Weather in Singapore
Humid Climate
If you are moving here from a non-tropical country, be prepared for Singapore’s humid climate where it is summer all year long. An umbrella, sunscreen, and a little getting used to are all you will need. Just give yourself some time to get used to both the heat and the humidity, which typically varies from 24°C to 31°C (75F to 89F).
Culture in Singapore
Languages
In Singapore, four main languages are spoken: Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English. English is the business language in Singapore, and almost everyone knows how to speak this language Fun fact: Singaporeans speak a colloquial version of English called “Singlish”.
Heritage
Though Singapore is considered a melting pot of culture in Asia, its cultural heritage is still an essential part of the island city’s identity. As such, many expats love to move here, which is why there are reliable expat relocation services in Singapore.
Transport and Infrastructure in Singapore
Mass Rapid Transit (MRT)
Singapore’s MRT is the principal mode of transportation in the country by many. It is the fastest and most efficient way to get to places without using a car. MRT stations in Singapore are also conveniently designed to be just a short walk away from most of the important places and attractions.
Laws & Regulations in Singapore
Fines
Singapore is famous for being a “fine city”. From jaywalking, spitting, and littering to the more unique fines restricting pigeon-feeding, importing of chewing gum, and walking around in your home naked.
Work Culture in Singapore
Working in Singapore
When considering employment in Singapore, here are some things you need to know:
- Employers in the city are required to consider Singaporeans first and fairly before starting hiring Employment Pass holders.
- Moreover, the law allows a specific ratio for local and foreign workers within the workplace.
WORKING AND EMPLOYMENT IN SINGAPORE
Meeting and Networking with new People
Networking
As a cosmopolitan country, there is no shortage of groups that you can connect with to help you get started in the city. Here are some groups you can get in touch with:
- ExpatWoman (http://www.expatwoman.com/)
- Hollandse Club (http://www.hollandseclub.org.sg/)
- InterNations (http://www.internations.org/singapore-expats)
- American Association of Singapore (http://www.aasingapore.com/)
- Australian & New Zealand Association ( http://www.anza.org.sg/)
Moving and Relocation Costs to Singapore
Moving and Shipping Costs
When planning a move abroad, you will need to look into expat relocation services to Singapore. This means understanding the shipping cost of your valuables, restrictions on what you can bring with you, and even service availability. Do your due diligence and find the best moving company by comparing companies to find the right services you need for your big move.
Housing Cost as a Criteria for Choosing a City to Relocate
As one of the best cities to live in the world, housing in Singapore can be costly. Housing cost will be one of your biggest expense, starting at USD 1,477 and can go up to USD 3,000 for an apartment
Internet
Internet in Singapore is extremely fast at 255.83 Mbps, as compared to other countries, such as Thailand (225.17 Mbps) and the United States (203.81 Mbps). With multiple internet service providers available, prices are affordable – starting from S$29.90 a month with a 24-month contract.
Owning a Car
Thinking of owning a car? Here are some of the things you need to consider:
- To control the number of vehicles on the roads, registering ownership of a car in Singapore is costly and can cost up to $80,000.
- You need to convert your licence to a Singapore driving licence.
- Singapore drivers drive on the left, similar to the UK and Australia.
Relocating with Children and Pets
For Parents
There are a lot of local and international schools in Singapore that you can choose from to enroll your kids. Local schools are well funded and international schools adhere to the global curriculum. However, regardless of what school you consider, the schools in Singapore rank among the best in the world according to the Programme for International Student Assesment (Pisa).
Pets
Singaporean law restricts some pet owners from owning certain breeds of dogs that you can bring into the country. Moreover, some laws limit the type and the number of animals you can bring in your home as pets, such as dogs and cats
Daily Life in Singapore
Cashless Culture
Singapore has transitioned to cashless transactions on a daily basis. Expect to pay via your credit or debit card as you go about your daily routines – from supermarkets to taxis, and even neighborhood hawker centres.
Food
Singapore is home to 259 Michelin-awarded restaurants. From Michelin-starred restaurants that rank amongst the world’s Top 50, to famous street foods and unusual dishes like frog porridge and stingray, get ready to be spoiled for choice with the variety of food you will get to choose from.
Coffee Shops and Cafes
While cafes are the same across the world, a coffee shop in Singapore is more similar to the hawker centre than the ubiquitous cafe. Unlike cafes that typically only sell 1 type of food, hawker centres house multiple food stalls comprising cuisine from all races, and are non-air-conditioned.
Tipping In Restaurants
Tipping in Singapore is not common at all, and is only acceptable in restaurants and cafes. Do note that A 10% service charge and 7% GST will be added to your bill even if you do not tip.
Visit Wet Markets
We recommend buying your ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, and other wet goods at wet markets because they tend to be fresher and more affordable, as compared to supermarkets. Some noteworthy markets to check out include Empress Place Market, Tekka Market, and Jurong Fishery Port.
Things To Do
Despite being a small city state, there is no lack of fun things to do and discover in Singapore. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway to a beach-style resort, an afternoon of high tea and shopping indulgence, or a day out with your kids, there is an activity for everyone.
Ready to move to Singapore? Bookmark our guide and check out these criteria for choosing relocation. Talk to one of the city’s expert movers to help you with your transition!
