The busiest port in the world, Singapore runs a tight ship of a country. The weather is hot and humid year-round, but with the rainy season comes relief from the heat. Cost of living runs high, though salaries trend high enough to match the cost. Job opportunities abound in this city-state, especially for tech-oriented professionals and entrepreneurs. Influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Indian traditions, the food scene here brings culinary delights at every price point. Singapore’s splendor comes at a cost, though. Strict laws keep citizens in check, applying harsh punishments for petty littering and death for drug possession.

Immigrants say that safety comes at the cost of privacy here, with security cameras constantly surveilling public spaces. China may also try to economically dominate the small country, leaving its future uncertain. Singapore works best for tech-savvy immigrants expanding their remote working prospects or raising families, so long as they play by the rules.