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Digital Nomad Guide to EAST COAST, Singapore | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in EAST COAST

By Betsy Burlingame

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

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Where should I live in EAST COAST?

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 East Coast, Singapore involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options, as the cost of living in Singapore can be quite high. Next, decide on the type of accommodation you want. Singapore offers a range of options, from HDB flats and condominiums to landed properties and serviced apartments. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online property portals that you can use, such as PropertyGuru, 99.co, and SRX Property. These websites allow you to filter your search based on location, property type, price, and other factors. You can also engage a real estate agent to help you with your search. They can provide you with expert advice and access to properties that may not be listed online. When you find a property that you're interested in, arrange a viewing. This will give you a chance to inspect the property and the surrounding area. Before making a decision, consider factors such as the property's proximity to public transport, schools, and amenities, as well as the overall condition of the property. Once you've found a property that meets your needs, you can proceed with the rental or purchase process. This typically involves negotiating the price, signing a contract, and making a deposit. Finally, before moving in, make sure to check the property thoroughly and report any existing damages to the landlord or property agent. This will help you avoid any disputes later on. Remember, finding a place to live in East Coast, Singapore may take some time, so it's important to be patient and thorough in your search," said one expat who made the move to EAST COAST.

What do people appreciate most about the culture in EAST COAST?

"Expats in East Coast, Singapore often appreciate the local food culture, which is a blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines, offering a wide variety of flavors and dishes. They also value the cleanliness and safety of the city, which is maintained to a high standard. The locals' respect for diversity and multiculturalism is another aspect that expats admire, as it allows them to feel accepted and integrated into the community. The efficiency and reliability of public transportation is also highly appreciated, making it easy to navigate around the city. Expats also enjoy the vibrant nightlife and the wide range of recreational activities available, from water sports to cycling along the beach. The work-life balance and the emphasis on family values in Singaporean culture are also aspects that expats appreciate. Lastly, the locals' warm hospitality and friendliness make expats feel welcomed and at home," remarked one member in EAST COAST.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in EAST COAST?

"Expats in the East Coast of Singapore often find the fast-paced lifestyle challenging, as the city-state is known for its efficiency and productivity. The local language, Singlish, a unique blend of English, Malay, Tamil, and Chinese dialects, can also be difficult to understand for newcomers. The high cost of living, particularly housing and car ownership, is another significant challenge. The humid tropical climate can also be uncomfortable for those accustomed to cooler climates. Additionally, understanding and adapting to the local customs and etiquette, such as the importance of saving face and the concept of "kiasu" or fear of missing out, can be difficult. Lastly, the strict laws and regulations, such as those related to littering, jaywalking, and chewing gum, can be a surprise for expats and require some adjustment," explained one expat living in EAST COAST, Singapore.

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

"If you are planning to stay in the East Coast of Singapore for an extended period, you will need to secure the appropriate visa or permit. The type of visa or permit you need depends on the purpose of your stay. If you are visiting Singapore 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 will need a valid passport. If you plan to work in Singapore, you will need to apply for a Work Pass, Employment Pass, or a similar type of work visa. The specific type of work visa you need depends on your occupation and qualifications. If you are planning to study in Singapore, you will need a Student's Pass. To apply for a Student's Pass, you must first be accepted into a full-time course in an educational institution in Singapore. If you are planning to stay in Singapore for a long-term visit to be with a family member who is a Singapore citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for a Long-Term Visit Pass. If you are planning to immigrate to Singapore, you can apply for Permanent Residency. In all cases, you should check with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore or the nearest Singapore embassy or consulate in your home country to get the most accurate and up-to-date information," explained one expat living in EAST COAST, Singapore.

What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in EAST COAST?

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

"When visiting the East Coast of Singapore, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid pointing with your foot, as feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body in Singaporean culture. Also, avoid touching someone's head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body. When using chopsticks, do not stick them upright in your bowl of rice, as this is associated with funerals. Also, do not pass food with chopsticks directly to someone else's chopsticks, as this is also a funeral rite. In Singapore, it's considered rude to chew gum in public, and it's actually illegal to sell gum in the country. So, avoid bringing gum into the country or chewing it in public places. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Also, avoid taking pictures without permission, especially in religious sites. In conversation, avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, race, and religion. Singapore is a multicultural society with diverse beliefs and opinions, so it's best to steer clear of potentially controversial topics. Lastly, Singapore is known for its strict laws and cleanliness. Littering, jaywalking, and vandalism are all punishable offenses, so be sure to respect the local laws and keep the city clean," explained one person living in EAST COAST, Singapore.

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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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