It’s now been over half a year since I came to Glasgow from Singapore for my Master’s.

I wrote a previous newsletter sharing my experience after two weeks. A lot of the stuff I said in that is still accurate now. But I’ll repeat some of it here too.

Probably the most important question that deserves an answer: “Are you happy”? Yes. Coming from Singapore’s structured efficiency, I worried the grey skies and gritty charm might dampen my spirit. Instead, the city’s creative energy and warm community have sparked a newfound sense of belonging I didn’t know I was missing.

• Glasgow surprised me with its warmth and camaraderie – strangers chat in queues, neighbours offer help, and the "Scottish friendliness" feels genuine. While statistically safer than many UK cities, I’ve learned to stay alert in certain areas after dark. Singapore’s near-zero crime rate meant I never worried about phone snatching, but the community interactions felt more transactional back home.
• Singapore’s surgical cleanliness makes Glasgow’s occasional litter and graffiti noticeable. Yet Glasgow’s raw charm – Victorian architecture juxtaposed with street art – grew on me. Singapore’s gleaming skyscrapers feel sterile in comparison.
• Singapore’s hawker centres win for affordable dining, but Glasgow offers better-value housing. Alcohol and car ownership are also much cheaper than in Singapore. However, the housing crisis means it’s difficult for anyone to get a house in Glasgow at the moment.
• Singapore’s culinary diversity is still unmatched – from $3 laksa to Michelin-starred Peranakan cuisine. Glasgow’s food scene shines dimmer in comparison. Both cities share a food-first social culture, but Glasgow’s charm lies in its pubs, which foster more spontaneous connections.
• Glasgow’s location lets me weekend-explore Europe with Paris flights from £30! Singapore’s Changi Airport offers more Asian destinations, but regional travel costs triple. But I would say that Singapore’s public transportation system beats Glasgow by miles. Glasgow does, however, offer humidity-free walks due to the colder weather.
• Singapore’s 24/7 hustle contrasts with Glasgow’s ‘work to live’ ethos. People prioritise hill walks over overtime, and the 4pm winter sunsets encourage cosy pub nights. Singapore’s efficiency excels, but Glasgow’s slower pace helps you rediscover meaning.
• Glasgow has given me creative breathing room – its imperfections feel human, its rhythms sustainable. On the other hand, Singapore’s polish has perks too that I’ve realised to be more grateful for after living in Glasgow.

To anyone considering Glasgow as a study or living destination, I’m always happy to answer any questions.

The original version of this blog article appears in The Stack