Chance to move to Singapore

[Bodders]

I may be given the opportunity to work in Singapore on a service contract for at least 5 years. So have several questions.....

What is the ex-pat social life like? I am a 29 yr old single male, I get the impression that it is mainly a family/couples ex-pat community - or am I way off the mark!!

Will I be tired of Singapore after 5 years - would be interested to hear people experiences?

[cactus]

Your time here can be extremely rewarding, in every sense of the word.
BUT
1. check the  the topic headings and threads related to employment, work hours, etc. If you don't get a secure position with an MNC, you've put yourself at the mercy of the gods. Local companies have a very bad reputation both among everyday expats and an increasing number of high-profile executives, who often quit after less than a year. Go over your contract with a fine toothed comb and know the risks.

2. as far as being single, age 29, etc. this is no hardship posting, you get by in English easy enough and other countries are very nearby, even if you needed a weekend get away. Just take care of #1.

[Berlitz]

Ditto on Cactus's advice

plus.......

unless you have no choice re housing, may I recommend that you book yourself into a serviced apartment for a month or so just to get a feel for the place - this will help you not rush into things like signing a lease you may regret doing!

Enjoy your stay, the place does tend to grow on you......and most of all ENJOY the food-yum!

[No regrets]

No decision to make (as long as you take note of the above points about your contract and terms). I came here as a 30 year old single male, had a whale of a time for a few years, then settled down, got married and had children. Now about to leave after nearly 8 years, and will miss the place enourmously.
Yes it has its irritations - where doesn't? Yes it will piss you off royally at times - where doesn't?
Yes you will have the opportunity to have a great time, in a lovely part of the world, with easy access to some incredible locations.
And yes, it is pretty easy to meet friends and build an active social life.  
And if you get the contract right, you will hopefully stash a bit of cash as well!
Go for it.

[WombatBlu]

Hi Bodders,

5 yrs is max here.. I get bored with the place now.. .;p

Only if you have a thing for Asian... it's a good place to start.. .;p

[yep]

Mate an expat in Singa's - even if you have the ugliest mug you will still have a healthy social life (get picked up by the SPG's.)The number of really ugly ang-mo men getting on with some gorgeous asian women - really makes me sick.

[bodders]

Thanks guys for the advice - much appreciated

What about standards of living, my initial salary will be c. £50K

Would this be sufficient in terms of getting a decent flat etc. How does this compare with say £50k in London?
I've heard that the cost of living is even higher in Singapore?

(Obviously I realise that people can easily live on this amount its just the comparison I am after!!)

[make my £s too]

mate, that £50K will definitely go a long long way. few places on this planet are as expensive as London.