Welcome to our exploration of Singapore’s diverse districts—a journey tailored for expats looking to find their perfect place in this vibrant city-state. Singapore, with its dynamic neighborhoods and seamless blend of cultures, offers a variety of living environments to suit different lifestyles and preferences. From the high-energy buzz of Orchard Road to the peaceful greenery of Bukit Timah, each district has its own unique flavor and set of amenities. In this blog, we’ll delve into some of the most appealing areas for expats, highlighting what makes each one stand out, from housing options to local attractions and community atmosphere. Whether you’re drawn to an urban lifestyle or a quieter suburban retreat, we’ll help you discover the district that best fits your new life in Singapore.
1. District 9: Orchard Road
Orchard Road is a top choice for those who thrive on being centrally located. Living here means you’re at the center of a bustling hub with an abundance of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Despite the lively atmosphere, the surrounding neighborhoods offer quiet, green spaces that provide a peaceful retreat.
While the high rents can be a consideration, they are balanced by the prime location and the many amenities available. Additionally, the proximity to the American Club and Tanglin Club adds to the appeal, offering extra leisure and social opportunities. If convenience and a touch of luxury are important to you, Orchard Road could be an ideal spot.
2. District 3: Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru, conveniently close to the CBD, is perfect for food lovers with its array of options from local hawker stalls to high-quality international cuisine. The neighborhood offers diverse accommodation choices, from the distinctive Pinnacle@Duxton HDB block to charming shophouses. Known for its trendy, Art Deco vibe, Tiong Bahru boasts a relaxed, low-rise atmosphere compared to other central areas. It's also home to excellent coffee shops, bakeries, boutiques, and a vibrant market with fresh produce.
3. District 10: Bukit Timah, Holland Village
An old favorite among expats, Holland Village (“Holland V”) has a bohemian vibe and a variety of restaurants and amenities, with Holland Village Shopping Centre being a highlight. Nearby Bukit Timah is also popular with expats and is perfect for nature enthusiasts, as it adjoins lush jungle. The two areas are connected by Sixth Avenue, which features family homes with gardens, cluster houses, and appealing condominiums. This region is well-served by numerous preschools and schools, and benefits from easy connectivity via the Circle and Downtown MRT lines.
4. District 21: Upper Bukit Timah
Just beyond Central Bukit Timah, Upper Bukit Timah offers excellent bus connectivity and proximity to renowned schools like the Canadian International School and Dulwich College (Singapore). Nestled at the edge of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, some properties in this area boast scenic jungle views. Key reasons to consider this region include its lush surroundings along Bukit Batok and Dairy Farm Road, a range of good-value condominiums and semi-detached houses, and access to several shopping centers and quality suburban restaurants.
5. District 4: Sentosa, Faber
Sentosa is a highly sought-after area in Singapore, renowned for its oceanfront living and a diverse, international community. The island offers a unique lifestyle with some of the most exclusive and pricey homes in Singapore. Residents enjoy access to golf courses, a marina, and a plethora of beaches and tourist attractions. Although getting a taxi off the island can be challenging, the financial district is conveniently close, and VivoCity, one of Singapore’s largest shopping malls, is just at the gateway.
Nearby Faber Park provides a spacious, suburban feel with a friendly expat community. This leafy area, which includes Mount Faber—Singapore's second highest hill—offers great views and easy access to the AYE/CTE expressways. Additionally, Faber Park is close to VivoCity and HarbourFront, and Mount Faber features a cable car that connects directly to Sentosa.
6. District 15: East Coast
Katong and Joo Chiat are popular among expats looking to immerse themselves in a more authentic local experience. These vibrant neighborhoods are filled with colorful shophouses, karaoke bars, unique shops, and excellent local hawker stalls. While they are a bit inland from the coast, they remain relatively close to the CBD. These areas are ideal for exploring local Peranakan culture, with Joo Chiat featuring beautifully adorned shophouses. Notable malls in the vicinity include Parkway Parade, i12 Katong, and Eastpoint Mall.
When choosing a neighborhood in Singapore, consider the following factors to find the best fit for you:
1. Proximity to Work: How close is the neighborhood to your workplace? This can impact your daily commute time and convenience.
2. Commute Length and Style: Evaluate the length and type of your commute—whether you prefer a short drive, a direct MRT ride, or something else.
3. Public Transport Connections: Assess the availability and efficiency of public transport options, such as MRT lines and bus routes.
4. Local Amenities: Decide if you want to be near a variety of restaurants and bars or if you prefer proximity to nature and green spaces.
5. Educational Facilities: Look into the quality and proximity of preschools and schools in the area.
6. Building Style: Consider whether you prefer the charm of older buildings or the modern conveniences of new developments.
7. Club Proximity: Determine if you want to be close to social or recreational clubs.
8. Leisure Facilities: Think about which amenities you value, such as a swimming pool, gym, tennis court, or barbecue areas.
