For numerous Indian technology professionals, Singapore represents more than just a career destination—it's perceived as a secure, advanced hub brimming with opportunities. Aman, a senior software engineer residing there, recently took to Instagram to elaborate that relocating transcends merely changing jobs or cities. He emphasized that it fundamentally alters one's lifestyle and mindset, describing it as a comprehensive transformation in how one lives, thinks, and even structures their daily routine. Aman termed this a "logic change," and his insights vividly illustrate the distinct experiences newcomers encounter.
1. Public Transport as a Great Equalizer
One of Aman's initial observations was the high cost of car ownership in Singapore, where even affluent individuals frequently opt for the metro. He noted that public transport serves as a social leveler, with everyone, regardless of wealth, utilizing it and traveling in comparable manners. This contrasts sharply with India, where private vehicles often signify status.
2. The Normality of Eating Out
Food habits in Singapore diverge significantly from those in India. While eating out in India is typically reserved for special occasions, in Singapore, preparing meals at home can be more time-consuming and costly than dining at hawker centres. Aman highlighted that eating out isn't viewed as a luxury but as a practical, everyday necessity, reshaping culinary routines.
3. Life Powered by Seamless Apps
Aman expressed admiration for Singapore's efficient digital infrastructure. Banking, healthcare, and tax processes are streamlined through the Singpass app, leading him to humorously remark that he had "forgotten what a Xerox machine looks like." This digital ecosystem ensures everything is quick, convenient, and paperless, enhancing daily efficiency.
4. Privacy as a Cherished Luxury
Social dynamics also felt different, with people generally maintaining personal space and not intruding on neighbors' lives. Initially, this seemed isolating compared to India's communal warmth, but Aman came to appreciate privacy as a form of luxury, offering a sense of autonomy and respect for boundaries.
The Trade-Off: Efficiency Versus Cost
Aman summarized the experience by stating that living in Singapore involves a financial premium but delivers substantial returns. He analogized it to "paying for a bug-free operating system," comparing the city's smooth operations to flawlessly running software, where reliability and convenience justify the expenses.
Reactions from the Community
Aman's video elicited widespread responses from viewers. One individual commented, "I visited Singapore recently and loved it immediately upon arrival. All of Aman's points resonate, and the cleanliness is exceptional." Another shared, "I worked there for a year—a fantastic experience, truly reflective of a developed nation." A third highlighted workplace culture, noting, "I appreciated how femininity isn't seen as a weakness. Female senior managers were vibrant, confident, and respected. In India, sometimes one must suppress their personality to gain respect."
Disclaimer: The experiences described in this article are based on personal observations shared on social media. The Times of India is not responsible for verifying the accuracy of these claims.
