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Expats from all over the world live in Singapore, and there are plenty of organisations and clubs to help bring them together. New arrivals in Singapore can expect to live a busy social life, although many activities come at a price in this expensive city-state.
There are various options available to expats looking for sports, social, cultural and recreational clubs in Singapore. There are also societies organised by nationality, and families are well catered for. For many expats, these social groups become a sort of home away from home.
Club membership in Singapore
On the surface, Singapore may seem similar to the West. But there is still some culture shock for expats to overcome, and belonging to a club or society can ease the transition. Here is a list of some of the most popular clubs in Singapore.
American Women's Association of Singapore (AWA)
Open to women of all nationalities, AWA is a volunteer-run social organisation whose mission is to bring together women with common interests through activities and events. It organises social and special interest activities and events, as well as sports and tours.
www.awasingapore.org
Address: 15 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228218
Tel: +65 6734 4895
American Association of Singapore (AAS)
As the oldest American organisation in Singapore, AAS is focused on enhancing the experience of expats and other community members by bringing them together through social events and activities. Each month, it publishes the Singapore American, a community newspaper reporting on travel, food and dining, and events in the city.
www.aasingapore.com
Address: 15 Scotts Rd, Singapore 228218
Tel: +65 8030 6183
The Australian and New Zealand Association (ANZA)
ANZA offers support to its members by hosting events and exercising social responsibility. ANZA Action, the charity arm of ANZA, supports several charities. Monthly activities include members' nights, tours around Singapore, casual coffee mornings and volunteering opportunities.
www.anza.org.sg
Address: 261A Beach Road, Singapore 199541
Tel: +65 6291 6301
The British Association of Singapore (BA)
Established 65 years ago, the BA is among the oldest associations in Singapore. Members of the BA can enjoy access to various activities and special interest groups. There are also opportunities to take part in fundraising and volunteering for local charities.
www.britishassociation.org.sg
Address: 73 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289761
Tel: +65 6716 9773
Hollandse Club
Situated in lush tropical surroundings, the Hollandse Club has been a sanctuary for expats for over 100 years. It offers extensive sporting facilities, including five tennis courts, two swimming pools, water play area, a padel court, two squash courts, a gym and a kid’s club.
www.hollandseclub.org.sg
Address: 22 Camden Park, Singapore 299814
Tel: +65 6464 5225
PrimeTime
Founded in 1997, the PrimeTime community is a network for women interested in expanding their professional and social circles. This active club offers a variety of activities, including speakers, discussion groups, community outreach opportunities and social gatherings.
www.primetime.org.sg
Address: 96 Waterloo St, Singapore 187967
Tel: +65 6234 0973
Singapore International Foundation (SIF)
This non-profit organisation focuses on building relationships between expats and local Singaporeans through dialogue and exchange programmes. From sending volunteers into developing communities to effect positive change to enriching lives through events and showcases, SIF's ultimate mission is to build a better world.
www.sif.org.sg
Address: 60A Orchard Road, Singapore 238890
Tel: +65 6837 8700
The Singapore Recreation Club (SRC)
Founded in 1883, the SRC is one of Singapore's oldest social clubs and has a strong sporting tradition. Members have access to various facilities and activities, as well as to guest rooms and exclusive events.
www.src.org.sg
Address: B Connaught Drive, Singapore 179682
Tel: +65 6595 0500
The Singapore Polo Club
Situated in Mount Pleasant, the Singapore Polo Club also dates from thej 19th Century and as well as polo and other equestrian activities, it offers a gym, swimming pool and tennis courts. Polo players can keep their own ponies at the Club, or hire from the Club's own string.
www.singaporepoloclub.org
Address: 80 Mount Pleasant Rd, Singapore 298334
Tel: +65 6854 3999
The Tanglin Club
Another of Singapore's established social clubs, The Tanglin's facilities include four restaurants and bars, function rooms, several libraries, a hair salon, a playroom and a jackpot room. This inclusive club has a diverse membership, with over 4000 members from over 70 countries.
www.tanglinclub.org.sg
Address: 5 Stevens Road, Singapore 257814
Tel: +65 6622 0555
What advice do expats give about meeting people in Singapore?
"When we first moved here, I met many people through my kid's school. Later, I made friends by volunteering at a local charity and through work. I am a fiction writer, and joining a writers group has put me in touch with many other authors...
The best way to make local friends is through a common interest. Either work, volunteering, or joining a ‘hobby’ group like a book club or walking club."
Karien shares her experience as a Dutch expat living in Singapore.
Further reading
►See Local Culture in Singapore for more information on how to adjust to life on the Little Red Dot
Photo credit: Friends celebrating by Cottonbro Studio from Pexels.
Are you an expat living in Singapore?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Singapore. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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