Common misconceptions and clichés about life in Singapore

Last activity 30 September 2016 by beppi

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PriscillaViP29 September 2016 10:22:52

42358

Hello everyone,

Old clichés die hard, as the saying goes... and living in Singapore can generate lots of misconceptions in the eyes of the people.

What are the most common misconceptions about the expat lifestyle in Singapore?

What are the most common clichés about life in Singapore in general?

Did you have a biased view of the country before moving there? What is you view now?

Thanks in advance,

Priscilla

beppiGermany - Singapore Expert30 September 2016 08:16:46

15297

Singapore is a fine country.
Or so the tourist T-shirts say.
In fact, the ubiquitous posters warning of tough penalties for minor misdeeds (S$1000 for a cigarette bud, anyone?) are a case in point. But in fact, I know nobody who has actually been fined. Deterrence seems to be enough to keep the populace well-behaved (and well-behaved it is indeed!).

Singapore is boring.
Well, this one is up to you. While it probably lacks the vibrancy of Hing Kong or Las Vegas, Singapore has enough to offer for anyone who takes it up. I was never bored in 12 years living there!

Singaporeans are kiasu.
(If you don't know the word, look it up in one of the online Singlish dictionaries.)
Many are, but others are not. You have really arrived when you become kiasu, too!

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