• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Go to Expat Living Hong Kong
GET OUR NEWSLETTER

Expat Living Singapore HomepageExpat Living Singapore

Moving to Singapore and not sure where to start? Expat Living is the essential lifestyle guide to living in Singapore.

Menu
  • Living in Singapore
      • Living here
      • Neighbourhood Guides
      • Schools
      • Property
      • Work And Business
      • Finance
      • For Guys
      • Environment
        • 28 HK drinkNew bars and nightspots to try!
        • SentosaA guide to living on Sentosa
        • mens shirts singapore10 of the best places to buy men’s shirts
        • Woman using phone mobile banking bank for expatsWhich bank should I choose in Singapore?
      • View all
    Close
  • Things To Do
      • Things to do
      • EL Events
      • Calendar
      • Competitions
      • Noticeboard
        • feautureStreet Art in Singapore – spot the difference!
        • Divaagar, Render Tender Singapore Art Museum Singapore Art WeekDivaagar, Render Tender Singapore Art Museum Singapore Art WeekWhat’s on this week and beyond
        • Chinese New Year lanternsChinese New Year: What to do (and not do)
        • bookGreat books: What to read this month
      • View all
    Close
  • Kids
      • Enrichment
      • Kids Things To Do
      • Mums & Babies
      • Schools
      • Tots & Toddlers
      • Tweens & Teens
        • frequent urge to pee overactive bladderHow to treat that frequent urge to pee
        • kidsHelping our children deal with stress
        • Mark WenzelMeet the new Superintendent!
        • Performers Ballet Academy ballet dancer on stage activities for kidsExciting enrichment activities for kids
      • View all
    Close
  • Homes
      • Home Decor
      • Readers’ Homes
      • Furniture
        • singapore interior designersNeed a bit of help with your home décor?
        • how to do a home makeover tips6 small changes for a big home makeover
        • Bungalow 55Having a party of eight?
        • The Cinnamon roomRugs and carpets – who bought what?
      • View all
    Close
  • Travel
      • Asia
      • Australia & New Zealand
      • Rest Of World
      • News
      • Travel Offers
        • The Fullerton Hotel kids room tent4 fun family staycays – with deals!
        • Merdeka - Where to stay in ThailandWhere to stay in Thailand, reviews & more
        • Covid-19 travel woman mask airportCOVID-19 travel: What to expect
        • Hong Kong with kids - SuperParkThings to Do with Kids in Hong Kong
      • View all
    Close
  • Wine & Dine
      • Asian Cuisine
      • Western Cuisine
      • Bars & Clubs
      • Groceries & Speciality Services
      • Recipes & Classes
        • 28 HK drinkNew bars and nightspots to try!
        • Oh my goodnessHow to eat clean in Singapore
        • Afterglow by Anglow vegan30+ fantastic vegetarian and vegan restaurants
        • LyresDry January: Alcohol-free drinks to try!
      • View all
    Close
  • Style & Beauty
      • Fashion
      • Hair & Beauty
      • Beauty Offers
        • Work wear singaporeWhat to wear to the office in 2021
        • jewelleryJewellery gift ideas for all budgets
        • PabloBlau_6AUG2020-02a5 facials for the new year!
        • mens shirts singapore10 of the best places to buy men’s shirts
      • View all
    Close
  • Health & Fitness
      • Dental
      • Fitness
      • Medical
      • Wellness
        • frequent urge to pee overactive bladderHow to treat that frequent urge to pee
        • Oh my goodnessHow to eat clean in Singapore
        • kidsHelping our children deal with stress
        • nutritionist in singaporeA nutritionist that gets to the root cause of disease
      • View all
    Close
  • Shop
    • PRINT MAGAZINE
    • DIGITAL MAGAZINE
    • BOOKS
    • Close
Home » Living in Singapore » Living here » Expats share top tips on moving to Singapore

Expats share top tips on moving to Singapore

13th March 2020 by Expat Living 5 Min Read

https://expatliving.sg/expats-top-tips-moving-to-singapore/

Moving to a new place is exciting – but it can also be daunting and confusing. If you’re moving to Singapore or you’re new in town and trying to work out the lie of the land, who better to give advice on adapting to life in the Little Red Dot than other expats who have ‘been there, done that’! We asked Expat Living readers to reflect on some of the great things about living in Singapore – along with a few of the challenges. We’ve also compiled a list of readers’ tips to help you prepare for the move or settle in once you’re here.

Pros and cons

What are the best things about life in Singapore? What about some of the frustrations? 

“Living here has opened up a whole new world for me. The social scene is lively and it’s fairly easy to make friends. I also love that Singapore is hub for travel. We can get to beautiful remote islands in a matter of hours, and visit parts of the world I would never have experienced if we didn’t make the move, such as Cambodia and Borneo.

However, sometimes I feel like we live in an expat bubble and don’t fully integrate into the local society. I’ve lived here twice; the first time I didn’t make any Singaporean friends. This time, I’ve done a much better job of meeting locals and that makes me a lot happier. I feel less removed this time around.”

– Jennifer

“One of the best things about being an expat here is the variety of other expats you befriend along the way. Our peer group consists of people from all over the world including Singapore! The expat community here is also very welcoming. Wherever you go and whatever you get involved with, you can very quickly make friends.

One negative? The ‘expat tax’ can be a bummer. I’ve lived in Singapore a long time and there are times I know I am charged more for things – services mostly – because I’m an expat.”

– Kristen

“Singapore has good weather and it’s a great place for making friends, and for families to live in. The only downside is it’s not that easy to find work.”

– Firuza

“In Singapore, we can enjoy the privilege of living in a society that is well ordered and safe. Public services tend to function successfully; buses and trains run on time, reported crime is low, healthcare in clinics and hospitals is of a high standard, and the public areas are well maintained with many pavements sheltered from the elements. Singapore is a fantastic base for short-haul travel around Southeast Asia, too, if you have the time and resources to make the most of it.

As for anything negative: how do you feel about lizards, not to mention ants and cockroaches? After nearly eight years in Singapore, I still haven’t quite accepted that lizards appear to have the right to surprise me in my home at any time, from behind curtains, inside cupboards and under the toaster!”

– Kate

“My two kids have been raised in Singapore and the environment has been outstanding. The friends we have made over the years have been gold. One negative is the lack of any variability in temperature.”

– Tony

“Travelling around the region is without a doubt the best part of living here. You can see and experience so much from Singapore. The ‘work hard, play hard’ culture is really fun! A negative aspect? The customer service can sometimes leave a lot to be desired.”

– Emer

Other readers’ thoughts

Pros:

  • “Making friends that become like family”
  • “There’s an amazing mix of cultures
  • “You can reinvent yourself any way that you want
  • “It’s safe and has a low crime rate
  • “There are lots of themed parties, functions and balls to attended
  • “It’s really easy to settle down here
  • “It’s a great hub for travel
  • “English is easily understood here
  • “It’s a fantastic environment for children to grow up in
  • “The public transport is great
  • “There’s a nice charitable focus in the expat community
  • “The local food is delicious and cheap
  • “Lots of good restaurants

Cons:

  • “Friends are always moving away”
  • “You can’t see family all the time”
  • “You can spend a lot of time on planes for work”
  • “Some services are more expensive here”
  • “There are no seasons”
  • “Every day is hot, humid and sweaty”
  • “Medical facilities are expensive (though they are top notch)”
  • “A good hair day is a rare thing”
  • “The cost of living is high”
  • “Schools are very expensive”
  • “It’s difficult to get into local schools if you’re not PR”
  • “Alcohol is pricey”

What else?

Here’s a long list of tips for those who are moving here soon or fresh off the boat.

  • “Buy a sturdy pair of flip-flops and a lot of moisture-wicking clothing.”
  • “Don’t live in an expat bubble; interact with local people and places too.”
  • “Distances aren’t as great as in many of the cities expats come from; so, don’t let that be a barrier in your school or house hunting.”
  • “The public transport is fantastic, so wait and see before investing in a car, unless you absolutely need it.”
  • “Try to avoid an influx of visitors in your first six months or so; instead, dedicate time for you and your family to adapt to life here.”
  • “Don’t be offended if people call you ‘auntie’ or ‘uncle’; you’re not old – they are being respectful!”
  • “For trailing spouses looking for jobs: network, network, network.”
  • “Be prepared for frizzy hair”
  • “Enjoy yourself!”
  • “Take on any new challenges with a positive attitude.”
  • “Hire a helper. Even if you are used to doing everything on your own, being an expat means you don’t have family around or a support network. It makes life much, much easier.”
  • “Transfer your license within 12 months, even if you think you won’t drive.”
  • “Try living in a serviced apartment first to see if you like it.”
  • “Be open to meeting new people.”
  • “Seek out green spaces across the island – nature reserves, reservoirs and small surrounding islands – to help rebalance mind and body from the daily rat race.”
  • “Take a city tour; you can learn a lot from some of the great guides.”
  • “Make a list of places in the region that you’d like to visit, and start planning some holidays and long weekends.”
  • “Take courses and seek experiences to develop skills you’ve not been able to make time for.”
  • “Bring your favourite foods from your home country each time you travel.”
  • “If you have young kids, always carry sunblock, swimmers and a small towel for swimming opportunities.”
  • “Shop at the wet markets for fruit and vegetables – they’re incredibly fresh and cheap.”
  • “Surrender to the high prices on certain things; it’s just the way of life here.”
  • “Be open to any and all potential friendships.”

This article first appeared in the 2019 edition of our City Guide. Purchase a copy or subscribe to the monthly magazine so you never miss an issue!

Read on for more:

What’s it like living in Ulu Pandan
Short getaway ideas from Singapore

Categories: Living here Living in Singapore Tags: Expat Living In Singapore Moving To Singapore Singapore Expats

Expat Living

Expat Living has everything to help you make the most of living in Singapore! We've got information on neighbourhoods, things to do and see, dining, entertainment, schools, travel, fashion, furniture, finance, health and beauty. And more!

You May Also Like

Woman using phone mobile banking bank for expats

Which bank should I choose in Singapore?

New Year’s Tech Resolutions

contactless pest control and cleaning services Mom and daughter

Get rid of pests and pathogens safely

Primary Sidebar

Editor's Picks

where to buy furniture in singapore

Where to buy furniture in Singapore – online too!

royal albatross yacht singapore romantic dinner

39 Cool & Fun Things To Do In Singapore

kate marsden facial review iyac med spa aesthetic clinic

Best facials in Singapore: Our reviews!

brunch st regis singapore

Best Brunch Places in Singapore: Champagne Sunday Brunches

hair salon in Singapore before and after

Best Hair Salon In Singapore – Our Favourites

What's On

Singapore International Photography Festival exhibition

Singapore International Photography Festival 2020

Stone Stacks Stefanie Hauger solo exhibition Miaja Art Collections

Stone Stacks

ThisConnect - Threading Worlds

ThisConnect – Threading Worlds

#DrivingTomorrow pop-up exhibition by Porsche Singapore

#DrivingTomorrow pop-up exhibition by Porsche Singapore

Battle between Rama and Ravana Faith Beauty Love Hope Our Stories, Your ACM Asian Civilisations Museum

Faith Beauty Love Hope – Our Stories, Your ACM

Perfect Stranger by Dawn Ng asian civilisations museum exhibition

Perfect Stranger

Expat Living Singapore 🇸🇬

expatlivingsg

Open
Don’t we all love a home makeover! 

If you are looking for some easy, low-commitment ways to spruce up your home for the new year we have six tips on how to do a home makeover from Caroline Chin Geyler (link on our stories) she’s the founder and principal stylist of award-winning interior styling firm Arete Culture. 

The company is a four-time Gold Winner in our Expat Living Readers’ Choice Awards (2017-2020) in the interior design and home styling category so they certainly know their stuff. 

As well as some fab tips she’s offering a special Chinese New Year makeover offer, too. At last our homes can look as stunning as these do @areteculture
Open
Guys: did you know that your skin is structurally different from that of ladies? For most men, androgen (testosterone) stimulation results in skin that’s thicker and tougher than women’s skin. This also means you might need something more than just your wife’s, mum’s or sister’s moisturiser or face wash! 

Lumin was founded on this concept; this California-based online store offers simple yet effective skincare for men, tailored to different skin types and concerns. So, whether you’re looking for a good face cleanser or a moisturiser for men, this is one brand to check out.

To differentiate Lumin from other men’s skincare brands, founders Richard Hong and Darwish Gani flew to South Korea to work on formulas that benefit the thicker and more stubborn skin constructs of men. Most of the ingredients used are powerful plant-based extracts like ginger root, rosemary, coffee and shea butter. The paraben-free and cruelty-free brand also makes a point of avoiding unnecessary nasties commonly associated with popular off-the-shelf products.

If it’s your first time shopping for men’s skincare, you’ll be glad to know that the Lumin experience is simple and fuss-free. Just fill out a brief questionnaire and you’ll get a personalised skincare regime that’s suited to your skin type and lifestyle. You can choose to go with a one-time purchase or have your products delivered on a subscription basis. Alternatively, shop from the curated range of skincare sets catered to different budgets and preferences.

Read about our readers review on our stories
Open
We are completely in love with the new Bvlgari Parfum Allegra that lets you customise your own scent...how cool is that! 
 
Step 1 - select your base fragrance 
Step 2 - personalise your fragrance with a magnifying essence 

The bottles are so pretty we want them all 💕 
 
The Allegra collection is available online at bulgari.com/en-sg and in-store at the Takashimaya Department Store from 19th January and if you can’t wait they also have a pop up only for today at ION SKY
Open
Say hello to our latest Kids' Guide! Want a free copy delivered to you? Visit 👉 expatliving.sg/KG and place your order before 30 January.
 
🧸 The guide has everything from finding an obstetrician and caring for your newborn, to fun activities and choosing the right schools for your child. There’s also lots of useful advice from other mums and dads.
Open
We love finding cool places to check out at weekends.

The Whiskey Library at the chic Vagabond Club Hotel is a must for Whiskey lovers. 

Be entertained by bespoke adventures such as specially curated (sung and told) Jazz stories, intimate theatre sessions, book readings, artist evenings, musical showcases, and even independent film premieres whilst enjoying delightful small bites. 

With a choice of over 1,000 rare and unique whiskeys you can even book a cool Staycation so you don’t have to travel home! @thevagabondclub
Open
So if you are still managing to cling onto dry January or still pondering whether to do dry February (like some of us here at EL), then you must check out our round up (link on stories) of alcohol free drinks to stock up on...we also spotted some pretty cool cocktail recipes on the links to help you out🍸🍹
Open
We are on the lookout for cute baby pics for our next issue. Have you or a friend just had a baby? Send over a baby pic with the date of birth and parents names to editorial@expatliving.sg and we'll feature them in our next issue (swipe to see an example of our baby noticeboard). Tag some friends in this post to share their news with us. 

All babies will receive a free personalised print from the gorgeous @hellosammyeve worth $150 (see 3rd pic). 

We just can’t wait to see the pics of those cute bubbas👶
Open
We are craving those pineapple tarts from @littlehouseofdreams packaged in a pretty eco-friendly canister with an engraved bamboo lid.

Check out their pretty gifts, hampers and roasts to help you usher in the year of the 🐂 

15% off regular items and 10% off gift sets until 31st Jan
Open
Hunting for new foodie places is a tough job but someone has to do it! 

Check out our stories link for a few new hot spots to try. There are more listed in our January print issue and others springing up next month!

Tag your favourite hot spots in our comments, we are always on the lookout 👀 🍽🍷🍻🍹
Open
We had some wonderful  celebrations today for our amazing Editor in Chief Rebecca. Happy Birthday and lots of love from all of the EL team ❤️ x
Open
We love cocktails in a can, what an easy start to kick off your weekend. Available in Espresso Martini, Margarita, Pineapple Daiquiri & Negroni - yum!  Order @curatif
Open
Time to get moving!

Our fitness experts share top tips helping to stick to those New Years resolutions 🏋️ 🧘‍♀️ 🏃‍♂️ 

Link in our stories
Open
The rain and cold winds getting you down? A warm beverage and maybe a good book to snuggle up to might just chase the blues away!

If hot chocolate is too mainstream for you, could we offer up this red velvet alternative? @littlefarms have a wide selection of oat milks, almond milks and soy milk options. 

Since it's #Veganuary, we recommend using dairy free milks to recreate this recipe....

2 cups non-dairy milk of choice
4 medjool dates (pitted)
1 tablespoon cacao powder
1/2 teaspoon beet powder

Add the milk and dates into a saucepan.
Heat, over medium, until it reaches a simmer. Add the warm milk with the dates and the remaining ingredients into a high speed blender.
Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Serve and enjoy! 

Image and recipe courtesy of @darngoodveggies
Open
Read our January issue on any device for free! To get started, visit 👉 expatliving.sg/digital/IG
In this issue, step inside a heritage shophouse, find out where our readers buy their carpets and dining tables, discover amazing glamping locations, plus find out how you can win a glamorous home decor prize worth over $7K!
Open
🎉 We're so pleased to announce the winners of our Readers' Choice Awards! Congrats to all the companies who were voted among the best in Singapore, and to the voters who won the amazing prizes. See the full results online now at 👉 expatliving.sg/readerschoice

.
#expatlivingsg #sgbusinesses #singaporebusiness #elsgreaderschoice
Open
What better way to choose movers than to get the inside scoop from happy customers themselves.

We hear from some individuals and families about their successful moves. 

Whether you’re relocating across the globe or just moving to the condo next door, you’re probably going to need some professional and reliable help to pack and transport for you so check out some recommendations in our stories
Open
Now, to start the new year off with a bang, @areteculture is excited to give one lucky winner a home décor essentials package to refresh their space!  Read more about this amazing giveaway here 👉🏻 www.expatliving.sg/comp-arete  #expatliving #singaporelife #areteculture #giveaway #expatsingaporelife #beinittowinit #homedecor #goodluck.
Open
Recently engaged? Check out our recent story on how to find a fabulous elegant dress plus wedding tips and details of some upcoming wedding trunk shows.

Congratulations from the EL team 💍🥂🍾
Open
Whilst we are all keen to stay in bed on this drab morning, it’s giving us time to work on our New Year Resolutions for a healthier 2021. 

Take a look on our stories for some fab suggestions to start the New Year.
Open
Happy New Year from the team at Expat Living. 

Let’s raise a glass to welcome 2021 🥂
  • Competitions
  • Noticeboard
  • Subscribe
  • About
  • advertise
  • Contact
  • Privacy

© 2021 Expat Living Singapore, All Rights Reserved.