Why We Left The USA for Singapore 🇸🇬 | 4 Reasons & Things to Know Before You Go | Expats Everywhere
Vložit
- čas přidán 26. 01. 2021
- USA vs Singapore. Josh and Kalie from ExpatsEverywhere spent four years living and working in Singapore. They have lived the expat life since 2009. They explain why they decided to leave the USA for life as a foreigner in Singapore. Josh and Kalie each give two reasons why they chose Singapore and then they give some bonus information on things they didn't know before they moved there and what you should know before you go, whether to live or to visit.
Josh and Kalie have lived in several different countries and are sharing why they left the US for life as expats in a different country. Check out the playlist here: • Why We Left The US
TransferWise | Banking/Transfer Partner (affiliate link) Get free transfer fees (conditions apply) transferwise.prf.hn/click/cam...
SurfShark | VPN Partner (affiliate link) Get 40% off subscription at get.surfshark.net/aff_c?offer...
Need your NIF for Portugal? Use Bordr: bordr.io/ When you go through the process, there will be a "coupon" spot. If you use the code "expatseverywhere" then you will receive $10 off your purchase.
Questions? E-mail us at info@expatseverywhere.com
Want more? Go to www.expatseverywhere.com
Follow us on Facebook: / expatseverywhere
Follow us on Instagram: / expatseverywhere
Follow us on Twitter: / expert_expat
Check out our Patreon page: / expatseverywhere
#ExpatsEverywhere
Are you an expat and want to do an interview? Email us at ExpatsEverywhere@gmail.com!
Thumbnail Photo by Mike Enerio on Unsplash
As a Singaporean, I'm proud to see how others love Singapore the same way as us. Enjoy your stay here!
🥳 Thank you, Victor! A lot to love about it. - Josh & Kalie
@@kingchakazulu7762 Sorry, to clarify, you're saying the Singaporean is clueless about other Singaporean's views?
Compared to the corrupt regime in the US that killed over 650 000 of their own citizens through mismanagement of COVID due to a combination of corruption and corporate greed/influence, the competence, clean government and safety of Singapore is an eye opener
As a singaporeans myself, I can't wait to leave Singapore 😅
czcams.com/video/vPvjISCPjjs/video.html
@Stanford University Why did you choose to bail SBF out?
Yes, finally some foreigners recognize that although there fine penalties clause everywhere, but an average folk don't actually pay fines every now and then, just be sensible and you'll be fine.
Yeah. Just don't feel entitled and be a decent human being. Although you still get fines for things like overdue bills but i don't think it's exclusive to Singapore hah
The whole "fine" thing is over exaggerated. Same with the canes. Over exaggerated
I stayed in Singapore for 40 yrs and still love it.
🥳 Congrats on 40 years and still loving it. - Josh & Kalie
I want to live in SG✨
I moved out of SG last year, after 36 years.
Singapore is the BEST place in the world to live in. SAFE, clean, excellent education system, excellent transport system, affordable wide variety of delicious food, friendly people and very affordable food when marketing in their local chain of supermarkets called NTUC.
I' ve been here for more than 20years and that's what exactly I feel too, since the first year.. The longer you stay.. the more you'll love Singapore💖
Thanks for the message. - Josh & Kalie
I'm surprised to hear Americans say Singapore feels like home. Nice vid!
Oh yeah, why is it surprising? Thanks for the compliment and comment. We appreciate it. 🙏 - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere high amounts of government intervention and proactive measures, stringent police, rules and regulations all over the place... I'm Singaporean.
@@jonathantio7531 ok.
@@jonathantio7531 In the last Singapore election, about 40% voted opposition, 60% voted PAP. So more are prepared to trade 'freedom' for stability and employment. That's understandable. Ironically, by doing so and economically viable, Singaporeans gain freedom in many other ways.
I don't think this is the venue for political discussion. Let's respect the host of this Channel.
By spending time in different countries, it's the best way to see the world from inside. Wise moves! Welcome to Singapore!
@@Time4Peace i know and understand, and respect the host of this channel. This wasn't meant to be a political show. I was surprised because i was expecting those from the US to find it strange when the government has this much say in everyday living. This is what i was trying to get at. Not to make this some political discussion.
lam a 70 years old Singaporean woman and l appreciate the safety in Singapore. l can walk every where because nobody Carries guns and there is little racial prejudice.
Thanks for sharing, peer dous. We're so happy to hear that you feel safe in Singapore. 🇸🇬 Also, thanks for watching. It's incredible to see all the love in the comment section fro Singaporeans that are watching this video. - Josh & Kalie
Me too, living here since 1950...hmmm
There are so many reasons to love Singapore.
It is one of the safest, cleanest, and most efficient country on earth.
Everything works splendidly including mass transit and government offices.
Changi Airport is one of the very best in the world - as is Singapore Airlines.
No graffiti, homelessness, or overt signs of poverty.
A multi-cultural state with almost no cultural or religious conflicts.
Excellent infrastructure that is extremely well maintained.
Brilliant, well educated, industrious, honest, and beautiful people.
Tremendous sense of national pride.
FANTASTIC FOOD!
No place on earth has better or more variety of food choices than Singapore. Safe to eat anywhere and drink the water - no problem.
World class accommodations in every price range - including my #1 choice: the world famous Raffles Hotel.
The educational system from K thriugh graduate school is without peer.
Excellent in every way, and, as was mentioned, English is spoken everywhere.
Downsides:
1) Singapore is very expensive as the people enjoy an extremely high standard of living.
2) Automobiles are terribly expensive to own and operate. They are also difficult to purchase - need a permit from the government.
But an automobile isn't really necessary as Singapore is so small and has a world class transportation system.
3) Law and order are a top priority. Laws are strictly enforced but not authoritarian. Drug laws are super strict... including the death penalty. DON'T DO DRUGS IN SINGAPORE.
However, due to strict law enforcement, Singapore is one of the safest country on earth. Very low crime.
4) By far the worst thing about Singapore.... it's bloody HOT! ALL THE TIME!
In short, living in Singapore doesn't get much better! 👍
I lived in Singapore for 6 years and made the mistake of leaving because my ex husband wanted to. My heart broke when I lost my permanent residency. I tried to find a job and no one had quota to hire me to get me a visa, which further broke my heart even more. I was desperate to leave New York City, so I ended up in Hawaii, but Singapore will always have my heart. I just can't find my way back yet. 😔
Aww, we hope you make it back! - Josh & Kalie
aaaawwww We hope to see you back here soon. ❤🩹❤❤❤😻
Trust yourself and don't give up. Maybe this is a sign that you will make it, if you still want it. ❤️
I love Singapore, when I was a kid I went to the American school there and my dad taught at the university.
Awesome 👏 Thanks for sharing Deborah. Did you go to SAS? - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere Yes, I went there in 1965, I was a junior in high school, I was on the track team and girls basketball. I am sure there must be a new school now. Maybe someday I will be able to go back and visit. We used to live on Leonie Hill Dr. off of Orchard. It was an interesting time.
@@deborahczepiel6610 🥰 Wow! That's incredible. Have you been back? SAS must look completely different. They have a huge campus now. Thanks for connecting. - Josh & Kalie
@@deborahczepiel6610 that must’ve been crazy expensive lol really good location
@@havenprice no, this was in 1965 and there were no big apartment buildings. Ours was just a small, modest place that the university gave us to live in.
Just to let the non-locals know, our hawker centre is actually street food but regulated. The govt wants to make sure hygiene is there in terms of food handling and location so at one point of time(I forgot when but a long time ago), ALL street vendors need to relocate into hawker centres.
By having a stall with a proper cooking and washing area and under a shelter, it ensures the safety and hygiene of the food, location, sellers, customers etc. That’s one of the reasons why hawker food is cheap.
We do have street food in carts now but that is only during special events and it’s usually about a month or so in certain location.
Hope this helps. Have fun with your food adventure!
Great stuff, great comment. ☝️more thing...Hawkers are an institution well worth preserving. - Josh & Kalie
Very kind comments. Hope you’ll continue to find lots of joy living here in Singapore 🇸🇬
Thank you very much, as we alluded to in the video. We've moved on from Singapore but would definitely come back one day and as we've talked about in other videos on our channel, we certainly want to visit again. We have a lot of good friends there both locals and expats and we still stay quite connected to them. - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere ah I see. Well with attitude that you have, every new experience can only enrich and enlighten you. All the best!
@@crosbyong Hi,🌹🌹🌹🌹
I do recommend all people to watch these to videos to be amazed:
🌼🌼🌼the second is in Singapore🌼🌼🌼
All you need to know about persian carpets.
We bought persian rug from Isahan, Iran! Really worth it ! For real ! ❤🇮🇷
I spent my early years in Singapore and revisited in my more mature years. I got off the plane and walked out of the airport and knew I was ‘home’. It’s changed a great deal since the 1960’s but it’s a fabulous place and very underestimated by people who do brief stop overs and say “lovely but 3 days was enough”! I would love to live there for a time but Singapore is very much a young person’s place regarding work. This is the one challenge I believe I would have trouble with, getting a job, my age……I can still visit though!
Love Singapore 🇸🇬.. sister and husband been their 12 year's... can't wait to get away from scottish weather to some Singapore sunshine
Awesome, thanks for letting us know that Joanne. If the sun isn't a good enough excuse to go to Singapore, you've got your family there as another one 😉 - Josh & Kalie
@@alamakkns1643 well sister lives their 12 years no complaints...try living in Scotland
@@JoJo-es7tc Anything above 15C is considered tropical.
I visited Singapore during a vacation in May 2019. I fell in love with the city-state. Excellent mass transit!!!!!! Beautiful gardens and so many other positives. In the future, if Singapore's immigration laws authorize expats to retire there, Singapore will score in the top 10 for me. Excellent job, Singapore! Keep up the good work.
Thank you for the great comment! We appreciate it. - Josh & Kalie
BY 2030 one in 4 people here will be above 65 years old, I doubt the government wanna allow more tongkat carrying old folks expats to retire here.
This is so informative! We are a reupholstery sofa local business at a workshop and have worked with many American expats. Simply love how friendly Americans are in Singapore.
Thanks, Centrepiece furnishing. We appreciate the view and we're glad you found it informative. - Josh & Kalie
Im an upholstery seamstress. Can i get a job there and move from usa?
English was specifically designated as our common and official language, precisely to avoid favouring any one of our particular mother tongue ... and to promote communication on a common ground.
Living expenses .. you got it right that the big ticket items are housing and vehicle, due to our land constraints. Other than that, everything else have good, quality, cheap alternatives. :) like you said, you can of course choose to splurge. Or you can opt for the quality local hawker fare. Variety rules
Love your clear English diction with so much enthuse. welcome!
Wow, thank you! - Josh & Kalie
Teachers in government school are very well paid also. They earn a lot and get govt bonuses twice a year.
Thanks for sharing. Our public school friends there never complained about wages. 😁
The hawkers are now on the UNESCO cultural heritage list
And rightfully so! Yum 😋 - Josh & Kalie
Also several Michelin star hawker food as well.
@@paulineng6177 Preach!
I miss living in Asia! We lived in Hkg & Malaysia for several years. We're in Germany for 7 yrs now. Singapore is one of our top fav countries to visit & we hope to live there too if an opportunity arises. Getting an executive expat job overseas is not as readily available as it used to be. Also the expat packages are more rare nowdays ( salary, car, housing, tuition etc) & they tend to hire local vs expat unless you have a desired skill that is not easily found. I really don't care about the expat packages anymore.I'd just love to move there with my family😊
K R, you 100% hit the nail on the head. When we first moved there, the expat packages were still fairly strong and then year on year we heard and saw less and less. It'll be interesting to see how it impacts international schools because those tuitions were covered or partially covered by expat packages.
How many total years have you all been abroad?
Thanks for the fantastic comment!- Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere We've been living overseas since 2003. I'm American & my husband is German. I never thought about the impact it could have on international schools...very good point. Of all the places you guys have lived/ traveled, where do you feel most at home? For us, our hearts are in Bali.
@@Lucky13888 Thanks for sharing.
As of right now across Spain, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Portugal we will go in this order. Home to not home at all.
Singapore
Portugal
Spain
South Korea
Saudi Arabia
Hey wassup guys! You've officially just won another subscriber! Anyway, loved your video and how you described the reasons why you loved Singapore. I'm a Singaporean, born and raised ofcourse. But as a local, I think sometimes it can be a little difficult to appreciate what we have. I do travel a lot in the past (before COVID), so I do know that we're extremely blessed here. But still, every time I watch a video like your's (from other expats), I find myself seeing things from a different perspective. A renewed love for my own homeland. ;) Keep it up guys!
What's up!!! We're glad to have you and appreciate that you've reached out to let us know. Thanks for the kind words about our presentation approach. We noticed a lot of Singaporeans weren't appreciative of what they have. That's the beauty of traveling and seeing the world, maybe some of them haven't lived abroad yet. It has given us both a great appreciation of the US showing us the positives and negatives of our home country. We love America 🇺🇸 but know it's not perfect. We love 🇸🇬 too but know it's not perfect either. Although we will say, from an outsider's perspective, Singapore has more right than most countries, but we also think it's due to the size and general social norms of the people that make it so manageable. Maybe we should do an opinion video like that. 🤔 - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere yeah, definitely! I just find it very refreshing on a personal level. While I have learned to be more appreciative about Singapore, I think at times, watching videos from expats like yourself would reveal something I didn't actually realize. And I would go, "oh wow, I didn't think of it that way."
Ah, that's cool. We see what you mean! - Josh & Kalie
Great video, thanks. Planning to spend a few nights in December of 2022 their (before boarding a cruise ship). Safe travels Josh and Kalie.
Thanks, Dennis! Singapore is awesome! We hope you love it as much as us. Let us know if you have any questions about it before you go. - Josh & Kalie
I love everything I've heard and read about Singapore. I wish I had a skill set that would enable me to live there.
I think many people dont really understand the word "safe" until they experienced Singapore. And locals are definitely taking it for granted lol
So glad I stumbled upon your channel. I have taught internationally and looking to get back out there. Its good to know that wages are high in Singapore. One of the things that keeps me going back to my good old faithful countries is the low cost of living compared to the salary. Great Video!
Shoot, we're glad that you stumbled across our channel too! 😅 International teaching can be an incredible way to see the world, earn very good money, and have a long term positive impact in people's lives. - Josh & Kalie
I'm envious of couples just casually living in every other continent. I'm stuck in Singapore but I shouldn't complain. We have it pretty good here...tho we complain alot. Lol
We've heard Singaporeans complain. 😂 We also know Singaporeans living abroad. We're going to start interviewing some. - Josh & Kalie
HAVE YOU MET SCHOOL AND EXAMS ABAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Yes we do complain a lot! If I travel and hear another Asian complaining about something, I wld immediately guess the person is a fellow Singaporean. True enough, just another Singaporean🤣
Wow, I so admire you both. My dream now is to permanently move to Singapore. I want the safety and the cleanliness. The hawker food stalls look amazing. I am an American but frankly am ashamed to be known as that. America has been degrading and going down by the wayside. Crime, drought, wild fires, taxes, cost of living, etc. I have never felt so hopeless than now being in America as an American. Since I was born and raise in the U.S. and am planning to retire, I don't know if I can afford to move to Singapore. My husband is not on board with this as well.
Thank you for the vid. With the current issues here in the states, Singapore looks like the best destination for my family and I. 💖👍✌
Thanks for sharing. Singapore is fantastic although they've been handling things pretty strictly with lockdowns so keep an eye on that. It hasn't been easy for families. - Josh & Kalie
We are always good hosts. Regardless of race, language or religion. So much so that we all made an oath. It is actually in our National Pledge.
It certainly feels that way. - Josh & Kalie
17th February 2021: Wow! it’s really nice to hear that from foreigners, thank you for your…
Really glad you're enjoying living in Singapore!
Thank you. We don't currently live in Singapore though. - Josh & Kalie
I’m Singaporean & I’m so glad that u guys love Singapore so much. Enjoy your stay!🥰🥰
Thank you! 😃We appreciate it and truly love Singapore. We have so many great friends there and we're looking to interview some Singaporeans that live abroad so that our Singaporeans subscribers can see what they're countrymen (& women) are doing abroad. - Josh & Kalie
You guys have an absolutely awesome channel, always wondered what living in other countries is like as an American, and you guys are so informative
Thank you very much. We're trying to improve bit by bit. We're building up quite a library of video from Americans (and others) living all over the world. We hope you enjoy digging into the channel more. Thanks for the comment. - Josh & Kalie
Must eat at hawker Center, minimum each meal cost only $3.50SGD😊👍welcome to Singapore....our 1st language is English...and it’s compulsory for all citizens to go through education since the 1980s...parents can be charged in court if their children is not admitted to local schools....and you can even have a rental car from Blue SG app
Thanks for the comment, Evelyn. If you'd believe it, one of my favorites was $2.50 SGD but you're right, in general it's minimum of $3.50 SGD per meal. Thank you for the welcome. - Josh & Kalie
Yes I also moved back from USA and I would say although I miss my friends back home but now a days with the Internet it’s east to connect with my friends back home . But I choose to live in Singapore cause it safe, a lot of variety of food , cheap and I like also how erryone speaks English .
Thanks for sharing! - Josh & Kalie
More Singaporeans need to watch this video. I’m so tired of reading their rather petty complaints. Singapore is a physically small country so expensive housing and cars are unavoidable. However, the locals have housing grants and a cpf system that make having a home to build a family within reach (have spoken to a local grab driver who told me that his out-of-pocket cash for a new flat was a few thousand dollars after deduction of grants and cpf contributions…try making that happen in Melbourne! My superannuation is stuck there unless I relinquish my citizenship lol). Public transport is so convenient and makes having a car non-essential (unlike some of the cities I’ve lived in). It’s safe. Low taxes. Excellent healthcare system, education and public infrastructure. And yet theres so many of them all over the internet whining like spoilt children.
Having said that, perhaps they’re the vocal minority because I’ve met educated and reasonable Singaporeans who’ve seen the world and know they have it good.
ABSOLUTELY ❗❗❗
But I can tell you....inspite of SOME Singaporeans whinny and complaint kings and queens.....right down IN THEIR HEARTS.....THEY STILL LOVED SINGAPORE ❗❗❗❗
So many Singaporeans living abroad.....had came back HOME to work ....FINALLY HOME ❗❗❗❗
Same situation in the case of foreigners who work abroad....they still loved their own country where ever it may be ❗❗❗
THAT IS BEEN HUMAN....❗❗❗♥️♥️♥️
I am shocked by all your comments. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. How bad Singapore is, people who live here knows. It is pointless for you to camouflage the negativities and try to make it sound positive. Living a day in a country like Singapore, is a complete waste of life.
Due to the high standard of living in Singapore, many Singaporeans who retire overseas want to return to their birthplace to revisit their memories, but they are discouraged by the high cost of living，especially accommodating. It is hoped that the Singapore government can build a cheaper "migratory bird club and dormitory" for overseas retirees for accommodation and convenience. Overseas Singaporeans in the golden age can revisit their hometowns and make their last dreams come true!
Great video!!
Thanks, Helen. - Josh & Kalie
I’m planning to move to Singapore, I just landed a concept art internship over there and i can’t wait
Interesting videos. You have earned another subscriber.
Just subscribed 😁👍👍
Awesome, thank you! Welcome here. - Josh & Kalie
Welcome back 👍
Cheers 😊- Josh & Kalie
I lived there between 1984 and 2020. Great place to grow up!
Wow, amazing! Where are you now?!
Thanks for this video n thanks for sharing your experience living in Singapore.
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching, Yasin! - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere 😁
You can choose to live an expat expensive life style or learn to eat and shop like the local (delicious local food).. (you can stretch your $$$ more and retire younger), all the best :)
Exactly right! Thank you. We appreciate it. - Josh & Kalie
Nice one...everything is relative. But safety is important...many Singaporeans take it for granted.The other things are convenience and efficiency...especially in a dense urban environment. Anyway, just glad you guys enjoy living here.Not a bad choice...👌
Thanks! We appreciate it. - Josh & Kalie
Singaporeans like to leave their phone on the table in public places but you don't see that often happen in other countries.
For me No.1 Cleanliness. No 2. Even with more than 6 million population it is considered 98% safe country, if you happen to fall into the 2% you must be surely be unfortunate. No 3.
Super cheap and great variety of delicious hawker food everywhere. $3 for a meal rarely can you find in a developed country. 4. Efficient and clean transportation and infrastructure. 5. Best taxi drivers in a developed country. I can still go on.....
Challenge accepted...go on, Sam.
Nah, seriously though, thanks for the comment. You're right. We agree. - Josh & Kalie
Nice, thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching! - Josh & Kalie
Was thinking of going this Summer, but there is no way I can do 21 days quarantine. Malaysia is down the line for future plans to live, but my wife could adjust more to Singapore. I was so excited after all the videos I've seen. The greenery is amazing! The airport 😍. The parks 😍.
Yea, new restrictions have just hit Singapore. Hopefully, this will be a quick "circuit breaker". SG is amazing. - Josh & Kalie
Very interesting as usual.
Thanks, DQ3! We appreciate it. We heard you connected with Jean on her channel. 👏😁 - Josh & Kalie
Thanks for your compliment.s.
💯 We appreciate your comment. 😊 - Josh & Kalie
It can be expensive if you own a house and a car. But many expats who come don't really need a car cos the public transport is good enough and one of the best. As a local I used to drive but now I don't. Safety is no where you can compare. Try going out at late night in so called safe countries elsewhere and you will know the difference. Local food is affordable. It is a good base to travel to different countries. If you earn Sing $ ..you can travel around the surrounding countries and benefit from the currency exchange
Exactly - Josh & Kalie
I’m leaving US for Singapore too. hope I will enjoy it as you guys. thanks
Thank you. All the best! We hope you enjoy it too. - Josh & Kalie
I’m STRONGLY considering leaving NYC for Singapore. I currently am a high school teacher here. I was wondering what time of year or month you would recommend applying for jobs at international schools? Would love to hear more about your teaching experience in SG!
Hi Rachel, we'd love to hear from you. email us at info@expatseverywhere.com subject Teaching in Singapore and we'll take care of you. - Josh & Kalie
Singapore's first language is English n is a multiracial country. Thks to our late Senior Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew who was responsible for our country's beauty, cleanliness, peace n prosperity. He was n still is(in spirit) d "father" of Singapore. D one n only unique leader.
You guys should go out more to the heartlands where most of the locals live. The food and shopping can be a bit cheaper than in malls. Plus that is how you integrate with the locals.I can see that some expats still do not try to integrate with the locals,they tend to stick with their own countryman.
Everything's they said is ttrue.What an awesome couple. Also Thanks both so much . 👍❤
Thank you for the love! - Josh & Kalie
Welcome to Singapore, love you guys!
Thank you! Singapore is awesome. Thanks for the love!! - Josh & Kalie
Thank you. Glad to see your comments and in-depth knowledge about my country. We welcome friends from the world to stop-over /stay/work with us. Venture into our few neibourhoods (go by MRT) to explore more.
Thank you very much. Our 4 years in Singapore was top! - Josh & Kalie
I have wanted to live in Singapore for years. I am trying to convince the family to make the YOLO jump.
Marcus, Singapore is incredible. As much as we love Portugal, we can see a future with our family going back to Singapore to live. - Josh & Kalie
Maybe you want to show them this video and who knows , they may be more than eager to come , hihi
@@cheontham3265 I am applying to positions in Singapore now, when I present the option of relocating to Singapore, I need to come with a full court press. Job offer+housing options+beautiful beaches+maid service+schools. I will need to show all of the positive options for such a radical change.
@@pearsonm1306 I suppose when you got a good paying job then all those needs and demands of yours should not be a problem anymore
Live in HDB.Bigger space than condo with a lesser rent cost.There are public fitness corners in every HDB estate/stadium and some estates have a public swimming pools.
Summer whole year long. Very warm for me
Do you like it though? - Josh & Kalie
Hey, guys, I am now stalking your life history in between Portugal posts. :-D I had no idea you spent so much time in Singapore. I got to live at the Ritz Carlton Millennia on the marina for a month, once upon a time. Such a fine lifestyle. Yet I would walk home from the office along Prince's Quay and get street food in the afternoon, playing it cheap and real. Loved it so much. Now I want chili crab.
Oh, man! That's amazing!! Geez, the Ritz Carlton Millenia. You're fancy! You know the whole time we were there, Raffles was under renovation. One day we'll do a night or two there. One day! 😅 But yeah, 4 great years in Singapore. - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere I had the obligatory Singapore Sling at the Raffles. Some of my colleagues stayed there. I was partial to the Ritz, as I was upgraded to Club level suites since I was in residence for a month. Free cocktails, dim sum and sushi every day. Helped to stretch the per diem for the other upscale restaurants. I still tell the story of evenings in the penthouse lounge, when the staff had gotten to know me, and would say "It's 8PM, would you care for a glass of Cabernet and some dark chocolate?" Why, yes, please, that sounds civilized. :-D
We Lovvved Singapore! Lived there 3 times since 1992...watching its evolution has been fascinating. Yes, feels like home. Living in Jakarta now, and moving to Porto in the summer-for retirement! Hope to meet you guys in Portugal. You’re both so sweet.
Woah! It sounds like we need to connect with you all and swap stories! Keep us posted and let us know if we can help with your move here. Thanks for the compliment. 😊 - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere For sure! ❣️
Hey guys, interesting to hear from your perspectives on living in Singapore. Makes me miss Singapore as I haven't been back for more than a year. I do agree about the English language and it's a major pet peeve for locals when tourists asks if we speak English...like duh! 😂 I guess Singapore English or Singlish may sound unfamiliar initially to the foreign ears. I do miss the convenience of Changi Airport. Everywhere I travelled (and I think it's a Singaporean thing), I tend to subconsciously make comparisons with Changi Airport...you know where I'm coming from 😅
Hey, thank you! We LOVE Singapore. It will always hold a special place in our hearts and a place that we would go back to in the future. So many people think that Singapore is in some part of China. 😅
Changi Airport always felt like home. Literally, no matter how great our trip was to where every we went, when we got back to Changi and we were able to cruise through the automated gates at customs because of our EPs, we just felt like we were home. The smell of Changi too. That smell and the smell of Orchard MRT is magic. We miss Singapore right with you although maybe not as much as you with you have a longer imprint there. We could go for a mixed rice about now. 🤪 - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere Haha! I've been craving for some Singapore home cooked food lately and am planning to cook this weekend especially fried rice. I don't think you'll get Singapore food in Porto just as in Lisbon. I'll be happy to cook some Singapore food for you guys if you ever come visit Lisbon.
Yes, I do agree many think Singapore is somewhere in China and that's mainly due to the Chinese majority. Crazy Rich Asians helped create that awareness a bit.
There's something about Changi and how it's such a breeze going through immigration and have your luggage arrive as soon as you leave immigration. I'm hoping to visit Singapore towards the end of this year.
Soph
Another good thing is you can drink straight from the tap..
@@Sky-8646 Great point! Love that tap water. - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere yeah! Even toilet tap water too...
I want to let you guys know that I love your channel, and you will always be welcomed in our country :)
Thank you very much, CY Lee! We really appreciate the support. 🙏 We're going to try to balance our content between Portugal and Singapore stuff. It won't always be about those countries but for example, we've got a video about a Singaporean living in Copenhagen, Denmark 🇩🇰 coming up. - Josh & Kalie
Welcome!!!
Thank you! - Josh & Kalie
There are so many options ....living in Singapore.
Food, travel, experiences etc.
Modern , open , cosmopolitan.
I can’t imagine living in a non major city in USA. It will feel like a mono country guy experience.......
You got that right! - Josh & Kalie
Just say your racist and admit you don't like rural white people.
Having a worldly experience vs a rural country experience is a racist comment ?
It’s a choice.....
I don’t knock anyone who wants a farming life .........I personally would prefer a worldly experience.
@@windsong3wong828 You are equating non major U.S. cities with NOT being "Modern , open , cosmopolitan." Eat your words.
Hubert,
I had been to the minor cities in the west and they are BORING to me .
The choice of breakfast , lunch and dinner is safe and boring compared to , say, Singapore.
The food diversity is so great. You can have Malay, Indian , Chinese, Thai, Japanese , burgers , waffles, western for meals.
Cheap flights to Bali, Bangkok, Maldives, China, Japan as compared to , say , flights from Wisconsin......
Meeting people from around the world .....
I think the experience is totally different and worth it. 🌈🌈🌈
Welcome guys 😊
Thanks! 🙏 - Josh & Kalie
Lived in Singapore for 7 years--Loved it-clean, safe, humid, hot (turned on the aircon when we arrived and turned it off 7years later), Hawker Centers yummmm. And don’t forget HEALTHCARE. The best ever with US and UK trained docs. We often paid out of pocket then submitted bills to US insurance (example-1 appointment to respiratory specialist, 1 lung capacity test, 6 mos of namebrand inhalers and singular=$300 total. In the US 1 inhaler=$300). Yes it felt like home and I have several friends for life- it was great while we could work but after retirement we couldn’t afford the 9K a month rent. Now we spend 4 mos in Bangkok or Portugal and the rest in US.
Thanks for sharing. We had a similar experience. Although, 9k for rent! Wow, where was it? Keppel Bay or Leedon Heights? - Josh & Kalie
You may have to get used to Singlish once you get into the neighborhoods. But Singaporeans are always keen to help if you approach them!
100% agreed! Thanks for the comment. - Josh & Kalie
The real reason that locals use Singlish is because they do not want the expat to understand their conversation. Unless one has been here for a long time, it us quite impossible (mission) to know the gossip. I can assure you many Singaporeans could speak and write good (not really Queen's) English. I would like to share a funny story here.
Years ago I was at a predeparture briefings for local students leaving for studies at UK universities. The video presentation highlighted the interviews of the current students in UK. Advice and suggestions were offered by them. When the student from Hongkong was asked what was important before leaving for the courses. His answer sent the whole room into laughters. I can't help but laughed too but I was not a student, I was operating the video show. "Please improve your English". Every year the same segment came along would cause laughters without fail.
The one who made Singapore successfully was Lee Kuan Yew, 1st PM. He was a foundation stone of the Lion nation! LKY had advised PM Vo Van Kiet of Vietname on "DOI MOI economy" in Vietnam! They later became very close friends.
In singapore u drop ur wallet gurantee ull find it in the same place the next day or at the near by police station,,,the level of safety and security is just awesome
That's exactly how we felt. - Josh & Kalie
Somehow I found myself in a rabbit hole of various Singapore videos.
Yes!!!! 😁Thanks for the comment, Bo. We hope we didn't make you too unproductive. Did you see the most recent one we posted of a Singaporean in Copenhagen? - Josh & Kalie
They deploy enforcement officers occasionally to keep a look-out for people who litter, spit in public and etc. They make use of enforcement cameras too for example if someone is illegally parking on a bus lane at the bus stop, there may be enforcement cameras with warning signs and if you’re caught, then they’ll mail the offenders with the hefty fine notice
That’s for the information. We must have minded ourselves well then. - Josh & Kalie
I love this!
Thank you for the love. We love Singapore. What do you love about Singapore? - Josh & Kalie
awesome. love your insights about Singapore. True about the fines, but if you don't spit ,why worry? if you don't pee in lifts ,why worry? Fines are just fines to deter "nasty" people from doing things that are out of the "norms"
Thank you, Will Man. We appreciate the kind comment. We agree with what you're saying about the fines. - Josh & Kalie
I would recommend Wonderlust vlogs on how they enjoy Spore after moving here from the usual or even locals who do not know the hidden gems this country can offer besides the mainstream stuff.
I been many time in Singapore and what It is amusing in every way. SO RELIABLE and CLEAN SO PEACFULL SO EFFICIENT SO BEAUTIFUL SO LUXURIES and also expensive.
Singapore is the Switzerland in ASIA. INCREDIBLE BEAUTIFUL and CLEAN and LUXURIOUS.
Thank you
You’re welcome 😊 - Josh & Kalie
❤❤🎂❤❤Your channel is literally my comfort place. You make me so happy. Love you 🤗❤
Wow, thank you. - Josh & Kalie
Well,all place have it beautiful side and more importance happy n joy n meaningful to fullfill in your life and all contribution in area.rejoy always.
Super happy in Singapore. - Josh & Kalie
i like view your video and good information
So nice of you! - Josh & Kalie
Lucky you are here now a days,back then in 60s,mostly street food is in street,our gov.take changes to look after that,now we had a clean hawker or food court.
You two are amazing! Come back. We need people like you here in Singapore.
Thank you. That's seriously very sweet. We hope to be back. We're really bummed that we didn't start vlogging and getting more personal with our audience sooner since we were running the channel for 4 years from Singapore. It's our fault. We're amateurs. Stay in touch! Thanks for the support. - Josh & Kalie
I like your video. What did you think of the weather? Is it a minus point of living there?
Thank you. For some people it is. People that don't like hot, humid weather will likely hate it. Kalie is from Florida so it's pretty similar. Josh (me) prefers hot over cold and got used to it in the end. - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywherethanks for the info.
I come from a country with a sub-tropical climate (Cyprus) and I am not fond of hot and humid, even though I grew up in such climate conditions :)
Greetings,
Kyriakos
Hey guys, great video! Do you have any tips on best resources for job hunting in Singapore? Sounds like you got some good jobs right off the bat! Also from the US- open to a variety of different roles, but I've mostly been working in tech saas companies in customer experience, project management, operations types roles and my boyfriend is a certified HS teacher in the US (English/Literature)and would love to get into international schools, and would love to teach PE! Any advice/tips/connections? Thanks!
For teaching, the two companies that have most of the job postings are Search Associates and ISS. For other industries, network on Linkdin, and try to identify companies that you want to work for that have a presence in SG. That's our advice. Thanks for showing the comment section some love and asking a question. - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere Awesome, appreciate the insight and will check those out! I feel like we are the same people, everything you said resonates with why we keep moving, and I think this might be a place we could love and stay for a while!
@@imogenpierce6003 Fantastic. Find a way or make one! You can do it. Keep us posted on your progress. - Josh & Kalie
I have always wanted to move to Singapore.
Thanks for sharing. It's a great place. - Josh & Kalie
I have lived in Singapore for 50 years and only got fined once. So yeah don’t break the law n all is good.
Singapore is a favourite destination of ours, we love it! An interesting thing about Singapore is that chewing gum and spitting are both illegal. Another reason why it’s so clean.
We love Singapore too. Interestingly though, chewing gum isn't illegal in Singapore, but you can't import it or sell it. That's still banned. It's very, very rare to see people chew gum in Singapore.
Hi Josh/Kylie, Me too was in contract work in NJ, but iam back in Mumbai.But my Aussie Bro says Singpore is hot and humid and getting work permits is a bit tough..and iam quite scary by the fines there..
Hey! It is humid there for sure. Hot is pretty relative, but yea, a lot of people would say it hot. Personally (Josh) I liked it and I worked outside a lot year round. Work permits are tough to come by but your company should take care of it. The fines are real, but they're not common at all assuming you just follow some basic etiquette. - Josh & Kalie
Welcome to Singapore!
Thanks, David. We hope to bring more Singapore videos to you all soon. Thanks for subscribing!! - Josh & Kalie
As a Singaporean I'm very proud trying to move back from America.
That's for sharing. - Josh & Kalie
I’m considering this now... but it’ll be a while
Keep us posted. - Josh & Kalie
South East Asia, good weather, hot and spicy , no cold cold winters.
Those are good things! - Josh & Kalie
You know when I go to Malaysia, I am in constant trepidation as the signs were in Malay everywhere.
😁 Why do you think it made you feel trepidatious? - Josh & Kalie
@@ExpatsEverywhere I am scared of being lost and then scammed by a taxi driver or worst, driven to a secluded place.
@@ExpatsEverywhere And I cannot read Malay. Only know the drill commands given in Malay during my National Service
@@SuccessforLifester well hey, that something not nothing. 😊 Although, it could be the reason you have anxiety if you connect it to drills and shouting. 😂 - Josh & Kalie
Learn some basic conversational Malay then.It is not the most difficult language to learn. There are hundreds of videos on youtube that you can learn from.
How is the schooling system there? Expensive or affordable? Considering moving to Singapore (wish to actually) i will go through all your videos to get an idea. Thanks for making videos. :)
International schools are certainly expensive. You might be able to get a work package that will pay for or subsidize the cost. The schools are very good though. - Josh & Kalie
Lol I thought u guys mentioned ur teachers, I know for American school but still a bit of curiosity about the local education system would be nice. FYI - ALL subjects in school is taught in ENGLISH in Singapore except for the mother tongue (native language) which students choose when they are in grade 3/4. That’s why 90+% of ppl here speaks English unless like u said the older generation.
You’re most welcome to live in Singapore!
Thank you 🙏 - Josh & Kalie
Love your videos. Glad you like your time in Singapore. We now live in Arizona and miss Singapore very much.
Hey, Alan! Thanks for the message. How long have you all been in Arizona? Did work take you there? ❤️🇸🇬 - Josh & Kalie
Hello Josh & Kalie, yes work brought me here and fortunately wife & kids are here as well although they have gone off to college. Been here for 10 years but I actually went to school in Arkansas back in the 80s.
@@firstdown80 oh, wow. 10 years. Nice. Good to know you have the fam with you. - Josh & Kalie
From what I've observed , expats eventually leave Singapore ,no matter how long they've lived here and love it here. Not being able to get a permanent residency is mostly the reason why people r being forced to leave . Ultimately people want certainty and a place to truly call home. So while things r looking rosy for u guys now, u do wana think ahead about where u are heading to many years down the road.