SINGAPORE — A Filipino expat living in Singapore for ten years recently caused a stir when she said that the cost of living for her family of three is over $11,000. And that’s without shopping, she said in a Jan 15 TikTok.
The expat, who goes by @gieziheart on the TikTok platform, describes herself as a “Fashionista Lady ToothFairy” on her TikTok bio. Her family budget is as follows:
@gieziheart Basic Cost of living in Singapore😅 #fyp #sg #expat #expatlife #singapore #costofliving #foryou #foryoupage #reels #lifeinsg #life #basic #tiktok #tiktoksg #gieziheart #dior #humour #justforfun
Rent $4000
Pub (utilities) + wifi $350
Transportation allowance $900
Tuition fees (for her son) $900
Son’s extra activities $800
Helper $1100
Dining out and other activities $1600
Toiletries $500
Groceries $1500
Total = $11,650
“PS Shopping not included,” she added.
Her video got a lot of attention online, with some commenters asking what the location is where she pays $4000 for rent.
“One of the condo in Tanjong Pagar,” Ms Gieziheart said in a comment.
Others had more questions about her rental flat.
Another warned that her rental rate is likely to increase.
The expat responded by saying her rent is now $6K, and she is considering moving out.
Other commenters, however, felt that the TikToker was bragging.
One reminded her to be humble, writing, “You are the product of your efforts, congratulations but being humble is a virtue.”
Another wrote, “I can’t take these Filipinos bragging about how much they spend here in Singapore.”
“Show off la…just $11k plus only,” chimed in another.
A critical commenter wrote, “only 11k for “Expat” and still need post to public. Social circle is too small.’
The expat, however, put up another video on Tuesday (Jan 17) in response to those who accused her of bragging.
“Luxury & sophistication is for everyone. Bragging is none of my intentions. My content is for sharing good vibes and inspiration. If a minority like me can do this, so can you, whatever it is you wanna achieve,” she wrote in the caption.
@gieziheart Replying to @luckystrike0907 Luxury & sophistication is for everyone. Bragging is none of my intentions. My content is for sharing good vibes and inspiration. If a minority like me can do this, so can you, whatever it is you wanna achieve😉 #fyp #sg #contentcreator #dior #love #luxury #jewel #changiairportjewel #trend #foryou #viral #foryoupage #singapore #love #asia #life #justforfun #trend #reels #lifeinsg #expat #expatlife #ofw #pinoy #missdior #life #fun
/TISG