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Moving to Singapore? Here's how to make friends, connect with locals and expats, and enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer.

Singapore is one of the easiest places in Asia for expats to settle in. There are more than a million expats in Singapore, comprising almost 30% of the entire workforce, so you aren’t alone. . In addition, almost all of the country speaks English, the infrastructure is likely to be superior to your home country, and healthcare is of such good standards that many of the world’s elite travel there specifically for medical treatment.

With such a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, fitting into a new country has never been easier. However, there are still a few things you can do to quickly integrate into Singaporean life. No man is an island, and building a solid social life as an expat can significantly improve your physical and mental health. Here’s how!

1. Pursue your hobbies

Just because you moved halfway around the world doesn’t necessarily mean you have to give up your hobbies. Singapore has a HUGE range of options for activities, and you’re almost certain to find something that you’d be interested in, and a whole bunch of people to do it with. Whether you want to relax with a book, watch an indie film, or get some exercise, there are going to be numerous options for you.

Singaporeans are also a friendly bunch, and you can easily meet some locals over shared interests. They might be a little aloof at the beginning and might not be the initiator of a conversation, but if you start one, they are likely to respond and are almost always willing to help.

Love hiking? Try the MacRitchie Reservoir or Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and consider joining a local hiking group. Into photography? Look for meetups in colourful neighbourhoods like Little India or Chinatown. There are dedicated communities for every interest - and most are open to newcomers.

Tip: Apps like Meetup, Eventbrite, and Facebook Groups are great places to start. Try searching for groups based on keywords like "expat photography," "cycling Singapore," or "language exchange".

2. Participate in expat events

There is a massive expat community living in Singapore and countless events going on for any given day. Use social media, magazines, or websites to see what’s going on and pop into one of those for a quick way to meet other expats. There are also bars and cafes that are popular with the expat crowd, and meeting people will be easy there.

Certain venues like Robertson Quay, Duxton Hill, or Holland Village have become social hubs for expats. You'll often find international schools, embassies, and multinational companies nearby, which naturally create tight-knit communities. Social media, expat magazines, and dedicated websites are great places to find out what's on.

Try this: Check out ANZA (Australia & New Zealand Association), the American Association of Singapore, or British Club Singapore. They frequently organise social events, talks, and meetups for their members.

3. Join Groups and Communities

If you have special interests like photography or hiking, you can join one or more or the countless groups around filled with residents, both local and foreign. Bonding over shared interests bring people quickly together and you might soon find yourself deeply rooted into the local scene.

Whether it’s a running club, book group, cooking classes in Tiong Bahru, theatre in Bugis, or photography meetup, these gatherings offer a relaxed environment to meet like-minded people while exploring your interests. For example, the American Women's Association and Seasoned Singapore Expat Women offer a wide range of activities, from book clubs to charity drives, and welcome members from all backgrounds

Plus, you’ll get a quick insight into all the hidden spots across the island that even some locals might not know about. Joining a club isn't just a way to socialise - it also helps you get to know different areas of the city. Some groups are specifically for expats, while others are open to everyone, giving you a chance to connect with locals too.

Local Insight: Many clubs and activities are subsidised under Singapore's People's Association (PA). You don't have to be a citizen to participate just sign up online and browse the community events by district.

4. Build social connections at work

Your workplace can be one of the easiest places to start building your social circle in Singapore. Your colleagues might go for after-work drinks, dinner, or other gatherings that you can join into, as these events are a great way to learn more about local culture and start building lasting friendships.

Singaporean work culture is professional and respectful, but many locals are warm and open when you express genuine interest. Being proactive about lunch invites or coffee breaks can go a long way toward turning colleagues into friends.

Pro tip: Attend work-related social events, even if you're new or shy and invite colleagues for coffee or lunch.

5. Volunteer

Once you’ve settled into your new job and routine, you might have some spare time, and volunteering is an excellent way of spending it. Singapore has hundreds of non-profits covering causes like animal welfare, education, elderly care, and environmental sustainability.

You can join a beach clean-up, help at an animal shelter, tutor underprivileged children, or pack meals for food drives. Many expats find that these experiences not only deepen their understanding of Singaporean society but also lead to meaningful, lasting friendships.

Organisations to Explore:

• Giving.sg (list of charities and volunteer organisations)
• SG Cares
• Willing Hearts (soup kitchen organisation)
• SPCA Singapore
• Habitat for Humanity Singapore (housing charity)

Bonus tip: Leverage technology and co-living

Co-living communities are also becoming more popular in Singapore, offering built-in social networks and regular events for residents. If you're working remotely, consider co-working spaces-they often host networking sessions and workshops where you can meet other professionals.

Therefore, your choice of accommodation can have a big impact on your social life. Choosing the right neighbourhood or residence can make meeting people easier, especially if you're close to key hotspots or within a well-connected community.

That's where Zyon Grand stands out. Just minutes away from vibrant destinations like Orchard Road and Clarke Quay, this new development, located along Zion Road, offers expats the perfect balance between urban energy and tranquil living. It's a great base to host friends, join communal facilities, and immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.
>> Ready to feel at home? Visit the Zyon Grand showflat here and start your new chapter in style.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting to life in a new country can be overwhelming at first, but building a social network makes everything easier, from navigating daily life to feeling emotionally settled. Singapore's cosmopolitan nature and open communities make it easier than most cities to find your place.

So whether it's through hobbies, clubs, or simple chats at work, take that first step. You're not just building a social life, you're building a home away from home.