What’s Singapore really like as an expat professional destination?

Singapore has been an amazingly popular expat destination for decades, but what’s it really like as a home from home for ambitious expat professionals?

To understand Singapore, it helps to look at its fascinating history as well as its demographics. The majority of expats will be aware of its years as a British colony, lasting from 1819 to its becoming an independent nation in 1956, not forgetting its three years of occupation by the Japanese army during WWII. Its population is a mix of ethnic Chinese, Malays, Westerners and representatives from several other Asian nations, the vast majority of which identify strongly as Singaporeans. It’s an amazingly safe destination as, unlike in Hong Kong, its residents aren’t keen on public disturbances. Politics aren’t a popular subject for discussion, complaining isn’t appreciated, police aren’t corrupt and no-one carries a gun.

One obvious downside is the high price of renting or owning a property, even if it’s just a small flat in a high-rise building. These are far cheaper than apartments with security guards and gated access, but are still safe for expats as well as nationals. Apartments with amenities cost serious money here and usually include the use of gyms, pools and tennis courts. Singapore is world-famous for its delicious and varied food, but eating out is an expensive occupation with the ubiquitous hawker centres the only alternative. If you’re tempted to buy a car due to the crowded public transport options, don’t do this as it’s just a waste of a large amount of money as well as time spent sitting in traffic jams. Public transport is clean, efficient and air-conditioned as well as comparatively inexpensive.

Expats and especially females don’t have to worry about walking after dark, although some back allies are best avoided late at night. Although the local people aren’t excessively friendly, they’re well used to having expats as part of the Singaporean community at large, with long-stay expats comparing locals to New Yorkers or residents in Seattle. It’s normal to see almost everyone glued to their phones, and loud talk on public transport isn’t appreciated. As regards the labour market, it’s easier to land a good job than in most other Asian destinations as the unemployment rate is just two per cent, meaning there’s now not enough local talent to go round. Businesses welcome expatriate professionals with experience and the right skills.