In May 2022, I embarked on an exciting journey, moving to Singapore from the UK with my husband. It was an incredible experience, but something felt amiss, prompting me to re-evaluate what truly mattered. This is the story of why I left Singapore, and ultimately, a story about discovering the meaning of "home."
The Singapore Dream
Our fascination with Singapore began in 2017 during our first visit. We were captivated by the city's beauty and vibrant culture. While enjoying a simple lunch in Bugis, I felt a profound shift within me. It was then that I knew we would eventually make Singapore our home.
Realizing the Dream
Five years later, that dream became a reality. We packed our bags and moved to Singapore. Upon arrival, we revisited Bugis and found the same stir-fry spot from years prior. It felt as if no time had passed, and the city had been patiently waiting for our return.
Experiencing Singapore
Living in Singapore exceeded our expectations. We embraced the vibrant food scene, from snack stalls to kopitiams and hawker centers. The diverse faiths and celebrations were also a highlight, especially the Ramadan markets. These markets provided a glimpse into Singapore's beauty and diversity, uniting people from all walks of life in a delicious and festive atmosphere.
The Unsettling Reality
Despite the allure of Singapore, a sense of unease lingered. While Singapore appeared perfect on the surface, something fundamental was missing.
The Challenges of Expat Life
As foreigners, our lives felt temporary. Our existence was contingent on an employment pass tied to a job. Permanent residency was not guaranteed, and the high taxes made home ownership unattainable. Like most expats, we resorted to renting.
The Frustrations of Renting
Initially, renting was acceptable. However, I soon grew weary of the transient nature of our living situation. Noisy neighbors, unreasonable rent hikes, and structural issues in our shophouse became increasingly burdensome. I became tired of water leak and mould and the uncertainty that came with being a foreigner.
The Fragility of It All
The precariousness of our situation weighed heavily on me. A job loss, a policy change, or a landlord's decision could drastically alter our lives. This realization sparked the idea of leaving, not as an act of defeat, but as a step towards establishing something truly ours.
The Return to London and Rediscovering Home
I will always cherish my time in Singapore. Living in a city focused on contentment taught me the importance of belonging and owning a home – something I had never experienced before.
Embracing London
Upon returning to the UK, we briefly lived in the countryside. Although enjoyable, we felt most at home in London, the city where I grew up. Despite leaving for medical school years ago, I had never considered London a place I could truly call home, until now.
Finding Comfort in Familiarity
Walking through central London, the city's vibrancy and diversity filled me with joy. From the multitude of languages spoken to the diverse population, London felt alive. Exploring Edgware Road, a place we hadn't visited since before the pandemic, brought back fond memories.
The Importance of Authentic Experiences
We chose a Turkish restaurant with great reviews, drawn to the authenticity and generosity often found in such establishments. I appreciated the simple pleasures of good food and service, reminiscent of the hawker culture in Singapore. These experiences emphasized that the best places often prioritize quality and authenticity over superficial aesthetics.
A City to Call Home
I find beauty in London, especially in the springtime. The bustling streets, the diverse population, and the ever-flowing Thames River create a unique energy. This city is full of caring people who inspire me to dream of a better world. As I watch the London sunset, I know that I am home.
Reflecting on Singapore and the Quest for Home Ownership
We genuinely loved Singapore, and we wouldn't change our experience there. The weather, the blend of old and new, and the incredible food were all highlights.
The Rental Market Realities
However, the rental market presented significant challenges. We encountered a rental price explosion, with prices skyrocketing by as much as 60 to 70 percent. This trend was unsustainable, and we struggled to find a place that felt like home and offered value for money.
The Desire for Stability
While we appreciated the flexibility that renting afforded us in the past, we realized that we craved stability and a place to put down roots. The move to Singapore underscored our desire to own a home.
The Dream of Home Ownership
Coming from a background where home ownership was not a given, buying a house was a significant milestone for us. The high rents in Singapore further solidified our decision to invest in our own property.
The Journey to Our First Home
After viewing over 50 properties and staying in various Airbnbs, we were on the verge of giving up. However, on the day we were about to pause our search, we found a house that felt right.
A Place to Call Our Own
For the first time in a long time, I felt a sense of peace walking towards a front door that belonged to us. As we turned the key, we smiled, knowing that this was where we wanted to build our future. While it may not be perfect, it is home.
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