My Journey as a Single Expat Mom: Navigating Divorce in Asia and Raising my Son

Sara Lyle, a former editor-in-chief of an expat magazine, embarked on a life-changing journey when she moved to Singapore while six months pregnant. Her move was prompted by her then-husband’s job opportunity, and she saw it as a chance to fulfill her dream of living abroad. Despite starting off with limited knowledge about the city-state, Sara quickly immersed herself in its unique culture and began embracing the challenges and surprises that came her way.

Upon arriving in Singapore, Sara was astounded by the stark differences between her previous home in New York City and her new surroundings. Clean and well-maintained public bathrooms and the use of a local creole language called Singlish left her feeling both perplexed and intrigued. However, it was during a lunch outing along Emerald Hill and a glimpse of the preserved shophouses that she truly fell in love with Singapore’s rich heritage. Little did she know that this initial encounter would spark a seven-year-long passion for exploring and understanding this vibrant city.

Sara’s journey took an unexpected turn when she accepted a job offer as an editor-in-chief for an expat magazine. This opportunity allowed her to delve deeper into the expat community and gain a newfound appreciation for the complexities of living as a foreigner in Singapore. During her initial interview, the publisher brought up the topic of expat divorces, which ultimately became a reality for Sara. In 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, she and her husband decided to part ways.

Despite the challenges of the divorce and the global pandemic, Sara’s bond with Singapore remained strong. She and her son found solace in daily walks and bike rides along the picturesque East Coast Park. They fully embraced the local customs and traditions, joyfully celebrating holidays such as Deepavali, Hari Raya, Lunar New Year, and the Mid-Autumn Festival. Over time, they developed a taste for the local cuisine, with dishes like wanton mee, laksa, and roti prata becoming their favorites.

Singapore also provided Sara with the opportunity to explore neighboring countries due to its convenient location. The memories created and the friendships formed during her time in Singapore would forever hold a special place in her heart. However, after seven years, Sara felt it was time to return to the United States to be closer to her family and friends. Choosing Florida as their new home, Sara and her son embarked on a new chapter, with Sara securing a better-paying job.

Today, Sara resides in Colorado, where she recently married her now-husband, a longtime friend from her hometown. Their blended family includes three sons, and they recently celebrated their union with a simple outdoor ceremony. Despite the unpredictability of life, Sara has learned to embrace change and look forward to the future.

Experience Sara’s incredible journey from her move to Singapore to her eventual return to the United States, and witness the transformative power of embracing the unknown and embracing what lies ahead.

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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
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