Hmmmmm...all three have distinct similarities, and distinct differences.

I am least familiar with Singapore, having spent little time there. I am quite familiar with both Hong Kong and Shanghai.

What they all have in common is a fair degree of segregation -- there are certain bars/clubs that are "foreign", and some that are "local". In addition, there tend to be some places where Americans hang out, some places where Brits hang out, etc. So if you are looking for a group where you will "fit in", it may take a bit of looking to FIND them at first, but you can rest assured that they are there.

That being said -- there is still plenty of mixing between expats and locals in all three cities, so it is really pretty much up to your own personal preferences. Best thing to do is check out local magazines/websites that provide info on where to go and what to do.

In regards to travel, Singapore is likely the most difficult...there's not THAT much that one can see within Singapore before you reach the "I've already done that" point. However, if you don't mind fairly frequent air travel, there are lots of other areas that you can fly to...of course, both Hong Kong and Shanghai are likely closer.

Hong Kong and Shanghai both offer more direct access, both by land and by air, to much more extensive travel. Of the three, I'd personally recommend Shanghai -- if travel is what you are interested in, there is just so much more to see in China. And much of it is quite convenient from Shanghai.

In regards to fun lif-style, all three cities have a very active party scene, although each one tends to have its own distinctive flavor. If you want REALLY modern and cutting-edge, then Hong Kong is probably your best bet, with Singapore a close second. Shanghai has a great party scene, but will generally lag behind these other two cities a little in regards to "what's hot". Although it is rapidly catching up. Again, your key here is going to be FINDING the scene that suits you best -- there is HUGE variety in all three places, but finding SPECIFICALLY what you like can still be a bit of a challenge.

And making friends -- again, this is mostly up to you. Truth be told, there probably are not going to be many expats actively seeking you out. Most expats who've been there for awhile tend to have their own circle of friends, and it can be a little difficult breaking into that circle at first. It tends to be more an issue of time and perseverance; but once you find that circle that suits you, you'll be set (well...at least until they all leave, and you have to go about making a NEW circle!)

For myself, my number one choice would be Shanghai -- simply because, in my opinion, it is the most exotic of the three, and offers the greatest variety. It CAN also be more difficult -- fewer people who speak English, lower standard of service, etc. So it really depends, in the end, on what you're looking for.

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