Singapore shopping extends well beyond Orchard Road, but that’s one heckuva place to start! After you’ve seen Singapore’s most famous strip, plan an epic bargain hunt in Chinatown and Little India.
AGODA EXTRA: Most of the world has recognized Orchard Road as a heavenly shopping district since 1958, when Tangs department store opened its doors. But before luxury malls and hip boutiques took over the area, the street contained three cemeteries and the Orchard Road Railway. Before that, nutmeg, pepper and fruit orchards lined the street, and that’s how Orchard Road got its name.
1. Buy your first authentic Louis Vuitton handbag while shopping on ORCHARD ROAD
It’s tough to choose a favorite shopping mall on Orchard Road, but one of the most popular is ION Orchard. If the state-of-the-art, multi-sensory media facade and observation deck of ION Sky doesn’t blow you away, the 400 retail outlets will. Serious shoppers don’t end their spree at ION, though. Join other shopaholics along the strip at Orchard Central and Ngee Ann City. Also worth a browse are Tangs, Far East Plaza and Mandarin Gallery.
Check In to Grand Park Orchard, Step Out to ION Orchard
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2. Shop for cheap bespoke and tailored clothing at HAJI LANE in Kampong Glam
Go on a quest for color down a narrow alleyway known as Haji Lane. The trendy street, near the intersection of Arab Street and North Bridge Road, is part of the Arab Quarter in Kampong Glam and was once more known for its shoddy appearance than for its dynamic shophouses. After a transformation by locals, however, the street now features unique boutiques, bespoke fashions and professional tailors.
Check In to Superb Hostel, Step Out to Haji Lane
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3. Join local festivities while shopping for handmade clothing and souvenirs in CHINATOWN SINGAPORE
Every day is a festive day in Chinatown Singapore, but arrive during Chinese New Year, and you’ll find this landmark district lit up and decorated to the max. Even if you’re not around in January or February, you can still find Chinese medicines, local teas, handmade clothing and more souvenirs than you can stuff in your carry-on. The area is divided into four districts, each having its own appeal, but much of the frenzy takes place along Smith Street and Pagoda Street.
Check In to Royal Lodge @ Pagoda Street, Step Out to Smith Street
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4. Find the finest jewelers and flagship boutiques in THE SHOPPES at Marina Bay Sands
Shop for designer handbags on an island at Louis Vuitton Singapore Island Maison, and find other notable designer fashions in The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Located right on the waterfront, The Shoppes offers trendy womenswear at Kate Spade New York and spectacular watches at Montblanc Boutique Singapore. Besides some of the finest jewelers and watchmakers in Singapore, you’ll also discover cigar stores, perfume shops and health and beauty spas.
Check In to The Fullerton Hotel, Step Out to The Shoppes
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5. Take home colorful fabrics and incredible spices from LITTLE INDIA
Head to Serangoon Road, and then branch out in any direction to explore the aromatic and colorful side streets of Little India. Take home traditional jewelry and brassware, as well as local spices and vividly-patterned fabrics. If you’re lucky enough to visit during October, you’ll get to admire Little India during Deepavali (or Diwali). The annual celebration features incredible light displays and even more bazaars than you’ll find on a typical day in Little India.
Check In to ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson, Step Out to Serangoon Road
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