can i say that this is the best video yet and no bs from the interview. very engaging.. good is good and bad is bad.. can't people just enjoy this video.. is that simple
It’s great to hear his perspective having lived in other parts of the world. I’m an Asian American living in New York. I lived and worked in Singapore 2 years before pandemic. I can attest to many things mentioned here. From tax benefits, safety and low crime, efficient, and more open for foreigners than Japan. I hope to live there back again.
Only leave your wallet or phone to "chope" (reserve) for experimental reason...not habitually...don't tempt people to commit a crime. It is relatively low crime but don't mean NO crime.
@@MaxChernov I don’t mean anything and please dun get me wrong. I am just stating the fact that about 1/3 of the people you encounter in Singapore are non-citizens, it's better to be safe than sorry.
@@MaxChernov It's common sense for every tourist destinations. Bali also like this. It's very safe compared to other places in Indonesia. The local Balinese people rarely commit crime, but due to flock of tourists, domestic and international, it attract crime. Let's say Bali b0mb incident was so unexpected and caught us off guard.
My husband ( British) and I just moved back in August from NYC to Singapore - So much of what Howard said rings with us. For us living in Singapore (though only for a short while) has been a great improvement to NYC - however saying that NYC will always have a special place in our hearts but quickly Singapore filling the other parts of our heart. We have also lived in London, which was my favorite but Singapore has just so much more to offer for us and how we enjoy our personal time. Even cost of rentals is not that far from what is going on in NYC and the quality of food and the range of prices for that food is so much better here in Singapore. Make sure Howard knows about the Lazy Lizard at 6th Avenue once he gets out to Bukit Timah - a Great Local with the coldest beer in Singapore!
I have lived in Singapore for four years, after moving from London and tbh the place is a total let down. Weather is a awful/oppressive getting worse. People boring and regimented. I miss bands, theatre, restaurants and sporting events. Huge mistake moving here.
@@TT-kp5tp hi there, I'm a singaporean reading your comment but have to say that your points about the negatives are valid. Like every society, there isnt a perfect one. But do understand there is a reason behind why things are, and why people are. Singapore lacks resources and is small unlike other countries blessed with land, labour, resources. So in order for that "small guy" to be successful, he has to outwork, beyond most civilisations. As a result, the people here have to spend most of their time on education, working, being stressed about paychecks, which leads most of us to become somewhat oppressed. We work very hard to uphold the economy and image of Singapore, what foreigners do not know is the cutthroat competition in our job and education systems, which is why I also say other countries have the privilege of a work life balance while mlst of us don't. Entertainment and leisure barely gets you paid in Singapore, which is why bands, festivals etc are scarce. Now I also lived in other western countries for a long time and I can tell you that I have experienced both civilisations. There is good and bad for both, but both have beauty in their ways. It's hard for both to understand each other unless experienced.
@@user-kd2ez2mb3c love Singapore other than its one season only City country. Everyday is hot and humid. If someone is looking for a vibrant place, he or she will get bored in Singapore after a few months. I am a four season person.
@@Edward-np4ih 100%. I've been to and lived in other countries with four seasons. To me its such a bliss and that many may have unintentionally taken for granted.
I like the questions you asked. I got to know how foreigners see Singapore and also about other countries' culture too. Interviewee is articulate and clear in his responses. On 'choping' seat, tissue paper or umbrella are more commonly used by locals, fyi. Looking forward to new videos.
Excellent interview. You chose someone who does not give cliche answers. One can tell the thoughtfulness and sincerity in his answers. Just one suggestion to you, if u wish to widen your viewership, I have some suggestions. That is, if u talk about SG, goes for specific topics in-depth, for example, interviewing expatriates of different industry and well-known companies. Alternatively, you can talk about other countries, but give a SG perspective that is different from typical western media. Finally, I wish to thank you and your team for the excellent effort. I have subscribed you for some time and I am glad to see the improved quality. Keep it going.
Great video, very informative for a local like me too. Make sense why foreigners appreciate Singapore. As a local, I may probably lament on the recent GST and income tax hike, but when I consider the taxes levied in NY and Europe, I felt a sense of gratitude instead. Looking forward for more videos in this channel, cheers
A major advantage is that one can travel to many neighbouring asian countries within 1 to 7 hours flight. The world class Changi international airport is reachable under 30 minutes by or under 2 hour by public transport.
Hey guys, just to remind everyone (whether you are Singaporean or not), it is not advisable to use your valuables (e.g. wallet, mobile phone) to "chope" tables in Singapore. I mean sure, we have a low crime rate here, but it doesn't hurt to stay vigilant. Just a short reminder! :)) Great video btw! Honestly it is interesting to learn how living in other countries compare to living in Singapore (for someone who doesn't get to travel overseas much)
The part where you run out of places to visit is easy to fix, especially so if you can afford living in singapore. Singapore is very close to say, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia etc. You won't be running out of places to visit anytime soon in SEA really.
I agree with the sentiment; Singapore is amazingly well positioned for international travel and exploring SEA. I think the point was more that, compared to say Paris or Rome, if you want a short trip you can drive for 1-2hrs and be somewhere far off in the countryside. From Changi you'd need to fly and therefore 20min to the airport and (conservatively) 1hr before your flight. It's more effort. 2hrs from when you've left your front door and you're not going to have landed anywhere. The effort is worth it, but I understand when people mention how small the city-state is.
Nice video. I'm Singaporean, I always treat those migrants or tourist as a Singaporean coz they're in Singapore. This make more people from other nations to be as one family regardless their race or religions. I will guide them & let them know about Singapore law & Singaporeans culture coz I can't expect them to knew it. Nice people from China, American, Australian, Canadian, French, Germany, India & many more that I've met them in Singapore.
I like your contents very informative for Singaporean to understand how the foreigners feel living in Singapore. Foreigners should try hawker food they are not expensive. Thank you for making these type of contents.
Personally for me, as someone who was in Singapore during my teens at an international school and then coming back a couple of years later for an exchange program. Singapore got old pretty fast for me, I can see the appeal for parents wanting to raise their kids there but I can’t deny I’m happier in LA. Everyone has their preferences
Lol u certain US is younger in structure then Singapore. Lol. U certain u been to Singapore or any of your other cities in US? U comparing apple to apple? Lol. Which year 1960s. Sorry i cant stop loving. I studied in US your infrastructure are old. Lol
@@evelynn7827 born in Texas, grew up in LA, lived in Paris, Singapore and New York. Totally calling bs on you having studied in the US considering your lack of english comprehension usually shown by Singaporeans who didn’t finish high school (that’s A levels for you, I know you’re one of the ignorant ones)
no tipping culture here ever since there is service charged at 10% for most F&B. But if u do, the tip goes into the tipping box and end of the month it will be shared among the crew. Usually the captain or floor manager get the most cut.
Its sad to see that there are always SG haters commenting in YT videos whose contents involve SG, this video is no exception. There should be more haters here than what I am able to pick out, namely ; 1) DJ日記(MY), 2) Tang T(MY), 3) 孤勇鱼尾狮 Bravely Merlion(TW) & 4) 撸桦爽(TW). Their common tricks are to speak in the tone of a Singaporean and creating havoc. Hope that these haters can get a life and put their hatred behind.
@@MaxChernov I can understand your doubts and concerns. Btw, you might have noticed that these 4 haters’ comments might not even be the worse and the comment(Tangling view my last unit tower C which I just sold 😂) from 撸桦爽 even looks harmless. Why I am able to pinpoint these 4 haters is through my(and from other viewers who expose their misdeeds) long term ‘tracking and observation’, they are even more aggressive in Chinese YT channels having created even more havoc. I can even more or less understand why they behave this way(of course there are chances that I might not be correct). For the 2 from MY, they are jealous of SG’s economic achievements as compared to their own country(those who are aware of the longstanding history of SG and MY will be able to appreciate what I have said). For the 2 from TW, they strongly believe that SG should whole-heartedly support TW but instead SG is neutral towards both CN and TW. Lastly, I have no intention to slander anyone, I'm just made known what I know. Peace, thank you for your understanding.
Yes, i have noticed it as well. Whenever there are videos made about singapore, you will get a ton of haters from MY and some from TW. Jealousy is ugly, and it is ingrained in their politics.
Cool interview Max! Just couple of clarifications: I have seen a listing (older place) of “1456sqf” that was barely 1000sqf , and many private schools in NY are way pricier than international schools here in Sing. Not to encourage ours to catch on ;)
That's a fair comment. I'm sure there are issues with floor measurements from time to time. On the plus side, it's easy to report and should get fixed. For schools: absolutely, but foreigners in the US can get their kids into state funded schools (pay tax: get school) while that's not quite as straightforward in Singapore.
Great Interview and I agree with a lot of comments Re: NY city tax and complicated Tax systems in the US - Having lived in NYC, NY, Chicago, IL, San Francisco, CA and Dallas, Texas. I have followed quite a number of your interviews Max and for the most part enjoyed it and finally subscribed after hearing you lament your irritation at people watching the videos and not subscribing in the last interview I watched, of the "younger" Singaporean living in London - Oh and was his moustache a camo or it was for real....? If I may, I would challenge you to pick out less fortunate Foreigners who find it hard to make ends meet in Singapore. I think having a dichotomy with different situations in Singapore might add to the realism of your channel. Of course everyone wants to hear of the Up up ups...but sometimes hardships add a new dimension to the real struggles to life and it could also show that the "wow" world of Singapore does have its "woes" for the not so affluent foreigners. I am a Singaporean living in the US and Budapest, Hungary and i follow your channel to feel attached to Singapore. I left Singapore in 1989 but as the saying goes, You can take the boy out of Singapore but you can't take the Singapore out of the Boy *man*!
Idolising singapore is s natural thing. Its the paradise on earth everyone wants to be in. Many years ago no one knows about us but now, everyone wants to be here as this is the best place on earth. Good luck getting a ticket.
I’m Asian from US. Lived in HK, Malaysia, Shanghai, and S’pore. My experience with S’pore is a mix of good and not so good. I miss my friends and neighbours mostly, the city walk in early mornings and/or after dinner when S’pore was not fully opened.
Dear max Singapore is a place of migrant and I am proud of what you are doing for society and for the world and when this place became a British colony it brought people from all over the world and did you know the high Street was known as little Russia and River Valley used to have a large Jew community and so do other parts of the country relate to community that lives there my point is people who lives in this country actually help to solve economic issues in the world
I lived at Killiney Rd ( near River Valley) and later moved to River Valley itself. Yet i never knew that it had a large Jewish community. I only found out in my later years that i'm also probably Jewish. There's a synagogue in nearby Exeter Rd over there which i only found out after i moved elsewhere.
Being a PR is not as great as the fantasy brings … what do you want to know? You can’t buy HDB BTO, your classed as a 3rd class citizen you can’t vote.
Great video. I'm a housing agent. It's mandatory for us to verify the gross floor area of a property (among other facts finding checks) so that our ads reflect the information accurately before we even put up the ad. You'd be surprised some owners can get those numbers wrong throughout their time in the property and only realise it when I show them the official figures.
When I was in New York, I kept hearing siren barking every now and then; either from fire engine, ambulance or the cop. It made me feel like I was watching a Hollywood movie. Just that this is real.
I am from Singapore and now living in upper east side. I have also lived in Europe, Middle East, Australia and other parts of Asia. I agree with the comments in the video. Singapore is a lot safer and cleaner.
This is a good video. I have the chance to be in NYC but only for some hours. Because my friend insisted on not staying in NYC as he said it was a dangerous place. I have a chance to get up to WTC too. It was autumn and the wind was freezing.
@@franciscody9622 what do u mean you do not have to work. I think you have to work every where in the world 🌎. My apologies but I do not get what you are trying to say. Unless u mean no work in Singapore 🇸🇬 or something
"It's relatively dirty, without being disrespectful to New York." That has got to be the most polite and British way of pointing out something that we all know is so obviously true! 😅
As a singaporean.. i would say if you got kids and wish to be above average for not just yourself and the kids.. Singapore is no fun. But if you only need to watch for yourself and your spouse.. Singapore always.. Money make things easier but does not solve the rat race requirement problem in Singapore.
When we say Chope, we use tissue packets most of the time. Although it is relatively safe here, there is still crime. It’s better to not leave personal items and valuables unguarded
exactly. Eat at coffeeshop instead of restaurant. Shop at wet market or Sheng Sion instead of cold storage. I'm a foreigner, married to a local and lived n HDB. My friends are almost all locals, and often proclaim I'm more Singaporean in lifestyle then them ;)
ok plus one like, subscribed last time i worked in a 5 star hotel in sg, saw a $10 and went running telling the guest he has left the money on the table. 🤭
like how howard said about vice goods and leisure stuff are highly taxed its true singapore government encourage people to use the public transport because its very convenient to use as compared to other countries you literally get to the place you want to if not out of the station about 10 to 15min walk to the locations. as for tipping here's an advice for you.. ask the waiter/waitresses if the tip is solely for them cause most of the restaurant in singapore dont have a tipping system unless you visit the higher end dining places. usually owner receive the tips so ask if the tip is shared amongst the service crew or individually to prevent awkwardness
@@MaxChernov hahaha i guess? Im certain most restaurant staff are well informed if the service crew do/don't get to keep their tips but they would't put a sign there to tell customers about it..
@@MaxChernov As a Singaporean, we probably are more confused to the culture of tipping. Even now, I don't understand why isn't the place you working at pay normal hourly wage. Business in Singapore pay reasonable to their workers hence most people don't feel the need to consider theft and etc. which is one of the reason that makes Singapore safe. There is some tipping culture towards food deliveries driver (due to how hard they have to work sometimes) but generally restaurant does not need tipping. For us, the best way to support them is to visit them again or share to your friends about the food.
New York, New York. I stood in freezing cold half a day just to eyeball how they setup a huge Xmas Tree in Rockefeller Center, and by the time they finished the crowning Jewel Star of Swarovski? 🤣 I was half frozen dead. 😂 Max, I like your interview series, thumb up!
Singapore is good but not perfect. I know a lot of Singaporean only likes to read positive comments about the country itself and become defensive if people criticize it. NYC has its charm and it has a lot more opportunities than Singapore (arts, fashion, etc.). NYC is definitely more diverse than Singapore and the trains run 24 hours all day.
I’ve lived in New York long ago and Singapore for the past 16 years, and just moved to ? ... Thailand? Singapore is clean but it’s simply a system of profit making and commerce. I lived near the most of nature but I also had a motorcycle for 12 years but had an accident that forced me to stop riding. I left also because of the intensity of electromagnetic fields across the island...I’m sensitive to them. I’ve seen more and more people diagnosed with brain tumors in Singapore. I also felt trapped on the island. You have to fly to get anywhere outside of Malaysia or Bintan, Indonesia. It’s just not a place I can see myself being happy in. Nature is truly secondary as it has to be when there are 8,800 people per square kilometer. There’s very little actual quiet or darkness. Not a quality of life....simply convenience and a sense of safety and profit.
COE does not grant a right for a person so own a vehicle. A COE is needed for a vehicle to be registered. cOE stays with the vehicle. Many non Singaporeans that I spoke to thought that someone who buys a COe can own vehicles for 10 years. Which is wrong
This video exactly shown how life is good if you are a rich foreigner living in Singapore. The place he is staying is an average Joe monthly wages . 5 mins drive or 10 mins train to downtown. It was public housing when the government decided to tear down and made private housing for the rich. His love for bikes again shows the fact the COE system is made for the rich . Now before you could own a bike , you need to pay average 10k SGD for Coe. The bike are all under the same classification, making delivery man out of options when they only earn 2K a month . Life definitely perfect if you are high paying non Singaporean male individual. Singaporean men owns a 2 year and 10 cycle national debt to protect these expat.
That's certainly an opinion. Not one I happen to agree with but I appreciate the perspective. I don't own a car but I know many locals who do and pay the $100k plus COE which the government enforces. I do happen to agree that bike COEs should be tied to CC just like cars, but I don't get to have a voice on that.
Agreed, and glad someone has woken up to this fact. We Singaporeans work our butts off to provide a lavish life for expats who aren't even that qualified alot of the times.
@@ImJuStoOGoOd Your previous comment says you left Singapore for Canada. It's funny because I've got Canadian friends who bemoan how they work their butts off to provide a lavish lifestyle for the expats there (especially the ones who aren't particularly good at their jobs). Have a wonderful day.
@@howardpackham well I'm not an expat, and there's little to no expats in Canada, they have a proper immigration system that allows skilled migrant workers into the country and contribute to the economy, so there's a form of transparency and proper checks. Seems you are misinformed but that's okay. Hope you learned something new. You have a wonderful day too
@@ImJuStoOGoOd I'm also not an expat, but the flow of conversation previously sure felt like the two of you were suggesting I'm unwelcome in Singapore. It's just humorous to me that you framed your statement suggesting you were working your butt off in Singapore, when you're not. Enjoy international travel, meet new people, have fun. I'll try to assume good intentions next time.
Singapore is unarguably one of the best developed countries to live in. New York in comparison to most developed countries is one of the bottom few in my opinion. The lack of safety is alrdy a big nah ah. Hopefully most Singaporeans would open their eyes wide & realize they’re in bliss
It's true. I am a Singaporean and went to NYC for a leisure tour. I came back to Singapore appreciating the safety much more. Just having strict control of firearms in Singapore proved to be a great leap in safety.
@@RonLarhz As they say here in Sg, low crime doesn't mean no crime. You could end up getting randomly stabbed to death here in Sg (happened) but its very very very very rare. It takes a lot of effort (lol) or really really bad luck to be robbed and/or get into a physical altercation here.
@@RonLarhz No countries is totally safe. It is how safe it can be. Instead of talking about Singapore, if given a choice to you, would you stay in Africa or NYC? Your theory is equal to no humans are kind because I ran into one trouble-looking maker.
Fair comment. Btw,.SG should be regarded as native English speakers as most speaks English at home. Singlish is just a mix of English with Malay and chinese dialogues. Actually, very much like NY, you also mixed in some black language, Midwest or southern slangs for instance. No one speak 100% English. Things get exaggerated to much.
I am about half way through my 3 mo the trip here. Really not much to do but it is nice centerpoint to travel to different countries.i. Not much of a foodie so not a place for me
Taking the point on integration of races, under British rule the races were heavily segregated. Arguably it seemed that every race had its own role in society during that time and there was (by design) not much interaction between races. This is why the government now sets such rules, to break the silo's between races/abolish segregation and to ensure fairness when it comes to selecting where you want to stay which has a ripple effect to gaining access to good public schools etc.
Singapore taxes are relatively 'low' in comparison only because it is a tiny country, and that most of our system are specifically tailored to our unique geographical location. It's almost impossible to replicate the conditions required anywhere else, so I don't think comparisons to major countries works all that well.
Actually right now the cost of living in Singapore is high if you planned to have more than 1 kid. Other than that if you don’t wanna own a car, it’s not that expensive.
As a Singaporean, I don’t “chope” seats/tables. And also pay no attention to things left by others to “chope”. This practice is not as common as years ago, probably because it seems inconsiderate. If I need a table, I will sit and wait for my companions to return from ordering their food.
Hm I think that just really depends on your social circle since I still do that occasionally when going out with friend ranging anywhere from anyone in their 20s to 30s
More recently, both prostate cancer incidence and mortality have been shown to increase with increasing latitude, which probably relates to photosynthesis of vitamin D.
Not important really to most people but I think I know the reason why there are no alcoholics in Singapore. I think it’s because alcohol is so expensive and going out for drinks with friends is a short-lived affair and that before you become an alcoholic you will become broke
I lived in major cities of world NYC, Dallas, Atlanta, Tokyo, HK and Singapore. I can say with full conviction nothing beats Singapore, Tokyo second best. NYC absolute worst, too much taxing, decrepit infra, rude and indifferent, endemic crime, poor connectivity between boroughs, homelessness, filth and swindlers at every corner. Never, ever I will miss NYC - only bright spot Rockefeller Plaza during Xmas but given the disdain for everything American tradition NYC 'rulers' behold, how much more long before woke crowd tears down every tradition? NYC had its glory days and that's just it.
Moving to Singapore is easy … though working in a financial institutes makes it very easy … if you’re working in non-engineering /finance well paid jobs the Singapore life of wonder flips. Try living as a local and not as a foreign talent … condos are not the norm. I disagree with the Govt depts working things out quickly and he missed the heavy medical costs here.
That's a valid point and a person's work will make a massive difference to their experience. For the medical costs I'd argue it's all relative. I moved from the US so Singapore is way more efficient and affordable.
If there’s a service charge, you don’t necessary need to tip. Well, u don’t need to leave a tip even if they don’t have a service charge for that matter. 😅
Here's the Singaporean perspective. Most dream of living in a spacious suburban house with a nice yard and garage and an SUV. We would also like decent paying jobs with union protection and due process and a government that doesn't persecute dissidents and gerrymander to rig the elections and interfere in every stage of our lives. That's why SG is called the Nanny state. If you are rich, SG works for you. You can drive and show off your million dollar Ferrari without fear of getting car jacked or robbed.
Better in terms of at least it's an option most of the year. NYC is less than ideal for over half the year (in my opinion), but once you clear the city there's definitely some great options. But commuter riding in Singapore is fantastic. Although you're right about the heat.
The interviewee is so eloquent. Loved the whole conversation
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can i say that this is the best video yet and no bs from the interview. very engaging.. good is good and bad is bad.. can't people just enjoy this video.. is that simple
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It’s great to hear his perspective having lived in other parts of the world. I’m an Asian American living in New York. I lived and worked in Singapore 2 years before pandemic. I can attest to many things mentioned here. From tax benefits, safety and low crime, efficient, and more open for foreigners than Japan. I hope to live there back again.
I’m American and I have lived and worked in Singapore for 14+ years, and it has been great for me. I highly recommend it here.
Only leave your wallet or phone to "chope" (reserve) for experimental reason...not habitually...don't tempt people to commit a crime. It is relatively low crime but don't mean NO crime.
Interesting that Singaporeans keep telling me this phrase
@@MaxChernov I don’t mean anything and please dun get me wrong. I am just stating the fact that about 1/3 of the people you encounter in Singapore are non-citizens, it's better to be safe than sorry.
It is a bad habit in a real world. Very bad habit.
Agree. Better to leave something less valuable. I don’t know of any fellow Singaporeans who would leave their phone or car keys to ‘chope’ a table.
@@MaxChernov It's common sense for every tourist destinations.
Bali also like this. It's very safe compared to other places in Indonesia. The local Balinese people rarely commit crime, but due to flock of tourists, domestic and international, it attract crime.
Let's say Bali b0mb incident was so unexpected and caught us off guard.
Great interview, Max. Put things into perspective how much we can be grateful for here. Looking forward for more!
My husband ( British) and I just moved back in August from NYC to Singapore - So much of what Howard said rings with us. For us living in Singapore (though only for a short while) has been a great improvement to NYC - however saying that NYC will always have a special place in our hearts but quickly Singapore filling the other parts of our heart. We have also lived in London, which was my favorite but Singapore has just so much more to offer for us and how we enjoy our personal time. Even cost of rentals is not that far from what is going on in NYC and the quality of food and the range of prices for that food is so much better here in Singapore. Make sure Howard knows about the Lazy Lizard at 6th Avenue once he gets out to Bukit Timah - a Great Local with the coldest beer in Singapore!
Thank you; I'll check out the Lazy Lizard when we move.
I have lived in Singapore for four years, after moving from London and tbh the place is a total let down. Weather is a awful/oppressive getting worse. People boring and regimented. I miss bands, theatre, restaurants and sporting events. Huge mistake moving here.
@@TT-kp5tp hi there, I'm a singaporean reading your comment but have to say that your points about the negatives are valid. Like every society, there isnt a perfect one. But do understand there is a reason behind why things are, and why people are. Singapore lacks resources and is small unlike other countries blessed with land, labour, resources. So in order for that "small guy" to be successful, he has to outwork, beyond most civilisations. As a result, the people here have to spend most of their time on education, working, being stressed about paychecks, which leads most of us to become somewhat oppressed. We work very hard to uphold the economy and image of Singapore, what foreigners do not know is the cutthroat competition in our job and education systems, which is why I also say other countries have the privilege of a work life balance while mlst of us don't. Entertainment and leisure barely gets you paid in Singapore, which is why bands, festivals etc are scarce. Now I also lived in other western countries for a long time and I can tell you that I have experienced both civilisations. There is good and bad for both, but both have beauty in their ways. It's hard for both to understand each other unless experienced.
@@user-kd2ez2mb3c love Singapore other than its one season only City country. Everyday is hot and humid. If someone is looking for a vibrant place, he or she will get bored in Singapore after a few months. I am a four season person.
@@Edward-np4ih 100%. I've been to and lived in other countries with four seasons. To me its such a bliss and that many may have unintentionally taken for granted.
I like the questions you asked. I got to know how foreigners see Singapore and also about other countries' culture too. Interviewee is articulate and clear in his responses. On 'choping' seat, tissue paper or umbrella are more commonly used by locals, fyi. Looking forward to new videos.
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Love his answers - straight to the point and well thought-out!
Excellent interview. You chose someone who does not give cliche answers. One can tell the thoughtfulness and sincerity in his answers. Just one suggestion to you, if u wish to widen your viewership, I have some suggestions. That is, if u talk about SG, goes for specific topics in-depth, for example, interviewing expatriates of different industry and well-known companies. Alternatively, you can talk about other countries, but give a SG perspective that is different from typical western media. Finally, I wish to thank you and your team for the excellent effort. I have subscribed you for some time and I am glad to see the improved quality. Keep it going.
thanks so much! good advice! We are coming with more interesting ppl soon:)
Great video, very informative for a local like me too. Make sense why foreigners appreciate Singapore. As a local, I may probably lament on the recent GST and income tax hike, but when I consider the taxes levied in NY and Europe, I felt a sense of gratitude instead. Looking forward for more videos in this channel, cheers
Thanks so much! New videos are coming
The chap gives some great advice to new comers to SG. Fairplay. You Definitely don’t see too many indicators
Excellent, quality interview! This guy is great! Thanks!
That's very kind of you to say. It's weird hearing my own voice, but Max and the team he works with did a great job putting it all together.
A major advantage is that one can travel to many neighbouring asian countries within 1 to 7 hours flight.
The world class Changi international airport is reachable under 30 minutes by or under 2 hour by public transport.
*under 30 mins by car “
Yes, for me it’s one of the biggest advantages!
Hey guys, just to remind everyone (whether you are Singaporean or not), it is not advisable to use your valuables (e.g. wallet, mobile phone) to "chope" tables in Singapore. I mean sure, we have a low crime rate here, but it doesn't hurt to stay vigilant. Just a short reminder! :))
Great video btw! Honestly it is interesting to learn how living in other countries compare to living in Singapore (for someone who doesn't get to travel overseas much)
Low crime doesn't mean no crime
packet of tissues, yes, I'm that assimilated into the Singapore culture ;)
Very good interview…
Have subscribed! Wishing you every success in your work in creating content!
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Yeah me too. 👏🏼👍🏼
Singapore is small, but to me, it is the capital city of ASEAN. I can easily have an impromptu short trip to neighbouring countries.
As a local living in Singapore, it can be rather affordable if you avoid alot of the lavish lifestyle and live like a local.
The part where you run out of places to visit is easy to fix, especially so if you can afford living in singapore. Singapore is very close to say, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia etc. You won't be running out of places to visit anytime soon in SEA really.
Fully agree
I agree with the sentiment; Singapore is amazingly well positioned for international travel and exploring SEA. I think the point was more that, compared to say Paris or Rome, if you want a short trip you can drive for 1-2hrs and be somewhere far off in the countryside. From Changi you'd need to fly and therefore 20min to the airport and (conservatively) 1hr before your flight. It's more effort. 2hrs from when you've left your front door and you're not going to have landed anywhere.
The effort is worth it, but I understand when people mention how small the city-state is.
Nice video. I'm Singaporean, I always treat those migrants or tourist as a Singaporean coz they're in Singapore. This make more people from other nations to be as one family regardless their race or religions.
I will guide them & let them know about Singapore law & Singaporeans culture coz I can't expect them to knew it.
Nice people from China, American, Australian, Canadian, French, Germany, India & many more that I've met them in Singapore.
Thanks so much for your kindness!!
Very interesting interview
I like your contents very informative for Singaporean to understand how the foreigners feel living in Singapore. Foreigners should try hawker food they are not expensive. Thank you for making these type of contents.
Singapore is such a great place to live that we have taken so much for granted.
It varies from restaurant to restaurant, but most will put any additional tips into a tip jar and divide it equally among the wait staff.
Thanks for explanation! I never knew that tips is a big portion in Singapore’s restaurants
I hope this pans out for your team, the content is awesome
Personally for me, as someone who was in Singapore during my teens at an international school and then coming back a couple of years later for an exchange program. Singapore got old pretty fast for me, I can see the appeal for parents wanting to raise their kids there but I can’t deny I’m happier in LA. Everyone has their preferences
Fully agree, the one should be based on its personal preferences when choosing a place to stay
Lol u certain US is younger in structure then Singapore. Lol. U certain u been to Singapore or any of your other cities in US? U comparing apple to apple? Lol. Which year 1960s. Sorry i cant stop loving. I studied in US your infrastructure are old. Lol
@@evelynn7827 Pretty sure the person meant it got boring for him pretty fast, and not the literal sense of "old" as in ageing.
@@MebiManga hahahaha wth eve must be dying from embarrassment after reading your comment
@@evelynn7827 born in Texas, grew up in LA, lived in Paris, Singapore and New York.
Totally calling bs on you having studied in the US considering your lack of english comprehension usually shown by Singaporeans who didn’t finish high school (that’s A levels for you, I know you’re one of the ignorant ones)
Cool video! Having a shop near Pasir Panjang, 80% of my customers are expats. Nice people.
Nice! What do you sell?
@@MaxChernov I sell meat! 🤣 If you're around the area, do drop by next year for some steaks.
With pleasure! What’s the address? :)
I have been in Singapore for all 3 years. Love the weather here, outdoor activities, and feel warmth from strangers.
Same for me:)
Great interviewer and interview.
Thanks so much 🙏
no tipping culture here ever since there is service charged at 10% for most F&B. But if u do, the tip goes into the tipping box and end of the month it will be shared among the crew. Usually the captain or floor manager get the most cut.
Thanks for explanation
Its sad to see that there are always SG haters commenting in YT videos whose contents involve SG, this video is no exception. There should be more haters here than what I am able to pick out, namely ; 1) DJ日記(MY), 2) Tang T(MY), 3) 孤勇鱼尾狮 Bravely Merlion(TW) & 4) 撸桦爽(TW). Their common tricks are to speak in the tone of a Singaporean and creating havoc. Hope that these haters can get a life and put their hatred behind.
Maybe some of them are Singaporeans, how do you know?
@@MaxChernov I can understand your doubts and concerns. Btw, you might have noticed that these 4 haters’ comments might not even be the worse and the comment(Tangling view my last unit tower C which I just sold 😂) from 撸桦爽 even looks harmless. Why I am able to pinpoint these 4 haters is through my(and from other viewers who expose their misdeeds) long term ‘tracking and observation’, they are even more aggressive in Chinese YT channels having created even more havoc. I can even more or less understand why they behave this way(of course there are chances that I might not be correct). For the 2 from MY, they are jealous of SG’s economic achievements as compared to their own country(those who are aware of the longstanding history of SG and MY will be able to appreciate what I have said). For the 2 from TW, they strongly believe that SG should whole-heartedly support TW but instead SG is neutral towards both CN and TW. Lastly, I have no intention to slander anyone, I'm just made known what I know. Peace, thank you for your understanding.
@@twis350 Undeniable facts, well said👍
Agreed, they are utterly disgusting and despicable.
Yes, i have noticed it as well. Whenever there are videos made about singapore, you will get a ton of haters from MY and some from TW. Jealousy is ugly, and it is ingrained in their politics.
Cool interview Max! Just couple of clarifications: I have seen a listing (older place) of “1456sqf” that was barely 1000sqf , and many private schools in NY are way pricier than international schools here in Sing. Not to encourage ours to catch on ;)
That's a fair comment. I'm sure there are issues with floor measurements from time to time. On the plus side, it's easy to report and should get fixed.
For schools: absolutely, but foreigners in the US can get their kids into state funded schools (pay tax: get school) while that's not quite as straightforward in Singapore.
Great Interview and I agree with a lot of comments Re: NY city tax and complicated Tax systems in the US - Having lived in NYC, NY, Chicago, IL, San Francisco, CA and Dallas, Texas. I have followed quite a number of your interviews Max and for the most part enjoyed it and finally subscribed after hearing you lament your irritation at people watching the videos and not subscribing in the last interview I watched, of the "younger" Singaporean living in London - Oh and was his moustache a camo or it was for real....?
If I may, I would challenge you to pick out less fortunate Foreigners who find it hard to make ends meet in Singapore. I think having a dichotomy with different situations in Singapore might add to the realism of your channel. Of course everyone wants to hear of the Up up ups...but sometimes hardships add a new dimension to the real struggles to life and it could also show that the "wow" world of Singapore does have its "woes" for the not so affluent foreigners. I am a Singaporean living in the US and Budapest, Hungary and i follow your channel to feel attached to Singapore. I left Singapore in 1989 but as the saying goes, You can take the boy out of Singapore but you can't take the Singapore out of the Boy *man*!
Idolising singapore is s natural thing. Its the paradise on earth everyone wants to be in. Many years ago no one knows about us but now, everyone wants to be here as this is the best place on earth. Good luck getting a ticket.
Thank you for your kindness 🙏😊
Haha
I’m Asian from US. Lived in HK, Malaysia, Shanghai, and S’pore.
My experience with S’pore is a mix of good and not so good. I miss my friends and neighbours mostly, the city walk in early mornings and/or after dinner when S’pore was not fully opened.
Can you share what was good and bad?
Dear max Singapore is a place of migrant and I am proud of what you are doing for society and for the world and when this place became a British colony it brought people from all over the world and did you know the high Street was known as little Russia and River Valley used to have a large Jew community and so do other parts of the country relate to community that lives there my point is people who lives in this country actually help to solve economic issues in the world
I didn’t know that! Thanks so much for your comment!
I lived at Killiney Rd ( near River Valley) and later moved to River Valley itself. Yet i never knew that it had a large Jewish community. I only found out in my later years that i'm also probably Jewish. There's a synagogue in nearby Exeter Rd over there which i only found out after i moved elsewhere.
Great video! Thinking about trying SG out in 2 years
You should!
Thank you.Subscribed. Would like to know more about Singapore PR. Please make a detailed video with someone who has got a PR and the process.
Being a PR is not as great as the fantasy brings … what do you want to know?
You can’t buy HDB BTO, your classed as a 3rd class citizen you can’t vote.
biggest difference Singapore school have zero mass shooters, your kids if they are your no.1 priority are very safe here
Such a intresting interview! Make more content similar to this
🙏 We will!
Great video. I'm a housing agent. It's mandatory for us to verify the gross floor area of a property (among other facts finding checks) so that our ads reflect the information accurately before we even put up the ad. You'd be surprised some owners can get those numbers wrong throughout their time in the property and only realise it when I show them the official figures.
Haha interesting!
When I was in New York, I kept hearing siren barking every now and then; either from fire engine, ambulance or the cop. It made me feel like I was watching a Hollywood movie. Just that this is real.
No need to go to the cinema haha
Always enjoy your interviews. Keep it up. Don’t be discouraged. Support you with yr good works 👍
Thank you, sis!
I am from Singapore and now living in upper east side. I have also lived in Europe, Middle East, Australia and other parts of Asia. I agree with the comments in the video. Singapore is a lot safer and cleaner.
Singapore is amazing!
This is a good video. I have the chance to be in NYC but only for some hours. Because my friend insisted on not staying in NYC as he said it was a dangerous place. I have a chance to get up to WTC too. It was autumn and the wind was freezing.
I move to Singapore 🇸🇬 anytime
You do not have to work?
@@franciscody9622 what do u mean you do not have to work. I think you have to work every where in the world 🌎. My apologies but I do not get what you are trying to say. Unless u mean no work in Singapore 🇸🇬 or something
Really interesting interview. Useful enough to start thinking about Singapore.
"It's relatively dirty, without being disrespectful to New York." That has got to be the most polite and British way of pointing out something that we all know is so obviously true! 😅
As a singaporean.. i would say if you got kids and wish to be above average for not just yourself and the kids.. Singapore is no fun. But if you only need to watch for yourself and your spouse.. Singapore always.. Money make things easier but does not solve the rat race requirement problem in Singapore.
Try Bukit Panjang, near to Bukit Timah and definitely much cheaper for rental.
Cool video 👍🏽
When we say Chope, we use tissue packets most of the time. Although it is relatively safe here, there is still crime. It’s better to not leave personal items and valuables unguarded
I love Singapore 🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬🇸🇬
The signal thing is so true. I’m not a driver but my family complains a lot about it 😂 Singapore drivers don’t care
As a local living in Singapore, it can be rather affordable if you avoid a lot of the lavish lifestyle and live like a local.
Ya lor..🤣
exactly. Eat at coffeeshop instead of restaurant. Shop at wet market or Sheng Sion instead of cold storage. I'm a foreigner, married to a local and lived n HDB. My friends are almost all locals, and often proclaim I'm more Singaporean in lifestyle then them ;)
ok plus one like, subscribed
last time i worked in a 5 star hotel in sg, saw a $10 and went running telling the guest he has left the money on the table. 🤭
Haha nice!
like how howard said about vice goods and leisure stuff are highly taxed its true singapore government encourage people to use the public transport because its very convenient to use as compared to other countries you literally get to the place you want to if not out of the station about 10 to 15min walk to the locations. as for tipping here's an advice for you.. ask the waiter/waitresses if the tip is solely for them cause most of the restaurant in singapore dont have a tipping system unless you visit the higher end dining places. usually owner receive the tips so ask if the tip is shared amongst the service crew or individually to prevent awkwardness
I guess they still might be confused if you ask about it (tipping in general)
@@MaxChernov hahaha i guess? Im certain most restaurant staff are well informed if the service crew do/don't get to keep their tips but they would't put a sign there to tell customers about it..
No, I mean not who keeps the tips, but overall the question about tips
@@MaxChernov As a Singaporean, we probably are more confused to the culture of tipping. Even now, I don't understand why isn't the place you working at pay normal hourly wage. Business in Singapore pay reasonable to their workers hence most people don't feel the need to consider theft and etc. which is one of the reason that makes Singapore safe.
There is some tipping culture towards food deliveries driver (due to how hard they have to work sometimes) but generally restaurant does not need tipping. For us, the best way to support them is to visit them again or share to your friends about the food.
@@MaxChernov it depends on the integrity of the service staff that collects ur payment or stand around your table if its cash tips.
New York, New York. I stood in freezing cold half a day just to eyeball how they setup a huge Xmas Tree in Rockefeller Center, and by the time they finished the crowning Jewel Star of Swarovski? 🤣 I was half frozen dead. 😂 Max, I like your interview series, thumb up!
haha love your freezing story!
Singapore is good but not perfect. I know a lot of Singaporean only likes to read positive comments about the country itself and become defensive if people criticize it. NYC has its charm and it has a lot more opportunities than Singapore (arts, fashion, etc.). NYC is definitely more diverse than Singapore and the trains run 24 hours all day.
I’ve lived in New York long ago and Singapore for the past 16 years, and just moved to ? ... Thailand?
Singapore is clean but it’s simply a system of profit making and commerce. I lived near the most of nature but
I also had a motorcycle for 12 years but had an accident that forced me to stop riding.
I left also because of the intensity of electromagnetic fields across the island...I’m sensitive to them. I’ve seen more and more people diagnosed with brain tumors in Singapore.
I also felt trapped on the island. You have to fly to get anywhere outside of Malaysia or Bintan, Indonesia.
It’s just not a place I can see myself being happy in. Nature is truly secondary as it has to be when there are 8,800 people per square kilometer.
There’s very little actual quiet or darkness.
Not a quality of life....simply convenience and a sense of safety and profit.
Yes this place sucks a lot of materialist people and fake laughter ..fake people...
Coincidentally we live in the same Condo. Tanglin View.
COE does not grant a right for a person so own a vehicle. A COE is needed for a vehicle to be registered. cOE stays with the vehicle. Many non Singaporeans that I spoke to thought that someone who buys a COe can own vehicles for 10 years. Which is wrong
COE is a 10yr rental along with HDB is a 99yr rental. You don’t own either of those things
This video exactly shown how life is good if you are a rich foreigner living in Singapore. The place he is staying is an average Joe monthly wages . 5 mins drive or 10 mins train to downtown. It was public housing when the government decided to tear down and made private housing for the rich. His love for bikes again shows the fact the COE system is made for the rich . Now before you could own a bike , you need to pay average 10k SGD for Coe. The bike are all under the same classification, making delivery man out of options when they only earn 2K a month .
Life definitely perfect if you are high paying non Singaporean male individual. Singaporean men owns a 2 year and 10 cycle national debt to protect these expat.
That's certainly an opinion. Not one I happen to agree with but I appreciate the perspective. I don't own a car but I know many locals who do and pay the $100k plus COE which the government enforces. I do happen to agree that bike COEs should be tied to CC just like cars, but I don't get to have a voice on that.
Agreed, and glad someone has woken up to this fact. We Singaporeans work our butts off to provide a lavish life for expats who aren't even that qualified alot of the times.
@@ImJuStoOGoOd Your previous comment says you left Singapore for Canada. It's funny because I've got Canadian friends who bemoan how they work their butts off to provide a lavish lifestyle for the expats there (especially the ones who aren't particularly good at their jobs). Have a wonderful day.
@@howardpackham well I'm not an expat, and there's little to no expats in Canada, they have a proper immigration system that allows skilled migrant workers into the country and contribute to the economy, so there's a form of transparency and proper checks. Seems you are misinformed but that's okay. Hope you learned something new. You have a wonderful day too
@@ImJuStoOGoOd I'm also not an expat, but the flow of conversation previously sure felt like the two of you were suggesting I'm unwelcome in Singapore. It's just humorous to me that you framed your statement suggesting you were working your butt off in Singapore, when you're not. Enjoy international travel, meet new people, have fun. I'll try to assume good intentions next time.
what about Da Nang city, VN...???
Parks and Gardens are made for to stay here:-
It’s one of the most livable cities in the world. But not near the liveliest (as compared to London, NY, Tokyo, HK)
I guess it also depends on your life and career stage
Singapore is unarguably one of the best developed countries to live in. New York in comparison to most developed countries is one of the bottom few in my opinion. The lack of safety is alrdy a big nah ah. Hopefully most Singaporeans would open their eyes wide & realize they’re in bliss
It's true. I am a Singaporean and went to NYC for a leisure tour. I came back to Singapore appreciating the safety much more. Just having strict control of firearms in Singapore proved to be a great leap in safety.
i've lost stuff n ran into trouble-looking fkers. sg is not safe. it's just that ushita is much worse.
@@RonLarhz As they say here in Sg, low crime doesn't mean no crime. You could end up getting randomly stabbed to death here in Sg (happened) but its very very very very rare. It takes a lot of effort (lol) or really really bad luck to be robbed and/or get into a physical altercation here.
@@RonLarhz No countries is totally safe. It is how safe it can be. Instead of talking about Singapore, if given a choice to you, would you stay in Africa or NYC? Your theory is equal to no humans are kind because I ran into one trouble-looking maker.
I’m a Singaporean. I have to say that your post is spoken like a true frog in the well. LOL.
Singapore is much more claustrophobic.
USA you can live in the suburbs, or just go on a drive.
Singapore, you are much more limited in casual travel.
I can agree with that if you are super used to drive a car. Otherwise, there is Changi :) and so many options for fast travel.
Fair comment. Btw,.SG should be regarded as native English speakers as most speaks English at home. Singlish is just a mix of English with Malay and chinese dialogues. Actually, very much like NY, you also mixed in some black language, Midwest or southern slangs for instance. No one speak 100% English. Things get exaggerated to much.
I am about half way through my 3 mo the trip here. Really not much to do but it is nice centerpoint to travel to different countries.i. Not much of a foodie so not a place for me
No comparison.as no place is best.We love our country Singapore.
Why no comparison? It’s interesting, no matter which places you love:)
Taking the point on integration of races, under British rule the races were heavily segregated. Arguably it seemed that every race had its own role in society during that time and there was (by design) not much interaction between races.
This is why the government now sets such rules, to break the silo's between races/abolish segregation and to ensure fairness when it comes to selecting where you want to stay which has a ripple effect to gaining access to good public schools etc.
I would like more info on the Schools. It seems so unaffordable for 2 kids on one salary
International school is normally 1500-3000 sgd per month
how about being gunned down in Singapore is almost impossible.
u wont get gunned down but ur quite likely to get worked to death
Singapore taxes are relatively 'low' in comparison only because it is a tiny country, and that most of our system are specifically tailored to our unique geographical location. It's almost impossible to replicate the conditions required anywhere else, so I don't think comparisons to major countries works all that well.
Maybe you’re right, but people judge the taxes in a particular place from my an end customer point of you
Actually right now the cost of living in Singapore is high if you planned to have more than 1 kid. Other than that if you don’t wanna own a car, it’s not that expensive.
Yeah, the main expense is housing for a big family
Bravo
Thanks
As a Singaporean, I don’t “chope” seats/tables. And also pay no attention to things left by others to “chope”. This practice is not as common as years ago, probably because it seems inconsiderate. If I need a table, I will sit and wait for my companions to return from ordering their food.
What if u r alone? Have u ever hold a tray of food and walking round and round to find a seat?
Hm I think that just really depends on your social circle since I still do that occasionally when going out with friend ranging anywhere from anyone in their 20s to 30s
Which is better to live in: New York or Singapore?
NYC is a vibrant heaven and hell; Sg is tiny city state with little surprise .
More recently, both prostate cancer incidence and mortality have been shown to increase with increasing latitude, which probably relates to photosynthesis of vitamin D.
To live in? Definitely SG for all the daily conveniences we often take for granted. NYC is great for a visit but not to live in.
Singapore!👍👍👍😎😎👏👏
Singapore! For its security…not having to look over one’s shoulders all the time eliminates a lot of stress! And more, if and when one retires.
Are you serving National Service in Singapore Army for Free for a few years ?
With pleasure!
@@MaxChernov I can refer you to the most pleasurable platoon lieutenant.
I guess one can not compare countries, cultures or way of life without being very subjective because of his (her) own culture and way of life.
That’s for sure, everyone is biased
Not important really to most people but I think I know the reason why there are no alcoholics in Singapore. I think it’s because alcohol is so expensive and going out for drinks with friends is a short-lived affair and that before you become an alcoholic you will become broke
Actually there are a lot of alcoholics, even among my friends here 😂
Hey we are neighbour! I live in Blk B :)
haha small world:)
What about Singapore rival Malaysia ?
Coming soon, video from KL
@@MaxChernov Malaysia suck anyway.
I lived in major cities of world NYC, Dallas, Atlanta, Tokyo, HK and Singapore. I can say with full conviction nothing beats Singapore, Tokyo second best. NYC absolute worst, too much taxing, decrepit infra, rude and indifferent, endemic crime, poor connectivity between boroughs, homelessness, filth and swindlers at every corner. Never, ever I will miss NYC - only bright spot Rockefeller Plaza during Xmas but given the disdain for everything American tradition NYC 'rulers' behold, how much more long before woke crowd tears down every tradition? NYC had its glory days and that's just it.
What about Hong Kong?
Leaving in New York expansive but living outside New York cheaper . People using train to move around .
Yep, like most of big cities
👍👏💪🇸🇬
Why am I watching this tho I moved from San Antonio to Singapore in 2010
Because the content is so good! 😁
Moving to Singapore is easy … though working in a financial institutes makes it very easy … if you’re working in non-engineering /finance well paid jobs the Singapore life of wonder flips. Try living as a local and not as a foreign talent … condos are not the norm. I disagree with the Govt depts working things out quickly and he missed the heavy medical costs here.
That's a valid point and a person's work will make a massive difference to their experience. For the medical costs I'd argue it's all relative. I moved from the US so Singapore is way more efficient and affordable.
If there’s a service charge, you don’t necessary need to tip. Well, u don’t need to leave a tip even if they don’t have a service charge for that matter. 😅
hello can i ask a question about singapore can you help me
please do
@@MaxChernov So where can I reach you? Can I write you on Instagram?
You can write here :)
Here's the Singaporean perspective. Most dream of living in a spacious suburban house with a nice yard and garage and an SUV. We would also like decent paying jobs with union protection and due process and a government that doesn't persecute dissidents and gerrymander to rig the elections and interfere in every stage of our lives. That's why SG is called the Nanny state. If you are rich, SG works for you. You can drive and show off your million dollar Ferrari without fear of getting car jacked or robbed.
If you are the middle class, also works, no?
I hope you like my country!
Very much!
Well I thought he would said he missed Fish and Chip
I know I did…and still do.
No tips. I had to explain to my american acquaintance. He couldn't and didn't wanna understand.
Blue horizon??
Not to be rude but a growing number of people are starting to see cities in the US and Europe as "shitholes" these days.
Omg he lives in heritage vile I live near there
Nice!
Mutt motorcycle 😊. But riding here better? Nah. Its too hot and the roads are too crowded. Scenery sucks too
Better in terms of at least it's an option most of the year. NYC is less than ideal for over half the year (in my opinion), but once you clear the city there's definitely some great options. But commuter riding in Singapore is fantastic. Although you're right about the heat.