Melbourne to Singapore - any tips?

[Nervously excited]

Hi,

I'll be relocating from Melbourne to Singapore early in Feb. I'm really excited about the new job and meeting new people, but obviously a bit anxious as well. I would love to hear from anyone especially expats on hints and tips to make this transition easier. I have organised temporary accommodation for the first few weeks, but will wait until I'm in Singapore to decide where to live- I want to live in a lively area, lots of shops and cafes - even if it's a fair distance from work. I'm a young professional female, I'd also love some tips on how and where to meet people. Please email me at [email protected]. Thanks heaps!

Cheers:)
N

[Sydneysingapore]

Going to singapore? Good for you! It is one of the best places I have worked in.

If you are moving from melbourne, you will find singapore very clean and safe. However, that also means that you have to give up chewing gums. It is illegal there!

If you want to live somewhere real lively, try the East Coast! It has beaches and lots of good food. The thing about singapore is that everywhere is virtually next to each other so it doesn't matter where you live. distinction between the "rich and "poor" suburbs don't apply so no need to worry abour crime rates etc. A train ride across the country cost about $3 and takes less than 1 hour. If you are on a diet, then be careful because the food in singapore is really good...and cheap. A meal cost me about $3.

I find singapore safer than sydney so there should be a prob there. But remember that low crime doesn't mean crime-free.

A good suggestion is to live somewhere along the MRT northeast line. The train is much less crowded than others and it is fully automated ie no drivers. It is also closer to the city and rents there aren't too expensive. However, not many foreigners live there so it will be a great opportunity to meet new friends!

Singaporeans can be quite passive in making new friends but they are very friendly if you approach them.