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
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.
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.
@@MaxChernovIt is to prevent different races settling into their own enclaves and subsequent misunderstandings, discrimination and in extreme scenarios, racial riots of the past.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
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!
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.
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.
@@burlhorse61they are government funded apartments that are mostly sold to general public and therefore at a lower price than private apartments, basically public funded housing with the goal of being more affordable and able to pack more people/space
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 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.
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.
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.
@@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.
@@user-bo3mp8un6c What kind of trouble ? If it is in good condition, ppl would know that it is for giving away. Anyway the authorities never enforce littering laws especially in the heartlands
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....)
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.
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.
"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
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
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
I totally agree w/ some comments below that watching TH-cam 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.
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.
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
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?😆😆😆😆😆
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.
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. 👏
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.
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)
@@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.
@@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
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!
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.
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 😬
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.
Mark is fortunate that he hasn't encountered blunt and violent people here. While it's rare, such incidents do happen and they're increasingly being highlighted in recent news. What the cab driver (that he met on his arrival here) was trying to say is that there were situations where foreigners being abusive of the cabbies here (there was a period that such did happened). It's always nice to have foreigners like Mark living among us in the HDB estates. 😄
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!
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 …
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 😂.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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. ♥
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.
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....
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 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
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
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.
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!)
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! 👍👍
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.
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..
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?
Who pays $4500 a month for a condo? A month? That's US Dollars, yeah? I've got 80 square meters or 860 square feed for like $1400 a month here in Oslo, Norway. Brand new. And Norway is supposedly expensive. Still that's only 1/3 the price of a regular condo in Singapore. HDB prices seemed much more reasonable to me though, but it entirely depends on how much income you can muster.
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.
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.
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.😊
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... 😊
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
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
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.
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.
I love Singapore, i have been there a few times and really enjoy the city. But people shouldn't expect a perfect place, it is not "squeaky clean" as some would promote, and there are red light areas, which is not common in my home country of Sweden. People are friendly and respectful, but not all. For me it's an example of the difference between laws and principles.
Great interview, theres no negative feelings between SG and UK. In fact, we are grateful to the UK, if you looked at the history. Also we hate those uncles who turn on their phones loudly in public transport, but most of us tolerate it because out of respect for the hard-hearing eldery and there's really no point to potentially create a scene in public. I would absolutely love to make friends with this British guy :)
@@limbehh8494Not true. They are usually old uncles who probably don't have any children to teach them how to use their phones. I usually try to empathize with them. In any case, it won't hurt to be kind and accommodating to others. After all, you are only going to be sharing the ride with them for a short while.
1:54 Just for clarity. UK social housing or estates generally do not look like this in the image. This is most likely the Netherlands looking at the type of bikes and the fact they're freely left outside. In the UK, this would never happen on a social housing estate. Those bikes would be stolen within minutes. You have higher chances of finding rain soaked old furniture outside than bikes.
I’m a Singaporean, and playing music or watching a movie on the phone without headphones in the train is not a norm, it is rude. Sadly the ones who do so are usually the older generation who thinks they have every right to do so. Singaporeans however are generally not confrontational and choses to ignore them. IMHO I feel it is a very uncultured side of our society.
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
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.
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!
Singaporeans are generally meek people who are afraid of open confrontations (taking to social media and publicly shaming the person is a whole other story though).😂 That's not to say that you won't encounter the occasional aggressive auntie or uncle. Speaking loudly or playing music loudly and even public displays of affection on public transport are generally frowned upon, but are simply tolerated. Mainly it's because we understand that the majority of older people are not very tech-savvy hence they might not know how to turn down the volume on their phones. 😂 That's how I always justify it, anyway. As for giving up a seat to a child, I personally have an under-five rule when it comes to giving up my seat to a child. If they look like they are strong enough to run around a playground, then they are strong enough to stand throughout the journey. Singapore isn't that huge anyway. Mine might be the unpopular opinion, but I don't believe in spoiling our children and treating them like precious snowflakes. But visibly pregnant women and folks above 60, definitely.
I agree with u on this. I don’t give up my seat to children who are healthy, strong and energetic. They are physically able enough to stand. I will usually prioritize pregnant ladies, elderly, and people with physical injuries and need to sit 😊
I am Asian and I think that listening to something on your phone or mobile device without a headphone or ear pods is rude. 😂😂😂 Japan has everything figured out when it comes to social etiquette for real 😊 But Singapore is the best too, I would move there in a heartbeat.. very nice interview.. I hope you live well in Singapore 🎉 Hands down one of the best countries in the world 😊
Mark is an amazingly perceptive and nice guy. He certainly don't sound like the rude British he described. 😅 Singaporeans have many facets bcoz of the differences in race, language and religions, hope that you continue to enjoy SG!
Haha. Taxi drivers are ONE source of information. Take it for what you will and do your own research. Singaporean here. And yep, people don’t confront the elderly listening to their phones loudly out of respect. Perhaps the elderly do not want to waste money on an ear piece, they may lose an extra piece of tech, and they may not be able to hear well. MRT is temporary. Just move into the next carriage if you can and alight where you need to. MRT is not like trains in Europe where the carriages are locked separately. What I like about many foreigners who come here is that they take time to explore whereas many Singaporeans have already decided that our country is boring. Ghib Ojisan on TH-cam is one of them who continues travelling in Singapore. I respect that quality. Keep exploring and enjoy Singapore. 🎉
I think the taxi driver gave that weird advice to you because there had been a quite few high profile cases of drunk or self-entitled foreigners breaking laws (including covid laws) here and getting banned from Singapore forever. Singapore do have strict laws that may be a culture shock to foreigners who are more individualistic.
Many so called European PR or converted SG (one lady translator) doesn't really get the flavor of Singapore. But this man here hit it 100% spot on. I respect his honesty and keen judgement. Good one I absolutely hate boomer gen blasting their phones too! Same sentiment
MRT priority seats are not specified for kids but some let them have them. Those who play loud music in public transport are hated by most but few want to be the heroes.
Regarding the giving up of seats, there are no hard and fast rules. those priority seats came about because people were not giving up their seats to those in need. even with the initiative, not everyone is giving it up. Sometimes, its because the current user thinks he/she needs it more. Other times, its like what Mark mentioned about the UK, the current user doesn't know if the person is actually older/pregnant VS young/active/fat. What was intended as a kind gesture could easily end up being a confrontation. Singaporeans generally will want to void that. Probably, those who give their seats up to kids have kids of their own and understand that letting a kid sit would be easier for parents to manage (especially when they are with multiple kids/shopping bags). I dont think race plays a part in that situation. Though, as much as most wouldnt like to admit, people are more likely to give their seats up to others of their own race. (might be because its harder to judge the age of others of a different race) Also generally, MRT trains have drivers. LRT trains do not have drivers.
You can tell Mark previously lived in London or the South East of England, because where I live in the North West of England, people would absolutely 100% give up a seat for a child and politeness is still highly valued.
It can't be new built HDB. There is a MOP rule (short for Minimum Occupation Period) when buying a HDB, presumably a BTO from the look of it in the video. HDB MOP is a rule that restricts the owner from selling or renting out the entire flat during the first five years (or 10 years for HDB PLH) of moving in.
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.
My pregnant daughter who lives in Singapore and uses the MRT all the time said that none of the people occupying the priority seats offer their seats to her. And she’s 6 months pregnant.
Why do your daughter has to take priority seat? Most of the times, priority seats were occupied by older folks and young children and this group of occupants surely will be less like to offer their seat to other people. I have been taking buses and MRT for 5 yrs after my retirement. Sometimes, people whether occupying regular seats or priority seats would offer me their seat. When I see a young child or old person who look frail, I also offer him/her my seat. Somehow, I rarely seen a pregnant woman on MRT.
@@CoFFee123.. I didn't misunderstand you. Your original comments are not very clear. I have been travelling on MRT regularly in the last 5 years and I am aware sometimes some young people sit on those priority seats and do not give up the seats when a person like elderly, young child or pregnant woman gets onboard. I must say locals still need many more years to catch up with many advanced countries in the areas of considerate and civic mindedness. I have even seen person sit between 2 seats, practically occupying 2 seats or hogging an extra seat with his/her bags. As some feedback here indicate, some did not give up seat to pregnant woman could be they were unsure of whether a woman with a bigger than normal tummy was pregnant or just overweight.
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
Haha nice! Which school?
@@MaxChernov hwa chong :)
@@shuu-wasseo jc?
@@cathhl2440 it was actually about singaporean identity lol iirc it was an interview with an american immigrant
He is promoting FT’s to come here you don’t support him 😢
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.
not afraid just lazy because we might getting off in 10 mins time.
Lies again? Burger King Patty Selma
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.
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
Yea.. Singaporeans.. Always afraid to speak up. Consequence of the nanny state
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.
Very smart
@@MaxChernov there's actually a lot of history behind why such a decision was made... but that was due to our forefathers' foresight
Did you know that no Malays are allowed into armour , airforce camps
@@Johnne009 that's not true
@@MaxChernovIt is to prevent different races settling into their own enclaves and subsequent misunderstandings, discrimination and in extreme scenarios, racial riots of the past.
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.
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.
even your insurance might not pay. Make sure to have savings in case of an accident.
Check out the 10 highest-paid leaders in the world No wonder the cost of living is so high.
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
Yes and the older the more deaf. 🤷♂️
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.
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.
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
😂 agree with comments on this thread coz I'm a regular MRT rider
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.
Bukit timah is a very peaceful area
Yes, the UK is tough right now.
@@kimberiysmarketstrategy why's that tho
But presumably safe enough that there happy to study there?
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.
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.
It depends. I have shouted at an uncle blasting music on the bus. Gotta man up sometimes
@@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.
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!
What does HDB stand for ?. Thanks.
@@williebobs3830housing and development board
Its basically public housing
@@williebobs3830 housing and development board.
Were you a self aware foreigner in the UK?
@@williebobs3830Housing Development Board
Wow, so many positive experiences living in Singapore. Makes me feel so blessed to be born in Singapore.
Really??
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.
Spend one week in India you will reject being reborn 100 times if it was India where you would be born.
Can I come visit you??
LOL. pap sent u?
Being in Singapore for a decade, good to finally have some content like this. Keep it up! Some real interesting viewpoints.
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.
could listen to him all day. he's so observant ❤
welcome to Singapore, Mark. its good to see self-aware and humble foreigners in singapore becoming one of us.
Most welcome
he looks like a vampire 🤣
mark speaks incredibly well - enjoy singapore !!
agree
You are very nice sir, your sincerity jumps out of the video. What a positive and honest interview..thank you. .
Wow !! That British gentleman is a fine communicator !! I stayed for the entire video and have subscribed. Happy to have come across this channel.
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.
Thanks so much I’ll try !
Property agents will always not recommend you HDB but private properties to gain more commission.
what is HDB?
@@burlhorse61they are government funded apartments that are mostly sold to general public and therefore at a lower price than private apartments, basically public funded housing with the goal of being more affordable and able to pack more people/space
Congrats, glad that he is enjoying his time in Singapore. Happy to hear the appreciation of the differences between Singapore and other countries
Before Anglo-Saxon come here to subjugate, he come here to enjoy
Listening to this guy is really enjoyable. It is very good for IELTS listening study. Very clear and the dynamic I love that.
thank you for these kinds of content. it helps me realise that sometimes i am taking singapore for granted.
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.
Yes in the workplace! You must be blind or prejudiced!
@@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.
No surprise there. Delusional people still clinging to the embers of their dead empire and the superiority complex that accompanies it
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.
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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.
thats frikin crazy
What’s the size of your condo?
@@Nick-rr3pv 1,300 sqft
@@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.
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.
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.
Good point. He should have left it on a void deck table area for better visibility
@@SuccessforLifesterwouldn’t that risk getting in trouble?
@@user-bo3mp8un6c What kind of trouble ? If it is in good condition, ppl would know that it is for giving away. Anyway the authorities never enforce littering laws especially in the heartlands
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....)
A very positive person, welcome to Singapore!
I’m so glad he found Singapore’s biggest secret - nice HDBs. :)
What a nice man is Mark, such an useful interview...
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.
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.
"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
@@heroe1486 most European countries are not densely populated, you Google Singapore population density? It is crazy!!
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
@@chaotiongsaiSingapore is a bubble... I can't take it seriously as a country. It's a city.
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
I totally agree w/ some comments below that watching TH-cam 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.
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.
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
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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?😆😆😆😆😆
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.
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. 👏
thanks so much for watching!
@@MaxChernov RACIST RACIST ASIAN COUNTRIES NOT ALLOW FOREIGNERS TO BECOME CITIZENS😂😂😂
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.
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)
@@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.
@@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
whats the best suburb for families
if you don’t mind me asking, what is your job?
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!
thanks, but what's wrong with your name and profile pic? 😳
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.
@@MaxChernov yeah what a dixkus. With a short life expectancy so RIP
Lose that name, will ya bub? Or change to Slava Ukraini? Just a suggestion 😂
What does his name mean?
Bloke being interviewed needs his own YT channel. What a great story teller and with fantastic insights to boot.
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 😬
Agent wants higher commission when they suggest to foreigner condo.Foreigner can rent HDB.
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.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful fact.
Then why so many homeless in China? Stop talking crap here. Plus Singapore is NOT a Chinese country.
wow this is a really great interview.
Mark is fortunate that he hasn't encountered blunt and violent people here. While it's rare, such incidents do happen and they're increasingly being highlighted in recent news. What the cab driver (that he met on his arrival here) was trying to say is that there were situations where foreigners being abusive of the cabbies here (there was a period that such did happened).
It's always nice to have foreigners like Mark living among us in the HDB estates. 😄
That taxi driver is caring and concern. That is why he advised the new comer.
He looks like a troublemaker face thats why
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!
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 …
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 😂.
Haha some of my previous guests mentioned it
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.
Oh yes I am Singaporean and driving here can be very stressful 😅
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.
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.
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.
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
Thanks for the explanation
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.
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.
@@huaiwei ... Yes, agree... people are mostly sensible... 😊
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.
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. ♥
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I'm biased, I enjoy listening to a British speak - so clear and eloquent.
Yes, pure English accent sounds so music to the ears !!! ... 👍
I ❤ Singapore ! Glad you have settled in somewhere you like !
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.
Yes true. Generally PRCs.
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....
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.
My comment is about the use of phone on public transport.
@@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
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
Which is why the Brits keep talking about the weather...it is that bad haha.
@@robgoh9392 you need to read his comment again properly
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.
@@robgoh9392 relax man. We get you hate foreigners. Remember Singapore actually belonged to the Malays long before Chinese people arrived here too
@@robgoh9392 once again, you clearly just want to rant , when you did not comprehend James's comment. Fancy you complaining about others ranting.
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!)
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! 👍👍
thanks so much for watching!
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.
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..
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?
@@woobakhai864 are you Singaporean or foreigner?
Hey, i know Mark!! He eats at the food stall i work in at least twice a week.. HELLO MARK!!
Haha cool! Small world
I love his posture as he makes his observations. No judgement. Just a lot of fascination.
Who pays $4500 a month for a condo? A month? That's US Dollars, yeah? I've got 80 square meters or 860 square feed for like $1400 a month here in Oslo, Norway. Brand new. And Norway is supposedly expensive. Still that's only 1/3 the price of a regular condo in Singapore. HDB prices seemed much more reasonable to me though, but it entirely depends on how much income you can muster.
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.
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.
I love can!
@@MaxChernovokay can!😂
Walau, you are really can, dah... 👍
Love Mark and his mindset . Open.
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.😊
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... 😊
Thank you both, helpful for someone thinking of moving to SG.
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
Haha next time come to say hi!
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
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.
YES I hate it! no amount of staring has any effect on these sort of people.
@@dksl9899 don't just stare at them, as you must walk up to them and literally tell them off.
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.
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.
He made an astute observation on different standards of who to prioritise giving up a seat on the MRT for!
I love Singapore, i have been there a few times and really enjoy the city. But people shouldn't expect a perfect place, it is not "squeaky clean" as some would promote, and there are red light areas, which is not common in my home country of Sweden. People are friendly and respectful, but not all. For me it's an example of the difference between laws and principles.
The interviewee is great. Very clear. Focused on amazing subjects.
Great interview, theres no negative feelings between SG and UK. In fact, we are grateful to the UK, if you looked at the history. Also we hate those uncles who turn on their phones loudly in public transport, but most of us tolerate it because out of respect for the hard-hearing eldery and there's really no point to potentially create a scene in public. I would absolutely love to make friends with this British guy :)
Well say.... those that blast loudly may not be Singaporean but foreign workers.... if you observe carefully. Cheers
@@limbehh8494Not true. They are usually old uncles who probably don't have any children to teach them how to use their phones. I usually try to empathize with them. In any case, it won't hurt to be kind and accommodating to others. After all, you are only going to be sharing the ride with them for a short while.
@@s_shaleh Actually many foreigners too. And local seniors.
1:54 Just for clarity. UK social housing or estates generally do not look like this in the image. This is most likely the Netherlands looking at the type of bikes and the fact they're freely left outside. In the UK, this would never happen on a social housing estate. Those bikes would be stolen within minutes. You have higher chances of finding rain soaked old furniture outside than bikes.
I’m a Singaporean, and playing music or watching a movie on the phone without headphones in the train is not a norm, it is rude. Sadly the ones who do so are usually the older generation who thinks they have every right to do so. Singaporeans however are generally not confrontational and choses to ignore them. IMHO I feel it is a very uncultured side of our society.
Let’s not pretend that the Ah Tiongs imported by the PAP are not doing this.
He is very polite and humble
Loving your videos. Keep up the good work.
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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
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.
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!
Singaporeans are generally meek people who are afraid of open confrontations (taking to social media and publicly shaming the person is a whole other story though).😂 That's not to say that you won't encounter the occasional aggressive auntie or uncle. Speaking loudly or playing music loudly and even public displays of affection on public transport are generally frowned upon, but are simply tolerated. Mainly it's because we understand that the majority of older people are not very tech-savvy hence they might not know how to turn down the volume on their phones. 😂 That's how I always justify it, anyway.
As for giving up a seat to a child, I personally have an under-five rule when it comes to giving up my seat to a child. If they look like they are strong enough to run around a playground, then they are strong enough to stand throughout the journey. Singapore isn't that huge anyway. Mine might be the unpopular opinion, but I don't believe in spoiling our children and treating them like precious snowflakes. But visibly pregnant women and folks above 60, definitely.
I agree with u on this. I don’t give up my seat to children who are healthy, strong and energetic. They are physically able enough to stand. I will usually prioritize pregnant ladies, elderly, and people with physical injuries and need to sit 😊
great interview. and its great to hear Mr Mark blending so well in!.
I am Asian and I think that listening to something on your phone or mobile device without a headphone or ear pods is rude. 😂😂😂
Japan has everything figured out when it comes to social etiquette for real 😊
But Singapore is the best too, I would move there in a heartbeat.. very nice interview.. I hope you live well in Singapore 🎉 Hands down one of the best countries in the world 😊
I like this interview content ❤ thank u for interview with comparing the positive impact
Mark is an amazingly perceptive and nice guy. He certainly don't sound like the rude British he described. 😅 Singaporeans have many facets bcoz of the differences in race, language and religions, hope that you continue to enjoy SG!
Haha. Taxi drivers are ONE source of information. Take it for what you will and do your own research. Singaporean here.
And yep, people don’t confront the elderly listening to their phones loudly out of respect. Perhaps the elderly do not want to waste money on an ear piece, they may lose an extra piece of tech, and they may not be able to hear well.
MRT is temporary. Just move into the next carriage if you can and alight where you need to. MRT is not like trains in Europe where the carriages are locked separately.
What I like about many foreigners who come here is that they take time to explore whereas many Singaporeans have already decided that our country is boring. Ghib Ojisan on TH-cam is one of them who continues travelling in Singapore. I respect that quality. Keep exploring and enjoy Singapore. 🎉
I think the taxi driver gave that weird advice to you because there had been a quite few high profile cases of drunk or self-entitled foreigners breaking laws (including covid laws) here and getting banned from Singapore forever. Singapore do have strict laws that may be a culture shock to foreigners who are more individualistic.
Many so called European PR or converted SG (one lady translator) doesn't really get the flavor of Singapore. But this man here hit it 100% spot on. I respect his honesty and keen judgement. Good one
I absolutely hate boomer gen blasting their phones too! Same sentiment
MRT priority seats are not specified for kids but some let them have them.
Those who play loud music in public transport are hated by most but few want to be the heroes.
Regarding the giving up of seats, there are no hard and fast rules. those priority seats came about because people were not giving up their seats to those in need. even with the initiative, not everyone is giving it up. Sometimes, its because the current user thinks he/she needs it more. Other times, its like what Mark mentioned about the UK, the current user doesn't know if the person is actually older/pregnant VS young/active/fat. What was intended as a kind gesture could easily end up being a confrontation. Singaporeans generally will want to void that. Probably, those who give their seats up to kids have kids of their own and understand that letting a kid sit would be easier for parents to manage (especially when they are with multiple kids/shopping bags). I dont think race plays a part in that situation. Though, as much as most wouldnt like to admit, people are more likely to give their seats up to others of their own race. (might be because its harder to judge the age of others of a different race)
Also generally, MRT trains have drivers. LRT trains do not have drivers.
Compared to Thailand the rents in Singapore are astronomically out of my retirement budget. 😱
Look at Malaysia then. Many foreigners are moving to Malaysia.
You can tell Mark previously lived in London or the South East of England, because where I live in the North West of England, people would absolutely 100% give up a seat for a child and politeness is still highly valued.
Wonderful video!
Welcome to Singapore!
Enjoy the sun, people and insane , sinful food . 😅😅😅😊
Best is the sun !!! ... 😊
It can't be new built HDB. There is a MOP rule (short for Minimum Occupation Period) when buying a HDB, presumably a BTO from the look of it in the video. HDB MOP is a rule that restricts the owner from selling or renting out the entire flat during the first five years (or 10 years for HDB PLH) of moving in.
Its an open secret. Some owners of new BTOs just rent out most probably illegally.
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.
My pregnant daughter who lives in Singapore and uses the MRT all the time said that none of the people occupying the priority seats offer their seats to her. And she’s 6 months pregnant.
Why do your daughter has to take priority seat? Most of the times, priority seats were occupied by older folks and young children and this group of occupants surely will be less like to offer their seat to other people. I have been taking buses and MRT for 5 yrs after my retirement. Sometimes, people whether occupying regular seats or priority seats would offer me their seat. When I see a young child or old person who look frail, I also offer him/her my seat. Somehow, I rarely seen a pregnant woman on MRT.
@@yct3369 You misunderstood me. I meant the priority seats were occupied by young adults , and not by older folks and young children
@@CoFFee123.. I didn't misunderstand you. Your original comments are not very clear. I have been travelling on MRT regularly in the last 5 years and I am aware sometimes some young people sit on those priority seats and do not give up the seats when a person like elderly, young child or pregnant woman gets onboard. I must say locals still need many more years to catch up with many advanced countries in the areas of considerate and civic mindedness. I have even seen person sit between 2 seats, practically occupying 2 seats or hogging an extra seat with his/her bags. As some feedback here indicate, some did not give up seat to pregnant woman could be they were unsure of whether a woman with a bigger than normal tummy was pregnant or just overweight.
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HDB. Most Singaporean will want to own a HDB before even considering Condo in the future. All Singaporean can only own 1 HDB.
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