Enjoy the Beauty of the World Before you Settle Down | ExpatWoman.com
 

Enjoy the Beauty of the World Before you Settle Down

Posted on

13 August 2015

Last updated on 16 August 2015

 

Enjoy the Beauty of the World Before you Settle Down

Meet Fiorella Nguyen, an newly wed and a new #expatwoman in Singapore. Using Singapore as her 'hub' she is exploring all Asia has to offer her.

travels


 

 

We're living in:

Singapore 

A bit about us:

We are newly weds, just married back in March. My husband is in the I.T field and I do administration. We love to exercise and run marathons and half marathons. My husband has done 9 so far. 

How long have you lived there:

It has been 2 months since we moved. 

Why did you move? 

My husband, who works in the IT field, had a great job opportunity so we decided to take it. 

signapore

Why we like living here?

Singapore is just an amazing place to be at. It is like a an international HUB, it is geographically close to many different Asian countries (Such as Vietnam-we were there last week, Thailand-we were there 3 weeks ago, Malaysia-you can drive there, Japan were there 2 weeks ago , to name a few). Singapore itself is very clean, organized and just a great place to be an expat—everyone speaks English. 

Accommodation Options? 

Singapore is a renters market. It is a great time to look for nice and affordable (in Singapore standards of course) housing. The apartment/condos are very modern and open concept. Homes are a bit older since most expats prefer the modern look and close proximity to the city, which is why so many condo’s are being constructed. Also, if you do have kids, they have amazing international schools as well as family friendly areas to live at. 


SEE ALSO: Top 10 Indie Cafes to Try in Singapore


What do you enjoy doing with your time?

My husband and I have discovered that we like to travel as much as possible so before starting a family we have decided to do just that.. Singapore is the perfect place; we have traveled to 3 countries in the last month so far. 

What top tips do you have for anyone considering a move?

My recommendation for those that are moving, due to their husbands/significant others getting a job, abroad is to have a conversation with them and truly see what you will be able to do while there. Most of the time you are not able to work due to language barrier, work visas and such. In order to avoid conflict in your relationship, I recommend maintaining an open dialogue with them and agree in what you would be doing—if you were unable to find a job, etc. 

TRAVEL AND FOOD

What do you wish you known before you moved?

I wish I had known about all of those facebook pages and websites—such as yourselves, that help you meet people and make friends.Not being able to work, leaves me at home by myself for long periods (my husband travels as well) so, it can get lonely really fast. It really helps to have a support group/community that is in the same environment as you are—such as expat women. 

What is the best thing about being an expat?

The best thing is that you are able to meet new people and make friends. As well as, experiencing different cultures/ideals/beliefs, it makes you a better human being and opens your mind. 

How do you keep a little bit of home with you as an expat?

I use Face time / Skype to talk with my parents on a regular basis (even while having a 12 HR difference).  Taking advantage of smartphones and social media, gives you a way to bring home while not being at home. 

Anything else you’d like to share with is about your experience?

Yes, there is one thing. It is more of a tip/advice for future expats. I recommend finding out about the laws and regulations on the export/transport of pets. Many expats are disappointed to learn that the country which they will be moving to does not allow a certain breed or animal. Same idea for those expats that adopt an animal while overseas and then try to bring them home with them.