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Singapore’s well-developed infrastructure and modern amenities offer expats an exceptional lifestyle. This comes at a price though, as it’s one of the most expensive cities in the world.
Despite the relatively high cost of living, many expats say they have more disposable income than they did back home. The only real downside is the government's control of local media, but you can keep up to date with world news online - and foreign newspapers and magazines are sold across the city.
The housing market in Singapore is divided into public and private sectors. Most locals and Asian expats choose public accommodation, managed by the Housing Development Board (HDB). Public housing isn’t associated with lower-income groups and even includes luxury options. Most complexes are in self-contained neighbourhoods with easy access to public transport, shopping centres and other amenities.
High-earning Westerners often choose to rent a private apartment, condominium or bungalow. Rents in the suburbs are considerably cheaper than in the city centre. Because most landlords understand the transient nature of expat life in Singapore, they prefer the guaranteed rental income of a corporate lease.
Apartments and condos all have basic facilities. Some buildings also have amenities such as a pool, gym, BBQ pit, tennis court and 24-hour security. You can find both furnished and unfurnished accommodation in Singapore, so consider whether it’s necessary to ship all your belongings from home.
In a city filled with small apartments, big old colonial houses with high ceilings, verandas and gardens are highly sought after by expats. Only around 500 houses remain in leafy enclaves such as Dempsey Road, Rochester Park, Portsdown Road and Adam Park.
Singapore’s multiculturalism makes it easy for expats to adjust. The three largest ethnic groups are Chinese, Malay and Indian; this diversity makes for a colourful collection of traditions, holidays and customs. English is the language of business, but Malay and Mandarin are also widely spoken.
Flip-flops and shorts are the unofficial uniform of Singaporeans. With an average temperature of 27°C (81°F), light cotton shirts, shorts and summer dresses are sensible choices.
Something expats may have to get used to in Singapore is kiasu culture. This is Hokkien for ‘fear of losing’ and is used to describe anxious, selfish behaviour caused by a fear of missing out. Kiasuism manifests in many ways, such as waiting in long queues for a prize or giveaway, or grabbing excess food from a buffet. Kiasuism is also used to describe ambitious and successful people. This attitude can seem aggressive and opportunistic, but Singaporeans consider it necessary to succeed in a competitive society.
Singapore has an excellent education system, known for its discipline and results.
Public schools
Cheaper than international schools, public schools are a good option if you plan to live in Singapore long term. That said, the nuances of the local curriculum and teaching styles may be problematic. Top schools are rumoured to dismiss underperforming students and corporal punishment is legal.
International schools
Singapore has a number of excellent international schools that follow the American, British or Australian curriculum, or offer the International Baccalaureate. Fees are high, so try to negotiate an education allowance as part of your employment contract.
27 авг 2024