Singapore, a vibrant hub in Asia, offers a unique experience for international students. Adapting to a new culture can be exciting and sometimes surprising. This listicle series dives into essential life hacks and local insights to help you navigate life in Singapore. Discover unexpected aspects of daily life, must-have apps for seamless living, and crucial items to pack. Learn how to enjoy the city on a student budget and embrace the everyday quirks you’ll eventually love. Get ready to unlock the secrets to settling in and thriving in Singapore.

• 5 Things That Surprised Me About Living in Singapore
• 5 Must-Have Apps for International Students in Singapore
• 5 Essentials Every International Student Should Pack for Life in Singapore
• 5 Ways to Enjoy Singapore on a Student Budget
• 7 Everyday Things You’ll Experience—and Eventually Love

5 Things That Surprised Me About Living in Singapore

Moving to a new country always comes with surprises. Here are 5 things international students didn’t expect—but grew to love—about living in Singapore.

1. How Safe Everything Feels
   Late-night walks? Totally normal.
2. The Food Scene Is Outrageously Good
   And you’ll crave it when you leave.
3. The Weather Never Changes—Until It Pours
   Pack an umbrella. Always.
4. Everything is Digital
   From payment to food orders to doctor visits.
5. You Can Go From Jungle to Skyscraper in 10 Minutes
   Urban nature at its best.

5 Must-Have Apps for International Students in Singapore

These apps will make your life in Singapore easier, faster, and more fun.

1. Grab (Google Play | App Store)
   Your go-to for ride-hailing and food delivery.
2. CityMapper (Google Play | App Store) or SG NextBus (Google Play | App Store)
   Navigate MRTs and buses like a local.
3. Shopee (Google Play | App Store) or Lazada (Google Play | App Store)
   Online shopping essentials.
4. Deliveroo (Google Play | App Store) or Foodpanda (Google Play | App Store)
   For late-night study snacks.
5. PayLah! (Google Play | App Store) or PayNow (Google Play | App Store)
   Go cashless for everything.

5 Essentials Every International Student Should Pack for Life in Singapore

Not sure what to bring? These five items are often overlooked, but will make your student life smoother.

1. Power Adapter (Type G plug)
   Singapore uses UK-style sockets.
2. Compact Umbrella
   For sudden tropical showers.
3. Light, Breathable Clothing
   It’s summer year-round here.
4. A Foldable Tote or Shopping Bag
   Singapore is big on sustainability. Many stores charge for plastic bags, so a compact reusable bag is handy.
5. Familiar Comforts from Home
   A few snacks, photos, or keepsakes from home can lift your spirits when homesickness hits. You’ll be glad you packed them.

5 Ways to Enjoy Singapore on a Student Budget

From green spaces to free museums, here’s how you can enjoy the city without hurting your wallet.

1. Explore Free Parks and Guided Trails
   MacRitchie, Botanic Gardens, Southern Ridges.
2. Attend Public Cultural Festivals
   From Diwali to Hari Raya light-ups.
3. Use Student Discounts
   On museums, movie tickets, and retail shops.
4. Join Campus Events and Clubs
   Many include free food and networking.
5. Plan Weekend Group Activities
   Splitting costs makes everything cheaper—and more fun.

7 Everyday Things You’ll Experience—and Eventually Love

Moving to Singapore? These habits might initially confuse you, but you’ll grow to appreciate them.

1. Standing on one side of the escalator
2. Saving seats with tissue packets
3. Speaking in acronyms (MRT, STP, MIA, anyone?)
4. Queueing for food… even when there’s no queue
5. Almost no tipping, and the service is still great
6. Air-conditioning in buildings everywhere (carry a sweater!)
7. Multiculturalism as everyday life, not a slogan