Moving around Singapore by public transport is very easy and convenient, once you have figured it out. There is a dense network of busses and MRT (Mass Rapid Transport) also known as Metro or Subway.
The MRT network covers most of Singapore, from the airport in the East to the Industrial zones in the West. Three main lines are in operation with a fourth under construction. The lines are underground in the city centre where all three run close together and cross-overs can be made at several interchanges. Outside the city area the MRT mostly runs on viaducts. Most trips near the centre cost around a dollar, going across the island costs you less than three. Trains drive very frequently but stop during the (late) night.
The MRT is really very convenient and easy to figure out, the lines and stops are shown on all maps and the information in the stations is very clear. The only disadvantage is maybe that it can get rather crowded.
In several areas there are connections between the MRT and an unmanned Light Rail system too. These LRT's are mainly in the more outlying residential areas.
The bus network is very dense too with two large, SBS-Transit and SMRT, and one or two smaller operators; there is practically no place where there is no regular bus stop in eyesight. Those places which do not have a regular bus service, or no ‘direct’ one such as some business parks usually operate shuttle services themselves. Practically all busses are air conditioned and prices are low, you’ll really have to go around the island to spend more than S$2. The only trouble is figuring out which bus you need to take, the directories and indexes are not always that clear and especially if you need to change service somewhere it may not be that easy to find-out. The easiest way? Ask a neighbor or colleague. Alternatively you can check the Iris website on which you can plan your trip but ... only on the SBS-Transit lines.
The busses and MRT are operated by several different companies but all utilize the same payment system, an electronic ‘smart card’ called the EZ-link card. You can purchase these cards at MRT station booths and ‘top them up’ at the booth or by machine if you have a NETS card. Single trip cards can also be bought for MRT rides (be aware you will pay a deposit which you get refunded by returning the card in one of the machines at your destination). The bus can also be paid in cash provided you have the exact amount (ask the driver).
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