Yes - seasonal country, cheap n delicious food, traditional craftsmanship n stunning modern technology, people who are serious n dedicated to their craft, quirks of some Japanese are just weird n amusing, boisterous festivals.

Life in Singapore is mainly about productivity and earning enough (to beat our peers). It’s encapsulated as kiasu (a Singlish word that means afraid to lose) in our national culture.

But since I am a foreigner, I chose to return to Singapore because I can’t fathom how I can make as good a living in Japan. In Singapore, I am regarded as an education professional. In Japan, people may not accord me the same respect because I will be perceived as inferior to the Caucasians.