Bishan, Singapore
Bishan
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Bishan, Singapore. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Bishan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Bishan, they said:
"Bishan is a residential town located in the central region of Singapore, known for its cleanliness, safety, and well-planned infrastructure. It is a family-friendly area with a good mix of local and international schools, making it a popular choice for expats with children. The cost of living in Bishan is relatively high, with housing being the most significant expense, so it's important to budget accordingly. Bishan is well-connected to other parts of Singapore through an efficient public transportation system, including the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and buses. The town is also home to several shopping malls, restaurants, and recreational facilities, providing plenty of options for leisure and entertainment. English is one of the official languages in Singapore and is widely spoken in Bishan, making it easier for expats to communicate and integrate. However, learning some basic phrases in Mandarin or Malay could be beneficial. Healthcare in Singapore is of a high standard, and Bishan has several clinics and a hospital. However, it's important to have comprehensive health insurance as medical costs can be high. Singapore has a tropical climate, so it's hot and humid throughout the year with frequent rain showers. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Singaporean culture places a high emphasis on rules and regulations, and Bishan is no exception. Littering, jaywalking, and chewing gum are all offenses that can result in fines. Bishan is a multicultural community, and residents are generally respectful of each other's customs and traditions. It's important for expats to also show respect and understanding towards the local culture. Finally, while Bishan is generally safe, it's still important to take basic precautions such as locking doors and windows, and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night," wrote a member in Bishan.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Bishan?
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Bishan?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Bishan?
- Will I be able to find a job in Bishan?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Bishan appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Bishan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Bishan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Bishan like?
- How are healthcare services in Bishan?
- What are medical services in Bishan like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Bishan?
- What are emergency services like in Bishan?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Bishan?
- How are local medical facilities in Bishan?
- As a foreigner living in Bishan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
