Singapore vs Hong Kong for "Western" Expats

[Rojakmuncher]

Hi Everyone,

I know this is a very subjective question...... I would like to hear
from other expats what their opinion is regarding living in Singapore vs Hong Kong. I understand that Hong Kong is a more expensive place than
Singapore, but is it true that the people are friendlier in Singapore?

How about the singles scene? I am a single male in my early 30s.

I have many local friends in Singapore
and am more comfortable with the idea of living there, however I am
interested to hear about other expat's comparative experiences between
the two cities.

Thanks.

Rojakmuncher

[HK now]

Hihi,

I am a Singaporean working in HK right now, but I assure you that my views are more objective than biased.

Pace - HK has a much faster pace in terms of street buzz. People tend to walk faster, speaks fast - just so as they claim to be more efficient.. well, I dont necessarily think they are efficient, rather they are generally a more impatient bunch of people compared to Singaporeans. On the other hand, Singaporeans are a little slow in terms of comprehension, anticipating siutations, taking initiatives and thinking of ways to make things work.

Language - English is more widely spoken in Singapore than in HK. If you intend on just hanging out with expats, then you would have no problems in HK, but if you want to penetrate into the local scene, it's more difficult compared to Singapore!

Pay - It;s def much better here ( along with the cost of living as well), taxes are slightly lower and there are more job opportunities here than in Singapore.

Life - If you are into nightlife and partying, HK is good. Some clubs dont close till 8 am in the morning! Lots of major events are held here whihc SIngapore just cant competet with - Rugby 7s, Fashion parties, rubbing shoulders with tycoons and models.... And if you are into sports, there are mountains to bike, trails to hike and open seas to go boating; BUT pollution is a big problem in the city. I know lots of people suffer from allergies due to pollution here. Singapore is a flat island, which in this way loses its asthetic charms to HK.. but is a much cleaner city to live in.

Food - More variaties in Singapore for sure! But if you love Chinese good, then HK is the place.

[Yutenji]

Hi, imho "HK now" reply is spot on! I'm 'western expat' and lived in HK a while back, while I was still single and still in my 30's ! But, didn't reply earlier because I thought my views might be out of date. Great summary from "HK now", especially coming from a Singaporean offering objective comparison with his own country.

[working in HK too!]

hi to 'HK now',

i'm very curious to know, where is it that you go to 'rub shoulders with tycoons and models'?

btw, i'm also a s'porean working in HK now. been here for 6mths.
how bout you?