By Louise Agartson | 24 Sep 2025
How My Journey to Singapore Began
I’ve always been an adventure seeker, relishing the chance to push myself outside my comfort zone. While life in Sweden was enjoyable and home, it became increasingly predictable. And those long, dark, and rainy autumn and winter months didn’t make it easier.
When my husband traveled frequently to Asia, it sparked a desire for change. So, during my second maternity leave with Naomi, the decision to move to Singapore for a year felt effortless!
In 2019, we relocated to Singapore from Sweden with our two young daughters, and we did it all without relocation assistance—something we didn’t even know existed at the time, but we should have done better research.
The challenges were numerous: securing the right vaccinations for our daughters as the vaccination schedules are different, understanding what to bring from Sweden (from a financial perspective, would it make sense to ship our furniture or should we rent?), choosing if to have a helper and if yes, how to find the “right” one, figuring out where to live (did we want more space or more modern feeling; how important was it to actually live next by an MRT / bus station?), adjusting to the humidity and air conditioning, navigating living costs, finding new friends and, most importantly, selecting a nursery.
Since my children spoke no English, this decision weighed heavily on me. We eventually found a wonderful school with caring teachers, but the transition was tough, especially for my oldest daughter, who was four at the time. I often questioned our choice to relocate during those early days.
Like for many expats I’ve met, what started as a one-year adventure turned into five years and counting. That says it all!
Being an Accompanying spouse: Who Am I Now?
Being an accompanying spouse in Singapore has its challenges, particularly when it comes to securing a job. The work visa restrictions can be daunting and the process lengthy. Transitioning from my job in Sweden to life as a non-working spouse posed its own set of challenges.
I often wondered who I was without my professional identity and how I could find a sense of purpose in this new context.
Fortunately, I rediscovered my passion for tennis, thanks to a friend who encouraged me to join a competitive women’s tennis league (WITS—Women International Tennis Singapore).
I dare to say that this involvement transformed my life. WITS is a vibrant community of women from around the globe, where I’ve formed some of my closest friendships. I’ve met incredible individuals from diverse career paths who, like me, started playing once a week and gradually began to play almost every day. The expat community in Singapore is welcoming, and people are generous in including newcomers and introducing them to their social circles.
The greatest reward came once we settled in and could finally call Singapore home. Our children adapted to school, we formed friendships and new traditions, and our daily life began to feel both normal and enriched. Singapore is a city that makes day-to-day living manageable for expats.
The New Chapter: Moving2Singapore
As I connected with friends relocating to Singapore, I noticed they often relied on larger relocation companies that sometimes lacked a personal touch and genuine understanding of individual needs.
Relocating with a family can be an emotional and overwhelming experience, and I realized how much I enjoyed meeting new people and solving problems. Thus, the idea of starting my own personal concierge relocation company came naturally to me. Thankfully, the process of getting the necessary permits and launching my business went smoothly.
My goal is to ensure my clients feel heard and supported throughout the entire relocation process—before, during, and after—so they have a better start to their new life. It’s something I wish I had when I made my own move!
Is There Nothing to Do in Singapore?
Before moving here, I encountered descriptions of Singapore as the “boring little sister” of Southeast Asia—a sleepy city known only for its proximity to other countries. I soon discovered that these were mere myths (though it is indeed a fantastic travel hub).
Being a foodie myself, I am thankful that Singapore boasts an incredible food scene, with affordable meals available at hawker centers and a diverse range of restaurants offering various cuisines. One of the many beauties of this multicultural city! Whether you’re in the mood for casual dining at one of the many hawker centers or fine cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Bars and clubs here may be cleaner and less rowdy than in other cities, but is that really a bad thing?
The sports scene is vibrant, and such a great way to be part of a community and meet people from all over the world. If you end up living in a condominium, you’ll often find excellent amenities like tennis courts and other facilities, where you can easily meet neighbors and friends for your children.
Joining one of the many social clubs can also open doors to various activities, from weekly coffees and book clubs to charity events and hiking groups. You “just” have to get out of your comfort zone!
For families, Singapore is full of kid-friendly options: the Singapore Zoo, playlands, water parks, Sentosa Adventure Cove, Universal Studios, and museums abound, just to mention a few. I must also mention the beaches on Sentosa Island, strolling through East Coast Park, or enjoying the coastal views of Lazarus Island, Singapore’s beaches offer the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. While there are quite some indoor activities (which surprised me at first), we’re grateful for the air-conditioned venues during the hottest parts of the day!
As a multicultural city-state, Singapore embraces traditions and holidays from around the globe. Unfortunately, I don’t experience this level of diversity in many of the more sheltered areas of Sweden. That’s why it’s so wonderful to be here in Singapore, where our children can grow up alongside people from all over the world, each bringing their own unique traditions.
I also need to mention that Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world. People often leave their belongings unattended in restaurants without fear. You can walk anywhere at any time, and children enjoy a level of freedom here that’s hard to find elsewhere. I could forget my child in a shopping mall, but not be stressed about it!
Tips and Tricks for Relocation
Preparation is key! I recommend dividing the relocation process into three phases: before, during, and after. Checklists may vary based on family size, pets, school preferences, accommodation needs, and more. Feel free to check out our relocation checklist here for a starting point.
Singapore is an attractive city for career growth, but the first step is securing your work visa, as moving here without it isn’t an option. While tax benefits are favorable, the cost of living is high. So, it’s crucial to conduct thorough financial assessments to avoid disappointment.
I have helped clients who have come here who think they have negotiated a good package with their HR. But it turns out it is not enough! Prices can be high, and general guidelines found online are not always realistic. Make sure you’re (or HR) on top of the numbers to avoid an unpleasant surprise.
At Moving2Singapore, we offer a concierge-style service tailored to each client’s needs. I believe you should only pay for the services you require, allowing you to choose exactly what assistance you need.
Our journey starts with a free 45-minute to 1-hour consultation, where I take the time to understand your unique situation through a comprehensive needs analysis. Everyone faces different challenges when relocating, and my aim is to address those specific needs.
Many clients opt for a “look and see” trip before the big move, during which I organize school searches, orientation tours, and accommodation searches. This can help ease the transition for the entire family. I also collaborate with trusted partners when necessary, ensuring I’m involved in every step of the process if you’d like my support.
Final Words
You can’t prepare for everything but try to anticipate what you can! While logistics are one aspect of relocating, the emotional journey is equally important. Speak to someone who understands the process, and once you’re here, be kind to yourself—give yourself time (even months!) to settle in properly. It’s common to feel alienated at first and we compare it with our home country; most of us do! But remember, this feeling will pass, and taking the leap to move abroad is an incredibly rewarding experience. Embrace the adventure!
Meet Louise
Louise is the founder and CEO of Moving2Singapore, a concierge relocation company designed to provide a personalized experience for those moving to Singapore. The company offers a range of services, including school and accommodation searches, orientation trips, and pet relocation, among others.
Connect with her here.
