Living in Singapore

What is Singapore like?

Some who have moved to Singapore have characterised it as "beginner's Asia", because so much of what is everyday life in Singapore is familiar. Others call it "The Geneva of Asia" as it has a harmonious, controlled order and is a major, global centre of business and commerce.

Singapore is an efficient, clean, modern city state situated on an island measuring 40 by 25 kilometres, situated at the tip of the Malaysian peninsula. The airport, public housing and transport, educational provision, medical facilities and shopping and dining opportunities are amongst the best in the world. Crime is low and English is very widely spoken.

The opportunities to experience different cultures, attitudes and lifestyles make living in Singapore a wonderful opportunity. Singapore has a cultural identity which blends the flavours and scents of Asia, the echoes of colonialism and the bright new world of globalisation.

The climate is equatorial. The daytime temperature range is from 24 to 34 degrees Celsius. While the humidity is relatively high during most of the year, the heat is not oppressive and widespread air conditioning brings relief to those who need it.

Enjoy a high standard of living

UWCSEA's benefits package includes a very competitive salary, contribution towards housing, medical insurance, a service gratuity set at 20% of gross salary at the end of each year, recruitment and repatriation flights and biennial leave passages.

Income tax is low in Singapore at about 8% of gross income annually, and the GST (Goods and Services Tax) is set at 7%. Utilities are reasonably priced and the cost of most daily items is comparable to other developed countries. As a consequence, teachers enjoy a fairly high level of disposable income which allows the potential for savings and travel.

A wide range of accommodation is available and is chosen by the teachers themselves. The cost of renting accommodation typically absorbs about 30-35% of teachers' disposable income after tax. The inexpensive and accessible public transport options make it largely unnecessary to own a car, although around half the teaching staff opt to do so, and obtaining a Singapore Driving Licence is relatively easy if you have one from your home country.

The social life available is extremely varied. There are excellent opportunities for sport and leisure on the island; the options for individual, team and water sports are endless. There is a huge variety of evening entertainment; Singapore matches some of the best nightlife hubs to be found anywhere in the world. The availability of world-class and diverse cultural entertainment at affordable prices makes Singapore a very attractive destination for culture lovers.

Singapore's geographic position and economic status have made it a travel hub in Southeast Asia. Travellers can choose from a range of very affordable travel options which can take them to Bangkok or Chiang Mai in two hours, to Angkor Wat or Bali in three hours or to Australia in less than five hours. There are opportunities for backpacking or cycling holidays in Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia ... or elsewhere.