Why should British remote workers trade the bustling city of London for the tech-tropical allure of Kuala Lumpur?
We dug deep and found seven irresistible reasons why this Asian paradise is the ultimate home away from home.
Ready to discover why?
Let’s dive in!
Prime Real Estate Options
If you are one of the few reluctant to relocate, you probably haven’t heard of Singapore’s world-class housing and real estate market.
Thanks to a landmass of 723 square km (281 square miles), the city-state doubled down on quality housing, as opposed to the mass developments common in Europe.
Their real estate market offers high-quality living options tailored for expatriates, some of which include the Emerald of Katong, offering luxurious amenities and a strategic location.
World-Class Connectivity
Singapore boasts top-notch infrastructure with high-speed internet and a reliable transportation system.
Changi Airport, one of the world’s best, provides seamless connections to major cities globally, facilitating both business and leisure travel.
This ensures that remote workers can stay connected with their teams and clients effortlessly, making Singapore a highly convenient location for remote work.
Robust Political and Economic Environment
Singapore’s economy is one of the most dynamic and resilient in the world.
This is evident when you consider how multi-million dollar companies like Dyson are ditching their British roots for Singaporean pastures.
As a nation, it not only ranks as a global financial hub, but it offers remote workers a safe political and economic environment booming with opportunity.
High Quality of Life
Singapore consistently ranks high in global quality of life surveys.
It offers a clean, safe, and green environment with excellent food, healthcare and education systems.
The city’s efficient public transportation, world-class amenities, and a plethora of recreational options ensure a comfortable and enriching lifestyle for remote workers and their families.
Sustainable Living
Singapore is a global leader in sustainable development, with numerous green initiatives and eco-friendly buildings.
The Emerald of Katong show flat demonstrates the city’s commitment to sustainability, as is evident in its green spaces and support for renewable energy.
If you prioritise environmental responsibility, Singapore offers a lifestyle that aligns with your sustainable values.
Cultural Diversity
Singapore is a multicultural city with a rich tapestry of ethnicities and traditions.
English, being one of the official languages, makes it easy for British expatriates to adapt and integrate.
The city’s cultural variety reflects in its food, festivals, and daily life, providing a vibrant and inclusive environment.
Dynamic Job Market
Singapore’s job market is diverse, with strong sectors in finance, technology, healthcare, and more.
This creates numerous opportunities for remote workers to network, collaborate, and grow their careers.
The city’s strategic location in Asia also opens doors to regional markets, enhancing professional prospects.
Ideal Places for British Remote Workers in Singapore
Here’s a list of locations that’ll undoubtedly take your breath away:
Katong area
Katong is known for its Peranakan culture, reflected in the area’s architecture and cuisine.
This provides a unique cultural experience for remote workers looking to get away from their desks every once in a while.
The Emerald of Katong is an up-and-coming location that combines the area’s cultural heritage with modern living.
By being situated in the vibrant Katong area, residents can access Singapore‘s cultural richness and lifestyle in ways never experienced before.
Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru combines old-world charm with modern conveniences.
Known for its art-deco architecture, trendy cafes, and boutique shops, it offers a vibrant community feel.
The area is also home to several co-working spaces, making it an excellent choice for remote workers who seek a balance between work and leisure.
Robertson Quay
Situated along the Singapore River, Robertson Quay is a lively area with a plethora of dining and entertainment options.
It boasts a relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for remote workers looking for a scenic and tranquil environment.
The area’s connectivity and proximity to the Central Business District (CBD) are additional advantages.
East Coast
The East Coast area is renowned for its beautiful coastline and recreational activities.
It offers a more laid-back lifestyle compared to the city centre, with easy access to East Coast Park, where remote workers can unwind with cycling, jogging, or beach activities.
The area also has a good mix of residential options, from condos to landed houses.
Holland Village
Holland Village is popular among expatriates due to its vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and proximity to the city centre.
It’s a great place for remote workers who enjoy a lively social scene.
The area also has several co-working spaces and is well-connected by public transport.
Sentosa Cove
For those who prefer a luxurious lifestyle, Sentosa Cove offers waterfront living with a range of high-end amenities.
This exclusive residential area provides a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It’s ideal for remote workers who prioritise comfort and luxury.
Comparing Living and Working in Singapore vs. London for Remote Workers
Feeding Costs
London:
Groceries:
On a monthly basis, the cost of groceries for a single person in London ranges from £150 to £300.
rices can vary based on dietary preferences and shopping habits.
Dining Out:
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs about £15, while three-course meals at a mid-range restaurant can cost around £60-£80.
Singapore:
Groceries:
Monthly cost for groceries for a single person in Singapore is approximately SGD 200 to SGD 400 (around £115 to £230).
Like London, this varies based on dietary choices and shopping preferences.
Dining Out:
Meals at inexpensive restaurants typically cost about SGD 10 (around £5.75), while three-course meals for two at mid-range restaurants can cost around SGD 60-80 (approximately £35-£45).
Rent
London:
London’s housing market is well-documented, with central areas like Westminster and Kensington being particularly expensive.
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment easily exceeds £2,000 per month.
Singapore:
Singapore is also known for its high cost of living, especially in terms of housing.
Rental costs for the same one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically ranges from SGD 2,500 to SGD 4,500 (approximately £1,400 to £2,500).
Cultural Experience
London:
London offers a wealth of cultural experience with its museums, theatres, and historical landmarks.
The city’s diverse culinary and social scene reflects its multicultural population.
Singapore:
Singapore rivals London in cultural diversity, with influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western traditions.
The city offers unique cultural experiences, from bustling hawker centres to upscale dining.
Work-Life Balance
London:
Most Londoners face long commutes, and as a result, it isn’t easy to explore despite the city’s parks and cultural venues.
Singapore:
Singapore offers shorter commutes and easy access to green spaces.
Properties like the Emerald of Katong place emphasis on the city’s health-driven architecture, which ensures that work and play intertwine.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
London:
London has a robust infrastructure and reliable internet connectivity, which is crucial for remote work.
The city offers numerous co-working spaces, such as WeWork and The Office Group.
Singapore:
Singapore ranks highly for its digital and physical infrastructure, making it ideal for remote work.
The city-state boasts excellent internet quality and cybersecurity, with co-working spaces like The Hive and WeWork providing top-notch facilities.
Climate
London:
London’s weather is known for its unpredictability, with long, grey winters and brief, sometimes wet summers.
Singapore:
Singapore’s climate is tropical, with warm weather year-round, though it is also humid and experiences frequent rains.
Safety and Quality of Life
London:
London is generally safe but has areas with higher crime rates. The quality of life varies by neighbourhood and financial means.
Singapore:
Singapore is known for both safety and cleanliness, offering a high quality of life.
The city-state’s strict laws and efficient law enforcement contribute to its low crime rates. Singapore also ranks high in healthcare and education.
Conclusion
Singapore offers a unique combination of economic opportunities, a high quality of life, and a supportive environment for expatriates.
By relocating to Singapore, anyone, including digital nomads, can enjoy a dynamic and rewarding lifestyle while benefiting from a change in scenery.
