An Aussie's Perspective on Living in Singapore
An Australian entrepreneur and YouTuber, Benji, who has been living in Singapore for eight years, shares his experiences and insights into the differences between Singapore and Australia. He discusses various aspects, from pricing discrepancies to cultural nuances and misconceptions.
Pricing Differences and Coffee Culture
Benji finds the pricing of goods in Singapore to be perplexing. He notes that some imported Australian products, like broccoli, can be cheaper in Singapore than in Australia. However, other similar products, like yogurt, can be significantly more expensive compared to milk.
He also highlights differences in the coffee culture. While Australia has a strong emphasis on quick and personalized coffee service, Singapore tends to have a slower pace and less personal interaction with baristas. He mentions the milk used in Singaporean coffee differs from Australian milk due to longer shelf life.
Housing and Efficiency
In Australia, it is typical to live in houses, while in Singapore, high-rise buildings (condos) are more common. Benji enjoys the efficiency of living in Singapore, where services like gas delivery are incredibly fast.
He believes Singaporeans generally dislike waiting for anything, which contributes to the fast-paced environment. The efficiency extends to public transport, with trains arriving promptly, and the renowned Singapore Changi Airport, known for its streamlined processes.
Misconceptions about Singapore
Benji addresses the common misconception that Singapore is an extremely expensive city. While it can be, he points out that affordable living options exist. Rent can be cheaper than in Australia if one is willing to adjust their lifestyle. Similarly, cheap lunch options are more readily available. He believes that overall cost of living is similar to Sydney if you compare apples to apples.
He notes that the tax system in Singapore differs from Australia, which impacts cash flow. Australians pay taxes before getting paid, while Singaporeans receive their full salary and pay taxes in a lump sum at the end of the year.
Motorbikes in Singapore
Benji delves into the complexities and high costs associated with owning a motorbike in Singapore. The 10-year Certificate of Entitlement (COE) can cost a significant amount, nearly doubling the overall price compared to other countries. He also describes the strict regulations regarding helmet standards, even facing potential legal consequences for wearing a properly-sized helmet that doesn't meet import requirements.
Driving Differences
He observes similarities and differences in driving styles. People in Singapore tend to drive closer to each other, potentially contributing to the lower speed limits. He also mentions instances where drivers may speed up to prevent lane changes.
He also noted that older taxi drivers tend to pump the accelerator.
Things He's Still Not Used To
After living in Singapore for seven years, Benji admits he still finds some things unusual.
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Elevator Etiquette: He finds it amusing that people feel compelled to press the close door button in elevators instead of waiting a few extra seconds.
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Escalator Queues: He mentions that people sometimes cut in front of others in escalator queues.
The Three Best Things About Singapore
- Formula One: As a racing enthusiast, Benji loves the Singapore Grand Prix. He appreciates the street circuit, the vibrant atmosphere, and the city's energy during the event.
- SimCity Design: He compares Singapore to the game SimCity, noting the efficient and well-planned urban design. Everything is strategically placed for optimal functionality.
- Cultural Mix: He values the diverse mix of cultures, religions, and people from all over the world. He finds that working in Singapore feels like being at the United Nations.
Singlish and Advice for Aussies
Benji appreciates Singlish, a unique blend of languages spoken in Singapore. He even uses Singlish words like "can" in his communication, sometimes confusing his international colleagues.
He advises Australians moving to Singapore to research property prices using the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) website to avoid overpaying for rent. He suggests exploring different neighborhoods and not being afraid to live further from the city center. He also recommends considering HDB (government housing) apartments as a viable and comfortable housing option.
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