The Reality of Moving to Singapore for a British Expat

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Disclaimer: All views expressed in this video are not meant to be construed as investment advice. It's for entertainment purposes only. Neither the author nor moomoo Singapore or its affiliates shall be liable for the content of the information provided. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Meet Mark, who is from the UK. He decided to move to Singapore after he and his wife watched a food and travel show on Netflix, and he's a rather unique Western expat living in an HDB. I learned a lot of interesting things! Enjoy:)
Mark on LinkedIn: / markarowland
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 INTRO
00:26 Foreigner in HDB
04:00 Sponsorship
05:14 Safety in HDB
05:51 First Impressions of Singapore
07:01 Cultural differences
12:51 Attitude towards foreigners
14:16 Singapore vs the UK
16:18 Moving advices
WATCH NEXT:
► Pros and Cons of moving to Singapore from New York: • Pros and Cons of movin...
► Why this American decided to live in Singapore: • Why this American deci...
► Pros & Cons of Living in Singapore as a Foreigner: • Pros & Cons of Living ...
LET'S BE FRIENDS:
► My Instagram (use the translate button to read the posts 😇): / chernov_networking
► Sponsorship-related requests: maxim.chernov.msc@gmail.com
Hey! This channel bridges the gap between locals and foreigners in Singapore. Join Max as he interviews expats, unraveling their unique stories and providing valuable insights into their lives in this vibrant city-state. Through engaging conversations, Max fosters understanding and appreciation between Singaporeans and the global community with a focus on cultural exchange.
If you're a company seeking sponsorship opportunities to engage our upscale audience, contact us at maxim.chernov.msc@gmail.com. With over 50% Singaporean viewers and a substantial number of foreign professionals (US, EU, Australia), our mature audience (35-54 years) boasts strong purchasing power and interests in an above-average lifestyle, travel, investment, and personal finance.
If you have a guest suggestion for an interview, please reach out to us at maxim.chernov.msc@gmail.com.
#ExpatLife #MaxChernov #Singapore

Пікірлер: 1 000

  • @shuu.wasseo
    @shuu.wasseo Жыл бұрын

    just to let you know, my social studies teacher actually showed one of your videos in class this week! your content is really interesting and i hope you continue to make even better videos in future

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    Haha nice! Which school?

  • @shuu.wasseo

    @shuu.wasseo

    Жыл бұрын

    @@MaxChernov hwa chong :)

  • @goldren2288

    @goldren2288

    Жыл бұрын

    @@shuu.wasseo jc?

  • @cathhl2440

    @cathhl2440

    Жыл бұрын

    @@goldren2288 JC doesn't have Social Studies. Year 3 or 4. Likely topic about globalisation or the likes.

  • @shuu.wasseo

    @shuu.wasseo

    Жыл бұрын

    @@cathhl2440 it was actually about singaporean identity lol iirc it was an interview with an american immigrant

  • @FC-ux8ch
    @FC-ux8ch Жыл бұрын

    Just to be clear, people blasting their phones on full volume without headphones on public transport is NOT NORMAL. Everyone is just too afraid to say something about it.

  • @ahchoon9067

    @ahchoon9067

    Жыл бұрын

    not afraid just lazy because we might getting off in 10 mins time.

  • @NazriB

    @NazriB

    Жыл бұрын

    Lies again? Burger King Patty Selma

  • @cathhl2440

    @cathhl2440

    Жыл бұрын

    Agree. It is NOT NORMAL.

  • @Cysecsg

    @Cysecsg

    Жыл бұрын

    Just to be clear, is can’t be bothered with the likes of such people since we are busy getting on to our destination. Your views is not normal either.

  • @sayurik

    @sayurik

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes totally agree with you 😂 we frown upon it but it’s not in our culture to confront and get into an argument when we are getting off in a few stops

  • @keyvleon
    @keyvleon Жыл бұрын

    Elderly blasting their phone volume on high is NOT NORMAL. People just tolerate it out of respect, because they understood that the older generation might not be as technologically savvy. It’s annoying as hell but most of us just tolerate them

  • @jessicamong1586

    @jessicamong1586

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes and the older the more deaf. 🤷‍♂️

  • @princevaliant

    @princevaliant

    Жыл бұрын

    Just understand most of the elderly aren't well educated so they are not as self aware as newer generation, but on other hands, that sort of people is everywhere...but its minority so just don't be bothered. Majority of the elderly are friendly.

  • @seekingmywaygal

    @seekingmywaygal

    Жыл бұрын

    I think one thing about Singaporeans, is we tend not to interfere in someone else business if it doesn't bring harm to the others , noise pollution on a train doesn't really cause long term irritation. Which I think certain other countries would not be so tolerant.

  • @jajinx2

    @jajinx2

    Жыл бұрын

    People here are generally just non-confrontational, also some people like to film public altercations and upload them to the internet instead of actually doing anything

  • @mayng7122

    @mayng7122

    Жыл бұрын

    😂 agree with comments on this thread coz I'm a regular MRT rider

  • @MrGarySim
    @MrGarySim Жыл бұрын

    the policy of making sure there are no ethnic enclaves in SG was a conscious decision made by the govt, simply because they did not want SG to be wracked by ethnic conflicts... even if some people say it is "forced". It's called the Ethnic Integration Policy. It was also because they moved people from the kampungs to HDB estates, so there had to be a way to try to make our lives here as harmonious as possible, as a multi-racial, multi-cultural society.

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    Very smart

  • @MrGarySim

    @MrGarySim

    Жыл бұрын

    @@MaxChernov there's actually a lot of history behind why such a decision was made... but that was due to our forefathers' foresight

  • @cathhl2440

    @cathhl2440

    Жыл бұрын

    And one of the amazing results was… the children go to school together! I know there are people who insist there’s racism here. I don’t doubt because we are imperfect human. But acting out any bias is not expected or acceptable here.

  • @Johnne009

    @Johnne009

    Жыл бұрын

    Did you know that no Malays are allowed into armour , airforce camps

  • @MrGarySim

    @MrGarySim

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Johnne009 that's not true

  • @sjelinelukiman673
    @sjelinelukiman67310 ай бұрын

    My English son in-law lived and worked in Singapore for more than 10 years. Our grandchildren think when they finish their education in The UK they want to work and live in Singapore again. They loved riding their bikes to Bukit Timah and walking to food hawker centres to have Hainanese chicken rise, laksa, and more. They feel safer, much safer in Singapore than in their own country.

  • @leewn2319
    @leewn2319 Жыл бұрын

    One key point for foreigners moving to Sg is to take up insurance for healthcare as it’s very expensive for foreigners. Also ensure your insurance policies covers healthcare expenses in SG and the region.

  • @carefulconsumer8682

    @carefulconsumer8682

    Жыл бұрын

    My Dad is thinking of living abroad for awhile and is looking into that right now. I'm helping him search and it's hard to decipher all the details of each one. One never knows when a health problem will arise. I wish YT had more videos on options for insurance coverage in these foreign locations like Singapore, japan, SK, etc.

  • @mjwmontgomery

    @mjwmontgomery

    Жыл бұрын

    even your insurance might not pay. Make sure to have savings in case of an accident.

  • @azureliteyahoo
    @azureliteyahoo Жыл бұрын

    Great Interview. Mark is very open minded. His strategy of not reading up to form preconceived notion about a place is awesome. For loud mobile phone in public transport, it's frown upon but usually not confronted.

  • @Wen_Toh

    @Wen_Toh

    Жыл бұрын

    And if I may add on, I think some benefit of doubt or tolerance is practised as well, especially for elderly. Example it could be because they are hard of hearing, or not so great with technology. And the mentality is if it doesn’t really cost us / hurt us in reality, why not show a little tolerance.

  • @noproblematallmate

    @noproblematallmate

    Жыл бұрын

    It depends. I have shouted at an uncle blasting music on the bus. Gotta man up sometimes

  • @lvrn124

    @lvrn124

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Wen_Toh I agree. Everyone is going through something and even if they're not, simply asking why in respectful way shows grace. And depending on the response, you can then act or form your opinion.

  • @MrKevinliow88
    @MrKevinliow88 Жыл бұрын

    Wow, so many positive experiences living in Singapore. Makes me feel so blessed to be born in Singapore.

  • @parnamsaini4751

    @parnamsaini4751

    11 ай бұрын

    Really??

  • @karenmcclure8763

    @karenmcclure8763

    9 ай бұрын

    I was born in Singapore,my father was in the RAF I was there a few years ago and could never afford to live there.

  • @70newlife

    @70newlife

    3 ай бұрын

    Spend one week in India you will reject being reborn 100 times if it was India where you would be born.

  • @spunkmuffin11
    @spunkmuffin11 Жыл бұрын

    I'm glad as a foreigner he is self-aware and genuinely interested in our mixed culture and learn from it. Kudos for trying out living in a HDB housing estate, I grew up in one and it's a good place to start to get integrated into the local culture. Groceries and amenities are also cheaper in the local HDB estates. I've lived in UK and understand exactly what he meant when it comes to public housing. In reality the local public housing is very different from that. With an open heart and mind, and a willingness to embrace the local culture, I'm sure you will gain a lot more while living here. Enjoy and all the best in Singapore!

  • @williebobs3830

    @williebobs3830

    6 ай бұрын

    What does HDB stand for ?. Thanks.

  • @Altaria2001

    @Altaria2001

    6 ай бұрын

    ​@@williebobs3830housing and development board Its basically public housing

  • @tansehleng371

    @tansehleng371

    3 ай бұрын

    ​@@williebobs3830 housing and development board.

  • @SummerSun-sg3wf

    @SummerSun-sg3wf

    3 ай бұрын

    Were you a self aware foreigner in the UK?

  • @mosessim446
    @mosessim446 Жыл бұрын

    Property agents will always not recommend you HDB but private properties to gain more commission.

  • @burlhorse61

    @burlhorse61

    12 күн бұрын

    what is HDB?

  • @fdajklfha
    @fdajklfha Жыл бұрын

    The guy who dropped his crocs next to a bin most likely did it on purpose for someone poor or one of the garbage guys to collect them for use.

  • @SuccessforLifester

    @SuccessforLifester

    Жыл бұрын

    Good point. He should have left it on a void deck table area for better visibility

  • @eatdriveplay
    @eatdriveplay Жыл бұрын

    I’m so glad he found Singapore’s biggest secret - nice HDBs. :)

  • @EVL-xj5vc
    @EVL-xj5vc Жыл бұрын

    I'm biased, I enjoy listening to a British speak - so clear and eloquent.

  • @ImagesOfCountries

    @ImagesOfCountries

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes, pure English accent sounds so music to the ears !!! ... 👍

  • @theluxuryminimalistraveler
    @theluxuryminimalistraveler Жыл бұрын

    could listen to him all day. he's so observant ❤

  • @ashrylan5898
    @ashrylan5898 Жыл бұрын

    That taxi driver is caring and concern. That is why he advised the new comer.

  • @lukejohneeles
    @lukejohneeles11 ай бұрын

    Being in Singapore for a decade, good to finally have some content like this. Keep it up! Some real interesting viewpoints.

  • @crosbyong
    @crosbyong Жыл бұрын

    Mark, welcome to Singapore. I sincerely hope you will find it comfortable and conducive to do the things you love to do while living here, and with your family.

  • @j.t1682
    @j.t1682 Жыл бұрын

    I live in a condo that used to cost 4.5K before Covid. Now 7.5 K . I also see everything is costing a lot more. Some HDBs are as nice as private condos so no need to spend more. I am very happy for him.

  • @awfully.average

    @awfully.average

    Жыл бұрын

    thats frikin crazy

  • @Nick-rr3pv

    @Nick-rr3pv

    Жыл бұрын

    What’s the size of your condo?

  • @j.t1682

    @j.t1682

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Nick-rr3pv 1,300 sqft

  • @Nick-rr3pv

    @Nick-rr3pv

    Жыл бұрын

    @@j.t1682 That’s 120m2 (square meters). I’m single and was looking at prices last year for around 60m2 condos. Then the prices were above 3k. I may be moving to Singapore and opening my own business there so i’m checking the prices. So now that will be above 5k. Thanks for the info.

  • @LordBagdanoff

    @LordBagdanoff

    Жыл бұрын

    As long as it’s renovated I don’t see why people should go for condos. How often do you use the amenities as well.

  • @theflathead
    @theflathead Жыл бұрын

    welcome to Singapore, Mark. its good to see self-aware and humble foreigners in singapore becoming one of us.

  • @parnamsaini4751

    @parnamsaini4751

    11 ай бұрын

    Most welcome

  • @MaxChernov
    @MaxChernov Жыл бұрын

    Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel, ok?

  • @comicdragon1

    @comicdragon1

    Жыл бұрын

    HDB. Most Singaporean will want to own a HDB before even considering Condo in the future. All Singaporean can only own 1 HDB.

  • @pingpong7810

    @pingpong7810

    Жыл бұрын

    🕊️🕊️🕊️🕊️free hongkong

  • @hogster1475
    @hogster1475 Жыл бұрын

    Loud volume on phones is just annoying. We just put up with it. Thank God for noise cancelling earphones. Btw, Mark gives very good advise that can be applied to other places as well. You can see that he is a sensible person.

  • @soggywoggy
    @soggywoggy Жыл бұрын

    thank you for these kinds of content. it helps me realise that sometimes i am taking singapore for granted.

  • @kamariahabdrahim6963
    @kamariahabdrahim6963 Жыл бұрын

    Agent wants higher commission when they suggest to foreigner condo.Foreigner can rent HDB.

  • @lay-na
    @lay-na10 ай бұрын

    Really enjoyed this video! Mark seems like a very well-spoken and open-minded individual! Love his positivity and optimistic outlook on moving to a new country. Great interview

  • @hzg8943
    @hzg8943 Жыл бұрын

    Subscribed. 4th video in this series that I've watched in a short span of time. Keep up the good word, Max! & thank you to all the interviewees for their honest & kind sharing. ♥

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    🙏

  • @markjones2781
    @markjones2781 Жыл бұрын

    Dear Max, everyone gets lucky now and again. So, getting the occasional high-achieving, perceptive, 'A' grade communicator on your show is not such a big deal, particularly in Singapore. But doing it consistently? Well, that is another matter. Please keep finding these people and giving them the space to do their thing. They are both the essence of what makes Singapore great and endless fun to watch.

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much I’ll try !

  • @chloetham1193
    @chloetham119311 ай бұрын

    I really appreciate his open-mindedness and curiosity. He can appreciate the differences in different cultures and I think that's very important in helping him assimilate and also enjoy himself in different countries

  • @letsbehonest768
    @letsbehonest76810 ай бұрын

    I can’t agreed more with him. I am a Singaporean living 50% of my life in Singapore and 50% in Europe. What he said about Europe are😊 spot on especially the transportation strikes, culture shock, customer services ,price of train fares etc…. Glad I am going back my beloved Singapore 🇸🇬 next week for 2 months for holiday with my family.

  • @chaotiongsai

    @chaotiongsai

    10 ай бұрын

    Europe is a diverse continent, not a country. Only the most ignorant would talk about a continent with extremely disparate cultures, languages, and environments like it’s a country, even more ridiculous and ludicrous when you go on to compare a continent to one of the tiniest countries in the world.

  • @heroe1486

    @heroe1486

    9 ай бұрын

    "About Europe", Europe is not Singapore, a pretty small country, making generalities about a full, pretty densely populated continent, with tons of cultural disparities from west to east and north to south is nonsensical

  • @chaotiongsai

    @chaotiongsai

    9 ай бұрын

    @@heroe1486 most European countries are not densely populated, you Google Singapore population density? It is crazy!!

  • @bluePigeon-jm5pm

    @bluePigeon-jm5pm

    3 ай бұрын

    to enjoy Europe you need to be in the right neighborhoods as they are plenty of shitholes towns and cities that just wasted your time travelling there not to mention the airtickets

  • @TitB1199

    @TitB1199

    2 ай бұрын

    ​@@chaotiongsaiSingapore is a bubble... I can't take it seriously as a country. It's a city.

  • @chenyinmei6466
    @chenyinmei6466 Жыл бұрын

    You are very nice sir, your sincerity jumps out of the video. What a positive and honest interview..thank you. .

  • @lecherhao86
    @lecherhao86 Жыл бұрын

    Not gonna comment on the norms, the ingroup Vs outgroup, and variation of practices and expectations among the different groups in Singapore. But woah, this man amazed me.. he is such a keen observer of social behaviors.

  • @kevinkuok9131
    @kevinkuok9131 Жыл бұрын

    It's surprising how fast nightfall comes in the Tropics. The video started as a cloudy but still light afternoon. The video ends in dusk....

  • @clarencelai4143
    @clarencelai4143 Жыл бұрын

    Congrats, glad that he is enjoying his time in Singapore. Happy to hear the appreciation of the differences between Singapore and other countries

  • @chua2237

    @chua2237

    Жыл бұрын

    Before Anglo-Saxon come here to subjugate, he come here to enjoy

  • @paecpc
    @paecpc Жыл бұрын

    A very positive person, welcome to Singapore!

  • @pinkymoon5039
    @pinkymoon5039 Жыл бұрын

    Another amazing video. His observations about different ethnicities is interesting. Wish this video was longer too. Enjoyed it just as much as the interview with the Canadian expat from the 80s

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    🙏

  • @daniell8882
    @daniell8882 Жыл бұрын

    mark speaks incredibly well - enjoy singapore !!

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    agree

  • @hlim431
    @hlim431 Жыл бұрын

    What a nice man is Mark, such an useful interview...

  • @kengleetan63
    @kengleetan63 Жыл бұрын

    The taxi driver is right cos he had seen many fights of foreigners at watering holes like Clark Quay and other night spots. Renting HDB is really valued added where you get the space but not the sky high rent prices like condos minus the swimming pool and gym, tennis courts etc. After the video, many 'Ang Mo' would now 'downgrade' to HDB from condo?😆😆😆😆😆

  • @MathewTip
    @MathewTip Жыл бұрын

    Great channel Max, keep it up nice to see the perspectives that you don’t normally get a chance to see. Just one correction on Mrt, our Mrts do have drivers , even the driverless NEL line has a driver, the difference is that nobody is allowed to go on Strike in Singapore …

  • @LinksRoyal
    @LinksRoyal Жыл бұрын

    great interview. and its great to hear Mr Mark blending so well in!.

  • @marctay9564
    @marctay9564 Жыл бұрын

    Bro, saw you at One North today interviewing someone. Wanted to say hi but didn't want to interrupt, so hello over youtube! Enjoy your videos very much as a Singaporean

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    Haha next time come to say hi!

  • @JK-eu8ri
    @JK-eu8ri Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for all your videos that gives an idea on the ways, opinions, thoughts and lives of expats in Singapore. It’s refreshing and today’s clip creates a different outlook within me in regards to expats. Your guest today was incredible and sincere. 👏

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    thanks so much for watching!

  • @matpk

    @matpk

    Жыл бұрын

    @@MaxChernov RACIST RACIST ASIAN COUNTRIES NOT ALLOW FOREIGNERS TO BECOME CITIZENS😂😂😂

  • @michaelachatelle
    @michaelachatelle Жыл бұрын

    The prices really did skyrocket! I was living in SG in 2017/2018 and we rented a very nice condo for approx USD 2500/month. I also believed that the public housing is not for foreigners. I had no idea.

  • @kingliu8495
    @kingliu8495 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for making these informative videos! Great job!

  • @y2kjericho86
    @y2kjericho86 Жыл бұрын

    Max, your content is amazing!!!! Love it! Very real and raw. I like the honesty that Mark shared. Straight forward and truthful. His a very humble person too! Thank you Max! 👍👍

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    thanks so much for watching!

  • @NicoleKesean
    @NicoleKesean Жыл бұрын

    Hey, i know Mark!! He eats at the food stall i work in at least twice a week.. HELLO MARK!!

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    Haha cool! Small world

  • @opoc8970
    @opoc8970 Жыл бұрын

    wow this is a really great interview.

  • @MsPiggycat
    @MsPiggycat Жыл бұрын

    I like this interview content ❤ thank u for interview with comparing the positive impact

  • @DALLEY_SANI
    @DALLEY_SANI Жыл бұрын

    Wearing a mask is an option here and blasting the phone on the train we consider it rude. Usually the elderly do it. And don't worry we locals are not like that drunken guy. Lots of locals mix and work with foreigners so we are a melting pot in a way. We love seeing foreigners eating and appreciating our food especially....)

  • @francischoo1812
    @francischoo1812 Жыл бұрын

    Loving your videos. Keep up the good work.

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    🙏

  • @lisbon2407
    @lisbon24072 ай бұрын

    Thank you both, helpful for someone thinking of moving to SG.

  • @warrenlim2461
    @warrenlim2461 Жыл бұрын

    HDB rental is the best price. However condo rental is not so steep unless it is at the central area. For example a 3 bedroom unit at the 8 courtyards, near Canberra MRT rents for Singapore dollars 4,300 per month.

  • @Darkdrium
    @Darkdrium Жыл бұрын

    Always fascinating to watch your interviews with foreigners on their perspectives on living in Singapore. I always thought the grass is greener on the other side, but your interviews remind me of the good things we have in Singapore and we shouldn't take them for granted. Hope you get your PR approved!

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    thanks, but what's wrong with your name and profile pic? 😳

  • @Mr.Monta77

    @Mr.Monta77

    Жыл бұрын

    A disgusting profile. He should be ashamed of the atrocities, aggression and war crimes Russia commits in Ukraine. No wonder Kaputin is now wanted for war crimes by the International Court in the Hague.

  • @rachelar

    @rachelar

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@MaxChernov yeah what a dixkus. With a short life expectancy so RIP

  • @rachelar

    @rachelar

    Жыл бұрын

    Lose that name, will ya bub? Or change to Slava Ukraini? Just a suggestion 😂

  • @xJ9pQw2sR5

    @xJ9pQw2sR5

    11 ай бұрын

    What does his name mean?

  • @BigPlasticPlant
    @BigPlasticPlant Жыл бұрын

    I find this fascinating, I’ve been living in Singapore for 19 months now (also from England, via spain) and there are definitely some points I’d agree with heavily. But depending on when Mark moved I can’t understand how he was struggling to find a place to live for S$6k per month!? We pay considerably less than that and live in a nice condo near the river, great pool and gym, very clean building and a decent sized apartment. Finding a place and dealing with agents was definitely stressful though. There are so many benefits to living here if you grew up in the uk, just the care taken to uphold a basic level of living that is actually high, great common facilities and places to play sports, eat communally, clean park walks… I feel incredibly grateful. Whereas in the uk the fact that the working class wanting a good standard of living is used as a beating stick against them politically and in the media should be shameful, Mark even aludes to it here when mentioning the train driver strikes.

  • @mvpz

    @mvpz

    10 ай бұрын

    his criterias must be pretty high, especially in the size department, as he chose Bukit Batok HDB due to the size (arguably the largest space, price wise)

  • @igorborysenko4287

    @igorborysenko4287

    10 ай бұрын

    @@mvpz Looking in the pecture of his flat that he has got at HDB I am not sure at all that his criteria are even above the average. And Bukit Batok is really vary far.

  • @mvpz

    @mvpz

    10 ай бұрын

    @@igorborysenko4287 it is about the value for the price paid. He had said it's a steal in his opinion for his Bukit Batok flat. For his 6k price range, he expected the quality and size to be of his perspective worthy of 6k. Bukit Batok being far is the reason why the size can be that big for that kind of price

  • @mickrichy4455

    @mickrichy4455

    7 ай бұрын

    whats the best suburb for families

  • @raido1573
    @raido1573 Жыл бұрын

    Cycling is a fun way to explore the island. Especially in the evening. And, the best part is not worrying about being mugged. It's that freaking safe really. Plus, you can get food 24/7 almost anywhere around the island. I always enjoy my evening cycle though day time is a tad too warm for me. Go to one of those Decathlon one stop stores for bikes and everything gear at reasonable price. Good luck!

  • @MM-kq8gc
    @MM-kq8gc Жыл бұрын

    I lived in a HDB and it was really good; nice to be amongst the normal community vs the condo crowd. I wouldn't say Singapore is a friendly place(vs surrounding countries) I took 100s of taxis and literally none of the drivers talked much about anything.... more a convenient, extremely safe place that is worth a layover or to live in.

  • @dumbfoundedagain
    @dumbfoundedagain Жыл бұрын

    I ❤ Singapore ! Glad you have settled in somewhere you like !

  • @fm86868686
    @fm86868686 Жыл бұрын

    Respect to you two gentlemen standing up throughout the interview for at least an hour it seemed (based on the increasing amount of perspiration on the Brit's shirt lol!)

  • @madecold5841
    @madecold5841 Жыл бұрын

    Love Mark and his mindset . Open.

  • @bellybutton6138
    @bellybutton61383 ай бұрын

    Mark appears a very down to earth person. Wishing him all the best in Singapore.

  • @robintan4099
    @robintan4099 Жыл бұрын

    Great Video Max. Keep the videos coming. I would like to see how non Singaporeans look at us. Thank you. There is no anti-British sentiment here. In fact, we (as Singaporean) are try to get along well with everyone from all parts of the world. If there are any (negative) issues with anyone, rest assured they don't represent the general sentiment. Hope you reach 50K subs soon.

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    🙏

  • @uwet.8826
    @uwet.8826 Жыл бұрын

    Another great video. In Singapore, most people use common sense to treat others and the philosophy of "do not to other what you don't want others to do to you". On anti-Brit sentiments, it is not the distance colonial past but the recent memory of "brits-still-think-they-are-big-fark" extraterritoriality mentality during the pandemic. Do a quick Google and it is not difficult to realise that most of those who misbehaved and got sent back were brits.

  • @watcher4127

    @watcher4127

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes in the workplace! You must be blind or prejudiced!

  • @uwet.8826

    @uwet.8826

    Жыл бұрын

    @@watcher4127 it is common knowledge that people suffering from Dunning-Kruger effect always have x-ray vision of discriminations and prejudice. The legal banking professions must be very prejudiced.

  • @MichaelCasanovaMusic

    @MichaelCasanovaMusic

    7 ай бұрын

    No surprise there. Delusional people still clinging to the embers of their dead empire and the superiority complex that accompanies it

  • @teknobeatno
    @teknobeatno6 ай бұрын

    Bloke being interviewed needs his own YT channel. What a great story teller and with fantastic insights to boot.

  • @77jhw
    @77jhw10 ай бұрын

    I love his posture as he makes his observations. No judgement. Just a lot of fascination.

  • @rogerc7671
    @rogerc7671 Жыл бұрын

    Been living in SG for 5+yrs now. Almost everything has been great. People are friendly and well mannered, streets are safe and clean. You have all the dining options you need. You can go to any place in SG within 30min by taxi. Great public transportation. Whats not great? Rent, Hospital bills and School fees... If you are a foreigner and plan to raise a kid here, expect monthly spending of S$16,000 at least..

  • @woobakhai864

    @woobakhai864

    Жыл бұрын

    16,000 pm in pounds in UK standard lifestyles. I spending this in 1980s studying for 5 years. 20,000 usd in Harvard University in 1980s. But returning home ,I spend less almost 50%. 5k to 8k pm in Singapore 🇸🇬 😊 😍 ☺️ hired me as advisors?

  • @gi1dor

    @gi1dor

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@woobakhai864 are you Singaporean or foreigner?

  • @m00m00g1
    @m00m00g1 Жыл бұрын

    I totally agree w/ some comments below that watching KZread or TikTok loudly while traveling in public transport is not normal. It's irritating because it's a public space and not that person's private/individual space. The loudness does intrude into other's space. No one's stopping you from watching anything but be considerate by either lowering the volume or put on a headphone or earbud. Always be mindful that many other commuters have the right to enjoy a quiet ride.

  • @kennetharntson5912
    @kennetharntson59122 ай бұрын

    I have been passing through Singapore since 1973. Often twice a month, traveling between Thailand and Indonesia. I found Singapore to be boring at best, not mentioning expensive. If your idea of a having a holiday is shopping at stores and paying prices 50% more than what you would spend in your home country. Looking at shopping centers and paying through nose the eat or drink (mainly since everything is imported). The ride from the airport to the city is nice, looking like driving through a park. I brought my Thai wife to Singapore for a week. She had never been out of Thailand in her life and was bored 2 days after we arrived. She found Jarkarta more interesting. The one plus for me was that Singapore Chinese girls were some of the most beautiful.

  • @Garnishes
    @Garnishes10 ай бұрын

    i find it so fascinating that he is so observant! i wanna hear more observations from him!!! Can you do a Part 2 and ask for more of those observations? Honestly when he mentions them, i realise that's so true! but it never struck me as interesting until i realise i must've just been used to it!

  • @elaineoh3984
    @elaineoh3984 Жыл бұрын

    As an ethnic Chinese who hardly wears masks since legislation was lifted, don't feel pressured to do so. It's a personal choice. Though you may get the odd elderly person berating you or shooting a dirty look 😬

  • @tonygoh7328
    @tonygoh7328 Жыл бұрын

    Warmest welcome to Singapore Mark. I enjoyed the kind hospitality of the UK about 18 years ago studying in London. Hope you and your family will enjoy your stay here. Just avoid driving, and you can avoid 70% hostilities of Singapore 😉. Ask Max, he knows how brutal it is driving in SG. I think Max made a video on that previously 😂.

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    Haha some of my previous guests mentioned it

  • @lvrn124

    @lvrn124

    Жыл бұрын

    Hahaha I drive occasionally so i don't get the full effect of impatient drivers, but when i do, i serve anger right back. It's annoying.

  • @ethanhull9533

    @ethanhull9533

    Жыл бұрын

    Oh yes I am Singaporean and driving here can be very stressful 😅

  • @yeolblt

    @yeolblt

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes. Even 25 years ago, driving in Singapore was stressful and drivers got angry. Can't imagine driving there today with more traffic and a more stressful way of life for most folks there.

  • @lydiat5819

    @lydiat5819

    Жыл бұрын

    I am a Singaporean and I absolutely hate it when cars don't signal when turning, while some signal wrongly and others just leave the signal on after turning and moving beyond the next turn without turning.

  • @sherwinh1661
    @sherwinh16614 ай бұрын

    thanks max for the wealth of insights and perspectives of foreigners in singapore. almost becomes a library and archive of gold nuggets. If you would have merchandise (like mugs or tees) i would love to purchase to support your channel

  • @Garnishes
    @Garnishes10 ай бұрын

    He made an astute observation on different standards of who to prioritise giving up a seat on the MRT for!

  • @tinateh
    @tinateh Жыл бұрын

    Generally, most Singaporeans don’t talk loudly on public transport much less have their phone volumes up. When I first arrived, it was so quiet that it felt embarrassing when a friend started talking at the top of his voice and laughing on a train ride. Few people would tell you off though. Giving up seats is a behaviour we’ve been trying to encourage for years particularly to the elderly, the sick, the pregnant. That behaviour has declined among young people in the last few years though and most people are disapproving when that happens. However, there are those of us who are not shy to ask people to give up their seat and that’s okay too. The only behaviour that I can’t bring myself to adopt is the use of packets of tissue paper to “book” a seat at eating places. You don’t see this anywhere in South East Asia except in Singapore and it’s actually considered rude by Asian standards. If you have a ton of shopping you need to put down, that’s not a problem considering you do need hands free to get your food tray. Most of us are still fairly considerate. I always offer to sit at a table while others get their food and reply queries in person on whether the seats are taken. Our table manners at Hawker Centres can honestly improve by a lot, it is not true that Chinese do not have dining etiquette.It just depends on the kind of upbringing the person has had at home and social status has little to do with it these days.

  • @hunterthewarrior
    @hunterthewarrior Жыл бұрын

    Well, HDB is designed and built purposely for Singaporeans' affordable sweet home only, is not the social housing like other western countries. Thus only Singaporeans and PRs are able to buy and live in HDB. By launching the HDB project every year the sg gov housing development board is actually losing a lot of money, because the selling price is much lower than the market price. It is one of the sg government's best beneficial policies applied to the society since 1965. The aim is to let every Singaporeans to have their own house, so you will never see homeless people in Singapore on the street. In mandarin chinese, we call this policy as 居者有其屋,it is from one of the greatest ancient Chinese philosopher Meng zi‘s ideology back to 300BC.

  • @s.7980

    @s.7980

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for sharing this wonderful fact.

  • @chaotiongsai

    @chaotiongsai

    10 ай бұрын

    Then why so many homeless in China? Stop talking crap here. Plus Singapore is NOT a Chinese country.

  • @sitcom1971
    @sitcom197110 ай бұрын

    Excellent accurate description of Singapore!

  • @Wagmi0
    @Wagmi0 Жыл бұрын

    Nice! Keep it coming!

  • @merlin5045
    @merlin5045 Жыл бұрын

    look carefully at the priorty seat "sticker" .. there is a sequence .. its not random .. usually its elderly first .. then pregnant .. this is because in asian culture, elderly's social status is high .. most asian cultures advocate respect for the elders .. but like you said, some elderly people dont want to sit even when offered, cos they dont think they are that old .. but it is rare that when you offer a pregnant lady a seat they would refuse .. thats because pregnancy is a suffering .. the 3rd and 4th sticker will depend, usually they are no longer as important as the first (elderly) and the second (pregnant) sticker

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the explanation

  • @huaiwei

    @huaiwei

    Жыл бұрын

    Sorry but I do not think the vast majority of us prioritize seats that way. It is actually the heavily pregnant and obviously disabled (especially the visually handicapped) who tend to get seats immediately from almost everyone. And that includes from the elderly, who often forces the pregnant women to sit down. The elderly also often gives up their seats for children too. Hence, most of us here do not actually rank those categories so strictly. We tend to judge each individual and consider who might need that seat more.

  • @lecherhao86

    @lecherhao86

    Жыл бұрын

    I also agree with Edmund that there's no implicit rules that I have heard of that rank the priority of those who get the seats. Personally, if I have a super old elderly, a pregnant lady, a couple with infants in their hands, and disabled person enter the carriage at the same time, I will prioritize either the super old elderly or the pregnant lady first. And ask loudly in the train who else can give up their seats.

  • @ImagesOfCountries

    @ImagesOfCountries

    Жыл бұрын

    @@huaiwei ... Yes, agree... people are mostly sensible... 😊

  • @robgoh9392

    @robgoh9392

    Жыл бұрын

    If only people can be more tolerant and understanding, no matter where they come from. Especially those not familiar with the customs of their adopted place of stay, try to blend in with society rather than complain and air their displeasure in public. The world will definitely be a better place to live in.

  • @danielintheantipodes6741
    @danielintheantipodes6741 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the video!

  • @isisphlyx
    @isisphlyx11 ай бұрын

    As a borned here singaporean, am always learning new things here. It is fascinating to hear our fellow humans from other places.

  • @hemjoo
    @hemjoo Жыл бұрын

    Really appreciate Mark's observations of Singapore. Expats prefer condo living cos they can find similar communities to fit in ie other expats, other British people. So I'd be interested to know how he makes friends with locals, neighbours staying in HDB.😊

  • @ImagesOfCountries

    @ImagesOfCountries

    Жыл бұрын

    True, that is an important consideration... but expats who are 'proficient' in Singlish will find it much easier to socialise with locals, even in condos... 😊

  • @jameslee9742
    @jameslee9742 Жыл бұрын

    Most Bris Expat i know that come to Singapore they said they like the weather here.. yes they like it warm. they say the raining day is 30% of the time.. the cold & wetness really make people lousy mood

  • @huaiwei

    @huaiwei

    Жыл бұрын

    Which is why the Brits keep talking about the weather...it is that bad haha.

  • @Scottirulez

    @Scottirulez

    Жыл бұрын

    @@robgoh9392 you need to read his comment again properly

  • @robgoh9392

    @robgoh9392

    Жыл бұрын

    We don't mind the rain cause the rain adds more water to our catchement /reservoirs. Water which we need during dry seasons, moreover it keeps the temperature down during dry seasons. We are quite happy with our weather. Those that are not happy should think about the countries that have hurricanes, flooding, typhoons, sunnies, forest fires, heavy snow storms, earthquakes and such climatic conditions. Try living in these countries and you will be happy and be more appreciative of our climate here. So if being here makes you unhappy, Pls go and we can be happy all round.

  • @Scottirulez

    @Scottirulez

    Жыл бұрын

    @@robgoh9392 relax man. We get you hate foreigners. Remember Singapore actually belonged to the Malays long before Chinese people arrived here too

  • @huaiwei

    @huaiwei

    Жыл бұрын

    @@robgoh9392 once again, you clearly just want to rant , when you did not comprehend James's comment. Fancy you complaining about others ranting.

  • @jefrichan
    @jefrichan Жыл бұрын

    What a good speaker Mark is.

  • @travischee6980
    @travischee69809 ай бұрын

    very well explained 👍🏼

  • @Val-lg5dm
    @Val-lg5dm Жыл бұрын

    The obsessive use of mobiles is really a modern development - elderly get caught in the trend but some really have idea of what is socially appropriate. You can probably find these elders with a little radio, listening to loud music at coffee shop, before existence of mobiles. Amazing observation and openness!

  • @benedictpang637
    @benedictpang637 Жыл бұрын

    Well spoken

  • @juanitamallanao
    @juanitamallanao Жыл бұрын

    GREAT INTERVIEW ❤❤❤

  • @hendetta
    @hendetta6 ай бұрын

    Hope you continue to learn and enjoy your next adventures. Plz keep sharing. Subbed.

  • @mercy2me1
    @mercy2me1 Жыл бұрын

    Compared to Thailand the rents in Singapore are astronomically out of my retirement budget. 😱

  • @Millielai12

    @Millielai12

    Жыл бұрын

    Look at Malaysia then. Many foreigners are moving to Malaysia.

  • @DarylSpykerman
    @DarylSpykerman Жыл бұрын

    Nice video! indeed Singapore (SG) is very safe and over 80% of us live in HDB flats. I assume the taxi driver told you to avoid fights cos there have been a few reports of foreigners getting into fights in public. End result is jail term, hence they lose their job & work permit.

  • @mollyjonesreacts
    @mollyjonesreacts29 күн бұрын

    I’d recommend taking the circle line to Dakota & then walk towards the Geylang River until you find the Old Dove playground. In that area, you will find some lovely old appartment blocks that pre-date HDB & it’s unusual to see such an area preserved.

  • @deltacharlie2011
    @deltacharlie2011 Жыл бұрын

    such a trueful observation !

  • @comicdragon1
    @comicdragon1 Жыл бұрын

    Well other than those that he mentioned, probably food is another thing they might have some culture differences. In Singapore, we do tend to eat quite spicy. Also our usage of words or just Singlish might have some difficulties for some foreign which is not use to it. For 1 simple example would be the use of the word 'can'. That word can so many meaning depending on how's it used.

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    I love can!

  • @s_shaleh

    @s_shaleh

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@MaxChernovokay can!😂

  • @ImagesOfCountries

    @ImagesOfCountries

    Жыл бұрын

    Walau, you are really can, dah... 👍

  • @toyoyoyo104
    @toyoyoyo104 Жыл бұрын

    HDB flats are great places to live in. Most condo facilities aren't that great. Rental market is crazy worldwide now. Not just in Sg.

  • @AT-lq6ds
    @AT-lq6ds Жыл бұрын

    He has very good observations

  • @raikey2176
    @raikey2176 Жыл бұрын

    There are allotted seats in the corner mostly for elderlies in MRT in Singapore. You must give it up or automatically not sit on it when boarding the MRT.

  • @alvinkoh5556
    @alvinkoh5556 Жыл бұрын

    It is not fascinating whatsoever for a person of any age or race to have the volume of their mobile phone on full blast while entertaining themselves on any public transportation. The person who does that is aware of his own inconsideration towards others, just that he wants to push the limits for his own personal satisfaction. Normally, this type of person will receive a rude awakening from me if I am at close proximity to them in the bus or MRT. I will not hesitate to tell them that they are being rude and need to lower their volume or I will do it for them instead. I highly encourage everyone, including expats to do what I did to these (uncles, usually) and show them what’s basic, proper social etiquette should be. The more times they are confronted by others, the more they will learn to grow up socially! One’s seniority doesn’t equate to maturity.

  • @dksl9899

    @dksl9899

    Жыл бұрын

    YES I hate it! no amount of staring has any effect on these sort of people.

  • @alvinkoh5556

    @alvinkoh5556

    Жыл бұрын

    @@dksl9899 don't just stare at them, as you must walk up to them and literally tell them off.

  • @huaiwei

    @huaiwei

    Жыл бұрын

    I don't want to get into the next viral video, so I have to avoid that confrontation. Thanks for doing it for us haha. Btw I don't think expats should do it. Those who are anti-foreigner will latch onto such incidents to amplify their hatred towards them.

  • @nasiltan9044
    @nasiltan9044 Жыл бұрын

    I think it’s important to acknowledge the number of PRC Chinese living in Singapore. And I have experienced it myself that the people blasting their phones have been the PRC Chinese. Foreigners might not know how to differentiate between local ethnic Chinese and PRC Chinese.

  • @SuccessforLifester

    @SuccessforLifester

    Жыл бұрын

    Yes true. Generally PRCs.

  • @crystal8537

    @crystal8537

    Жыл бұрын

    Actually NO. Most people who blast music are sgrean elderly (i am true blue sgrean) based from my experiences.... while for prc they talk loudly in their phone....

  • @Mary-zd8xo

    @Mary-zd8xo

    Жыл бұрын

    For elderly locals, I think it’s due to hearing problems. For PRC, they just talk loud. Not only PRVC, some foreign Asians working in Singapore are also loud talkers.

  • @Mary-zd8xo

    @Mary-zd8xo

    Жыл бұрын

    My comment is about the use of phone on public transport.

  • @SuccessforLifester

    @SuccessforLifester

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Mary-zd8xo two nights ago while on a bus, a local uncle in front of me was annoyingly watching Chinese MTV on his hp. It was fairly loud though he put it close to his ear. On the same bus came a middle age uncle. He was weird, and I think got mental issues. He would talk nonsensically. At times shouted for no reason and also making sounds of ambulance. Annoying uncle turned every now and then to look at crazy man behind. It was amusing for me as annoying uncle was annoyed by an even annoying man

  • @sourdurian2839
    @sourdurian2839 Жыл бұрын

    damn underrated channel. keep it up Max!

  • @MaxChernov

    @MaxChernov

    Жыл бұрын

    🙏

  • @johnnynephrite6147
    @johnnynephrite61476 ай бұрын

    I had an experience in SG back in 2006. Finding an apartment there is a nightmare. Rents are ridiculously high, and you will not be able to even get someone to rent to you unless you have a work visa. There are too many oddities and rules that are out of synch with most of the world, especially the West. I ended up going back to Hong Kong after a failed 2 months in Singapore. what an eye opening experience it was.

  • @cecilialim2296
    @cecilialim2296 Жыл бұрын

    Wonderful video! Welcome to Singapore! Enjoy the sun, people and insane , sinful food . 😅😅😅😊

  • @ImagesOfCountries

    @ImagesOfCountries

    Жыл бұрын

    Best is the sun !!! ... 😊

  • @vsmgoh3
    @vsmgoh35 ай бұрын

    $6000 a month budget???