Digital Nomad Life in Sentosa Cove
Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Sentosa Cove, Singapore. Get tips from others living in Sentosa Cove about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Sentosa Cove and more.
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Sentosa Cove?
"Expats in Sentosa Cove often appreciate the cleanliness and safety of the area, which is a testament to the local culture's respect for public spaces and community living. They also value the local culture's emphasis on family and community, which is reflected in the numerous family-friendly activities and events held in the area. The local food culture, with its diverse range of cuisines, is another aspect that expats enjoy. They also appreciate the local culture's blend of modernity and tradition, which is evident in the architecture, festivals, and daily life in Sentosa Cove. The respect for different cultures and religions in Singapore is also something that expats in Sentosa Cove appreciate, as it allows them to feel welcomed and accepted. Lastly, the efficiency and reliability of public services, which is a key part of Singaporean culture, is highly valued by expats," said one expat in Sentosa Cove.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Sentosa Cove?
"Expats in Sentosa Cove 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 in Singapore, particularly in an upscale area like Sentosa Cove, can also be a challenge for many expats. Some expats may also struggle with the local food, which is heavily influenced by Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines and can be quite different from Western food. The hot and humid climate can also be difficult to adjust to, particularly for those from cooler climates. Additionally, Singapore's strict laws and regulations, such as those regarding littering and chewing gum, can be a culture shock for expats. Finally, while Singapore is a multicultural city, some expats may still experience culture shock or feel isolated due to cultural differences," said one expat who made the move to Sentosa Cove.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Sentosa Cove for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in Sentosa Cove for an extended period, you will need to secure the appropriate visa or residency documents. The type of visa or permit you need will depend on the purpose and duration 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. However, you should check the current visa requirements for your specific country before you travel. If you plan to work in Singapore, you will need to apply for a work visa. There are several types of work visas available, 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 to apply for a Student's Pass. To be eligible, you must have been accepted into a full-time course in an approved institution in Singapore. For long-term stays, you might consider applying for Permanent Residency. This allows you to live, work, and buy property in Singapore, and gives you most of the rights and responsibilities of Singaporean citizens. In all cases, you should ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to leave Singapore. You should also be prepared to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. Remember that immigration rules can change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information from the Singaporean authorities or your local Singaporean embassy or consulate before you travel," said one person in Sentosa Cove.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Sentosa Cove?
We asked people in Sentosa Cove if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"In Sentosa Cove, it's important to avoid littering as Singapore has strict laws against it. Chewing gum is also banned in Singapore, so avoid bringing it into the country. When using public transportation or entering buildings, avoid eating or drinking as it's generally frowned upon. It's also important to respect the diverse cultures and religions in Singapore. Avoid making insensitive comments or jokes about race, religion, or nationality. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and follow the rules of the site. For example, remove your shoes before entering a mosque or a Hindu temple. In conversation, avoid discussing politics or criticizing the government. Singaporeans value harmony and avoid confrontational topics. Lastly, tipping is not customary in Singapore. Service charge is usually included in the bill, so there's no need to leave extra money," explained one person living in Sentosa Cove, Singapore.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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About the Author
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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