Is Singapore for me?

[Phatmaus]

I currently live in Manhattan, New York and enjoy the lifestyle here - I'm very much a city person; I like to be in the center of things - bars, galleries, restaurants, shops etc.

I am thinking of taking a job in Singapore, but I'm worried that it's too much of a family orientated place (for me that is - there's nothing wrong with family orientated places per se) and that a studio apartment in the center of the city would be beyond my means. I've been researching Singapore on the web, and many websites and message *** for expats seem to focus pretty heavily on high schools, suburban condos and maids - is this truly representative of life in Singapore?

Also there does seem to be a worrying division between the "expats" and the Singaporeans. Do most foreigners who go to live in Singapore remain in their national groups?

[Well...]

Phatmaus
As with most places in the world, SIngapore can be whatever you want.
There is a local night life (though being a family man I do not get involved) that it seems many young of both local and international enjoy. Some say that is boring.
Yup, expats do concentrate on these "luxury" factors since they are concerned about having to live and perform in positions that require their attention in an unfamiliar, sometimes not-so-friendly work environments. They therefore look at a comfort factor. They are also concerned when it comes to schools that their children have a similar methodology of curriculum that the child will have when they eventually return to their home countries.
Some ex-pats prefer living amongst their own. Some prefer living in mixed environments and there are some who prefer living in HDB apartments. All are available to you for you to make a choice.
Some have maids, some do not.
Division between Singaporeans & foreigners? That's a HUGE issue that if you begin the topic it will go on for a long time.... Let's just say that there are differences in opinion between Singaporean and Singaporean and Singaporean and foreigners and foreigners and foreigners. Quite a melting pot really...
I would advocate that expereince in a completely different environment and culture to your own is a very healthy and rewarding. You may or may not like it here - and even if you don't you should try other Asian centres which are all different - since it will change your prespective on life in a very positive way.

[Caroline]

This is a small island with lots of wealth so Land is very expensive. Apartment/City living is pretty much the norm. You won't have a problem if you are used to apartments and city life, its the families that want to continue their  suburban US/Aussie lifestyle that struggle to replicate it on the same money. Its a bit like wanting a house with garden and pool in Manhatten!!

[Jessica]

Take the job, just for a period of time.  Singapore is what you make it.....and it can be a fun city even if you are single.  Added to that, it will allow you see Asia, and travel around Asia.  It is not such a bad place, if you can put up with litte things that irritate you.  And that goes without saying in every city, so really there is a different culture, and yes you will miss Manhattan, but see it as a short term thing, and enjoy it while you are here.