Janine took her nursing career to Singapore

In 2005, after working for four years as a cardiac nurse in London, Janine Harring caught the travelling bug. Asia was at the top of her list and so after some research and discussions with well-travelled friends, she decided on Singapore. Janine’s cousin Bart had worked in Singapore for several years and recommended it for the many opportunities for health workers, the huge expat community and high standards of living.

“I’ve always been a bit obsessed with Asia in general and really wanted to spend a big chunk of time there. So, in order to do this I thought it would be a great idea to get a visa for Singapore and use it as my basecamp. That way I could work, travel, work, travel and have the best of both worlds.”

Janine searched for jobs through internet sites, the RCN and via Bart’s contacts in Singapore and eventually was offered a cardiac nursing job at a large tertiary hospital. She initially qualified for a Q1 EP (Employment Pass) after a few months in Singapore and attained permanent residency in 2009.

“I was only going to stay for two years but when the time came to think about leaving Singapore, I realised I didn’t want to go,” says Janine. “I hadn’t travelled as much as I wanted by then and I just couldn’t leave. The work is very hard and challenging in Singapore, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve learned a lot about my profession and have gained so much experience. I also love living in Singapore – I love the diversity of the people and culture, and have made some fantastic friends at the hospital. The nightlife is also amazing.”

Janine recently finished a three-week backpacking stint in Vietnam and Cambodia. “I went with some other British nurses that I work with. We had an amazing time and are planning another trip next year to Japan. We all love the fact that that rest of Asia is so close and our travelling options are endless.”