Singapore is a city-state, which is distinguished by wealth not only in the material sense of the word, but also in the spiritual. This is a remote place from us, located in Asia, boasts an extraordinary culture and traditions. It combines not only fabulous, amazing architecture, but also a high standard of living, which is absolutely not typical for an Asian country. Luxury and exotic are the hallmarks of the state.
The article provides information about life in this country, considers the pros and cons, as well as the level of welfare of the population. A comparative analysis of stay in Singapore and Japan.
What is a country like?
This city-state, which is located in Southeast Asia, it includes many small islands. The country is a harmonious combination of Asian culture and the modern progress of the Western world. Today, Singapore is one of the most successful states with a dynamically developing market economy. That is why a favorable environment for creating and developing a business is formed here, the level of corruption is quite low, and the tax policy is flexible and loyal.
The country is home to approximately 4.5 million inhabitants. The appearance of the state is clean, cozy and spacious streets. Those who are interested in this country are interested in the issue of national composition. Since historical times, it so happened that the state is a multinational. For a long time it was a colony of the British Empire, during the Second World War, the territory was briefly transferred to Japan. Further, Singapore became part of the Malaysian Federation, and only in 1965 it gained independence. Today, the country is inhabited by Chinese, Malays, immigrants from India, England, Japan and Taiwan.
Regarding religion, we can also talk about diversity. Here live those who profess Islam, and Christians of completely different faiths.
Despite the small amount of land suitable for farming, the population was able to build a stable economy, develop the electronics industry and form a better pharmaceutical production. In addition, Singapore has one of the largest ports in the world, as well as a developed service sector. A well-thought-out policy gave impetus to the development of small and medium-sized businesses.
Next, let's move on to the pros and cons of living in Singapore. First, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the video, which tells interesting facts and features of life in this state.
Pros of stay
Many say that Singapore is a modern utopia, a kind of ideal world that many aspire to get into. That is why we are considering the pros and cons of living in Singapore in order to understand and soberly assess the conditions and policies of the state. The advantages of staying and living in the country include:
- Security. A very low crime rate in comparison with all the leading world powers, as well as a minimum of corruption. Here everyone can feel completely safe.
- Transport communication is well developed, while we are talking not only about land, but also about sea transport.
- The level of medicine is one of the highest in the world. The pharmaceutical industry is actively developing here. Life expectancy is one of the highest in the world - 81 years.
- The level of education. He is also distinguished by high ratings and criteria. The state shows unprecedented development in all aspects, which is why the level of education here is one of the highest and most demanded. This is due to very influential neighbors, such as Japan.
- Social policy is favorable for citizens - life in Singapore is characterized by high salaries, social benefits and guarantees for the population.
- Excellent living conditions for young people. The center of Singapore is just a storehouse of various shops of the most famous world brands, in which everyone will find something to their liking. In addition, there are many entertainments in the state, and the cuisine is diverse and very exotic.
- Freedom of movement. Those with a Singapore passport are granted the right to travel to more than 170 countries without a visa.
City-state is a fabulous place that attracts many foreign citizens. You just look at the photo, and life in Singapore will amaze you with its pomp and grandeur. Due to the fact that the state has recently become independent, the process of its cultural development is still ongoing.
Disadvantages of living
As we noted earlier, many speak of a city-state as utopia in the modern world, but is everything as beautiful as it seems at first glance? Now we will note the disadvantages of living in Singapore.
This may include:
- For foreign citizens who have arrived here for further residence, the system of fines, which is distinguished by confusion, ramification and complexity, will not immediately be understood. In this matter, it would be good to get expert advice.
- Corporal punishment for both children and adults. Modern states prohibit the use of such correctional techniques, but Singapore is an exception. Not everyone can get used to such a system of influence on a person.
- There is no moratorium on the death penalty. As in the previous paragraph, not everyone is ready to put up with this.
- Drinking water is the most demanded resource, which is highly valued in the country. Despite the high standard of living in Singapore and the developed industry, water is what you need to constantly save. The situation is very serious and constitutes a barrier to many.
- Singapore is located at the equator, which means that the climate is characterized by high humidity, in addition, it is very hot there. Before moving to this state, you need to come at least for a while and understand whether the natural conditions are suitable for you.
- Many foreign citizens who moved here for permanent residence are unhappy with the attitude of the indigenous population towards foreigners. In fact, the population is not distinguished by benevolence, cordiality and kindness, but not everyone likes it. It is also necessary to try on a lifestyle, it is very monotonous and of the same type.
The standard of living in Singapore is high, but at the same time there are drawbacks that are primarily associated with the mentality of society and the climate. We advise you to carefully study the state from all sides, go there "for reconnaissance", and after that make a decision about moving to the country if such a question was raised.
Myth 1. Singapore - a total ban
Many people believe that life in Singapore is full of limitations. You can’t chew gum, smoke in a public place, throw garbage, spit, talk obscenely, and much more. Is it so?
Yes, throughout the state there are signs that prohibit certain actions. But restrictions are not categorical. For example, smokers will definitely be next to the "No smoking" sign, and teenagers will ride them on the territory within which you cannot ride skateboards. That is, there is no strict control and supervision of the population, as it might seem at first glance. That is why we note that formally there are many prohibitions, but in practice, not all of them are implemented. Living conditions in Singapore are quite acceptable and favorable for everyone.
Myth 2. A state in which there are no homeless people.
Considering the state as a utopia of the modern world, many believe that there are no homeless people in it. This is completely wrong. On the first day, you can see several citizens collecting bottles, sleeping on benches in the park or asking for help from others. There are absolutely homeless people in every state, regardless of the standard of living of the population, and Singapore is no exception.
Surely everyone will have a question about where the homeless come from in this state, if it is one of the richest in the world. The thing is that there are no pensions. According to state policy, those citizens who have reached retirement age should be supported by children. In case the latter cannot or do not want to help their parents, pensioners are forced to wander and fight. After all, maintaining your home is very expensive.
Myth 3. Singapore is a great place to make money.
Taking into account the developed economy and living standards in Singapore, many conclude that this is a great place where they pay well and you can come here to work. Fluency in English, high qualifications and higher education are not guarantees of employment. In fact, over the past two years, the indigenous population has held rallies against Europeans, including Russians. That is why getting a job is not so simple, preference is given to the Indians. In addition, a formal work visa is required for formal employment, as in many states. It is very difficult to get it, because there are not even quotas, which means that the Russians will most likely be refused.
Of course, not everything is so sad. Exceptions to the rules are those who register their business in the state, as well as highly qualified specialists of the very profession that is in demand. These include engineers, pilots, aircraft mechanics. You can also safely go to Singapore if you have enough money in your luggage. We need a good material base for a decent life in this country. Otherwise, there is nothing to do here.
Myth 4. Singapore is a single island with one language.
There is also one misconception regarding the territories of the state: all its lands are one big island. In general, everything is a bit wrong, the country consists of 64 small separate islands. Each of the territories has its own purpose. For example, some islands are adapted for military needs, while others focus on tourism. For example, Sentosa, Lazarus, Coney Island are famous for their beaches, so in most cases tourists go to them. They are also visited by indigenous people in order to relax from the bustling city.
Due to the fact that the history of the state is very interesting and unusual, and the national composition is full of different representatives and faiths, the language also cannot be single. There are four official languages in Singapore. It is Malay, Tamil, Chinese and English. That is why it is impossible to predict what language your interlocutor will speak.
Myth 5. A state escaping from third world countries
The opinion that Singapore over the past 30 years broke out of the list of Third World countries into a group of states with a high standard of living was expressed by First Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Yes, in the middle of the last century the level of GDP and life in the state were somewhat lower, and If we take in comparison with the United States, then, yes, the level is not the highest. At the same time, when compared with other Asian countries, Singapore, along with Japan and Hong Kong, was the most prosperous region.
In 1967, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations was formed, which (and also one of the founders) included Singapore. It was through the formation of this organization that the country became the economic center of the region. Since then, state affairs have begun to improve, but in fact they have never been deplorable, as evidenced by data from history. That is why the assumption that Singapore has turned from a poor country into a rich one in a very short time for history is a myth, and nothing more.
Port in Singapore
According to data for 2018, the state is recognized as the leading sea city in the world. And all thanks to its famous port. The rating after this state is Hamburg, and then Oslo and only then China, which is gradually gaining strength.
The marine life of Singapore is the basis of economic well-being and welfare of the state. This is primarily due to the advantageous territorial location and competitiveness, compared with neighboring countries.
- Each year, the port serves approximately 250 lines on a regular basis, and also receives about 150 thousand ships.
- Among the interesting facts, it can be noted that daily every 2-3 minutes in the port one ship departs and moors.
- Despite the fact that oil is not produced in Singapore, it is precisely its port that leads in the refueling of ships. 45 million tons of fuel are produced annually.
- Singapore's marine life is distinguished by the famous ship registration system, which is one of the largest.
- In addition, the state has been a member of the Council in the Primorsky International Organization since 1993. The port itself has been actively working and developing since 1819.
If you want to know more about the seaport of Singapore and see everything clearly, watch the following video.
The life of citizens of the CIS
Life in Singapore for Russians and citizens of other CIS countries will begin with a visa, which is not given to everyone, and it is quite difficult to get it. The exception in this case is a stay in transit for no more than 96 hours, if the citizen has a ticket to a third country.
Assessing life in this state, it is necessary to stay on housing. Reviews of life in Singapore for Russians tell us that the premises there are quite expensive and difficult to rent. In order to officially rent an apartment, you must have a work permit, and getting it without a home is extremely difficult. Due to the fact that at present about 1,500 of our compatriots are in the state, an apartment (or room) can be rented informally. Under these conditions, a room in a favorable area, 300 meters from the promenade and 20 minutes from the center, costs about 700 euros (52,600 rubles) per month. Shower and toilet in the room, utilities are included in the price. You can find a room for 450 euros (34,000 rubles), but in a more modest area, which is remote from the center and the promenade.
A special place in reviews of life in Singapore is devoted to cuisine. All foreigners really like the food. Especially places called food cour are cafes for fast food, where the cost of food starts from one euro (75 rubles). Traditional cuisines are Thai, Malay, Filipino, Chinese and, of course, Indian. If you look at the products in stores, then vegetables and pasta are sold very cheaply, but meat and chicken are unreasonably expensive.
Nightlife in Singapore is unprecedentedly active. As soon as darkness comes, the state just comes to life. Unusual multi-colored lanterns are lit everywhere, clubs and casinos begin to operate, and various enchanting shows are organized. Due to the fact that the crime rate is very low, you can not be afraid for your safety, and walk at least all night long. With the advent of darkness, fun begins, and life boils on the Clarke promenade. It is interesting that in cafes and restaurants it is not customary to leave a tip, because 20% of the cost of the order is already included in the bill for service. It should also be noted that, like in many cities, a taxi costs 50% more at night than during the day.
Analyzing the financial component of life in Singapore, it should be noted that high prices here apply to housing, schooling for children, and medical care. In addition, own transport is extremely expensive here. For example, there is not only a duty on the car, it is necessary to pay for maintenance, a parking place. Visitors can be frustrated by high gas prices. All this is done to limit the already high traffic flow in the city.
In order for a foreigner to live in this state and cope with a huge amount of embezzlement that will fall on his shoulders, it is necessary to choose an employer who provides a social package. Many companies work on such a policy that it is better to increase salaries, but not provide social guarantees. It is advisable to work with an average salary, but at the same time with a package of guarantees and benefits. Social packages, which include payment for rental housing, are very rare in Singapore, which is why it is necessary to think over this issue in advance, otherwise the costs will be enormous. We suggest you familiarize yourself with the video in which the girl talks about her impressions of life in Singapore.
Comparison of Singapore and Japan
Many tourists, and those who plan to visit one of these countries, have a question about where is better. In fact, life in Singapore and Japan can hardly be compared. These are two completely different states that have little in common with each other, each has its own charms and shortcomings. Let's consider some comparative provisions:
- Singapore is a progressive city, relatively new. Japan is an ancient state with a long history, traditions and customs.
- The culture of Japan has strengthened in the inhabitants and has been transmitted from generation to generation for many centuries. A sense of unity permeates all spheres of Japanese life. At this time, Singapore is a mixture of many stories and cultures that does not have its own unified heritage.
- Languages. Probably not worth repeating that Singapore has four, when in Japan one is Japanese.
- Attitude towards cleanliness, order, harmony in society - this is what unites two completely different states.
- Due to the fact that in the last century the state was a colony of Japan (albeit not for long), it managed to adopt some features of culture. This also applies to the progress and technologies that were adopted from the Land of the Rising Sun by Singapore.
- Level of medicine. High average life expectancy in Singapore and Japan, a developed economy, marine life - all this also unites states and makes them one of the leading countries in the world.
Summing up, we note once again that in spite of the difference in the historical formation of states, the culture and mentality of the people, there are moments that unite Singapore and Japan. These are the two leading states in Asia that attract foreign citizens with their standard of living, politics and order in society.