Earn in SGD, Live Like a King Elsewhere?

As a Singaporean living in Singapore, I often find myself wondering what life could be like beyond our borders. If my savings were enough to cover my basic expenses, I wouldn’t necessarily migrate permanently—but I would love to travel the world more freely. There’s something deeply enriching about stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and exploring different cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives.

Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, the UK, and Malaysia are high on my travel list. Each of these destinations holds its own unique charm and learning opportunities. Australia and New Zealand offer stunning natural landscapes and a more laid-back pace of life that contrasts sharply with Singapore’s urban buzz. Hong Kong fascinates me with its blend of East and West, familiar yet different. The UK appeals with its rich history and diversity, while Malaysia feels like a close neighbor with cultural similarities, but a very different pace and cost of living.

For me, travel isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about experiencing new ways of thinking and living—widening my worldview beyond the structured, fast-paced rhythm of Singapore. Being immersed in different environments helps me reflect more deeply on my own life and priorities.

That said, I don’t see myself relocating permanently. While Singapore is undeniably expensive, it’s also where my roots are. My family is here, and that connection is not something I can easily trade for lower living costs or a slower lifestyle elsewhere. Beyond that, Singapore offers things I’d deeply miss—delicious food at every corner, incredible cleanliness, safety, and the efficiency that makes everyday life run smoothly. It’s not perfect, but it’s home.

I’ve come to realize that where we choose to live shouldn’t be driven purely by economics. Emotional connection, familiarity, support systems, and personal identity all play a big role. While I might not move overseas for good, if I had more financial freedom, I would definitely invest in more travel experiences. Travel, to me, is one of the best ways to grow personally—more so than any material upgrade.

In the end, spending SGD abroad doesn’t have to mean giving up home. It can be a gateway to temporary adventures that enrich our life while still being anchored to the place we love most. It’s about finding balance: appreciating home, while remaining open to the world.