Singapore: A Foreigner's Perspective on Cost of Living, Culture, and Singlish
This article explores the experiences of Anna, a Spanish linguist living in Singapore for six years, covering topics such as the rising cost of living, perceptions of wealthy foreigners, and the unique characteristics of Singlish.
The Rising Cost of Living
Singapore's cost of living is a growing concern. Real estate prices have dramatically increased, making it more difficult to maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Anna shares that her mortgage has increased significantly, and school fees and bus fares have also risen considerably. Many families are finding it increasingly challenging to afford living in Singapore.
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Mortgage increases due to rising interest rates.
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School fees and bus fares have also increased significantly.
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This impacts savings and financial planning for the future.
Perceptions of Wealthy Foreigners
There's a common stereotype that all foreigners in Singapore are wealthy. However, this isn't always the case, especially for Permanent Residents (PRs). While PRs gain some benefits like lower school fees compared to those on Employment Passes (EPs), they still face financial challenges. Healthcare and other expenses can be substantial.
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The "wealthy foreigner" stereotype isn't always accurate.
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PRs have some benefits, but face costs and other challenges.
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It's important to avoid making assumptions about someone's financial situation.
Cultural Adaptation and Change
Living abroad has profoundly impacted Anna. She sees it as a "vaccine" against nationalism and extremism, fostering humility and adaptability. Experiencing life as a foreigner challenges preconceived notions and encourages understanding of different cultures.
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Living abroad fosters humility and adaptability.
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It provides a different perspective on rules and civil responsibilities.
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Safety and openness in Singapore contrast with experiences in Europe.
The Nuances of Singlish
Singlish presents a unique linguistic landscape. While efficient, Anna believes it may have limitations in expressing complex thoughts and emotions. She acknowledges the convenience of Singlish for everyday communication, but argues that standard English is necessary for nuanced expression.
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Singlish is efficient and convenient for daily life.
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Standard English is necessary for expressing complex ideas.
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There are varying levels of Singlish, with some forms perceived as intentionally difficult.
Interesting Features of Singlish
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Singlish is efficient, particularly in its reduced use of phrasal verbs.
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Expressions like "yesterday kind" and the use of "lah" are effective for emphasis.
Concluding Thoughts
Despite the challenges, Anna appreciates aspects of Singapore, such as the clarity of official communication and the sense of safety. She values the open and trusting environment where children can navigate public transport independently. Ultimately, her experience highlights the complexities and rewards of living and adapting to a new culture.
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