourists to find their way around the city with the help of a map. Driving habits too are quite good compared to some of the other Southeast Asian countries, as most drivers tend to follow the traffic rules due to strict enforcement and heavy fines for offenders. However visitors should be aware that road courtesy is mostly nonexistent. Singaporeans drive on the left and the driving age is 18 and above, while following the rules such as wearing seat belts and not using the phone while driving are important rules that need to be adhered to. Those wanting to hire a car for the duration of their stay could pre-book their car online and may even be able to get a good deal. With many major car rental companies in Singapore offering a variety of cars at different rates, visitors will have numerous options available to them when choosing their form transport. Avis and Hertz are two majors companies that are popular among visitors looking to hire cars. Aside from these two companies, the city has several others that visitors could choose from and also available are budget car rental companies; which offer lower rates. Visitors also have the option of renting an electric vehicle and saving money spent on gas. Thus, as seen above, those visiting Singapore definitely do not have anything to worry about with regards to transport; as the city has fantastic public transport as well as taxis and rental cars.