What is it like to live in Singapore since 1989

Meet Bill, a Canadian who moved to Singapore in 1989. Surprisingly, he still doesn't hold PR. Over ten years ago, he left his corporate job and launched a successful Panama Hat salon. We discussed how to settle well in Singapore, why one should consider buying a house in Batam, and the life regrets of a 65-year-old expat. Enjoy!

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Hey! This channel bridges the gap between locals and foreigners in Singapore. Join Max as he interviews expats, unraveling their unique stories and providing valuable insights into their lives in this vibrant city-state. Through engaging conversations, Max fosters understanding and appreciation between Singaporeans and the global community with a focus on cultural exchange.

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[MaxChernov]

The story of an American who moved to Singapore 17 years ago. We discuss soaring prices in Singapore, the importance of speaking Mandarin at local Hawker centers, and why some foreigners can't wait to leave the city-state. Enjoy!

[sportsterable]

I live in Doha, Qatar and have done business with Bill and Hat of Cain over the last couple of years. From my experience, he is a gentleman and a pleasure to do business with. Nothing is too much trouble for him. This is a great video - thanks for posting

[alexanderavanth]

This resonated with me. In my late 20s I got headhunted for a 6-figure USD salary working for a large Asian conglomerate. As much as I enjoyed the salary and status after two years I was so fed up working for someone else who literally had a price to my time. I remember my CTO pulling me aside one day and told me: "Alex, you'll need to give at least 5 years to the company before you can get any of your own ideas through". The next month I quit my job. I stayed in Asia because of the opportunities, people and culture, but I started my own venture. I was terrified of that decision, but I was free. Money is important, but peace of mind is priceless.

[jessistanbul]

He is so down to earth, intelligent about life (i.e., 'everyone is entirely dispensable') and straightforward. Great video!

[phillphelan]

Worked for a Mega Multi National in the 70's, Asia Pacific had Corporate office in Singapore -worked 10 days a month, staying at the Mandarin, took my wife there for 1st time in the 80's and she keeps going back for 3 weeks at a time each year, just love the place, your interview was brilliant, I am 10 years older than Bill but his knowledge and experience is worth listening to. Especially for the younger ones of today.

[moffzar]

there is a saying that "work in Singapore, enjoy in Thailand, live in Malaysia"

[sebastianniqvist]

5:17 work too hard for somebody who doesn’t care.
These words are pure gold. In this time and age you are fully dispensable and companies don’t care.

[ViksterG]

Absolute gem of a gentleman! Appreciate this episode, it has life advice, financial advice, past, present and future. 10/10.

[michaelhiggins]

I have to say this s an EXCEPTIONAL interview. The sheer knowledge and life experience this gentleman shares is truly invaluable.

[sshivash]

The gentleman is so calm and wise and the interviewer asked some great questions. I love Singapore and have visited more than a dozen times in the past 20 years. Enjoyed watching, thank you!

[lidna]

Just based on how he best describes Singapore, he deserves a PR! He is so real and subtle.

[Voigtlander]

Great to see Bill on FB and I was a satisfied customer of his Panama hats!. I am a Singaporean that is educated overseas and currently residing in US with my family. What Bill said is quite an accurate description of Singapore. I too was in the corporate for a while and many expats I know understand how deep xenophobia and nepotism runs in Singapore but will not openly share their experience for fear of repercussions from the State. I am surprised that Bill is not able get Singapore PR as average PRC nationals can get theirs in about 5-10 years of residency in Singapore. As a parting shot, just remember that not all that glitters is gold. Makes you wonder why so many Singaporeans migrated overseas and many young Singaporeans see that migration is one of their long term options.

[pinkymoon]

I wish this interview was longer. Would have loved to hear more from him. 😢

[yawarlol]

He was so candid. Loved the interview. Real one.

[cindychin]

Bill gave the best advice at the end of the video 😝👍

[jirilamac]

So many good points about business, money, life in such a short video. Thank you and Bill.

[angusorvid]

Bill is an interesting character, a true man of the world. Great wisdom. I loved this interview.

[Ontario]

Outstanding interview. I am the same age as Bill. This video helped me reflect on my own life. Thanks for posting!!

[prodigalsorcerer]

Now, there's a man who knows his own heart. Bitter experience is a valuable fruit that will not go stale and, apparently, can be turned into hats.

[morganf]

This sort of entrepreneur content is awesome - and great to hear someone who obviously knows what he’s talking about!