Wanderlust Wednesday - Singapore Part 1 Shopping

I have visited Singapore about 10 times in my life. I think it's fair to say that I have a decent amount of knowledge about the city - what to eat, where to shop and where to stay.

So I think it's rather flattering that my colleagues at work have circulated an email I compiled on tips for anyone visiting Singapore for the first time.

For part one, I thought I'd focus on the most important part of Singapore - for any female anyway - the shopping. Singapore has loads of department stores, boutiques, markets and stall to suit all budgets. It's easy to get lost on Orchard Road trekking from Wisma Atria to Takashimaya to Ion to DFS and miss out on a few other unique shopping spots.


Far East Plaza

http://www.flickr.com/photos/22426181@N00/ / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

This four level mall used to be a bit dingy and dark until it was revamped a couple of years ago. It features heaps of tiny stalls, some no bigger than 3 x 1.5 metres, selling local designer wear. Cool kids shop at 77th Street for their massive range of accessories. I like to browse the entire afternoon, find some gorgeous dresses and then go have Ya Kun kaya toast for tea.

Charles and Keith Shoes

I've never been back from Singapore without at least one pair of shoes from Charles and Keith. My mother came back recently with seven pairs. She may not have worn all of them yet, but with prices ranging from $15 to $60 why wouldn't you buy as many that can fit into your suitcase? These shoes are great quality for the price and have new stock in constantly. (Yes, I have worn the above stilettos and I am still loving them!)

Little India

http://www.flickr.com/photos/darkestpaisleyphotos/ / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The last time we visited Little India we ended up buying eight pairs of bangles. They were of varying prices but none cost more than $6. They are bright, beautiful and make jingly-jangly noises when you shake your arms about. Little India also has saris, eyebrow threading and awesome Indian food of course.

Poh Heng Jewellery

When you visit a jewellery store in Singapore, you sit down and they give you bottles of water. It's a nice touch. I find that the quality of fine jewellery in Singapore is great, it's well-priced and you can get unique pieces without breaking the budget. Plus, Poh Heng has Hello Kitty jewellery! I may be a 20 something but you're never too old to like, or wear, Hello Kitty.


Best Shopping Tips for Singapore

• Check prices of chain store pieces at home before you go. Some brands can be much cheaper over there in comparison to Australia, Mango is one in particular.

• Ask for a new item. Rather than an off the rack dress the sales assistant will give you a new one from the stockroom that hasn't been tried on or stretched. Just say, "Got new piece?"

• Do your homework. Pick up a Singaporean magazine like Her World, Harper's Bazaar or Elle (all are only $5) and check out the new boutiques, up and coming designers and hot trends. I recommend doing this when you enter Singapore otherwise when you're on a return flight you may get severe shopping lust. Or worse, regret!