Have you ever wondered what it is really like to live as an expat or how to kick-start your career abroad? What it is really like to live in Tropical Singapore? In this article we chat with Alexis Livanes to get the truth behind being an expat in Singapore.

Alexis Livanes Expat Story in Singapore

Where have you lived? Where are you from? And where do you live now?

I am originally from the UK, then moved to Perth, Australia, in 2008 for work, headed to Sydney in 2011 and then moved to Singapore in 2019.

I love all the different people I get to meet through work and through the kids. Finding out what has brought people here to Singapore is so interesting.

Sometimes, the hardest part is accepting some of your friendships from home change, and that can be hard. Missing family, family events and key milestones can be emotional, too!

What have you discovered about yourself? Have you changed? If so, how and why?

I have only recently realised I thrive on change! I love the fact I am challenging myself every day, and every day
feels like it brings a new experience I feel much more confident than I did years ago, which is strange because walking into a room not knowing anyone is daunting, but it feels the norm now to spark conversation with a total stranger and share stories.

What is the most rewarding part of being an expat?

It has to be the amazing people I have met along the way who have truly enriched my life, and I learnt so much
from them. Watching the kids making new friends from all over the world has been fantastic to see, and they are thriving.

What advice would you give someone starting on their expat journey?

Be kind to yourself and attend as many networking/social events as possible. There are so many organisations you can join, and you will quickly find so many newcomers, all eager to make friends!

What is the one tip you could give someone moving to Singapore?

Say yes to everything you get invited to, as it will help you to settle quickly. If you have kids, be proactive on Whatsapp groups and organise playdates.

What is the one bit of advice someone has given you that you have found helpful in your expat journey?

Going with an open mind and also, knowing that this isn’t forever, you are just off on an adventure and the worst
that can happen is you return home but, at least you said yes and tried it!

Where have you loved living the most and why?

I really loved living in Perth. The beaches and sunsets were amazing, and I found the people to be incredibly friendly. I enjoyed the pace of life and the natural beauty of WA.

I am lucky to have continued my career here in Singapore as a Financial Adviser. I find that my unique set of skills and qualifications really help many of my clients. Many of the clients I have met in Singapore have the same background as me; they left the UK, headed to Australia, and in some cases, married an Aussie and then moved to Singapore so
we have a lot in common!

I am passionate about making sure people make the most of their time financially whilst here in Singapore and can return to their home country with more than just memories. Working in Singapore away from loved ones can be incredibly hard, but it can be incredibly rewarding if you are working towards a goal and then achieving it. Financial planning can get a bit more complex the more countries you have lived in and the more assets you own in different tax jurisdictions! I help clients simplify their affairs and understand how they can transition their lives and wealth back home without any nasty tax surprises, setting themselves up for financial freedom down the line.

Planning for when you return home is crucial; the longer you leave it, the more daunting it can become. Clients are better prepared when they seek advice early and have a financial plan. Creating a budget early on and sticking to it will mean you can have fun, have amazing experiences and accumulate wealth simultaneously.

Where can you contact Alexis?

• LinkedIn
• Website
• LinkedIn Website
• Instagram

Have you listened to Alexis’s Podcast episode? If not, check it out here.

Thanks for taking the time to read this article. I hope this post has given you the information you need. If you have any recommendations, tips or advice, I would love for you to share them in the comment section below!

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Check out my Instagram page or join the Truly Expat Facebook group.

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