Digital Nomad Life in Serangoon Gardens
Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Serangoon Gardens, Singapore. Get tips from others living in Serangoon Gardens about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Serangoon Gardens and more.
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Serangoon Gardens?
"Expats in Serangoon Gardens, often appreciate the local culture's emphasis on community and family values. They enjoy the warm and friendly nature of the locals, who are always ready to help and make them feel at home. The rich cultural diversity is another aspect that expats appreciate, as it offers them a chance to learn about different traditions, festivals, and cuisines. They also admire the cleanliness and safety of the city, which is a testament to the discipline and respect for law prevalent in the local culture. The efficient public transportation system is another aspect that expats appreciate, making it easy for them to navigate the city. Lastly, the vibrant food culture, with its hawker centres and variety of local and international cuisines, is something that expats in Serangoon Gardens truly cherish," said one expat who made the move to Serangoon Gardens.
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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Serangoon Gardens?
"Expats in Serangoon Gardens 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 for housing and cars, can also be a shock for many expats. The hot and humid climate can be uncomfortable for those used to cooler temperatures. The local food, while diverse and flavorful, can be a challenge for those with specific dietary restrictions or preferences. The strict laws and regulations in Singapore, such as those regarding littering and chewing gum, can also be a challenge for expats to adapt to. Lastly, the fast-paced, competitive lifestyle in Singapore can be stressful for expats, particularly those with families," said one expat who made the move to Serangoon Gardens.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Serangoon Gardens for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in Serangoon Gardens 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 of your stay. If you are visiting for tourism, you may need a tourist visa, depending on your nationality. Some countries are visa-exempt for short stays, while others require a visa in advance. If you are planning to work in Singapore, you will need 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 in certain sectors. If you are planning to study in Singapore, you will need a Student's Pass. If you are planning to live in Singapore permanently, you can apply for Permanent Residency. This involves a points-based system, taking into account factors such as your qualifications, work experience, and salary. In all cases, you should check with the Singaporean embassy or consulate in your home country, or the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore, to find out exactly what documents you need. You should also ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay," said one expat who made the move to Serangoon Gardens.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Serangoon Gardens?
We asked people in Serangoon Gardens if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"In Serangoon Gardens, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid chewing gum in public as it is banned in Singapore. Do not litter, as Singapore is known for its cleanliness and strict laws against littering. When using public transportation, do not eat or drink as it is prohibited. Always stand on the left side of escalators to allow people in a hurry to pass on the right. Avoid pointing with your index finger, as it is considered rude. Instead, use your whole hand to gesture. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Do not touch someone's head as it is considered sacred. Avoid discussing politics and religion in casual conversations as these topics can be sensitive. In dining etiquette, do not stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice as it is associated with death. Always wait to be invited before starting to eat and do not take the last piece of food from a communal plate without asking. Lastly, always address elders with the proper honorifics as a sign of respect," remarked one member in Serangoon Gardens.
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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.
Digital nomads and expats talk about what it's like living in Serangoon Gardens.
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