Living in Singapore
The INSEAD Asia Campus is located in the bustling city of Singapore, known for its cultural diversity, dynamic international business community and tourism.
Home to more than 5 million people of diverse cultures, Singapore is a world-renowned destination with a vibrant and sophisticated image. It offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture and is buzzing with energy. This colourful, thriving multicultural city in Southeast Asia embodies the best of both East and West: diverse culinary experiences, fantastic shopping, an impressive array of cultural events and it is also home to some of the region’s best museums.
Singapore is South East Asia’s transport hub with excellent links to all parts of Asia and the world. It is also well known as a centre for global business and trade, as well as offering unique opportunities for entrepreneurs setting up business ventures. Singapore is one of the world’s most developed economies with over 7,000 resident multinational companies and 100,000 enterprises, creating a continuously vibrant business environment. Singapore is a richly diverse city and recognises four official languages: English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil. English, however, is the language of administration and most commonly used in the country.
Global businesses find it advantageous to site their headquarters in Singapore. Strong trade and investment makes Singapore the most competitive city in Asia, and third globally after New York and London. The World Bank also ranks the Republic as the world’s easiest place to do business.
For a more detailed guide to Singapore, click here.
Events in Singapore
The first ever F1 Grand Prix night race ran in Singapore in 2008 and over the past few years, Singapore has also attracted several big-name golf tournaments, such as the Barclay’s Singapore Open, one of the most prestigious events in the world and has been dubbed “Asia’s Major”, and the HSBC Women’s Champions. Singapore also hosted the first Asian Youth Games and the men’s Junior Hockey World Cup in 2009, while 2010 saw the inaugural Youth Olympics held in the city-state.
Getting around
Singapore has an excellent public transport system, allowing you to get around the city quickly and cheaply. The INSEAD campus is right next door to the underground train system (One-North station), known as the MRT. Buses run frequently, stopping at convenient locations, and taxis are cheap and plentiful.
Click here for details on how to reach the INSEAD campus.
Accommodation
MBA participants have a variety of options for accommodation to suit different budgets, ranging from public housing to private condominiums and short-term executive residences. Most students opt to live in condominiums a short walk away from the campus.
Private condominiums typically offer two and three bedroom units and include facilities like tennis courts, swimming pool, gym, barbeque/party area, parking and security within a short distance from the campus. Estimated rentals for a unit range from S$3,000 for a two-bedroom unit to S$5,000 for a three-bedroom. Rental rates depend on the location, such as proximity to the MRT (underground), amenities, the facilities provided and whether the unit is furnished, unfurnished or partially furnished. Some of the residential areas within INSEAD’s vicinity are Clementi, Dover, and Holland Village.
Another accommodation option is public housing, apartments built by the Singapore Housing and Development Board (HDB). These flats are located in housing estates all over the island. Estimated rentals for an entire HDB flat range from S$2,000 for a two-bedroom flat, to S$2,500 for a three-bedroom flat. These flats are significantly less expensive than private condos, but do not offer extra facilities such as swimming pools, fitness centres, etc.
Accommodation resources
Singapore Expats
Property Guru
Temporary Accommodation
Prior to obtaining longer-term housing in Singapore, participants may need temporary accommodation. A wide variety of options is available.
- Budget hotels: the cheapest option which caters to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. Many of these hotels are conveniently located in the downtown area. Prices range from S$55 to S$130 per night, depending on the location, season, hotel and type of room requested.
- Association budget hotels, such as the YMCA: the level of security and cleanliness is high, but there may be restrictions on hours, behaviour, and who is eligible to stay. These places are regularly checked by various government agencies. The cost ranges from S$128 to S$196 per night.
- Singapore has a rich variety of commercial 3, 4 and 5 star hotels. The cost for these will range from S$150 upwards, again, depending on the season, location, hotel and type of room. You may compare costs and make reservations online for all classes of hotel before you arrive by using discount sites such as Hotels Online Singapore and Asia Travel.
- There is also accommodation available on campus at INSEAD. The Residences has 85 rooms and are available to visitors of INSEAD. Click here for room rates and further details.
