5 Things You Should Know Before Moving to Singapore

singapore

The Garden City that combines tall skyscrapers with traditional Chinese, Malay and Indian influences, Singapore is located in a tropical climate, filled with delicious food, incredible shops and a vibrant nightlife. It’s no wonder that thousands of expats move to this incredible city every year and find a new place they can call home. If you are thinking about starting a new life in Singapore as well, here are five things you should know before you move:

1. Almost everyone is Singapore speaks English

Since English is the official language of business in Singapore, you most likely won’t have any problems when talking to the locals or getting around and assimilating into your new surroundings. However, there is a unique local language called Singlish, which is the result of more than a century’s influence from Asian languages on spoken English in Singapore, with dictionaries listing the large number of words, phrases and correct usages. But just like any other foreign language, you’ll get a better understanding of Singlish the longer you live in Singapore.

2. Singapore is not an expensive country to live in

Even though Singapore has been listed as one of the most expensive cities in the world, it doesn’t necessarily have to be that way. From affordable public transport and local food outlets found away from Orchard Road to much lower income tax compared to the rest of the world, you can easily make your money go far if you spend it at the right places. As long as you don’t require luxury and splendor, Singapore can be quite an affordable place to live in.

3. It is an open and accepting country

Unlike most countries in the world today, where you aren’t able to express your culture and your religious beliefs without being discriminated against, Singapore is one of those rare destinations where people can truly and freely be who they are, and be welcomed and accepted by everyone. This beautiful city-state offers some incredible classes and educational programs, such as great Islamic courses, so you won’t have to worry about losing a part of yourself while assimilating into another culture when you move to Singapore.

4. Singapore is very clean and efficient

If you are moving from Europe or from the US, you’ll simply be stunned at the lack of clutter and mess when you come to Singapore, as even the pavements are sparkling clean. Mostly due to harsh fines imposed on those who litter, this city-state is one of the cleanest places in the world. What’s more, Singapore is an extremely well-oiled city, and its MRT is one of the most efficient metro systems in the world. People are kind and patient, and they will always wait for other passengers to leave the subway car before they enter it. But what’s most important, you will always feel safe and protected in this city, even when you’re walking alone through a back alley in the middle of the night.

5. It is the perfect combination of modern and tropical

Even though many people think that Singapore is just an urban city filled with tall buildings and large crowds, this city-state is also located on a tropical island, and it offers countless pristine beaches and picturesque hiking trails perfect for anyone who loves to explore and spend time in nature. This unique combination of modern elements and natural tropical beauty is exactly what makes Singapore so special and appealing, and why so many expats decide to move to this incredible place.

Whether you’ve just been offered a new position is Singapore, or are simply thinking about moving there to start anew, these simple tips will help you hit the ground running.