Life in Singapore

Singapore has a lot of things to offer. The country is known for its high standard of living, excellent infrastructure, and good education. It also has a vibrant cultural scene with plenty of museums, theatres, and galleries. The city-state is known for its high standard of living in terms of education and career opportunities in addition to being one of the safest places on earth with laws putting an end to many conflicts around the region over the years.

Your guide to life in Singapore

This guide will help you start off your life in Singapore by providing a list of resources and information that you need to know about, as well as how to get started on exploring your new home and familiarizing yourself with the ins and outs of living here.

Weather

The weather in Singapore can be quite temperamental. The climate is tropical, with abundant rainfall, high and uniform temperatures, and high humidity all year round. There are two main seasons: wet season (November to January) and dry season (February to May). During the summer months (June to August) temperatures can reach up to 35 degrees Celsius and it typically rains 167 days a year, which is a lot. The majority of the rain is heavy, and thunder is present. It is advisable to bring an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun and rain.

Language

Singapore is a melting pot of cultures and languages. The Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, and English languages are Singapore's four official languages. Most residents speak at least two languages, typically English and their ethnic mother tongue, thanks to its bilingual education program. Singlish may also be used in everyday conversations. It is a regional creole that developed in our multilingual community. Don't be afraid to learn; just ask around to learn more about it!

People

With a population of 77% Chinese, 14% Malay, 8% Indian, and 1% Eurasian, and sprinkled with people of different ancestries, Singapore is a melting pot of complimentary ethnic groupings. Although each of these racial groups still maintains its own distinguishing characteristics, such as in celebrating its own holidays and religious occasions, they also freely exchange and honour other cultures. A multi-cultural community with impressive tolerance for racial and religious differences has been successfully established in Singapore. With proactive immigration policies, Singapore is a city-state that is considered the best place to work and live in Asia.

Culture

Singapore's culture is a fusion of Malay, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Eurasian influences. Multiple Chinese dynasties and other Asian nations also had an impact on and inspired Singapore's culture, which helped to build the distinctive and eccentric Singaporean culture that we witness today.

Here are some popular Singaporean traditions and practices:

  • Make sure to shake your hands firmly when you meet someone in Singapore, whether it's in an official or informal setting, even while you're leaving. When shaking hands, one should make a small bow out of respect.
  • It is considered respectful in Singapore to address someone in their middle and senior years as "Uncle" or "Auntie."
  • Chopsticks should not be placed in the bowl upright while being used to eat. It is considered unlucky and resembles burial ceremonies.
  • Never use your finger to point at anything or anyone; instead, raise your hand to refer to someone.
  • Singaporeans don't usually tip. Restaurant adds a 10% service charge to the bill, tipping is typically not recommended.
Food

Singapore is a culinary wonderland with mouthwatering meals for every palate as it is ethnically diverse as its people, blending Malay, Chinese, Indonesian, Indian and western influences. You can tour air-conditioned eateries and restaurants where meals may cost from $6 to $20 or more, or you can eat in hawker centers and coffee shops where dishes normally cost $3 to $8.

Living Expenses

To give you an idea of how much you may need to set aside for living expenses, here is a short list of key items and their average monthly cost:

  • Dining out (daily): $500 to $800
  • Phone & mobile data: $10 to $30
  • Public transport: $120 to $250
  • Groceries: $200 to $400
  • Entertainment $100 to $400
Hotels
BEARY BEST! HOSTEL

Expect nothing less than a completely authentic local experience at this location which is close to Chinatown Station. This includes easy access to Sentosa, Marina Bay Sands, and the Esplanade, as well as a wide range of Singapore's distinctive hawker fare at Chinatown Complex and Maxwell Road. It features a tidy workspace (ideal for digital nomads) and a comfortable lounge area, giving it the sensation of a home away from home.

Address: 16 Upper Cross St, Singapore 058331

Phone: +65 9727 7011

E-mail: [email protected]

7 WONDERS CAPSULE HOSTEL

Enjoy the seclusion of your own pseudo-capsule pod at 7 Wonders, which was inspired by the concept of Japanese sleeping capsules (Jalan Besar). 7 Wonders has a slick, contemporary design that almost gives you the impression that you're in a hotel. For those who need to work, there is also a sizable eating area that serves as a workspace.

Address: 257 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208930

Phone: (+65) 6291 3774

E-mail: [email protected]

FOOTPRINTS HOSTEL

The Footprints Hostel is situated in the center of Little India, one of Singapore's most culturally diverse neighborhoods. You won't have to worry about paying more when you arrive after midnight because the reception is open 24/7. Additionally, it's only a 10-minute stroll to Bugis Street, one of Singapore's more reasonably priced and budget-friendly retail districts!

Address: 25A Perak Rd, Singapore 208136

Phone: +65 6295 5134

E-mail: [email protected]

Public Transport

Singapore has a quick, practical, and effective public transit system. Typically, it is open from 5:30 am to midnight.

MRT

These can help you get started:

Learn more about public transportation. Click here.

Taxis and Private Cars

In Singapore, there are many popular options for taxis and private rental vehicles, including ComfortDelGro, Gojek, Grab, and Tada. To use their services, simply download the apps to your smartphone.

Discounts

Students at TVI are eligible for student discounts at Cathay and other locations.

Many cafes, restaurants, and shops in Cathay will give you discounts for your student pass.