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Digital Nomad Guide to Orchard Road, Singapore | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Orchard Road

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Orchard Road, Singapore. Get tips from others living in Orchard Road about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Orchard Road and more.

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Where should I live in Orchard Road?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Orchard Road involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. The cost of living in Orchard Road is quite high compared to other parts of Singapore due to its prime location. Next, decide on the type of accommodation you want. Options range from condominiums, serviced apartments, to landed properties. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, start your search. You can use online property portals like PropertyGuru, 99.co, and SRX Property. These websites allow you to filter your search based on location, property type, price range, and other factors. Alternatively, you can engage a real estate agent to help you in your search. They have extensive knowledge of the property market and can provide you with options that fit your criteria. When you find a potential place, arrange for a viewing. This will give you a better idea of the property's condition, its surroundings, and whether it suits your needs. If you're satisfied with the property, you can proceed to negotiate the lease terms. Make sure to read the contract thoroughly and understand all the terms and conditions before signing. Lastly, once everything is in order, you can move into your new home in Orchard Road. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's important to start your search early," explained one person living in Orchard Road, Singapore.

What do people appreciate most about the culture in Orchard Road?

"Expats in Orchard Road often appreciate the local culture for its diversity and harmony. They admire the blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western cultures, which is reflected in the local cuisine, festivals, and everyday life. They also appreciate the safety and cleanliness of the city, which is a testament to the discipline and respect that Singaporeans have for their environment and each other. The efficiency and reliability of public services, including transportation and healthcare, are also highly valued. Additionally, expats enjoy the vibrant shopping scene and the wide range of entertainment options available. The local people's friendliness, respect for others, and their strong sense of community are also aspects of the culture that expats in Orchard Road appreciate," said one person in Orchard Road.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Orchard Road?

"Expats in Orchard Road often find the language barrier to be a significant challenge, as while English is widely spoken, the local Singlish dialect can be difficult to understand. The high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing and car ownership, can also be a shock for many expats. The hot and humid climate can be uncomfortable for those used to cooler temperatures. The strict laws and regulations, such as those against littering and chewing gum, can also be a challenge for expats to adapt to. Additionally, the local food can be quite different from what many expats are used to, and adjusting to these new flavors and ingredients can be a challenge. Finally, the fast-paced, competitive lifestyle in Singapore can be stressful for some expats," said one expat who made the move to Orchard Road.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Orchard Road for a while?

"If you are planning to stay in Orchard Road for an extended period, you will need to secure the appropriate visa or residency documents. The type of visa or permit you need depends on the purpose of your stay. If you are visiting for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days, you may not need a visa depending on your nationality. Citizens of certain countries can enter Singapore visa-free for short stays. If you plan to work in Singapore, you will need to apply for a work visa. There are several types of work visas, including the Employment Pass for professionals, managers and executives, the S Pass for mid-level skilled staff, and the Work Permit for semi-skilled workers. If you intend to study in Singapore, you will need a Student's Pass. To apply for this, you must have been accepted into a full-time course in an approved institution in Singapore. For long-term stays, you may consider applying for Permanent Residency. This allows you to live, work, and study in Singapore without needing to apply for separate work or study visas. Regardless of the type of visa or permit you need, you should apply well in advance of your planned arrival in Singapore. You should also ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Remember that the requirements for visas and permits can change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information from the Singaporean authorities or consult with an immigration expert," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Orchard Road.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Orchard Road?

We asked people in Orchard Road if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"Orchard Road in Singapore is a cosmopolitan area, but it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Avoid littering as Singapore is known for its strict cleanliness laws and heavy fines. Chewing gum is also banned in Singapore, so refrain from doing so. When using public transportation or escalators, always stand on the left and walk on the right. In terms of dining etiquette, never stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice as it's considered bad luck. Also, if you're invited to someone's home, always remove your shoes before entering. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon in Singapore, so it's best to avoid excessive touching or hugging in public. It's also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Lastly, Singapore is a multicultural city with a diverse range of religions and beliefs. Always show respect for these differences and avoid making insensitive comments or jokes about race, religion, or nationality," said one person in Orchard Road.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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