Life

ExpatLife in Singapore  

Karen Blal (front row second left) currently lives and works in Singapore with Bonnie, her very cute dog - see picture at the end of this article. Karen works at senior management level for a US-owned management consultancy firm. She has lived and worked in Singapore for 10 years, although, typical of many expatriates, it was not he initial plan to stay so long away from the UK. However, Karen now has no immediate plans to return to the UK and has her sights set on Sydney, Australia for her next career move. Karen is single having gone through a divorce while abroad. She is originally from Liverpool and has also worked in London. We asked Karen a few questions to help give an insight into life as an expat in Singapore.

What is your overall view of Singapore?

As a single woman I find Singapore very safe, although we are reminded occasionally that ‘low crime doesn’t mean no crime’. Unlike the UK, I am not constantly looking over my shoulder when I am out at night – I can stroll home at 3 am without fear. As far as my career goes, there is no glass ceiling for women here and many of the top companies have women CEO’s. I have found it extremely easy to make friends as most expats are in the same boat – so if somebody is sitting in a restaurant or bar by themselves, they will more often than not be asked to join another table.

What is the standard of living like?

The standard of living is high. There is the opportunity for lots of travel to countries within the region on short breaks. Social life can be very hectic – if you want to go out every night you will have no problem finding somebody who wants to go out too! As Singapore is very small, there is no worries about getting the last train home. Taxis are extremely cheap and there are lots of them. Eating out is cheap too – most people tend to eat out rather than cook for themselves. It is extremely clean – bins get emptied every day – even Sunday!

Are there any benefits/perks?

Apart from the high standard of living and opportunities to travel to different countries the weather is good (if you like the heat), tax rates very low, it's very clean and I can afford to hire a full time maid to care for the house and dog! There is also a thriving Liverpool supporter's club here called East of Anfield, of which I am a member.

What about money matters?

Sort of okay. I have quite a high disposable income so I try and save quite a lot although I know I should do more. I do find it hard to find the right information in one place, which is why I am happy you have launched this site. I do have international health insurance although I, thankfully, have not had to use it. I think it is important to have the security in case anything happens to my health. I'm interested in property but haven't done much about it as yet.

What are your top tips

Drink lots of water and don’t worry about your hair - it’s going to frizz and there is nothing you can do about it!

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