Living in Singapore for nearly two decades, a New Yorker reflects on the evolution of their expatriate experience. Initially arriving with a two-year plan, the couple envisioned a brief adventure that eventually transformed into a long-term commitment. Their belongings, once stored away in a Brooklyn apartment, have gradually made their way to their new home as the years piled on—first five, then ten.
Now, the simple yet loaded question “How long have you been living in Singapore?” echoes not just from taxi drivers but also from family members back home. Relatives express concern about the physical distance, especially with the addition of grandchildren, while gently nudging for visits or the possibility of a move closer to them.
The depth of their integration into Singapore is apparent; what once felt like a temporary chapter has morphed into a sense of belonging that is almost instinctive. Familiarity with the tropics has resulted in a loss of tolerance for cold weather, and cultural norms have shifted—walking into a home without removing shoes now seems peculiar.
Yet the struggles of living between two countries remain palpable. As an American, the annual obligation to file U.S. taxes serves as a constant reminder of their dual existence—a tangible connection to the homeland that remains despite geographic separation. This draws attention to a broader trend: the increasing number of American expatriates. As of 2024, about 3.3 million Americans are estimated to be living overseas—an increase of 15% since 2010, according to federal estimates, highlighting a significant demographic shift in recent years.
The question of identity is complicated for the couple’s children, who appear bewildered when queried about their origin. This confusion represents a growing cohort of children raised in international environments, as more families establish lives abroad.
The narrative aims to explore various experiences of expatriates who, like this family, grapple with the concept of home. Their responses to questions of where they are truly from will vary, echoing the complexity of belonging and the multi-faceted nature of identity in an increasingly globalized world.
