Prepare yourself with our essential list
If you’re making the big move to Singapore, especially from the West, you might be wondering what on earth to expect when you arrive. Here’s a heads up so you can prepare in advance.
1. The heat is on in Singapore
Being so close to the equator, it’s no surprise that Singaporeans live with consistently high temperatures all year round. For those of us who experience chilly winters in much of the Western world, a day-to-day average of around 30°C may seem like a bit of a luxury but, mixed with high levels of humidity, this may take a little getting used to.
It’s not all sunshine though, as Singapore’s annual climate is characterised by it’s not one, but two rainy seasons. So much so that you can expect to have around 178 rainy days per year. So don’t forget to pack your umbrella when moving to Singapore.
2. Excellent healthcare system
If you fall ill while you’re away, rest assured you’ll receive medical care of very high standard. The Singaporean healthcare system has been ranked an impressive second in the world.This is thanks to an extremely successful model implemented by the Singaporean government that is both a combination of government subsidies and individual contributions to healthcare. This means the system is of relatively low-cost to the government.
Public healthcare is available to citizens only, while expats are required to take out insurance to benefit from the country’s high-quality care. Read our healthcare guide to find out more about the different types of healthcare available for expats in Singapore.
3. Singaporean Housing
With nearly 90% of Singaporeans owning their own homes, the legendary housing shortage of the 1960s is long gone. This is largely due togovernment subsidies. Social housing, or ‘HDB housing’, provides accommodation for over 80% of the population.
Almost all housing is located in high-rises, as Singapore’s island geography doesn’t exactly allow much room for expansion. Consequently, Singapore has a highly competitive open market, resulting in one of the most expensive housing markets in the world. Furthermore, the actual size of housing, both public and private, has been on the decline.
Downsizing to a much smaller apartment in a high-rise building will mean being selective about what you bring with you when you move. Taking only essential belongings and furniture with you is definitely recommended, and if you need help transporting everything once you have chosen then try a professional moving company like AGS Movers ,that ships internationally from destinations all over the globe.
If you cannot bear to leave anything behind, you can store your extra belongings at the AGS Singapore warehouse, this way you won't have to get rid of anything when you move into your new place.
4. Shop like the locals
It’s not just the housing that can be expensive,buying groceries in supermarkets can also put a dent in your wallet. That’s why locals tend to shop at the more affordable ‘wet markets’ for their fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and spices, to name a few.
The name ‘wet market’ comes from how the vendors clean the floor, by splashing it with pails of water. These markets are found all over the city and open early in the morning but often close at noon.
5. Get clued up on Singapore’s national laws
You may have already heard the rumours that chewing gum is banned in Singapore, but although you’re not allowed to sell gum, chewing it is perfectly legal. However, if you do decide to bring gum with you when you move, just make sure you dispose of it in the right way. If you don’t, you could be fined. This also applies to trash in general. If you’re caught littering, you could be fined $1,000 and sentenced to community service.
There is a long list of unusual offenses that could land you with a fine in Singapore,so make sure you are clued up before you’re stuck paying for doing something that is perfectly acceptable in your home country.