Here are some of the significant advantages and drawbacks of living in Singapore:
Do you intend to relocate to Singapore? The nation has various cultural possibilities, from world-class golf courses to outstanding culinary experiences. You should consider yourself fortunate because this guide will teach you what it's like to reside in the lion city.
You could desire to relocate for various reasons, such as to pursue new educational or professional opportunities. Whatever your motivation, being informed about the new nation will aid in seamless integration.
Living in Singapore has many advantages and disadvantages, just like moving to any large metropolis.
Here are some of the significant advantages and drawbacks of living in Singapore:
Advantages of living in Singapore
- English and Mandarin are two of Singapore's four official state languages, so if you know them or wish to get better at them, you can. English is the primary business language and is used for all public signs.
- As an essential transportation hub for Asia, Changi Airport makes it simple and reasonably priced to travel around the region.
- Singapore is a pleasant place to live in since it is contemporary and effective. It is a desirable location for expats of all ages to live due to its outstanding infrastructure, educational opportunities, and the healthcare system.
- Singapore's tax structure is regarded as being exceptionally lenient and extremely cheap. As a result, many immigrants find it very simple to enjoy a high quality of life despite Singapore's high cost of living.
- The city-state boasts a staggeringly diverse population and wide-ranging cultural variety. Tolerance is encouraged, and foreigners from diverse cultures feel at home in Singapore.
The disadvantage of living in Singapore
- Singapore is a big city. Living here comes with all the annoyances of busy urban living, making it more challenging to maintain a relaxed life. Be prepared for a crowded and hurried environment.
- Property in this city is exceedingly expensive to buy and rent. Additionally, whether you are a Singaporean citizen or a permanent resident, it might be challenging to purchase several types of property in the country.
- The seasons in Singapore are not particularly distinct. The year-round hot and muggy weather can be challenging for expats to get used to.
- Your employment is required for employment visas. You have 30 days to get a new job or leave the country if your employment pass is revoked due to a job loss.
- Due to Singapore's small size, many expats travel to neighbouring countries in search of new experiences. While some may find this intriguing, others may feel constrained by the size of the city.
Housing in Singapore
In Singapore, the majority of the housing comes in the form of high-rise condos or apartments. A great example is this Terra hill condo. You can hit the link to check out the 271-unit condo property for yourself.
PROs: You are open to a lot of options
High-rise constructions are continually popping up all around Singapore, so foreigners will have plenty of alternatives when renting either an HDB (government-owned) apartment or a privately owned condo. Most privately owned condos and flats, especially the newer ones, come with on-site amenities, including swimming pools, playgrounds, gyms, and function spaces. The suburbs contain landed residences, which resemble single-family homes in the US.
Cons: The rents are expensive
Rent in Singapore can be very expensive because there is a shortage of space on the island. A location in the city's centre, Orchard Road, Holland Village, and other desirable areas will likely cost extra. Moving from the city's centre can allow expats to find better deals.
Cultural norms and social protocol
Singapore's unique blend of cultures makes it a popular choice for international residents. It leads to a diverse representation of South and East Asian cultures and religions nationally. Around 74% of the population is Chinese, 13% is Malay, and 9% is ethnically Indian.
Expats must learn to navigate the vibrant cultural landscape created by this variety, which has its etiquette.
Religion
Singapore is regarded as a spiritual nation with a high level of religious tolerance. There are believers in Taoism, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam in the country. Meetings of Jehovah's Witnesses are forbidden, though.
Dining experience
Any dining occasion is likely to be influenced by your host's cultural background. It is customary to let the host select the menu. These dishes will probably be served all at once, with sharing encouraged.
For instance, the majority of Malay people are Muslims. This indicates that halal food will be served at the meal, and alcohol will not be consumed.
Alcohol is not appropriate as a present for a Malay Muslim home. In contrast, a Chinese household will probably use chopsticks and drink alcohol.
Staying polite
Singapore strives to be a meritocratic society where success is earned through perseverance. This has produced a somewhat hierarchical system, with respect and courtesy for those more senior than you serving as a core principle.
Singaporeans frequently use indirect communication to maintain their politeness. It includes paying great attention to others' words, body language, facial expressions, and voice tonality.
Here are some quick tips
- Speaking loudly and making prolonged eye contact are both considered disrespectful.
- People might avoid responding "no" to a question. A person may be attempting to decline your offer without offending you if they pause or appear to answer you indirectly.
- It isn't polite to point with just your index finger. Make gestures by using your entire hand or head.
- Touching someone's head is rude.
- When entering someone's home, it is polite to take your shoes off.
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
