Will we need our own vehicle?

[AggieMom]

My family is considering a transfer to Singapore beginning in April of 2010. If we accept, we would live there for 3 years or so. I would quit my full-time job, and my husband would be taking the transfer.

We have 3 children, ages 6, 4, and 1 year. Our current plan is to live in the Woodlands, within walking distance of the American school. My oldest currently enjoys martial arts. The middle child currently enjoys gymnastics and dance. I plan on finding these activities for them as soon as possible if we move to Singapore. Also, we would certainly entertain placing the youngest into an activity or sport when he is older and shows an interest.

What is your opinion on transportation options for a family like ours? Would it be a great hardship to be without a vehicle? Is it reasonable for us to maintain our current active schedule relying solely on taxis and MRT?

[road.not.taken]

If you are going to live in the Woodlands with three kids, than yes ~ I think you need a car. OK, need is too strong a word, but if it were me, I would definitely want a car. If any of those activities for your kids are in town, then you'll want/need a car. Of course some things will be offered right at school, but not all. Woodlands is not really near anything but the school, I would worry that your life would become too insular if you were stuck up there without a car. I also trust my driving over a taxi anyday. The MRT is great, but a 20+ minute walk from Woodgrove/Cedarwood/Pinewood/etc...

Your childrens' current activity level is going to start growing in new and exciting directions; it would be a huge pain to manage what you've got going on now without a car, but in the future? Yikes!

[hbw65]

Yes agree that if you live in the Woodlands, then a car would definitely be helpful especially with 3 kids. It's just safer too. Like the above post said, the only real thing in Woodlands is the school. As a result, many children get bused in which is about a 30-40 min bus ride out there.

[sundaymorningstaple]

Yes agree that if you live in the Woodlands, then a car would definitely be helpful especially with 3 kids. It's just safer too. Like the above post said, the only real thing in Woodlands is the school. As a result, many children get bused in which is about a 30-40 min bus ride out there.

Would agree with both hbw65 & r.n.t. with the exception of safety. Yes , you can ensure that your kids are buckled up. But, living in Woodlands, especially with the 100's of screaming motorbikes from mainly Malaysians twice a day and the excess distance that would be necessary to travel to town for shopping (unless all shopping is done on the North Side) & activities (hopefully on the north side as well) is, well, let's just say, upping the possibility of being in an accidental encounter with some of our well mannered hosts here on the roads where all forms of courtesy are well & truly voided. Otherwise, yeah, with a family of three is isn't required, but could be useful.