How ordinary people live in Singapore. How much does life cost in singapore

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Strict laws and high fines have largely helped turn Singapore into the state it is today. The country is even jokingly called fine city (a play on words in English, where fine is "beautiful" and "fine").

Here you can’t smoke, litter, and even eat in the wrong places - for example, you won’t be able to have a bite to eat in public transport. Trash again - get a sign "I littered" and you will clean the street all weekend. You will be fined for driving without a seatbelt, but for speeding you can be jailed.

Fines are provided for obscene language in a public place and even for an unflushed toilet. They say that some elevators have detectors, and if suddenly someone shits inside, the elevator will be blocked until the police arrive.

Also it is forbidden to connect to someone else's Wi-Fi network: This behavior may be considered hacking. Until recently there was a law banning walking naked in your own apartment if the neighbors suddenly see it.

Some crimes are punishable by caning. But the most serious punishment awaits those who are in any way connected with the use and distribution of drugs. For such a violation, as well as for the brutal murder provided for the death penalty: In Singapore, this figure is one of the highest in the world.

Due to its strict judicial system and legislation, Singapore is considered to be one of the safest countries in the world. There is a very low crime rate, and most of the prisoners are traffic offenders. There are many cameras in the city that keep order, and there are practically no policemen. You can safely walk the streets both day and night.

3. Singapore has a healthy lifestyle

A small stadium near my house.

The authorities of the country are trying to accustom residents to a healthy lifestyle. Recourse again to restrictions and prohibitions: for example, hookahs, electronic cigarettes and snuff are prohibited here. Alcohol cannot be bought after 10:30 pm, and frightening pictures are printed on cigarettes. But the healthy lifestyle policy is not limited to prohibitions.

Practically in every yard there are exercise machines and treadmills: you can work out there for free. And there are many sports complexes in the country where Singaporeans do, for example, yoga, pilates. Classes are held in courtyards, and even in shopping centers: for example, a free zumba is held near my house every Thursday. If you live in a better residential complex, then there will definitely be a gym and a swimming pool. Clubs are created for the elderly: in addition to attending sports events, people of advanced age can spend their leisure time in them, for example, walking in the park.

Attention is also paid to healthy nutrition. Many products are labeled in stores with Healthy Choice stickers.- this is the food in which, for example, less sugar, a lot of fiber, no trans fats, and so on. There are even lotteries: buy more products with this icon, register in the application and collect points.

Various kinds of healthy lifestyle marathons are often held in the country - for example, weight loss marathon with the opportunity to win prizes or a step marathon where you walk 1,000 steps every day and enter the prize draw. And this is not to mention running marathons, of which there are a lot: for both children and adults.

Together with a high level of medical services and high social responsibility, these conditions are bearing fruit. The average life expectancy in Singapore, according to 2017 data, was 83 years.

4. An unusual person lives in this country - Mr. Toilet

Me and Jack Sim.

A man with an unusual "profession" lives in Singapore: his name is Jack Sim and he is known as Mr Toilet. Jack patronizes the World Toilet Organization, and in 2001 he even came up with such a holiday as Toilet Day (November 19, if you happen to want to celebrate).

Joking aside, the organization is really doing useful things: educating about hygiene, helping to create and maintain a normal sanitary environment. The idea is to take care of people's health (unsanitary conditions and water pollution are bad for it). For example, this organization has done a great job in India, where, as we know, the culture of hygiene is very, very bad.

I had the honor of meeting Jack personally, and even considering the sensitive subject he spoke about, he motivated worse than Schwarzenegger. He said that he built a lot of business projects, and then at the age of 50 he realized that life is not eternal, but you want to do something useful for the world - that's how he created his organization.

The Malay language has the word chope [chop], which means "seal" or "stamp". And in modern "Singlish" (a local dialect, a mixture of Singaporean and English) - "take a seat at the food court with napkins and other items"(I'm not kidding, this is a literal translation).

That is, in Singapore you can reserve (stamp) a table for yourself at the food court, simply by putting a pack of tissues, an umbrella, a travel card, a plastic bag, a bottle of water on it, and that's it! No one will take it and take a place, and everyone will know that it is already taken here.

Of course, if you forgot your napkins or an umbrella on the table, then perhaps after a couple of hours the staff will still remove them, but this is not certain. People will crowd, meet and part, and lonely napkins on a lonely table will lie like an indestructible monument to the Singaporean "chop".

6. A car is a luxury

Firstly, taking into account registration fees and fees, taxes and fees, buying a car is already a tidy sum - about $100 thousand(and this is only the lower threshold of prices). Secondly, in Singapore there are many toll sections of roads, tunnels, the cost of parking also flies a pretty penny. In such a harsh way this small country is struggling with traffic jams and pollution of the planet.

At the same time here well developed public transport: Well-equipped buses, rail and subways run regularly, there is a light rail system and bicycle paths. There are various nice features in transport: free entrance to the metro until 7:45 (only in the city center), inexpensive night buses, etc.

7. It's very hot in Singapore. But at the same time it's cold

Eternal summer reigns in Singapore: the temperature rarely drops below +30 degrees Celsius. Therefore, if you are going to this country, then be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat- otherwise you will quickly slide down the wall from heatstroke.

And local shopkeepers, subway and bus workers, and office clerks miss the coolness and keep the temperature down. air conditioners at a maximum of 16 degrees Celsius. Air conditioners are almost everywhere here - just imagine what the temperature drops are. To be honest, I just can’t get used to this feature, so I have to constantly carry a sweater with me.

8. Something about the peculiarities of the local style

In general, most Singaporeans are similar to Europeans: they like to dress well and adore brands. True, there is some trick: due to the humid and hot climate, flip flops and flip flops are the most comfortable and comfortable shoes here. Therefore, you can come to many restaurants in these simple shoes, and no one will even look askance. If a dress code is required for some event, then they add that it is forbidden to come in flip flops.

Men, by the way, are not allowed to come to the office in shorts, and they may not be allowed into a restaurant in this form. There is also an old Chinese tradition that tells them not to cut their nails: in this way they used to show that you are not a laborer and do not dig in the ground. Alas, such characters can be found quite often: such a “manicure” looks so-so.

9. Most families have housekeepers.

Many local families have their own female housekeepers.(they are also called "maida"). These are women who come to work from the Philippines, Indonesia or Sri Lanka (often this is almost the only opportunity for them to earn money) and usually live in the master's apartment, but more often it is just a tiny room without a window, which is more like closet. "Maida" does all the household chores and looks after the children, while being content with just one day off a week and a vacation every 2 years. Of course, not all owners are so strict with their assistants and it happens in different ways.

They send all the money they earn home. Usually it is 500-600 Singapore dollars per month (23-28 thousand rubles). In addition to the cost of wages, the owners pay taxes and spend money on the food of the assistant.

In Singapore, they do not forget about the environment, education and the quality of medical care. The government is trying to use all the latest technologies (special sensors, unmanned vehicles) to provide its residents with maximum comfort.

The easiest way to move here is to study, as I did. At first, Singapore was polite to me, but a little distant. Over time, I settled down and got used to it, I really like it here. Singapore is such a hub of talents, a bridge between the worlds: I came here from Belarus and now I can move to anywhere in the world - and all thanks to my education received here. Yes, it is very comfortable here, but you have to pay with a part of your own freedom. And here everyone decides for himself whether he wants to live in such a city of the future or not.

Bonus: things to see in Singapore

If you are going to Singapore, then keep in mind that from November to February the rainy season reigns here (although usually the rain starts and ends pretty quickly and in the evening you will be greeted with a long-awaited coolness as a bonus). In general, you can come at any time (it's always warm and sunny here).

What you should definitely do in this city:

• See the famous hotel Marina Bay Sands with a rooftop pool. Staying at the hotel is quite expensive, and the crowds in the pool completely deprive you of the pleasure, so I would not advise living there. But the bar on the roof of the hotel is worth a visit. Look for the bar Ce Lavi: the price of entry will be the same as the price of entry to the observation deck, but you will get a free drink. And if you are a girl and the day of the week is Wednesday, then you can enjoy the privileges of the so-called Lady's Night - a day when admission is free and a drink is free (also in many bars in the city on Wednesdays).
• Go on a night safari and visit the zoo.
• Take a ride on one of the largest Ferris wheels in the world.
• Visit establishments in the cultural districts of Chinatown and Little India and go shopping on Orchard Road.

Have you been to Singapore? Would you like to go? Share with us in the comments.

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Singapore was recently named the most expensive city in the world. In light of this development, we have decided to re-publish our popular expat guide for those who are still thinking about moving to this city-state.

Imagine a large metropolitan city where cars rush along environmentally friendly highways, the streets are polished to a shine, and repair is considered as important as maintaining sanitary standards.

A city where four major nationalities (Chinese, Malays, Indians and Eurasians) live peacefully in tropical landscapes with a large community of foreigners who live and raise children here without fear of crime or the slightest manifestation of disrespect.

A city whose parks, museums, cultural institutions and architectural monuments can be envied by the capital of any country.

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It is no coincidence that Singapore occupies high places in the lists of the best cities - both for work and for life in general. The reasons for this are numerous.

"Singapore is all about convenience," says International Market Assessment analyst Richard Martin, who describes himself as an "older expat."

But every utopia has its drawbacks. The cost of living in Singapore continues to rise at an incredible rate - especially when compared to neighboring Indonesia and Malaysia.

In 2015, this city was recognized as the most expensive in the world (according to the analytical division of the British Economist magazine).

Image copyright AFP

Recently in Singapore began to grow hostility towards foreigners. According to official statistics for 2014, out of the 5.6 million people who make up the population of this city-state, 1.32 million are labor migrants.

The expatarrivals.com website and other resources estimate that the number of expats in the country is about 600,000, if we take into account only specialists and executives who are more highly qualified, receive higher salaries and often come to the country on a work visa.

Under the new legislation, for all positions with a salary of not more than 12 thousand Singapore dollars (about 600 thousand rubles) per month, the employer is required to select employees exclusively from local within two weeks before offering this job to foreigners.

Looking for work

However, Singapore continues to be a magnet for foreign professionals, especially in the fields of marketing, finance and information technology.

Qualified personnel are in demand in the field of communications, cargo transportation, mechanical engineering and advertising.

Representative offices of such large corporations as Microsoft, American Express, Bain & Co, Gunvor Group, Capital Land, DBS Bank, BBDO, McCann-Erickson and Edelman operate in the city.

Image copyright getty Image caption Singapore parks, museums, cultural institutions and architectural monuments can be the envy of any city in the world

Singapore is also home to most of the popular and influential media - BBC, ESPN, Discovery, Asian Food Channel - that cover the situation in Southeast Asia.

Not everyone knows that, in addition, there are a number of refineries and oil companies in Singapore, including, for example, Shell Eastern Trading.

In addition, the city has invested heavily in the development of the National Research Institute and entire areas such as Biopolis and Fusionpolis, where scientific research and industrial development are carried out, especially in the fields of biomedicine, microelectronics and chemical engineering.

True, the level of salaries in the country as a whole is quite high. According to a study conducted by HSBC Bank in 2014, 45% of expats (that is, almost half) receive more than 250 thousand Singapore dollars (12.5 million rubles) per year.

In the same study, 62% of labor migrants said that their income in Singapore was higher than in their home country.

“Housing, alcohol, cars, any imported goods are rising in price,” says Roberto Versace, an Italian-born financial manager. “Every time I come to New York or London, everything seems very cheap. And, as far as I know, many Europeans end up choosing to go back."

Financial questions

The biggest rises in prices are for exactly those goods and services that are in demand among expats: housing, education in international schools, medical care and various small pleasures - for example, good wine.

High import duties on imported cars are common throughout Asia, but Singapore is a special case. Local motorists have to shell out huge amounts not only for the cars themselves, but also for tolls, maintenance, gasoline and parking - all designed to limit traffic.

Image copyright getty Image caption Singapore as a magnet attracts foreign specialists, especially in the field of marketing, finance and information technology Image copyright getty Image caption Despite being named the most expensive city in 2015, Singapore still remains attractive to expats.

So, a BMW 320i sedan costs SGD 223,800 (more than 11 million rubles) there, and a 10-year car ownership permit can cost SGD 60,000 (3 million rubles).

Luxurious three-room apartments in the city center can be rented for 10 thousand Singapore dollars (500 thousand rubles) per month, although there are many more modest options.

To meet the budget, it is best to try to negotiate with your employer on the provision of a good social package.

Keep in mind that many Singaporean companies simply prefer to raise wages instead of paying for children's education or other expenses.

But Roberto Versace, who has lived in Singapore for nearly five years, warns that "housing benefits are becoming rarer. Only the highest paid professionals can count on such care for themselves."

Domestic issues

Many people speak English. If you have a work visa, then it will not be difficult to purchase all the household amenities, such as a local bank account, credit card, telephone and internet.

The city is considered safe in all respects. You can safely drink water from the tap, let the children play in the yard, and those who are older can even wander around the city.

Image copyright getty Image caption The streets of Singapore are just sparkling clean.

“Moving, renting a house, obtaining a work permit in Singapore is easier than in any of the eight or nine Asian cities where I have lived,” says Richard Martin. “In addition, there is a whole crowd of expats from all over the world, so friends It's easy to get started. There are great clubs and hobby groups. Many people ride bicycles."

Housing and taxes

Part of Singapore's appeal comes from the fact that it is still somewhat of a tax haven.

Local taxes can not be called extortionate: if you spend less than 183 days a year in Singapore, you don’t have to pay anything, and if you spend more, then the maximum tax rate is 20%.

"That's the compromise," explains Versace. "Prices are high, but taxes are lower than in the West."

Obtaining a visa

Singapore traditionally welcomes the involvement of foreign specialists to develop the country's economy.

Here, not just "work visas" are issued, but a whole flexible system of entry permits for labor migrants, depending on the category. A separate category is provided even for artists.

Most of the professionals employed in the country, such as bank employees or managers, have such work visas.

To receive, you must have a salary of at least 3,300 Singapore dollars (165 thousand rubles) per month.

Pros and cons of living in Singapore

While there are many benefits to living in Singapore - safety, convenience, delicious food, great schools and quality medical care - there are downsides too.

Singapore is located almost directly on the equator, so lovers of the change of seasons, fresh breeze or skiing are unlikely to like it here.

Thoughtful architectural solutions and air conditioners only partly mitigate this circumstance.

Image copyright getty Image caption A street lamp shaped like a writhing kite over a Singaporean street Image copyright getty Image caption Of course, it is no coincidence that Singapore occupies high places in the lists of the best cities - both for work and for life in general. But there are also disadvantages

The average temperature stays at a level just above 30 degrees Celsius (usually hotter during the day) both in summer and in winter, the humidity is also constant - 80%.

The rainiest months are November, December and January, although frequent short showers occur throughout the year.

Living in a consumer society can also be exhausting. Numerous shopping centers are certainly great, but on the days of sales or the appearance of new Vuitton handbags or iPhones, huge queues line up at the checkout counters.

“On the outskirts you can see the real Singapore,” says Versace, “but the city center has already fallen victim to globalization: everything is replete with the same brands that can be found everywhere. And while prices are constantly rising, the service does not always match them.”

• Read in English on the website

We shared our experience of living in this Asian country, dispelling some of the most famous myths.

A little over a year ago we returned from Singapore. After living there for some time, we realized that this city-state had become truly native to us. And now, finally, we are ripe to write about what is really happening there and what Singapore really is.

Let's say right away that 80% of the information that we had before leaving there was false. Neither the program "Eagle and Tails", not a single forum or article gave us the information that we needed to know when going there to live, work or just travel.

Myths about Singapore

Myth one. Solid bans

You can't chew gum, you can't throw cigarette butts, you can't litter, you can't spit, you can't, you can't...

Of course, these signs are all in Singapore. But reality looks a little different. Next to the “No Smoking” sign there will be a circle of smokers; in a place where it should be clean, there will be garbage lying around, and where it is forbidden to ride a skateboard, you will meet a crowd of teenagers on skateboards. And, of course, they chew gum there. So don't be scared. Everything is there, like normal people.

Myth two. There are no homeless people in Singapore

And right on the first day, walking around the city, we met several “friends” who collected bottles and slept on a park bench.

From here it collapses third myth. Who are these vagabonds and why do they live on the streets in this richest state?

These are pensioners. The fact is that there are no pensions in Singapore. Elderly people must be supported by children. And if the children turned out to be not very positive or wealthy people, then the fate of each parent is only one - to remain in old age on the street, since it is quite expensive to maintain housing in Singapore.

The fourth myth Singapore is a great place to go to work

If you decide that you are a hero and can conquer any part of the globe, it is better to get down to earth. Although we sincerely believed in it. English, higher education, determination and activity do not solve anything. No one advertises that for the past year and a half, rallies against Europeans have been actively held in Singapore (Russians, Ukrainians - in general, all the Slavs did not please them either). The Chinese want to see only Chinese and sometimes Indians at work. It is easy to find a job, but to work, you need a work visa, with which the problem most often arises, since we are simply not given it due to the lack of quotas.

But, of course, there are exceptions. If you register a company in Singapore, if you are a first-class specialist (for example, a pilot, aircraft mechanic, engineer, etc.) in demand in Singapore, if you come on an exchange, then you will be gladly accepted. In other words, if you already have enough money, then you can go. But if you want to go to Singapore to earn money, then it will not work. To move to Singapore, you need a good financial base.

Fifth myth. There are no traffic jams and almost no traffic lights in Singapore

There are traffic jams and many traffic lights. You can stand at a red traffic light for 20 minutes. They have it for a long time. Buying a car in Singapore is almost impossible. First you need to pass on the rights, then get the rights to the rights, then pay a huge tax and shell out a considerable amount for the car, because cars, of course, are very expensive in Singapore (most often you can see Ferrari, Bentley, etc. . P.).

Myth six. Singapore has a beach

The only three beaches you will find on the entertainment island of Sentosa. But you will not see the ocean, you will only see something similar to a quarry. Singapore is a port city, because of this the water in the bay is very dirty, it is almost impossible to swim, but you can. =) We really like the amusement park Sentosa itself. Yes, it does not coincide with the exotic that we had in our fantasy, but the beaches are really very good. Attractions, show programs, fountains, wind tunnel and much more. We used to come there all the time, have a picnic and still remember those moments with joy.

Organizational moments

Housing in Singapore. Here it is interesting. By law, you can't rent an apartment until you get a work permit, so it's a vicious circle. But thanks to our compatriots, of whom there are about 1,500 in Singapore, it is still possible to rent housing informally. We rented a room in a Condo, with a separate shower and toilet, in one of the nicest residential areas. On the territory we were pleased with a swimming pool, a gym, a barbecue area, a cafe, a tennis court, a basketball court and a beautiful park. 300 meters from the promenade and about 20 minutes drive from the center. The room cost €700, utilities were included in the price. The place is simply gorgeous, called Wayshore Park.

A more modest room, in a remote area, but in a new house, we rented again from a compatriot for €450 per month. Hotels in Singapore are expensive, renting an apartment and living with Indians or Chinese is probably not very good either, so you might find the forum where we found our accommodations useful: www.nashdom.sg.

Kitchen. Very tasty food. They have such places, they are called food court, there are many different restaurants, shops, eateries, etc. Prices from €1. Chinese, Indian, Malay, Thai, Filipino food for every taste.

Products in stores: meat - expensive; chicken is cheaper; pasta, noodles, vegetables - for nothing. We ate noodles and vegetables.

Transport. Metro, of course. Clean, fast, interesting. It's interesting to watch people. =) It costs the same as in Moscow.

Visa. Citizens of Russia and the CIS countries need a visa to travel to Singapore, with the exception of a transit stay of 96 hours if they have a ticket to a third country.

Some facts about Singapore

Singapore is waiting for the self-sufficient. Neither compatriots nor the Chinese will help you. Help, most likely, will wait from the Indians.

Singapore is special. He is waiting for the successful and self-confident. If you have the opportunity to live or work there, be sure to agree. The beauty of the city center cannot be expressed in words. For us, this is the city of the future. Avatar Gardens, parks, Marina Bay Sands, viewing platforms, the DNA Bridge, the largest Ferris wheel - every time we came to walk in the center, we could not believe that this was happening to us. Night city lights, skyscrapers, casinos and the smell of sweets at every step. Zoo where you can have breakfast with monkeys; botanical garden, where you can walk for two days; embankments, Sentosa, grill areas, coconuts - some unreal combination of civilization and exotic. In Singapore, you can feel the life of different nations, walk around the Indian, Chinese, Arab quarters, ride a water bus, drink real tea.

Singapore is fashionable, but at the same time simple. No need to be afraid of prohibitions; the only thing you need to take care of in advance (while still at home) is a work visa, because as soon as you are stamped “approved”, the door to a completely new planet “Singapore” will immediately open in front of you.

We spent some wonderful months in Singapore. And we will definitely come back to live in this “space” again.

Katya and Kostya Shapovalov, organizers of the Hellomir project.

Have you been to Singapore? Share your impressions and discoveries in the comments.

Quality of life can often be judged by how well you feel in a country. There are formal procedures for calculating this indicator, which includes factors of economic, social, physical, political and spiritual well-being.

Singapore is probably one of the smallest countries in South East Asia, but it has become one of the best places to live in Asia with a very high quality of life measurement.

Singapore is known for its materialistic culture. People in this country are doing everything possible to achieve the so-called "5 C" (in English it sounds like cash, car, condo, credit card and country club) - cash, car, condominium, credit card and country club.

There is a constant pressure of striving to achieve excellence (how good or bad it is to judge only by you personally), even at a very young age, which creates stress in society. Despite this stress, research ranks Singapore as the happiest country in Asia according to ABC News.

95% of Singaporeans value a clean, safe and efficient society. The study also showed that in Singapore, the family is the most important unit, and despite materialistic goals, families and communities always take precedence. This, in turn, helps build relationships and build a happy society.

A quality of life survey conducted by Mercer Human Resources Consulting in 2010 found Singapore ranked #1 in Asia as it offers the best quality of life in the region.

Factors affecting the quality of life in Singapore

You will certainly be interested to know the factors that play a key role in determining the quality of life in Singapore:

Political and social conditions;
economic conditions;
Socio-cultural environment;
Health and Sanitation;
Schools and education;
Utilities and transport;
Rest;
natural environment;
Consumer goods;
Housing.

Political and social environment of Singapore

Singapore is known for its stable political climate. Despite a centralized and authoritarian political culture, pragmatism and rationalization are based on the rule of law. The supreme goal of government is the survival and prosperity of this small nation. This often means that making unpopular but tough and wise decisions in the interests of the nation is a common occurrence in Singapore. The government believes in the existence of active thinking in the future. Although many Singaporeans belong to the currently ruling PAP (People's Action Party - People's Action Party) on the principle of "Pay and Pay", which make intelligent political decisions, which contributed to Singapore's political stability, social harmony and economic prosperity. Infrastructure and investment conditions, including the rule of law, have been put in place.

According to Singapore's founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore has managed to attract some 9,000 multinational companies because it offers them world-class conditions in a third world region. A good government has a good system that will ensure the prosperity of its citizens, so that the citizens have a secure life.

In 2012, the Political and Economic Risk Consultancy ranked Singapore #1 for having the best bureaucracy-free system in Asia. The Global Competitiveness Report of the World Economic Forum 2011-2012 also confirms that Singapore has the highest public trust in politicians and the least burden of government regulation. Accordingly, according to another ranking Transparency International's ‘2010 Corruption Perceptions Index’, Singapore is considered the least corrupt country in the world.

Economic environment of Singapore

Singapore boasts a competitive, corruption-free, open business environment. The port of Singapore is one of the busiest in the world among countries with a concentration of electronics and chemical exports to wealthier industrialized countries. However, over the years, Singapore has diversified its economy and today it has become a bio-medical research and development, banking and financial center, and more recently a health destination in Asia.

Today, Singapore is a self-made, knowledge-driven economy that attracts multinational investment. Its open trade policy, social stability, world-class infrastructure and international connections are some of the reasons why foreign investors flock to its shores. This is despite the fact that land and labor costs have skyrocketed and employers must pay a significant portion of their employees' wages to their Central Provident Fund, but this has not stopped those wishing to move to Singapore.

Singapore's economy is the second most competitive economy in the world according to the World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report 2011-2012. (Global Competitiveness Report 2011-2012). According to the Heritage Foundation of Singapore, the 2012 Index of Economic Freedom ranks Singapore as the second freest economy in the world. The country is also known for its low tax regime.

In Singapore, income tax rates range from 0% and go up to a maximum of 20% for residents, while non-residents are taxed at a rate of 15%. Singapore's corporate income tax rate is approximately 8.5% on profits below S$300,000 and goes up to 17% on profits above S$300,000. Singapore's Goods and Services Tax (or VAT) is only 7%. In addition, there are no taxes on dividends, duties on real estate and no tax on capital gains.

After reading the article to the end, you will see all the links to articles about taxation in Singapore.

According to a report by world-famous financial consulting company Ernst & Young and the Japan External Trade Organization, Singapore has proven to be one of the best places in Asia for foreign firms to invest.

Singapore benefits from such companies as they bring technology, management know-how and access to international export markets to the capital. Singapore has also realized the need to strengthen its human resources and encourages the best foreign talents to live here. Therefore, the labor force of this country is highly educated, competent and skilled. The country has consistently topped the World Bank's Doing Business Survey, a study that has been conducted over the past six years in a row. Singapore earned a well deserved first place in the Labor Force Evaluation Measure in 2011.

Socio-cultural environment of Singapore

The social and ethnic structures of Singapore are a unique combination of culture and people - Malays, Chinese, Indians and immigrants from different countries. Singapore's multi-cultural lifestyle with each of these ethnic communities preserves their unique way of life and at the same time ensures that all these peoples live in harmony. Singapore society is cosmopolitan due to the recent influx of foreigners. Along with this comes openness towards people and respect for everyone. People become more friendly and kind to each other. Much attention is paid to communal and racial harmony.

Singaporeans are honest, highly disciplined and extremely hardworking. The authorities provide material incentives for seniority and social norms. As long as individualism is known, Singapore is a society that honors collectivism. Racism is taken seriously in the country.

The Government of Singapore has identified five core "Singapore Shared Values" in order to develop Singapore's identity:

- the nation before the community and society, which is higher than self-government;
- the family is the basic unit of society;
— the community supports and respects the individual;
- only consensus, no conflict;
- racial and religious harmony.

Singapore is also known for its strict law enforcement procedures in order to fight crime. Although public opinion considers the country to be extremely tough with fairly strict rules - with fines and caning as punishment - the legal framework has contributed to Singapore's stability and security. Women can move around the city freely, even late at night, without fear of persecution.

There has not been a single case of mass shootings, serial killings, terrorist bombings or civil unrest in the country since the existence of Singapore. Expatriates still cite security as one of the most attractive features of life in Singapore when asked about their reasons for moving to Singapore.

Singapore is the twelfth best country in the world for living and receiving professional and not only experience of foreign specialists according to the 2010 HSBC Expat Experience Report. and the 2010 Gallup Potential Net Migration Index, which ranks Singapore as the most advanced country in the world for immigration. The country ranks #8 in the world in the Mercer Personal Safety Rankings - Quality of Living Rankings in 2011 and #1 for Asian expats according to the 2010 ECA International Location Ratings System.

Healthcare in Singapore

The people of Singapore love that in Singapore people have one of the highest levels of health and nutrition in Asia.

The country is also famous for its world-class healthcare infrastructure, technological advances in the healthcare industry, and a large number of experts - doctors and specialists. Health and sanitation facilities are clean, efficient and safe. Singapore has adopted a public-private partnership in health financing.

The centerpiece of this system is Medisave, where each working person must pay a mandatory portion of the monthly contribution to Medisave as part of their Central Provident Fund account. The accumulated amount can be used to pay for future medical expenses. In turn, the government provides good, affordable healthcare and subsidized medical services to people in need in public hospitals and clinics. In addition to registered pharmacies, pharmaceuticals are readily available in supermarkets, malls and departmental stores. Medicines are safe to consume and have a high standard of quality. All medical workers are registered with the relevant authorities.

According to the National Health Survey, conducted by the Singapore Ministry of Health in 2004, the country has seen a decrease in the incidence of diabetes, suffering from high blood cholesterol and hypertension.

There is a significant increase in physical activity among people. Singapore encourages a clean and green environment. He encourages a healthy lifestyle and diets. Cleanliness and hygiene as a culture, for example - in Singapore there are fines for not flushing the toilet after use.

Singapore's National Environment Agency is conducting unannounced inspections across the island and is imposing fines on breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other insects in public areas. Such steps play a vital role in trying to contain the spread of diseases, as we know the geography of Singapore and the risks associated with its location.

In a 2003 survey by the Political and Economic Risk Consultancy, Singapore's healthcare system was rated the third best in the world (after the US and Australia) by expatriates in Asia.

The Singapore health care system, according to the World Health Organization (World Health Organization) in 2002, occupied the best places in Asia, ahead of Japan (10th place). It is interesting to note that in 2008 Singapore contributed about S$10.2 billion or 3.9% of GDP to health care. Of this amount, the government spent S$2.7 billion, or 1.0% of GDP, on health care.

Schools and Education in Singapore

Since Singapore is a knowledge-based economy, the country places a lot of emphasis on education. The education system “arms” with the necessary skills and knowledge to not only survive, but also thrive in the face of global competition. Singapore in public schools has high standards of teaching and learning, many of its students win international competitions in intelligence - at olympiads and other competitions.

In addition to three world-famous local universities - National University of Singapore (National University of Singapore), Nanyang Technological University (Technological University) and Singapore Management University (Singapore Management University), Singapore has several world-famous world-class institutions, such as INSEAD, the University of Chicago - University of Chicago, Graduate School of Business, and United World College. These schools are registered with the Ministry of Education and offer a curriculum identical to that of their home country. However, education in them has its price, moreover, high. Annual fees range from S$12,000 to S$30,000.

The National University of Singapore (NUS) Business School and Nanyang Business School (NBS) are among the top 35 business schools in the world according to the 2011 Financial Times ranking. Top 100 Global MBAs - Top 100 Global MBAs.
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and National University of Singapore (NUS) were ranked among the top 60 in the 2011 Global University Rankings by Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), a company that provides information on higher education and career choices.

Utilities and transport in Singapore

Singapore is fully aware of the need for good water, clean energy, clean air, traffic congestion control, water conservation, reliable energy supply and good urban planning. Over the past few years, the Singaporean government has focused a lot of efforts on creating a "Garden City" Singapore (greening the island and creating a garden effect), with good urban planning and pollution management.

Today the city is clean, green and without traffic jams. Residents have access to well planned parking and nature reserves. The national purity of the water provides a reliable water supply and opportunities for sports and recreation. I still find it difficult to answer the question of Singapore - is it a city in a garden or a garden in a city? I provide the answer to your reasoning, ATTENTION !!! you can participate in the competition with good prizes, the conditions are described in the article:

The country has a very progressive environmental policy, and the government also advocates following three principles - values ​​​​- reduction (emissions, production waste, etc.), reuse and recycling. By 2007, 79% of electricity was generated from natural gas, which is one of the highest quality in the world. Efforts are being made to conserve its resources and mitigate the effects of pollution on the environment, climate change and population growth.

Steps are being taken to improve energy and resource efficiency, skyline greening is being introduced to promote resource efficiency for productive purposes, and the use of public transport is being encouraged.

Several initiatives such as Bring Your Own Bag Day in supermarkets, the Clean & Green Singapore Schools Carnival 2008 and the ABC Waters Program have gone a long way in trying to make Singapore " city ​​in the garden.

According to the National Environment Agency, air quality in terms of the Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) was good on 93% of days in 2010 and moderate on 7% of days. The National Water Agency, Public Utilities Board, in recognition of the progress and achievements that Singapore has made in integrated water resources management, was awarded the prestigious Stockholm Industry Water Award in 2007.

According to a study conducted by Gallup, Singaporean residents surveyed in 2006-2007. more satisfied with the quality of their water than the citizens of any other country. According to a 2011 study, Singapore's air quality was rated as one of the best in Asia, beating heavyweights like Hong Kong and Shanghai.

Singapore boasts a highly efficient, hassle-free, and affordable public transport system that includes taxis, buses, and modern Mass Rapid Transport (MRT) systems, as well as a rail system. These modes of transport are air-conditioned and operate from 5:30 am to 12 am and link the entire city. They are safe, pure and effective.

Bus and train fares are relatively cheap compared to other countries and cost nothing between S$0.70 to $2.50 per trip. Taxis, on the other hand, are more costly. Taxis are reliable and drivers won't charge you a dime more than the set fare.

A customer survey on public transport in 2010 found that more than 9 in 10 or 92.2% of the over 3,100 respondents surveyed for the study were generally satisfied with public transport in Singapore, up from 93.8% in 2009 and 89.5% in 2008. Satisfaction with bus and metro services was also high, at 90.2% and 95.4% respectively.

In order to control congestion, the government has introduced an Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system. This means that you will have to pay the minimum toll when you drive on congested roads and highways in downtown CBD. Owning a car can be very expensive in Singapore, costing between S$60,000-S$100,000, excluding registration, insurance and taxation costs. Leasing a car is a cheaper alternative.

Singapore has also achieved an excellent port in maritime transport. It has won several awards such as 11 Most Important Maritime Nations and Best Seaport in Asia.

Singapore's Changi Airport has also received several awards and honors in succession. Thanks to its "liberal air" policy, which is open to the rest of the world, with a focus on competitiveness, efficiency and service, it has become the best airport in the world.

Vacation in Singapore

Restaurants and shops are two of the most popular leisure activities in Singapore. Most foreigners feel the lack of adequate rest and resort to exploring nearby places in Malaysia (Langkawi, Tioman, etc.) and Indonesia (Batam, Bali, etc.) on weekends.

Singapore has a nightlife with several bars and nightclubs that are frequented by patrons of the nightlife. Movie theaters are another popular recreational option. There are arts festivals, plays, music concerts, cultural events, etc., but these options are seasonal and can be expensive. Another irritant for most expats is the ban on smoking in public places.

Natural environment in Singapore

Singapore is a safe country, an ideal island to live in. He does not face the threat of volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, typhoons, hurricanes, etc.

There are two options - either the climate is dry and hot or cool and humid for most of the year.

Access to consumer goods in Singapore

Singapore's retail sector offers a range of trading conditions almost all year round. With increasing disposable income, rising housing booms, and encouraging aggressive retailing, people are spending more and more money on luxury goods, cars, and household items such as furniture and other consumer durables.

Consequently, every retailer sets up a store in Singapore. According to the 1990 national census, shopping or supermarket shopping was the number one leisure activity. Both widely used products - consumer products (food, cosmetics, toiletries, household products, etc.) - and high-end brand products are easily accessible.

Many consumer durables have become available in Singapore. In 2003, most households owned a television (98%), a refrigerator (99%), a portable telephone (89%), an air conditioner (72%) and a computer (70%). Home appliances such as microwaves, vacuum cleaners and washing machines are plentiful, affordable, and 93% of Singaporeans have them.

Hypermarkets like Carrefour and Giants are places where everything is available under one roof. Supermarkets such as Cold Storage are popular among expats, the network NTUC Fair Price (a cooperative supermarket), Shop & Save have several outlets. Most of these supermarkets offer promotions and discounts, as well as stocks of staples from Mexico, Australia and India.

There are convenience stores in Singapore such as 7-Eleven and small local grocery stores near apartment complexes. You will also find specialist supermarkets such as Media-Ya (Japanese and seafood), Tanglin Market Place (American goods), Tierney's (Scandinavian, Swiss and German goods) and Mustafa (Indian goods).

Low-fat foods, diet drinks, yogurts, fruits, and other healthy foods are also gaining popularity. Since Singapore imports every possible product from every corner of the globe, the choice is wide and the prices are competitive.

Housing in Singapore

Thanks to an influx of foreign talent, housing in Singapore is no longer as cheap as it was a few years ago. In 2011, there was an increase in the real estate market. However, when compared to Hong Kong or Japan, Singaporean housing is still affordable in Singapore.

Housing falls under two main categories:

1. HDB Public Apartments (built by the Housing Development Board) and

2. private villas/bungalows.

The choice of housing purely depends on the budget, location, services, amenities, transportation and personal preferences.

Most expats choose to live in a condo close to their place of work or their children's school.

The villas are mid-rise buildings with stylish exteriors and interiors, 24 hour security, swimming pool, gym, tennis courts, barbecue area and covered parking.

A 3-room condominium near the center rents for S$7,000-S$15,000, while housing located outside the center of Singapore costs S-$3,300-S$5,000.

HDB apartments, where 90% of Singaporeans live, are a less expensive option. However, they do not have luxury amenities such as swimming pools or gyms. Such facilities are part of the "real estate" that has a district center, consisting of shopping centers, restaurants, eateries, food supermarkets, libraries, clinics and gyms, as well as recreational facilities.

HDB three-bedroom accommodations near the center can be rented for S$3,000, and costs can reach S$2,200-S$2,700 elsewhere.

Expatriates from India, China and Malaysia find HDB offerings a viable alternative and a convenient option.

Singapore is considered one of the most developed, safest and most comfortable countries in the world to live in.

We all have seen the famous Marina Bay hotel, amazing gardens, skyscrapers, etc., but few people know how ordinary people live here.

We were lucky enough to find a host through Couchsurfing, so for three days we enjoyed the local life to the fullest. Our host was a young Indian guy living with his parents. In general, it was a discovery for me that 30% of the population of Singapore are Indians. They were brought here by the British at the time when Singapore was a British colony.

There are different levels of housing here, but the most popular is social housing, which was built by the state. A three-room apartment in such an area costs from 300 thousand Singapore dollars (12 million rubles). The cost depends on several factors, for example, on the distance from the city center. This is the cheapest new home in the country.

Since Singapore has an equatorial climate, heavy rainfall is common here. Almost all the way from public transport stops to residential buildings there are special paths with roofs from the rain, so the risk of getting wet here is minimized.

The surrounding space is landscaped, there is not a speck around, a beautiful lawn is everywhere and trees are planted.

Parking lots have been removed from the yards. There are few cars here, because it is very expensive to own a car in Singapore. In order for people to be able to buy apartments here, the government has launched a special program. You pay from 10% to 30% of the cost of the apartment, and you pay the rest over many years.

Areas for walking and recreation are provided in the districts. Almost everywhere there are barrels in which you can barbecue.

The first floors are always non-residential. This space is used for bicycle parking.
If for some reason you cannot pay your “mortgage”, for example, if you lose your job, then the government does not evict you, but selects a job for you so that you become solvent again.

The space of the first floors is also used as a place for recreation.

Mailboxes are also located on the first floor.

Let's get up. Here it is no longer the same as on the ground floor, here you can feel the Indian spirit. This is a landing that could not withstand the onslaught of Indian traditions.

Neighbors are Chinese, everything is a little more modest with them.

Shared balcony. Singaporeans love greenery.

Here, my Indian friends have pets - chickens. They don't really eat them but keep them as pets.

View from the balcony. Houses are all alike.

Let's go inside. This is the living room. Above the TV hangs a portrait of the owners of the apartment.

View from a different angle. Hanging swing in the house is an interesting solution.
The cost of living in such an apartment is 300-400 Singapore dollars per month (12-16 thousand rubles). The main part of this amount is electricity, and also includes water fees, garbage collection and housing maintenance.

The apartment has a small pantry, where they organized a temple.

One of the rooms. Interesting fact. Despite the fact that Singapore is considered super safe, all residents of social housing have bars on their windows, although sometimes they do not even close the front door. Completely incomprehensible logic for me.

Spacious kitchen.

And finally, Olya with borscht and potato pies.