So....what's it really like?

I have been asked this question many times and now I've been here nearly three months I think I can start to answer that a little bit.  Although I still have so much to learn myself.

As anyone who knows me well will say moving abroad was never something I'd considered doing and I have always had the greatest admiration for those who did it.  Having now done it myself though I've a new found greater respect for anyone who moves from what they know, their family and friends to a completely new country and culture for whatever reason.  I moved from just that, a close family, wide circle of friends and a comfortable safe life I guess and I have to admit that even I am proud of how well I've adapted to the changes I've encountered in the past three months.  Yes I have found it difficult at times but I'm determined no matter what to enjoy the experience and make the most of the opportunity that presents itself.

One of the things that has really impressed me with Singapore is their tolerance towards a multitude of cultures and religions no doubt coming from the majority of the locals descending from immigrants of one kind or another.  Equally like anywhere there are also things that are not so great.  One thing that always makes me smile is the way locals manage to worm their way to the front when getting on or off the MRT, despite numerous campaigns attempting to encourage them to show courtesy to one another.  I'm sure on the tube many of them would get an ear bashing in one form or another but not here and it always makes me chuckle.  The heat is another issue, being a Brit I'm not used to consist hot, humid weather but although I know back home the season is changing to Autumn and I miss the amazing colours of the leaves and trees I think that just maybe I'm getting used to this weather too.  Well I say that and tomorrow I'll be as hot and sticky as ever and wishing I could be sent to the Arctic but for now it's OK!  Those though are small things and ones that you can cope with without too much difficulty.

Yes it's very different from home despite it also being very westernised here and I do miss that familiarity at times but it is a great thing to experience and be here and I really wouldn't have changed this for anything.  I hope that at least some of my posts convey the excitement and nervousness in equal measure that I have for being here doing what I am doing.  Finally I would say to anyone in a similar position or who is considering moving abroad and who might be reading this grab the opportunity and do it.  You won't regret it whatever you end up doing and however long you stay away and maybe, just maybe, you'll return home a better person for it with life enriching experiences to share with others.