Southeast Asia is a favourite among expats for its year-round sunshine, vibrant cities, a better work–life balance, and lower cost of living in many countries. But, as with any big.

From bustling cities like Singapore and Bangkok to quieter coastal spots in Vietnam and the Philippines, there's something for everyone. But moving abroad always comes with surprises - especially if it's your first time living in Asia. Here are five practical, up-to-date tips to help you navigate your relocation and start enjoying your new home from day one.

1. The climate: Hot, Humid, and sometimes Wet

One thing all Southeast Asian countries share is the tropical climate. It's hot year-round, and humidity is usually high. Most countries experience two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season (or monsoons), with intense downpours that can last for hours — or even cause flash floods in some areas, especially from May to October in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Even if you’re used to warm climates, the combination of heat and humidity in places like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Jakarta can take some adjustment. It's not just about sweating more-you’ll feel the heat much more intensely, and it can take a few weeks to get used to it. It's best to avoid intense physical activity during the hottest parts of the day at first until you've acclimatised, and always keep a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated. Heatstroke and dehydration are common among newcomers, so listen to your body and rest when you need to

What to do:

• Wear breathable clothes in light fabrics like cotton or linen.
• Hydration is key. Carry a refillable water bottle everywhere.
• Always check the weather before heading out — and keep an umbrella handy during monsoon months.
• Make use of air-conditioned public transport and shopping centres, especially in cities like Bangkok or Manila.

Singapore, for example, has excellent indoor facilities and covered walkways to shield residents from sun and rain alike - a great help when you're new and still finding your way around.

2. Cost of living & lifestyle vary by country

Southeast Asia is a patchwork of 11 diverse countries, each offering a different lifestyle and standard of living. Your experience will vary greatly depending on whether you settle in a bustling metropolis like Singapore, a beach town in Thailand, or a quieter city in Vietnam.

Singapore, Brunei, and Malaysia are among the region's wealthiest nations, boasting excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and education. In Singapore, rent, car ownership, and even alcohol can be expensive. But these cities are ideal for professionals and families seeking convenience, safety, and a stable job market. However, these perks come at a price-living costs and property prices are much higher here than in neighbouring countries.

In contrast, countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines offer a much lower cost of living, making them attractive for retirees and digital nomads.

For example, Vietnam has consistently ranked as one of the most affordable countries for expats, with 86% rating the cost of living favourably. Many expats find that their disposable income goes much further in places like Ho Chi Minh City, Chiang Mai, Da Nang, or Cebu (all popular with retirees and remote workers), where you can enjoy modern amenities and a vibrant social scene for a fraction of what you'd pay in the West

If you're adventurous and want to stretch your retirement fund, consider Cambodia, Laos, or Myanmar, where your money goes further. But remember: healthcare, internet reliability, and infrastructure may not be as developed.

Tip:

• Visit our cost-of-living calculator to compare cities based on rent, groceries, healthcare, and more.
• Join our expat forums to get first-hand accounts of daily life and expenses
• Visit potential cities before committing to a long-term move.

3. Accommodation: Think practical and comfortable

Once you've picked your destination, finding the right place to live is next. In most Southeast Asian countries, you'll have a wide range of options — from high-rise condos in the city centre to villas or homes in quieter neighbourhoods.

In cities like Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City, you might be able to rent a spacious apartment with a pool and gym for a fraction of what you'd pay in Europe or the US.

But in cities like Singapore, space comes at a premium and car ownership is prohibitively expensive, so most residents rely on the efficient public transport network. Thankfully, Singapore's public transport system ranks among the best in the world, and getting around is incredibly easy. Despite this, you might still want to live relatively close to the city's centre yet still out of the thick of things, especially if you enjoy peaceful surroundings.

That's exactly what Zyon Grand, an exciting new development, is all about. Located along Zion Road in Singapore's prestigious River Valley district, the development is just minutes from hotspots like Orchard Road and Clarke Quay, yet tucked away in a lush, quiet environment. It features high-rise towers with modern amenities, including swimming pools, gyms, rooftop gardens, and smart home technology. Its proximity to Havelock and Great World MRT stations means you can get anywhere in the city quickly and easily.
>> Check out the Zyon Grand showflat here!

Housing tips:

• Shortlist a few neighbourhoods and visit them at different times of day.
• Negotiate your rent and ask about included amenities; it's common and often expected in Southeast Asia
• Join expat groups or forums to get recommendations.

4. Culture: Respect local norms and social etiquette

Southeast Asia is diverse, but one thing you'll notice across the region is a strong emphasis on politeness, indirect communication, and respect for elders and authority. In general, people tend to avoid open conflict or direct criticism, which can feel unfamiliar at first.

Gestures and etiquette also differ. For instance, it's considered rude to point with your finger; use your whole hand instead. When handing over items, use both hands, except in Muslim-majority countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, where only the right hand is used. Public displays of emotion or hurried movements are generally frowned upon.

Also, be sensitive to religious customs, whether it's Ramadan in Indonesia or temple etiquette in Laos.

What helps:

• Learn a few basic phrases in the local language; it goes a long way in showing respect.
• Observe how locals behave in social and business settings, and follow their lead.
• Show patience in day-to-day interactions, especially when things don't go as planned.

Getting involved in community events or joining local expat clubs is also a great way to understand cultural differences while building a social network. It will help you integrate more easily.

5. Visas and Work Permits: Get your paperwork in order

Before moving, ensure you have the correct visas and permits for your intended stay. If you're relocating for work, your employer will usually handle the paperwork. If you're moving independently, research the visa options available-these can vary widely between countries. Each country has different requirements, and they change often.

If you're moving with a job offer, your employer should handle the work visa. But if you're going independently, as a retiree, remote worker, or entrepreneur, you'll need to research which long-stay visas are available and what they require.

Thailand, for example, offers retirement visas and the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa, making it a popular choice for retirees and long-stay expats. Singapore has various work passes and long-term visit options, including the Employment Pass and S Pass, depending on your income and qualifications; but requirements are strict, especially for those seeking permanent residency. Malaysia has the "Malaysia My Second Home" (MM2H) programme, though it now has stricter financial requirements. Indonesia has introduced a Second Home Visa and investor visas.

Tips for handling visas:

• Always check official government sites for the latest information.
• Consider hiring a relocation consultant or immigration lawyer for complex cases.
• Keep digital and paper copies of all important documents.

Overstaying your visa can lead to fines, blacklisting, or deportation — so it's worth getting this right from the start!

Final Thoughts

Relocating to Southeast Asia is a life-changing move, full of adventure, new opportunities, and unique experiences. But a smooth transition starts with preparation. With these tips, we hope to make your move as smooth as possible. Good luck!

Recommended Partners