3 Avenues for making New Friends

#1 Social and Sporting Clubs

Organisations such as the British Club (see our profile on the next page) can provide an instant network and another way of meeting more expats. Most social clubs offer facilities including pools, gyms, restaurants, youth camps and classes. Likewise, sporting clubs, such as the Singapore Polo Club, are an excellent way to meet friends with similar interests. Clubs can be expensive, so try to meet current members and ask about the facilities. Also, do some comparisons of locations, membership rules and prices. Hollandse Club and the American Club are among the other popular clubs in Singapore.

#2 Associations

Associations are an excellent starting point when you are new to Singapore, and they offer a host of support services. They are generally linked to nationalities, although citizens of any country can join. Attending a newcomer event is an excellent way to meet people and get involved in the community. Associations offer many of the same social benefits found at clubs, without the expensive membership fees. A low annual fee is usually charged and may include a monthly magazine that will keep you up to date with social activities.

Groups like the American Association of Singapore (AAS), The British Association ( BA), and the Australian and New Zealand Association ( ANZA) organise sports leagues and regular meetings, outings, charity events, book clubs and social gatherings. Women’s organisations include the American Women’ s Association (AWA), Scandinavian Women’s Association, the Italian Women’s Group, the Indian Women’s Association and the Spanish-speaking Women’s Association.

#3 University Alumni

Another way of meeting people with whom you will instantly have something in common is through your university alumni association – log on to your university’s website to find out more.