Why I can never leave Singapore

After almost six years in Singapore, I've come to realize that the things that truly make a place feel like home aren’t always the big, flashy landmarks or even the major life milestones. It’s the small, everyday comforts — the seemingly insignificant habits and conveniences — that quietly embed themselves into your daily life and end up shaping what home feels like.

You can watch the episode here or read on for a quick round up.

Things I Didn't Know I'd Need (But Now Can't Live Without)

Here are some of the things I’ve come to love — and rely on — living in Singapore:

1. Covered Walkways

If you live here, you get it. These walkways are everywhere and they are lifesavers in both the heat and the rain. Not perfect in sideways rain, sure, but they’re an everyday convenience I truly appreciate — especially compared to places like the UK or Australia, where you’re mostly left to battle the elements with just an umbrella.

2. Public Transport

Singapore’s public transport is a dream. MRTs, LRTs, buses — it’s all reliable, clean, safe, and affordable. I love that my kids can travel independently and safely, and that I can get across the island without needing a car. In fact, I don’t miss driving at all.

3. Park Connectors

Want to save money and get some fresh air? Take a run, cycle, or walk along the many park connectors — smooth, scenic paths often running alongside canals (which are much prettier than they sound). No cars, safe for families, and sometimes you even spot otters!

4. Food Delivery (and 24/7 Options)

Grab, Foodpanda, Amazon, and more — food is never far away, no matter the time of day. Whether the schedule is full and I dont't have time to cook, or I'm craving something I can't cook, I can always rely on food delivery. Bonus: less washing up so more time to spend with my family.

5. Diverse, Delicious, Affordable Food

Singapore is a food lover’s paradise. Whether it’s $4 chicken rice at the hawker center or a fine-dining meal, the variety is unbeatable. I love dosa for breakfast, snacks from Old Chang Kee in the afternoon, roast pork rice and so much more. There aren't enough meals in the week to eat it all!

Also: choping tables at hawker centers with tissue packets — a habit I’ve fully embraced and would never dare attempt in the UK, I'd just lose my tissues and my spot!

6. Multicultural Harmony

What a gift to be surrounded by people from all over the world. I love how the MRT stations and supermarkets are decorated for every festival — Hari Raya, Deepavali, Lunar New Year, Christmas — and how our children grow up learning from and celebrating different cultures.

It’s not about perfection, but about peaceful coexistence, open-mindedness, and shared respect. It’s something I’ve come to treasure deeply.

7. Safety

This one is huge. I feel safe walking alone at night, and I know my kids are safe taking public transport. There’s a mutual respect here — people generally look out for one another. I recently had to pop into a clinic after crucsing my toe under a door. I don't usually carry cash, but this time i didn't have my bank card either. I usually pay with apple pay. They told me I could come back and pay later! That kind of trust is rare and wonderful.

8. Nature (Even in the City)

Nature is never far away. Monitor lizards, monkeys (they still scare me!), birds, giant ants — it’s a reminder that we’re in a tropical paradise. With NParks spaces all over the island, there’s always somewhere green to walk, even if it's just a quiet corner with a bench and a few trees. Just remember to bring bug spray and a water bottle.

Bishan Ang Mo Kio Park

9. Bubble Tea Fridays

Yes, this gets its own mention. Bubble tea has become a little weekly tradition. It started off as ice cream Friday, but now the kids are getting older they ask for bubble tea. It's less about the bubble tea but more about the time we set aside each week to sit and enjoy our drinks together whilst we chat about our days.

Current favourite: peach green tea with aloe vera from iTea.

Got a suggestion? I’m always looking for new ones to try.

A Reminder to Be Thankful

I’ve realized that it's these little things — bubble tea, walkable trails, late-night dumplings, safety, diversity — that have crept into my life and made Singapore feel not just livable, but lovable. They’re the threads in the fabric of my everyday.

So here’s your gentle reminder: take a moment to notice the small wonders. Pause. Look around. Appreciate what you have — even if it’s just a kopi in the rain or a seat on the MRT.

-Millie