A true melting pot of cultures, Singapore is one of the most popular Southeast Asian countries for Indians planning a trip abroad. This is because it offers something for everyone. From the Universal Studios to the most beautiful beaches, from museums to immersive experiences, the island nation has quickly become the poster country for Asian tourism.
Apart from all these experiences, Singapore is considered one of the best shopping destinations in the world. It offers visitors the opportunity to buy everything, from high-end luxury brands to local products, at cheap prices and with the guarantee of good quality, making the country a haven for shopaholics. We bring an elaborate guide on the best things and where to shop for them in Singapore.
Made of orchids, Singapore’s national flower, Orchid perfume is arguably the most popular fragrance manufactured by the country and is famous internationally. The perfume is neither too strong nor too mild and lasts long, making it perfect for every kind of individual. The best place to shop for this perfume is Orchard Road.
Additionally, Orchard Road is home to local and international malls and boutiques: high-end clothing labels and local designer outfits, homeware alliances and electronic gadgets. Busking and street-side performances on the sidewalks and arcades only add to the experience.
For tourists who want to take back a piece of the country home with them, Asian artefacts are the best souvenirs. There is a wide range of artefacts, but the Balinese mask and the Chinese scroll paintings are travellers' favourites.
Holland Village in Chinatown is the best place to buy these artefacts, which cost around INR 1600 or 20 USD. Chinatown is also the best spot in Singapore to shop on a budget.
The Market is spread across four streets: Smith, Temple, Pagoda and Sago. It is known for selling handicrafts and clothes cheaply and with ample bargaining. Additionally, the area is known for housing the best street food carts, with local vendors offering a range of native delicacies to shoppers during their vacations.
The central Bay area of Singapore is also home to the country’s most popular resort and an international landmark, the Marina Bay Sands. Recognized for its affluence, the area is dotted with malls that have everything from clothes, accessories and shoes to live shows and theatres, shopping for arts and crafts, eating at some of the best restaurants, justifying Singapore’s image as the country of mega malls.
The Shoppes in Marina Bay Sands should be your one-stop shop for luxury shopping. The Esplanade is ideal for families owing to its diverse entertainment options, whereas Marina Square is the best for a day out with friends, with its bowling alley and a vast food court.
Visiting Singapore and not buying local food items in different places would be almost criminal. The Laksa Paste, an important ingredient in any Singaporean kitchen, and the Ya- Kun Ya (Coconut) Spread are the most popular items to be bought. The Ya-Kun Ya is Singapore’s national breakfast. It is made of coconuts, egg, honey, sugar and pandan leaves and has a rich and creamy flavour. Both of these are available in island-wide shops or at the Changi airport.
Singapore Sling, considered one of the world's most popular drinks, originated in Long Bar at Raffles Hotel in 1930. It has now become the national drink of Singapore and can be bought at the airport or the Raffles Hotel’s Bar.