What it’s like living in Sentosa
Pristine white beaches and a million-dollar view (to go with your multi-million dollar crib) – living in Sentosa sounds like a fabulous dream we wish we could afford would come true. For those of you considering a move to this scenic suburb (lucky ducks!), get the real lowdown on island living by a true-blue Sentosa local.
How long have you been living in Sentosa?
I moved here with my husband and baby just over a year ago.
What attracted you to moving to Sentosa?
Prior to moving to Singapore, my family and I lived in the heart of the city and were looking for a change of pace. Our real estate agent kept suggesting that Sentosa would tick all the boxes on our house hunting. Within two minutes of our first drive to the apartment, we knew it was for us. The breezy and quiet apartment with the ocean by our side was just too good to pass up.
What’s the best thing about living there?
It’s like living in a resort. It also has a real community feel. You can get to know your neighbors and see familiar faces around, which is nice when you’re an expat looking for some familiarity. We really don’t have to search far for recommendations: there’s so much to do, with playgrounds, classes, bars, and beaches.
Any downsides to living in Sentosa?
Supplies are limited at the Cold Storage and Jason’s supermarkets, so you’ll need to make a trip to Vivo City to stock up. (And when this happens on a weekend, it’s like entering a heavily populated beehive!) I’ve also had to adjust some of my usual haunts and find places closer to Sentosa to avoid driving halfway across Singapore.
And of course, there’s the feeling like you’re living on The Truman Show. But if you want a break from this, it’s a short drive and then you’re among the hustle and bustle of the main island again.
Siloso Beach
Where’s your favourite haunt on the island?
Our pool! No joke, I love being in our condo. Second to that, would be the marina. It’s serene and there’s always activity on the boats, whether the boathouses or new yachts being moored. Gorgeous!
What about the cost of living there?
It can be very expensive if you’re not careful. I get very excited when I find herbs for under $4.95, but this can be true for other neighbourhoods around Singapore too. Eating out in Quayside Isle is geared toward resort style prices, and the hotels and spas have, as expected, resort prices.
We know you don’t have school-aged kids, but what are the options for schooling from Sentosa?
There’s the Quayside Isle School, which is poised to be the central school for pre-school kids and little ones, and has generated a lot of interest among residents. Cherie Hearts at Harbourfront is popular too for being convenient and reliable school. Some parents have opted to head for the schools toward the Tanglin area like Little Bunnies and Tanglin Trust.
Any advice for folks considering the move to Sentosa?
Think carefully about the activities you do and whether the proximity to Sentosa would be convenient. Also be prepared for party people to descend on the W Hotel and Tanjong Beach Club on weekends – this can be a pro or a con depending on what you’re after!
Apart from that, I’d say: do it! It’s such a unique lifestyle, and we have no regrets.
This article was sponsored by SIR Move Services.
Top image: Quayside Isle
