For many foreigners, moving to Singapore means adapting to new rules, routines, and rhythms. But for French software engineer Amandine, the city-state not only changed her lifestyle, it changed her perspective on what “home” truly feels like.
After spending six years in Singapore, Amandine returned to France for a short visit — only to experience what she called a “reverse culture shock.”
In a series of TikTok videos on her account, @/new_to_singapore, she shared how everyday life back home now feels worlds apart from what she’s grown used to in Singapore.
From ‘No Car, No Life’ to MRT Freedom
What struck her most was mobility. In France, she said, getting around without a car feels nearly impossible.
“Here in France, I feel super dependent on my parents to drive me anywhere. No car, no life,” she noted.
In contrast, Singapore’s efficient public transport allows her to reach anywhere she needs to go, safely, conveniently, and affordably. It’s one of the many things she’s grown to appreciate about life in the Lion City.
Safety and Simplicity
During her visit, Amandine’s sister’s house in France was broken into after leaving a window open; a reminder of how safe Singapore truly is.
“In Singapore, I can leave my door open and be totally fine,” she said, adding that this sense of security is something she no longer takes for granted.
Dining, Greetings, and Daily Habits
The cultural contrasts didn’t stop there.
In Singapore, dinner at 7 p.m. is already considered late, but in France, she said, “At 8.30, we are just starting dinner.” Long, multi-course meals with endless conversation are the norm back home.
Even shopping feels different. “In France, people will ask you, ‘Oh, why are you buying this? Is it for dinner?’ It feels so intrusive compared to Singapore,” she laughed, adding that she misses being able to buy groceries late into the night, something impossible once French shops close around 7.30 p.m.
And while she loves French pastries and cheese, Amandine said Singapore’s diverse food scene feels “less boring.”
She also admitted to preferring local habits from greeting people with a simple “hi” or hug instead of the customary double-cheek kiss, to removing shoes indoors. “Now it feels really wrong not to,” she confessed.
Between Two Worlds
Though she enjoys the slower pace of rural France — with her family’s vegetable garden, chickens, and home-cooked meals — Amandine says life in Singapore offers a sense of order and efficiency she’s come to love.
Even the weather, she claims, is “way better” for her sanity. “It doesn’t go from too cold to too hot and back again in one day,” she said.
A City That Wins Hearts
Her reflections struck a chord online, drawing comments from both locals and expats. Many said they could relate to her journey — with one remarking, “You’ve been transformed into a Singaporean.”
What began as culture shock has turned into admiration. For Amandine, Singapore isn’t just where she lives — it’s where she feels most at ease.
As she put it, “After 20 days in Europe, I can’t wait to be back in Singapore.”
Watch Amandine’s video here:
@new_to_singapore
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