In our series, Citizen Expat, Megan Murray interviews women across the globe about their expat experiences, including building community, connecting to a new culture, finding the best local spots, and the travel tips you need to know. This month, we speak to Karmen Tang.
Would you move to the other side of the world if your boss asked you to? London to Singapore isn’t a casual commute and when former financial controller, now nutritionist and model, Karmen Tang, was given the opportunity to turn her world upside down for maternity cover – she took it. But, Singapore wasn’t what she expected.
This clean, strict but safe, tiny and tropical utopia couldn’t be more different to London’s sprawling boroughs, gritty streets and diversely creative scene. It was a culture shock; especially for someone who had never really considered living abroad in the first place.
While it took some getting used to, seven years later and Tang is not only still there – she doesn’t plan on leaving. Instead, she’s grown with the city, coming to appreciate its orderliness and expansive green spaces… not to mention having South Asia on her doorstep, inspiring her travel plans no end.
Here, Tang explains how she came to make the move of a lifetime, the trickier parts of getting permanent residency and of course, where to eat and drink if planning a trip yourself.
You’re known for wellness content – but how did you get into the industry?
I’ve pivoted throughout my career so this might take a minute! I studied economy management in Southampton and moved to London after university, qualifying as an accountant before becoming a financial controller at a global creative agency. Then, I moved to Singapore and some time afterwards, was headhunted to work in crypto currency which was a huge change – I knew nothing about crypto but was excited to take a leap and give myself a career edge, especially in a male dominated industry. Not long afterwards, a family member was diagnosed with lung cancer and a freak accident I had led to a CT scan, where I too realised there were legions on my lungs. It was a wake up call: I realised, health is everything. That’s when I took an interest in nutrition, wellness and began creating content.
What were your first impressions of Singapore?
I moved in 2018 and it was a last minute decision. I received a call from my company’s COO about taking over maternity cover in Singapore – I was living in London at the time and within two months I was on a flight. At first, I didn’t love it. I was lonely and, instead of making friends, I saw this as a temporary position and chance to travel instead, using Singapore as a base to see this part of the world. But, when I was given the opportunity to stay longer I realised how much I’d grown to appreciate it.
For those who have never been, what’s Singapore like – especially to live?
I grew up visiting family in Hong Kong and I think people compare the two as Westernised Southeast Asian cities but they’re nothing alike, so it was a culture shock for me. Singapore is tiny and incredibly clean, orderly and efficient. It’s actually illegal to chew gum. It’s also less creative than somewhere like London. Before moving I was taking art classes and a regular at gigs, but it’s harder to find these kinds of cultural experiences in Singapore. But, it’s changing all the time with more pop ups, events and restaurants opening. There’s also more job opportunities, favourable tax and it’s safer than London. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realised what a good standard of living this city provides. Plus, it’s so much smaller, so everyone knows each other and you’re exposed to a melting pot of international residents; perhaps people I would have never met in London. It feels like a very different crowd.
How did you find your people?
Partly, my podcast helped me connect with people that I found interesting. I started Another Startup Story podcast back in 2018 and gradually it began to do well; at one point it was in the top five entrepreneur podcasts for Southeast Asia. My content bridges the gap between creativity and commerce – you know, the right and left brain kind of thing. I found myself being drawn to those in the wellness industry and slowly started to pivot. Once I had my own brand, I threw myself into networking, asking people out for coffees, going to events etc.
OK, if we were to move tomorrow – what do we need to know about the boring stuff?
VISA wise, a common route is working for a company who will apply for an Employment Pass (EP) for you, which is based on criteria around your salary and work, and how many expats vs locals the company employs. In COVID, for example, employment went down and the government prioritised locals which meant EPs were hard to get, or people even lost them. I know some who have been in Singapore for 15 years and have children here, but are only on an EP. Now, I have my own business so it means I can sponsor myself which is easier, but I’ve applied for permanent residency twice and been rejected. Renting wise, apartments in Singapore are expensive and sought after especially because of the tax benefits of being here, a lot of companies want to set up shop, and the issues Hong Kong has been facing has seen an influx of people relocating.
How has Singapore changed you as a person?
Singapore has the highest density of billionaires and, of course, I’m not saying that all of my friends are billionaires but it attracts successful people – particularly those with an entrepreneurial mindset. Being in my early thirties and surrounded by business owners who have a strong self-belief mindset has given me courage and it’s really inspiring. Combined with Singapore’s size, I save time on a morning commute or getting around in general, the weather is great and so I spend more of my time exercising and prioritising my health. I feel like I’ve evolved as a person.
Can you name a moment that made you miss home?
Singaporeans are a little more serious than the British, so I do miss having banter or just a general chat. I remember being in a crazy Pilates class and the instructor was doing all of these advanced moves; stuck with my legs in the air I looked over at the person next to me to smile or sort of share this funny moment with, but they were very serious and looking straight ahead. That’s just one example – and maybe they were really into it! – but in general having a laugh and some banter just isn’t as easy here.
What does a day in the life of Karmen look like?
For years, I didn’t invest in an apartment – I was single or just not with the right person – but now, my partner and I have a beautiful place overlooking the MacRitchie Reservoir. So, mornings start with getting some sunlight on my face with a nature walk through the reservoir. I’ll make my morning beverages like lemon water, bone broth or a smoothie, and then spend some time on my laptop – writing scripts, consulting, planning shoots. Life can look glamorous online (and sometimes it is!) but I also spend a lot of time just being at home. In the afternoon I might focus on nutrition, either for myself and meal prep, or for a workshop, and in the evening I’ll often go to an event. These days, I try to be selective so as not to drain my energy but there’s so many new brands and interesting restaurants opening, there’s always something going on.
How has relocation from the UK to Southeast Asia changed your attitude to travel?
First of all, travelling to Singapore is a dream. Did you know that Singapore Changi Airport is regularly touted as the best airport in the world? It’s honestly such a luxury: there’s a huge flower dome in the centre, a cinema, you can even do your groceries there. It’s so efficient, too; you don’t even scan your passport, your face is instantly recognised. But, since living here I’ve obviously explored more of East Asia. Ho Chi Minh, Phuket or Bangkok are so exciting and gritty – and I couldn’t recommend their food scenes enough. If you’re a foodie, these are places to visit.
We’re on the next flight – what’s your Singapore hit-list?
Start the day with good coffee at Kurasu or try the Arabica Matcha at KYŌ KOHEE 112 Robinson. For brunch, I’d recommend Bonjour Ma Cuisine which is inspired by Parisian bistros and recently updated their brunch menu with some great dishes – including organic Japanese scrambled eggs! For dinner, head to AIR CCCC which is a multi-faceted dining concept spanning workshops, an open garden, and restaurant, all rooted in sustainability.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?