Tourist “Amazed” by Singapore Questions Why Some Singaporeans Don’t Appreciate Their Country

SINGAPORE: After a recent visit to Singapore, an Asian American tourist took to Reddit to express amazement at the city-state, asking why some Singaporeans seem dissatisfied with their homeland. The visitor, who posted on r/askSingapore on Dec 2, shared that Singapore’s high standard of living, modern infrastructure, natural beauty, and healthcare left a lasting impression, calling it “utopia.”

The tourist’s observations highlighted Singapore’s clean environment and impressive modernization, especially when compared to other cities in Asia and the West. The post sparked diverse responses from Singaporeans, many of whom pointed out that the experience as a resident differs from that of a tourist. “Some Singaporeans who complain about living here aren’t aware of the living situation elsewhere,” one Redditor replied, adding that the desire to explore life outside is natural.

Several others commented on the contrast between high living standards and quality of life in Singapore. “We live in flats smaller than 90 sqm, travel by crowded public transport, and probably will never own a car,” shared one commenter. Others noted Singapore’s intense work culture, frequent long hours, and high cost of living as factors that weigh heavily on residents.

Studies show a complex picture. While Singapore ranks as the happiest country in Asia (25th globally) in the 2023 World Happiness Report, daily life challenges often make satisfaction elusive. Reports indicate rising job dissatisfaction, long working hours, and a high cost of living that make day-to-day life challenging.

Though the debate remains lively, the contrasting perspectives reveal that while Singapore has a strong international reputation, residents’ experiences vary, colored by everyday pressures and realities that tourists rarely encounter.