Lifestyle in Singapore | Expat Arrivals

Download our Singapore Schools Guide
Download our Moving to Singapore Guide (PDF)

The lifestyle in Singapore is decidedly luxurious. Conspicuous consumption in the form of shopping and eating is a Singapore norm and firmly features in both local and expat lifestyles. Otherwise, much time is devoted to outdoor pursuits, despite Singapore's constant heat. On weekends, parks and trails are filled with bike riders, joggers, and those simply enjoying a stroll.

Shopping in Singapore

From luxury boutiques and modern malls to streetside flea markets, the options for shopping in Singapore are almost endless. Both locals and expats in Singapore love to shop, and there is no shortage of aisles to cruise in this city-state. Orchard Road and The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands are particularly known for having high-end designer stores such as Chanel and Prada.

Eating out in Singapore

As mentioned, food and frequenting lavish restaurants are a big part of Singaporean culture, and there are numerous exciting eateries and food stalls to choose from. From a bowl of noodles at a hawker centre to a tasting menu at a celebrity restaurant, foodie expats will have a great time exploring the city’s food scene, which boasts just about every type of cuisine imaginable.

Read our guide to Eating at Hawker Centres in Singapore

Nightlife in Singapore

Even with the high price of alcohol in Singapore, the bar and club scene is impressive and particularly popular among expats. It's fairly common to head out immediately after work, as it's a prime time to take advantage of happy-hour prices.

Watering holes along Clarke Quay are a top pick, though they can be crowded with tourists, while bars in the city centre cater to the after-work crowd, some of which have live music for entertainment. For a more scenic night out, head to one of the rooftop bars or any of the many spots dotting the marina.

Sports and outdoor activities in Singapore

Outdoorsy types in Singapore will find an abundance of activities to keep them occupied. Along with sports clubs where expats can take part in organised outdoor fun, there are plenty of attractions and green spaces throughout the city where expats can enjoy the sunshine in a natural setting.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, cycling and hiking are all popular activities around the island’s various beaches and parks. These spots are also perfect for a picnic and a relaxing day with friends or family.

Family life in Singapore

There's no shortage of family-friendly activities in Singapore to keep everyone occupied, both young and old. The overwhelming amount of greenery in the form of forests, playgrounds and parks makes for affordable entertainment.

There’s the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and Bird Paradise for starters. Universal Studios Singapore is another great place to take the kids for the day, and the Singapore Botanic Gardens is perfect for a picnic. For some social interaction, sign the kids up with a playgroup or a sports team, or check the neighbourhood’s community centre for activities in the local area.

Meeting people and making friends in Singapore

Moving to a new place can be lonely at first, but there are plenty of places to meet people and make friends in Singapore. The best way to do so is often to seek out clubs and societies where you can interact with people who share your interests. Volunteering or joining a hobby, sport, or expat club is highly recommended.

To get started, see our recommendations for the Best Clubs and Societies in Singapore

What do expats love about Singapore's quality of life?
"Personally, I feel my quality of life has improved drastically since moving here, but then this city and its quirks fit me perfectly."
Ellinor, a Swedish expat, tells us about her experience moving to Singapore in her expat interview.
"I love nature, and for a city-state, Singapore is amazingly green. It is known as the ‘City in a Garden’. There are many fabulous nature reserves which feature jungle trails. Otherwise, the Botanic Gardens offer a more cultivated experience of greenery."
Karien shares her experience as a Dutch expat in her interview about living in Singapore.
"There is a thriving expat community, and I was able to integrate very quickly through sports clubs and work. It’s a very social environment and everyone likes to meet for beers, dinner, lunch, etc."
Read more about how Scott, a South African expat, adjusted to living in Singapore in his expat interview.

Are you an expat living in Singapore?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Singapore. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.