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Let’s Talk: Reno tips for overseas properties

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Renovating your property in Australia can be an effective way to personalise your home and increase its value. Whatever the reason for your revamp, smart budgeting can avoid unexpected expenses. Prioritise your renovation projects based on importance. After that, get quotes from multiple contractors to compare prices. Look for cost-saving opportunities like using salvaged materials or buying second-hand fixtures. Also, set aside some savings for unexpected expenses.

The benefits

A reno to your home can bring multiple benefits, including:

  • Reduced vacancy periods: Renovating your investment home can attract more potential tenants, which helps to reduce vacancy periods
  • Higher rental yields: Improving the appeal of your property can also attract higher-quality tenants. This can be particularly important as an expat living overseas, as you may not have the opportunity to show the property to prospective tenants in person
  • Increased tax deductions: You may be eligible for a range of tax deductions related to renovations if you’re renting the property out. These can include the cost of materials, labour, and other expenses incurred during renovation

Finance options

Common possibilities include:

  • Borrowing against home equity via fixed-term Home Equity Loans
  • Using a Line of Credit to borrow funds up to a pre-approved limit
  • Obtaining an unsecured Personal Loan with a fixed interest rate and term
  • Using an Australian credit card with a high limit, but cautioning high interest rates
  • Refinancing an existing mortgage

Potential difficulties

Obtaining finance as an Australian expat living overseas is not necessarily difficult, but it does have some challenges:

  • Lenders need proof of your income and employment, which may require more effort as an expat
  • Your credit history may differ from living in Oz, affecting your ability to get finance and may require additional documentation
  • Currency exchange risks may arise. Different lenders have varying policies and requirements for expat borrowers
BEN WONG, Principal Mortgage Broker

Working with a specialist expat mortgage broker can increase your chances of obtaining finance for renovations because they’re better suited to help expats looking for financing in Australia. If you’ve decided to finance your property upgrade and want to know how to maximise your borrowing capacity, Odin Mortgage can help.

Contact Ben today at [email protected]

 

What’s on in Singapore in May & June 2023

Cocktails in the City

Tipplers rejoice! Singapore Cocktail Festival 2023 (SGCF) returns from 5 – 21 May 2023. The party starts with a 3-day event at Festival Village at the iconic Bayfront Event Space. To the backdrop of the city skyline, cocktail lovers will have the choice of nearly 100 concoctions and the chance to meet some of the world’s best bartenders hailing from bars around Asia Pacific, such as Maybe Sammy (Sydney), Penicillin (Hong Kong) and Sidecar (New Delhi). The fun doesn’t stop there as a City Takeover continues across 45 of Singapore’s best bars until 21 May. Look out for pop-ups, cocktail brunches, specially created cocktails and more. Start lining your stomach now!
From S$40 for one day. Bayfront Event Space, 12A Bayfront Ave, 018970
 singaporecocktailfestival.com

Aussie opera comes to SG

The Butterfly Lovers was a hit in Melbourne last year and now it’s set to captivate audiences on the red dot. In collaboration with Victorian Opera, the performance takes place from 3 – 7 May 2023. It’s the first time this Chinese folktale takes flight as an original English-language opera. The performance, which tells the story of Zhu Yingtai, a woman who disguises herself as a man to survive in a patriarchal society, is as thought provoking as it is beautiful.
Victoria Theatre, 11 Empress Place, #01-02, 179558 wildrice.com.sg

Smell the flowers

If you’re partial to a bunch of pretty blooms, don’t miss ‘Tulipmania – ‘Origins of the Tulip’ at Gardens by the Bay. The floral display takes on a Turkish twist being set in a landscape that features some of Turkey’s most iconic landmarks and architecture while retracing the rich history of tulips in the country.
Until 21 May.   gardensbythebay.com.sg

Big love for the Kebaya

The National Heritage Board (NHB) has launched Love, Kebaya, a new travelling exhibition showcasing the iconic kebaya and the community stories behind them. The exhibition, which features contributed items, photographs and a selection of kebaya, follows the multinational nomination of the kebaya by Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia to Unesco’s heritage list in March.
 nhb.gov.sg

Photo; Mandai Wildlife Group

Birds in Paradise

Following the ‘great migration’ from Jurong Bird Park to Mandai, our avian friends are ready to welcome guests to Bird Paradise from 8 May. Over 100 staff members helped with the transition of around 3,500 birds from over 400 species to their new home, and we hear inhabitants are settling in well. Indeed, their new dwelling is quite an upgrade with eight walkthrough aviaries and better environments intentionally designed to mimic different ecologies from around the world. Highlights include Penguin Cove with its cold salt-water habitat, a Bee Eater’s Cliff where you can observe bee-eater birds, and the Amazon jungle at Amazonian Jewels. The Sky Amphitheatre will host live avian presentations in an upgraded format that will feature the amazing talents of the birds alongside their trainers.
20 Mandai Lake Rd, 729825  mandai.com

Candlelight & classics

To celebrate a century of iconic classics, entertainment studio Warner Bros is bringing ‘Candlelight: 100 Years of Warner Bros’ to Singapore. The event on 8 May takes place at CHIJMES Hall and will showcase music from the likes of The Wizard of Oz and Batman, as well as television shows such as Friends.
7 and 9pm, 8 May    feverup.com

Lighten Up

The island brightens up from 2 – 25 June as i Light Singapore returns with the theme ‘A New Wave’. Highlighting art and sustainability, the festival will turn Marina Bay into a visual extravaganza with luminous works by international and local artists alongside fringe activities.
Marina Bay    ilightsingapore.gov.sg

Financial findings from ANZA’s New Members evening

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David, third right, with the friendly Select Investors team at ANZA’s New Members evening

In the world of easy access to information, it’s remarkable that over the 16 years that I’ve been living here, many financial questions that expats face upon arrival to Singapore, still remain.

This came to light at the the recent ANZA New Members evening I attended with Select Investors. A large majority of attendees had only been in Singapore for less than 12 months, and the financial issues around expat life were familiar.

The ANZA New Members evening was a great event at the Singapore Cricket Club, brilliant after a hiatus to have these gatherings back in full swing. Here are some recurring financial subjects that expats always have questions about:

  1. Banking: One thing that is different to other countries, is that in Singapore you can only withdraw cash at the atm of your bank, not from any atm. Although cash has become far less of a utility these days, it can be frustrating to try to find the atm you need if you don’t have a local bank in Singapore: use DBS, UOB or OCBC, the three largest Singapore banks, as they will have everything you need for banking here. DBS even has multi-currency accounts. Don’t be fooled into thinking a High Street Bank at home will operate the same or in a connected fashion here.
  2. What is CPF? Central Provident Fund or CPF for short. This Singapore’s financial system covering retirement savings, property purchases and medical costs as well as others.  It is only for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents (it is a brilliant system nonetheless).
  3. What is SRS? In addition to CPF, there is the Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS).  This is available to all and the benefit is the contributions are tax relieved.  There are limits and access is not flexible, there are also tax and penalty considerations if you ever re-locate from Singapore.
  4. What about my Pension/Super: Regardless of where in the world you have arrived from, you need to plug any gaps in Pension or Superannuation scheme contributions. Make sure you don’t let that gap widen. Find somewhere to save and invest your money regularly and ensure that it is flexible and tax-efficient outside of Singapore, wherever your onward journey takes you.
  5. Employee benefits not matching. You may be used to having not just employer contributions to your Super/Pension but also good life insurance and critical illness benefits. These are likely far lower if they exist at all in Singapore, and it may require you to take personal responsibility to protect you and your family.
  6. Travel cash. This is easier now with the reduction in requirements for cash, but even in remote parts of Asia, make sure you have a card like Wise or Revolut for spending overseas and always choose ‘local currency’ if given the option at the till. If it is cash you need, there are plenty of money changers in Singapore and some of the best rates can be found in Raffles Place – but check a few before choosing where to buy your foreign currency from.
  7. Possibly my favourite question I get asked – which is the best credit card for earning Kris Flyer miles? In simple terms there is no one answer.  There are a few very good ones, but most will allow you to accrue points that you sell to buy miles etc.  AMEX have a Kris Flyer Card, Citibank Premier Miles is well loved, and UOB even has a Kris Flyer Current Account and earns points for using your debit card.

You may have other questions and I would love to hear them and see if I can help demystify living and working in Singapore from any personal financial angle.

David Reynolds is a Partner with Select Investors and a seasoned expat, as he has been living and working in Singapore for the past 16 years. Please do reach out to David to discuss how to make the most of your time in Singapore via email [email protected] or phone +65 9101 4814.

The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time. The value of any tax relief depends on individual circumstances. You are advised to seek independent tax advice from suitably qualified professionals before making any decision as to the tax implications of any investment.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851.

St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.

 

 

 

 

Hotspots: Tropical Sunday Champagne Brunch at 15 Stamford

Brunch is perhaps the most decadent meal out there, and with prices for everything on the up and up, getting bang for your buck has never been more important. Singapore knows how to do Good Brunch so with endless options out there it can be difficult to know which one is worth your dollars. After heading to The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, ANZA can vouch that the new Tropical Sunday Champagne Brunch at 15 Stamford by Alvin Leung offers fabulous food and experience for a price that’s well worth it. 

Held every Sunday, the new tropical brunch is one of the largest we’ve seen in Singapore – so big that it extends to several rooms. Alongside the plethora of food choices there’s thematic cocktails and a lovely relaxed atmosphere made even more so thanks to live entertainment. We dined to the tinkly sounds of a live harp which added a very swish and sophisticated feel to the whole shebang. Our first glass of free-flow fizz was poured by our tropical shirt-clad waiter and we were off!

We arrived hungry

Reader, we arrived hungry and our mission was to eat and drink a lot. It was not a difficult task to fulfil. Food was fresh, plentiful and diverse with a variety of live stations to choose from. The Seafood Stations serves the freshest Baby Lobster, Tiger Prawns and Blue Mussels with Seasonal Oysters as the highlight, ready and waiting to be paired with Thai assam vinaigrette, yuzu ponzu, or cilantro and lime emulsion.

The Charcuterie and Cured Fish Station comprises the likes of Beef Bresaola and Jamón Ibérico De Bellota alongside Hot Smoked Salmon and Smoked Haddock. Guests can create their own pasta dish of dreams with a choice of capellini, fettuccine or macaroni in sauces such as aged cheddar cheese sauce, Asian aglio olio or black truffle cream. The Indian Station serves curries and poppadums. 15 Stamford’s Signature Laksa takes centre stage in the noodles section.

Hot coal grill

No brunch is complete without a hot coal grill and the Grill Carving and Rotisserie Spit Roast at 15 Stamford by Alvin Leung does not disappoint. Go all out with Wagyu Beef Hanging Tender, Pork Belly Char Siew or Angus Beef Ribeye. There’s also spit-roasted Red Snapper, Gammon Ham, and Pasture Fed Lamb Leg. The seafood grill is a smorgasbord of White Clams, Spring Bay Mussels, and Tiger Prawns.

The dessert options are equally as plentiful and enticing. Sweet treats included Yuzu Meringue, Pandan Fudge Cake, Assorted Macarons, and Peranakan Kueh. The Chocolate Fondue was a wonder with roasted almonds, Valrhona chocolate balls, and seasonal fruits for dipping. Got space? Finish off with a rotating selection of five premium seasonal cheeses from Grana to Goat Cheese, presented with crackers, lavash, quince paste, grapes, muscatel and honeycomb.

Needless to say, it’s never a good idea to plan anything energetic after a brunch in Singapore and this rule applies to the Tropical Sunday Champagne Brunch. Fit to burst, we headed back home, slipped into our PJs, and spent the remainder of the afternoon feeling grateful for tropical living and everything that comes with it. 

Verdict: Slip into something nice and make the most of this buffet brunch which is well worth the price tag. Dining here feels like a special treat with so much to offer and makes for a tranquil escape in the tropics. Just get your PJs ready and waiting for when you return home…

15 Stamford by Alvin Leung’s Tropical Sunday Brunch takes place every Sunday and starts at $188++ with free-flowing cocktails, wines, beer, and Telmont Reservé Brut Champagne Brut; $218++ for Telmont Rosé Champagne; $248++ for a Billecart Rosé; or $268++ for Billecart Blanc de Blancs.

15 Stamford by Alvin Leung

Kempinski Hotel Singapore

15 Stamford Rd

178906

Essentials to pack on moving day with kids

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Moving day can be hectic for you and your family. Without careful planning, it might spiral out of control, bringing a lot of frustrations, forgetfulness, and finally, mishaps.

When you add keeping track of your children to the mix, you realise that you cannot prepare for moving day without figuring out how to work with them and minimise the stress of it all on your family and your mental health. One of the most critical bags you must pack is called your essentials bag. It contains everything you need for the first few days until you have organised your new home. Not sure what goes into these bags? Here are insightful tips backed by years of experience as one of the best relocation companies in Singapore.

Everyone needs a designated bag

The first thing you must realise is that your “essentials bag” or “first-day” bag should be different from those of your kids. It’s ideal for separating them, so you don’t forget anything or pack based on “two-to-one” when you have no idea how long it would take for the rest of your belongings to get to your destination. Moving companies in Singapore talk about giving at least a week beyond the designated arrival time, so your essentials bag must be given much thought.

Packing your essentials

To pack your essentials, here are the items you must have on you for the first few nights in your new place:

  • Keys
  • Identification documents and cards
  • Cash, checkbooks, credit cards
  • Vital phone numbers (including financial institution, and moving company)
  • First-aid kit
  • Electronics
  • Paper and pen
  • Chargers
  • Small tool kit
  • Small gliding knife or scissors
  • Spare batteries
  • Portable alarm clock
  • Sheets and a pillow
  • Essential paper supplies
  • Cleaning supplies
  • plates, cups, and utensils (enough for one meal for everyone)
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Instant staples
  • Medications
  • Basic cookware’s
  • Instant tea bags or coffee
  • Beverages
  • A personal treat
  • Extra change of clothes
  • Toiletries

Essentials for your pets

If you have furry friends in your home, they also need their essentials bags as well. This should have their food, water, favorite toys, treats, and medications that can last for the next few days. Read here for more tips on moving with pets.

Packing your kid’s essentials

The day before moving day, pick your “child’s essential bags. This bag should include their favorite things, including stuffed animals, favorite toys, bouncy seats, high chairs, pack n’ play, pajamas, messy clothes, medications, iPad with games, blanket, first-aid kits and change of clothes. However, always let your child decide what goes into her backpack; you can carry the rest on her behalf.

If you have a toddler, then you should equally consider supplies such as:

  • Medication
  • Pacifiers
  • Messy clothes
  • Sippy cups
  • Bottles
  • Juice
  • Formula
  • iPad with games
  • Carriers and strollers
  • Wet and dry wipes
  • Breast pumps and breast-feeding pillars
  • Diapers
  • Napkins
  • Baby lotions, baby powder
  • Baby food (milk powder)
  • Diaper-rash cream
  • Car seats

Create a fun kit

Besides their essentials bag, you can also create a fun kit to keep them busy on the way to your new home. This backpack should include items such as storybooks, activity books, iPads with games, puzzles, portable DVD player, board games, dolls, and a few extras that can keep them busy for an entire day. Beyond this, you can also pick up some of their favorite treats to keep them refueled throughout the journey, making the trip more tolerable for everyone.

Packing the right essentials is necessary and must include items that can last you at least three days or more. There are lots of things that might delay your items from reaching your destination when you expect it, so being proactive is ideal. As one of the best moving companies in Singapore, we have created a list of the most common items you should have in your essentials. Now, you must format to meet your tailored needs or jumpstart your moving process.

About SIR MOVE

Established in Singapore in and Malaysia since 2006, SIR Move Services is a Singapore/British brand, and it is a moving company that continues to build a business based on integrity and trust. SIR provides Complete Move Solutions for International, Commercial and Domestic Relocations inclusive of storage and insurance. We move pets too. SIR Move is a qualified FIDI/FAIM Quality Mover.

SIR Move Services

Email [email protected]

Visit www.sirmove.com

Call 65 65347345

Follow us on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/SirMoveServices/

Follow us on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/sirmoveservices/

Hotspots: Quaich Bar Wanderlust

Located in a cosy nook in the Intercontinental Singapore Hotel, Quaich Bar Wanderlust is designed as a globe-trotting lounge, taking its guests around the world via a menu of signature cocktails and dishes inspired by different countries. In keeping with the Quaich 17-year tradition, an extensive collection of at least 100 world whiskies accompanies you on your journey. Also taking the trip are 19 thematic cocktails ($25) that aim to evoke feelings of faraway lands.  

THE TAKE-OFF

Taking flight on an easy-drinking note is Miyeok Guk – a savoury tipple with its peculiar shake of Ottogi seaweed washed vodka, Makgeolli, Citric Acid with three lingering drops of Sesame Oil and a spritz of peaty tang perfume. Meanwhile, the Mexican-tinged Jorge Smith perks the Moscow Mule with Jalapeños infused Vodka, Ginger Syrup and Bitter Lemon in crushed ice that is especially refreshing post-work.

From left: Jorge Smith, Miyeok Guk, Sawagito

MID-FLIGHT TIPPLES

Pacing the ride, the Mojito-meets-Thai Milk Tea Sawajito offers a citrusy spin of the creamy favourite by building Cha Yen-steeped Rum, Peppermint Syrup, Calamansi Cordial, fresh Thai Basil, soda and a side of Half-and-Half. For lovers of gin-based cocktails, the Roses Are Red, Grapes Are Green is a satisfying blend of three different gins (Nordes, Hendricks, and The Lakes Elderflower), Italian Bergamot Liqueur, Sauvignon Blanc, Citrus and a splash of soda. It’s the perfect response to the usual requests for something “sweet, refreshing, fruity and floral”.

From left: Triple Happiness, Teagroni, Ai Cai

CRASH LANDING

Moving on to spirit-forward concoctions, Teagroni, an express pass to India, is a blend of Gin, Masala Chai-steeped vermouth, Génépi Liqueur and Cherry Heering that come served in a teapot with a piping hot illusion of Liquid Nitrogen.

Rounding off the night, the Triple Happiness revisits the classic Whisky Sour with its traditional Chinese twist of Dried Prune-infused Bourbon, Citrus Blend with a mellowed sweetness from Red Dates and Ginseng Syrup. This cocktail is garnished with a strawberry powder stencil of the Chinese character, “”, to denote feelings of bliss when sipped – especially for the Whisky Sour lovers, this concoction is the ideal tipple before bed.

WHISKY SELECTION: FROM HIGHLANDS TO AFRICA

Whisky enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover house exclusives including Bunnahabhain 12 years (Scotland), Currach Atlantic Kombu Seaweed Cask (Ireland) Tipperary Watershed (Ireland), The Lakes Colheita SIngle Malt Whisky (England) and Three Ships 10 years (South Africa). A key highlight for rare whisky seekers will be the Frank McHardy Series, a limited-edition series in collaboration with whisky legend and Springbank Distillery’s former Production Director Franck Mchardy. 

From left: Pocket beef burger, Seared hokkaido scallops

THE FOOD: BITES AROUND THE WORLD

Keeping in line with the global journey, Chef Corwin Leong offers interpretations of dishes from around the globe.

Sectioned into Sharing Plates (6pm – 10.30pm) and Munchies (6pm – closing) for the peckish, highlights include: Tuna Ceviche ($23), Grilled Octopus Legs ($28), and Seared Hokkaido Scallops ($25). Meaty options include Pocket Beef Burger ($23) and Hakka-styled Nan Lu Pork Belly ($16).Those craving fried foods can explore the the Fried Brussels Sprouts ($16) or comfort food fried staples such as Calamari ($16) with house Kaffir Lime Aioli.

VERDICT: Overall, Quaich Wanderlust deserves a visit. For the more playful crowd, the whimsical cocktails are innovative and delicious without betraying its classic origins. It’s also a great place to go for an evening as a group without having to yell across the table to be heard! 

Quaich Bar Wanderlust
 80 Middle Rd, Level 1 InterContinental Hotel, 188966

ANZA Netball: Tournament times!


While ANZA Netball loves a bit of friendly and healthy competition, sometimes we just want to get the community together for some fun, laughter and downtime without any pressure. Which is why everyone was happy to see ANZA Accelerator, a friendly tournament for non-league age players, back on the calendar at the end of last year.

Team bonding

The primary focus of this annual tournament is to give match play experience to the younger girls in the ANZA programme against other visiting clubs. It’s a great opportunity to boost team bonding and provide inspiration and encouragement to players away from participating in more serious league games. Every ANZA player in the 8, 9 and 10-year age groups played in a team representing ANZA. The tournament was played in a round robin format over a two-week period with each team playing against every other team in the age group. Those invited to participate in the indoor tournament at Tanglin Trust School included Centaurs Netball Club, Singapore Netball Academy, Sports Ready and The Netball Academy (TNA).

Friendly spirit

ANZA Accelerator took place with a friendly spirit, a carnival-like atmosphere and without scoring. During match breaks, players from all clubs were invited to visit the cake stall or try coloured hairspray or temporary tattoos. ANZA Netball is extremely proud of the community who came together to make this tournament such a positive experience for the younger girls. The older players volunteered in selling cakes, spraying hair, umpiring, timekeeping and court management to ensure that everything proceeded smoothly. ANZA volunteer coaches also enthusiastically embraced the jovial air, even when playing against their own club!

All players found the experience overwhelmingly joyous – especially when they each received a medal at the conclusion of the tournament. We can’t wait for the next one!

A word from the parents

“Thank you to all the volunteer coaches. The girls and parents had lots of fun, and the crowd enjoyed watching it all.”

“A big shout out to the organisers for getting ANZA Accelerator up and running. It was brilliant to see the enthusiasm and the intensity of the girls playing so well together.”

“We are so grateful to the coaches and the organisers for putting on this tournament and each week of training throughout the terms. Thank you so much for making it such a special and memorable time in the week.”

5 things expats should know before moving to Singapore

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Singapore is a bustling and vibrant city-state that attracts thousands of expats yearly. Its reputation for safety, cleanliness, greenery, and modernity, coupled with its thriving economy and diverse cultural landscape, make it an attractive destination for people worldwide. However, moving to Singapore can also be daunting, especially for those who have never visited.

1. Singapore is a friendly, small urban city

The locals are friendly and eager to help you. Singaporeans are polite and respectful, so don’t be surprised if they greet you with a smile. Most locals will also go out of their way to ensure you feel at home in Singapore. If you run into any problems during your stay in Singapore, feel free to ask for help from anyone, even if it’s just someone sitting next to you on the bus or the MRT train.

2. Excellent public transport system: Bus, train & taxi

Singapore boasts one of the best public transport systems in the world, making it an ideal destination for expats looking for an efficient and convenient way to get around. The city-state’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is fast, reliable, and covers almost every corner of Singapore, with trains running from early morning until late at night. In addition to the MRT, Singapore has an extensive bus network that operates late into the night, making reaching even the most remote locations easy.

3. All the food for foodies!

Singapore is known for its diverse and delicious food options, making it a paradise for expats looking to sample different cuisines worldwide. From traditional hawker centers to high-end restaurants, Singapore offers various dining options for every taste and budget. Hawker centers are a must-visit for expats, as they offer various local dishes at affordable prices. In addition, expats can try famous Singaporean dishes such as chicken rice, chili crab, laksa, and many others.

4. The tropical climate experience

Singapore’s tropical climate is characterized by high humidity, and temperatures rarely drop below 25°C. This means expats moving to Singapore should be prepared for warm and humid weather throughout the year. Singapore has two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season typically lasts from March to August, while the wet season runs from September to February. During the wet season, Singapore experiences heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms.

5. Housing options for expats

Singapore offers a wide range of housing options for expats, from public housing flats to luxurious condominiums like the upcoming new launch Jden condo. Public housing flats, or Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats, are a popular option for expats looking for affordable and comfortable accommodation.

HDB flats are available for rent (not available for purchase by foreigners) and come in various sizes, from one-room flats to five-room flats. For expats who prefer a more upscale living experience, Singapore also has a variety of private condominiums, which offer amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and 24-hour security. Depending on their budget and lifestyle preferences, expats can choose from various housing options and easily find housing that suits their needs in Singapore’s vibrant property market. Before making any housing decisions, expats need to understand the local housing laws and regulations, including restrictions on foreign ownership of certain types of properties.

Moving to a new country can be exciting and overwhelming, and Singapore is no exception. However, with the proper preparation and knowledge, expats can quickly adapt to their new home and make the most of their experience in this vibrant city-state.

 

 

Summer Semester 2023 at Singapore American School

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Are you interested in giving your children the chance to explore five different Spanish-speaking countries within just five days? Do they have a curiosity about animating still images or using photojournalism to understand how ethnography and storytelling intersect?

If your family will be on the little red dot this summer, we have exciting news to share. Singapore American School’s (SAS) Summer Semester 2023 offers a diverse array of courses that cater to a wide range of interests and passions, ensuring that every child can find something to pique their curiosity.

Taking place from June 12 to July 7, this four-week adventure is open to both SAS and non-SAS students. With a focus on physical activity, creative problem-solving, and real-world challenges, our courses encourage students to stretch themselves and push their boundaries. Each week-long unit offers a new opportunity for students to achieve something remarkable. Parents can choose to enroll their children in as few or as many courses from an exciting line-up of courses and learning experiences designed to capture your child’s interests, accelerate their learning, and deepen their critical-thinking skills. Registration is open! Click here for more information or watch this video to get a glimpse of the fun at Summer Semester.

Our youngest students, in preschool and pre-kindergarten, can explore topics like STEM, baking, and cultural exploration through language learning and art. Elementary school students can enjoy STEAM-based projects, video game design, and vlogging. Middle and high school students can delve into topics such as creating music videos, local ecosystem exploration, and Singapore’s sustainability efforts. With over 130 courses on offer, there’s something for everyone.

Our amazing educators who work during the summer are dedicated and enthusiastic about helping their students make progress and achieve their goals. In addition to their academic expertise, educators at SAS are known for their caring and supportive approach to working with students. They recognise the importance of building strong relationships with their students and creating a positive learning environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Click here to learn more about our exciting Summer Semester 2023 programme.

Singapore American School

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/singaporeamericanschool

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samericanschool/

For inquiries, write to [email protected]