SHOPPING MALLS IN SINGAPORE
Shopping is major pastime of Singaporeans and a major activity of tourist visiting Singapore. The air-conditioned malls of Singapore have traditionally been places where one could shop at a large number or shops in one place, pay higher prices and escape the heat. There are quite a number of shopping malls in Singapore, some of the worth admiring for their futuristic architecture or checking out their amusement areas. Some are better for sporting goods; while others are places to seek out for high-end fashions; others still are oriented for young people seeking trendy fashions. [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
Kallang Wave Mall (in Kallang) is a good place for sporting goods. According to Time Out Singapore: The three-storey mall is named after the classic crowd gesture seen at football matches during Singapore’s footballing heydays. For the fashionable and sporty types, there's plenty to browse at stores like Hoop Factory, H&M (with an extensive collection of activewear), New Balance, Weston Corp, Runner's Edge and more. The mall also has a huge rock-climbing wall you can take on if you're feeling adventurous, or you could also keep occupied at snooker hall, Cue Guru. Hours and Days Open: 10:00am-10:00pm; Address:1 Stadium Place; Website: www.sportshub.com.sg/kallangwave/Pages/kallang-wave-mall.aspx
VivoCity (in Habourfront) has so much stuff “You may need a map to navigate your way around VivoCity, but one thing’s for sure: this sprawling mall has everything under one roof. After shopping at the likes of Kiehl's, Aesop, H&M, Tangs and more, cool down at the rooftop mini water playground, treat yourself to a blockbuster at Golden Village’s Gold Class, or calm those hunger pangs with its extensive directory of eateries. If you need to keep the little ones busy, sign them up for some kid-friendly activities on level 2 and 3. Hours and Days Open: Daily 10:00am-10:00pm; Address:1 Harbourfront Walk; Website: www.vivocity.com.sg
Joo Chiat Complex (in Geylang, Singapore’s Red Light District) specializes in Malay textiles, crafts, jewellery and traditional clothing. Here, you’ll also find traditional Malay wear such as Baju Kurung (Malay traditional costume for women), Baju Melayus (Malay traditional costume for men) and Hijabs (Muslim headwear), available in a variety of designs and colours, complete with exquisite brooches and pins. You can even tailor your own traditional costumes at the numerous tailors within the mall. Gold jewellery in elaborate and flowery designs can also be found here, and are a favourite among the Boyanese. Joo Chiat Complex is bustling with activity, especially during Hari Raya. Recently renovated, this 25-year-old shopping complex features rows of shops selling everything from traditional Indonesia herbs and remedies, to gorgeous Kebayas (traditional Peranakan costume).
Golden Mile Complex (in Singapore’s Little Thailand) can find all things Thai right in Singapore. Formerly known as Woh Hup Complex, it has over 400 shops, where you’ll find all sorts of authentic Thai food ingredients,, CDs, DVSs, beer, fashion and you can even watch a Thai band or two perform at night live. The Golden Mile Complex is also a great place for cheap and tasty Thai food, which is arguably the best in Singapore. It’s also known for its number of travel agencies, with buses departing to and returning from Thailand and Malaysia regularly.
Shopping Malls in Singapore in City Hall Area
Funan (between Victoria Street and North Bridge Road) used to be one of the best places in Singapore to go to electronics, computers, smart phones and tech-related items but the building that housed a mall known at different times as Funan DigitaLife Mall, Funan The IT Mall and Funan Centre has been torn down and replaced with a new mall that still sells a of tech items but also pushes games and recreational activities. Address:107 North Bridge Rd Website: www.capitaland.com/sg/malls/funan/en.html
According to Time Out Singapore: “After three years of redevelopment, the mall formerly known as Funan DigitaLife Mall is starting a new chapter. It is now home to a variety of more than 190 brands clustered around the themes of tech, craft, play, fit, chic and taste. Keeping it modern, industrial chic is the aesthetic of the mall with many vibrant corners and spaces within the mall like the Tree of Life, the Kinetic Wall, a seven-storey green wall and even an urban farm operated by Edible Garden City on the rooftop. On top of retail stores and eateries, Golden Village opens its 14th multiplex at Funan offering a more premium cinema experience and boutique gym TFX is where you can go for an intense workout session before taking a dip in the pool.” [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
Capitol Piazza (Stamford Road,, City Hall MRT station) is a shopping mall that was a part of the Capitol Singapore complex which consisted of the Capitol Theatre, the residential apartments Eden Residences Capitol, and the hotel The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore. Built on the former site of the Capitol Centre as the part of Capitol Singapore development, Capitol Piazza was partially opened in March 2015 and is now a two storey mall with two basements divided Open Plaza, Arcade, Galleria and Neue sections. Hours and Days Open: Daily 10.30am-10.30pm; Address:13 Stamford Road; Website:www.capitolpiazza.com
Marina Square (6 Raffles Blvd) is a god place to shop, eat, play and chill. Located next to Marina Bay and some of Singapore’s grandest hotels like the Mandarin and the Oriental, Marina Square is filled with high street fashion boutiques. You’ll find stores like Zara, Mango, Topshop and Miss Selfridge as well as John Little, Muji, Crocs and more, with over 300 shops in total. The mall also often runs special privileges and promotions for tourists. Marina Square is also a great place to have a meal, with its abundance of cafes and restaurants from casual eateries to comfortable restaurants, and also fast-food restaurants like Carl’s Jr. Once you’re done shopping for the day, you can relax, catch a movie at Golden Village Cinemas or have a game of ten-pin bowling at the bowling alley. Nearest MRT Station: City Hall MRT Station (NS25 / EW13), and walk through CityLink Mall to reach Marina Square
Suntec City Mall
Suntec City Mall was listed by the Guinness Book of Records in 1998 for having the largest fountain in the world, the Fountain of Wealth. The mall and adjoining office district were constructed in accordance to Feng Shui principles. The 5 towering office blocks are designed to represent a left hand’s fingers, with the fountain sitting in the middle of the “palm”, symbolising wealth. Walk around the fountain’s base at certain times of the day when the fountain is turned off and replaced with smaller fountain is supposed to bring good luck. At night, between 8:00 and 9:00pm, the fountain comes alive with a spectacular laser and music performance. Hours and Days Open: Daily 10:00am-9.30pm; Address:Suntec City 3 Temasek Boulevard; Website: www.sunteccity.com.sg
Suntec City Mall features 360 outlets spread over four floors in an L-shaped configuration and is divided into four zones: 1) The West Wing, located on the lower floors and offering high-end international labels items targeting of the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre delegates; 2) The North Wing, with high end outlets and alfresco dining outlets; 3) The Fountain Terrace, located around the Fountain of Wealth, and specializing in food and beverage outlets; and 4) The East Wing Entertainment Centre at the north-eastern end of the mall, dedicated to entertainment, technology and lifestyle related tenants.
Suntec City has been featured three times on The Amazing Race reality television show. Once on the US version Season 3 and twice on the Asian version in both Season 1 and Season 2. According to Time Out Singapore: “Though dethroned by VivoCity as the largest mall in Singapore, Suntec City is still so massive that shoppers are given pencil and paper to record the number of their parking space. [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
“A sense of direction is required if you drop by Suntec City Mall, lest you get lost in its concrete labyrinth of play. We’re talking a mall that sprawls up to 82,500 square metres, a massive space that the management has considerately divided into four zones for easier navigation. Apart from its boast of more than 380 retail outlets and over 100 dining options, the lifestyle haven includes a movie theatre, fitness hubs, and SuperPark, a crazy fun indoor playground for both the young and old. On level 3 of Suntec City Mall’s Sky Garden, Eat at Seven beckons with seven diverse Japanese culinary concepts such as Tempura Kohaku and Menya Takeichi that serve tendon and chicken ramen respectively. After hours, the clubs of Wan and Commas call on your party people to dance the night away.”
Daily 10:00am-9.30pm; Address:Suntec City 3 Temasek Boulevard; Website: www.sunteccity.com.sg ; Nearest MRT stations: Suntec Singapore is easily accessible by three MRT stations: 1) Esplanade or 2) Promenade via the Circle Line, and 3) City Hall via the East West Line. 1) From CC3 Esplanade MRT Station (3 minutes): Take Exit A and follow the signage to our Centre 2) From CC4 Promenade MRT Station (5 minutes): Take Exit C, walk through Suntec City Mall and follow the signage to our Centre 3) From EW13 City Hall MRT Station (8 - 10 minutes): Walk through City Link Mall and then Esplanade Exchange to get here
Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is one of Singapore’s largest luxury shopping malls with a refreshing mix of international brands, emerging labels and new concepts. Located in the heart of the Central Business District, this eye-catching shopping destination features a contemporary and open design, offering breathtaking views of the Marina Bay skyline.
Natural sunlight will bathe the mall, illuminating the interiors via full-glass windows. Other innovative concepts here include Singapore’s first skating rink within a mall, as well as a canal where you can take a relaxing boat ride through the retail belt in one of the many beautifully crafted sampans. Another exciting highlight to look out for is the Louis Vuitton ‘island’ boutique that’s housed in the Crystal Pavilion. This is the largest boutique located outside of Paris and if you love the brand, you’ll be delighted to know that there’s no limit on what you can purchase in the boutique here.
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands occupy about 93,000 square meter (1,000,000 square foot) of retail space with over 300 stores and food and beverage outlets Among the retailers are Bally, Bottega Veneta, Bulgari, Burberry, Cartier, Christian Dior, Fendi, Ferragamo, Franck Muller, Gucci, HugoBoss, Max Mara, Miu Miu, Omega, Patek Philippe, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Tiffany & Co., Yves Saint Laurent, Anne Fontaine, Henry Cotton’s, Stefano Ricci, Wolford , Chanel, Hermès, Emporio Armani, Chopard, REDValentino, Dunhill, Vertu, Ferragamo, Montblanc, Blancpain, Vera Wang Bride, an Hermès watch boutique, and Herve Leger.
A canal runs through the length of the Shoppes, in the same style as The Venetian in Las Vegas. Sampan rides on the canal are available for guests and shoppers at the shopping mall, similar to the gondola rides available in the Venetian. Also housed within the Shoppes are six of the ten Celebrity Chef restaurants—Bread Street Kitchen (by Gordon Ramsay), Cut (by Wolfgang Puck), Waku Ghin (by Tetsuya Wakuda), Pizzeria and Osteria Mozza (by Mario Batali), Long Chim (by David Thompson) and DB Bistro & Oyster Bar (by Daniel Boulud).
There are two Crystal Pavilions. One of the Pavilions was to house two nightclubs—Bruce Willis’s Avalon and Pangaea. The other houses the world's largest Louis Vuitton boutique. Both Pavilions opened in 2011. The Louis Vuitton Island Maison opened in September 2011 in a stand-alone glass and steel Crystal Pavilion that floats on the waterfront of Marina Bay. Incorporating art and cultural elements in its retail space, it is the first Louis Vuitton Maison in Southeast Asia, and was specially designed by internationally acclaimed award-winning architect Peter Marino. In addition to being on a floating island, the 1,900 square meter (20,000 square foot) boutique is connected to the Shoppes via an underwater tunnel The Pavilion vacated by Avalon and Pangaea was taken over by Singapore’s third Apple Store.
Hours and Days Open: Sun-Thu 10.30pm-11:00pm; Fri-Sat 10.30pm-11.30pm; Address: Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave; Website: www.marinabaysands.com/Shopping/The_Shoppes.aspx : Nearest MRT Station: Marina Bay Sands is linked directly to: Bayfront MRT station (CE1, Exit B, C, D, E) along the Circle Line Extension. Once you arrive at Bayfront (CE1) station, you can find 5 exits (Exit A to E) that bring you to the different areas of Marina Bay Sands.
Shopping Malls in the Orchard Road Area
Plaza Singapura (Orchard Road, next to Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station)features retail outlets in seven floors and two basements. One of the oldest malls located along Orchard Road,, it opened in 1974 and underwent an extensive revamp, including construction of a new wing increasing retail space by 25 percent, in 2012. It is popular with families, teenagers and young adults, Hours and Days Open: Daily 10:00am-10:00pm; Address:68 Orchard Rd; Website: www.plazasingapura.com.sg ; Nearest MRT Station: Dhoby Ghaut MRT Interchange Station: North-South Line (NS24), North-East Line (NE6), Circle Line (CC1)
According to Time Out Singapore: “Plaza Singapura's makeover has been given a new lease of life with the addition of stores like Muji, Sephora, Kiehl's and Uniqlo, along with popular Asian restaurants like Tim Ho Wan, PappaRich and Bangkok Jam, located at its new wing. With over 320 stores and services under its roof, previous anchor tenants such as Best Denki, Spotlight and Yamaha still remain. For experiential shopping, head to multi-label concept store NomadX, where some of your favourite stores like Taobao come to life. As for the little ones, take them shopping at Hamley's toy store as they pick out their next stuffed animal to bring home. [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
Design Orchard: “Loud, proud and local, Design Orchard is less of a mall and more of a hub where you can buy all things local. It features a fresh selection of Singaporean designers and makers. With over 60 brands like Kydra, Onlewo, The Animal Project, Pinksalt Swim and more calling the two-and-a-half-storey space home under the tagline 'Where Local Brands Flourish', the homegrown labels are part of an incubation programme run by local multi-label retailer Naiise which will guide them through marketing, merchandising, and expansion strategies. Besides retail therapy, there is an incubation workspace exclusively for designers and a public amphitheatre that plays host to a range of dynamic events all year round.” Address:250 Orchard Rd, Website: www.visitsingapore.com/singapore-shopping/design-orchard ; Nearest MRT Station: Design Orchard is a 6 minute (450 meter) walk from NS23 Somerset MRT.
Orchardgateway: “Consisting of two curved towers straddling both sides of the street, Orchardgateway The larger 21-storey main tower features six retail levels, which includes library@orchard on the third and fourth floor. It also houses the 502-room Hotel Jen Orchardgateway Singapore, with an infinity pool on the 19th floor. Across the street is the 11-storey Orchardgateway @ Emerald, with seven retail levels, as well as the adjoining Singapore Visitors Centre, now housed in a double-storey conservation shophouse. Shopping-wise, look out for international labels like gym wear specialists Under Armour, British cult label Religion’s first standalone store, and plenty of high-street fashion brands like Swatch, Dr Martens, i.t and more. A number of notable local brands such as Actually, The Authority, SECTS Shop and even retail-and-salon shop SUPERSPACE, which features local brands like Revasseur, Feist and more.” Hours and Days Open: Daily 10.30am-10.30pm; Address:277 Orchard Rd; Website: www.orchardgateway.sg ; Nearest MRT Station: Orchardgateway links directly to Somerset MRT (with underpasses to 313@somerset and Orchard Central) and Emerald Hill across the bridge.
Orchard Central bills itself at Singapore’s tallest vertical mall. Designed so that glass is a central feature throughout, the mall is divided into different clusters, with separate areas for pampering, fashion, active lifestyles and food. From German fashion items to bsc Lingerie and DZ bags, you’ll find a lot at Orchard Central. You can also experience alfresco dining in the sky, with restaurants on the seventh and eighth floors. Orchard Central distinguishes itself from other malls on Orchard Road with architectural and design forms. Fronted by an exterior featuring a digital art membrane, the mall offers cluster-concept shopping by grouping complementary offerings together for shoppers. Inside the mall, you’ll find the world's tallest indoor Via Ferrata climbing wall, a large collection of public art installations by acclaimed international artists and a 24/7-operational Roof Garden and Discovery Walk. The Roof Garden offers dining options on an open-air verandah, along with a sweeping view of the city. Nearest MRT Station: directly accessible from Somerset MRT Station
Far East Shopping Centre has seen better days and used to be best known for its selection of jewellery and precious stones, with rare porcelain, gold, diamonds, old carvings and sculptures all on sale here. You’ll also find computers, health equipment and cheap fashion items in the stores, alongside tailors and other beauty shops, which makes it a great place to get a suit tailored or to get your nails done. There are also some restaurants and bars.. Nearest MRT Station: Close to Orchard MRT station.
High-End Shopping Malls on Orchard Road
Knightsbridge (within the Park Hotel Group’s five-star hotel,Grand Park Orchard) is a four-storey retail podium. Its collection of flagship stores includes Malmaison by The Hour Glass, a luxury emporium that houses Patek Philppe and Rolex Boutique Salons, Pierre Corthay shoes, a small selection of vintage Cartier objet d'art and artisan Frederic Malle perfume amongst other items. It is also the first watch retailer to provide specially appointed customer relations officers who act as concierge liaisons.
Knightsbridge is also where you’ll find the the 21,000-square-foot Abercrombie & Fitch flagship store, the brand’s second store in Asia, after Tokyo. Other flagship stores include Brooks Brothers, Tommy Hilfiger, and the biggest Topshop/Topman outside of the UK and US. Besides its mainline, Boutique and Unique collections, the flagship Topshop/Topman store offers an exclusive Fashion Concierge service, including dedicated shopping bag deposit counter, shopping delivery and personal shopper services. Nearest MRT Station: MRT Orchard Road Station: Knightsbridge Mall is opposite the Mandarin Hotel and next to Paragon shopping centre.
Palais Renaissance (390 Orchard Road) is a small, exclusive and intimate shopping destination. With over 30 shops spanning across 50,000 square feet, this treasure trove is for the who’s who of the fashion community and trendsetters who loves traversing the hallways for a taste of deluxe lifestyle offerings. With an array of upmarket brands such as Passion Hair Salon, Steinway Gallery, Hermès Puiforcat Saint-Louis, TYAN and DKNY catered exclusively to the well-heeled, it’s no wonder Palais Renaissance is Singapore’s definitive address to luxurious offerings. Only at Palais. Website: www.palais.sg ; Nearest MRT Station: Orchard MRT Station.
ION Orchard
ION Orchard opened in 2009. Spread across eight levels, the 66,000 square meters mall is filled with international luxury labels, high street brands, an art and exhibition gallery, casual dining outlets and fine-dining restaurants. Fronting Orchard Road, ION Orchard is where six top luxury brands have built signature flagships in duplex units. Leading labels include names such as Ermenegildo Zegna, Louis Vuitton and Dior. For those who appreciate the designer things in life, you’ll be thrilled to know that ION Orchard is home to the largest Prada flagship store in the Asia Pacific. Designed by architect Roberto Baciocchi, it covers 1,200 sq meters over two floors and offers the latest range of ready-to-wear, bags, accessories and footwear for women and men.
Directly linked to the Orchard MRT Station, the four basement levels of ION Orchard are constantly teeming with shoppers from all walks of life. A wide variety of high street brands such as Topshop, Fred Perry and Armani Exchange attract crowds of students and nine-to-five workers. ION Orchard is also where you’ll find French beauty and cosmetics store Sephora—the largest store in Asia. Second in size, only to the main store in France, Sephora at ION Orchard includes an in-store spa that offers a variety of facials, body treatments, waxing and nail care services.
ION Orchard brings together the world’s best-loved brands in flagship, concept and lifestyle stores. Spread over eight levels of shopping space, you can indulge in over 330 retail, F&B and lifestyle stores, which include the six duplex flagships—Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Dior, Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana. In addition to a coveted stable of brands, an extensive food hall offers visitors myriad food choices ranging from local favourites to international cuisines.
Tourist Privileges: Flash your passport at the Singapore Visitors Centre at ION Orchard on L1 to redeem a Tourist Wallet featuring attractive privileges from selected brands. Enjoy an exclusive Limousine Airport Transfer when you spend $5,000 in a single receipt.
According to Time Out Singapore: “It claims to be the ‘centre of gravity’ in the Singapore retail scene – and with jaw-dropping frontage, cutting-edge design, and more than 300 stores, it makes a good case. Apart from the obvious reason for coming here – shopping – be sure to check out the extra bells and whistles. There’s ION Sky, a double-storey observation deck on the top two floors, an art gallery that boasts 4000-square-foot of art space, as well as restaurants and shops that houses designer brands such as Cartier, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, as well as the dependable staples from Topshop/Topman, Uniqlo and Zara.” [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
Hours and Days Open: Daily 10:00am-10:00pm; Address:2 Orchard Turn; Website: www.ionorchard.com ; Nearest MRT Station: Directly linked to the Orchard MRT Station.
Ngee Ann City
Ngee Ann City (391 Orchard Road) is a humongous shopping complex with some of Singapore's finest stores. The Japanese department store Takashimaya calls Ngee Ann City home, as do brands like Guess, Zara, Mango, Cartier, Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, Dior, Armani and Kinokuniya, the largest book chain in Asia. All in all, over a hundred specialty stores reside in Ngee Ann City, with sports items, electronics, designer clothing, and assorted services on demand. Address: 391 Orchard Road, Website: www.ngeeanncity.com.sg ; Nearest MRT Station: A passageway in the basement leads directly to the underground Orchard MRT station.
Ngee Ann City is a staple of Orchard Road, with something to delight everyone on its seven levels. There’s more than just designer brands; the mall also houses beauty salons and enrichment centres. With more than 30 food and beverage outlets serving Western, Chinese, Thai, Indonesia and Korean cuisine, you’ll also be sure to find something you that suits your palate. Japanese brands feature heavily at Ngee Ann City. In addition to Takashimaya department store, Books Kinokuniya, there is also a Best Denki electronics store. There are also bars and a gym.
According to Time Out Singapore: “The choice venue for fashion shows and roadshows, this massive red granite building with two towers (A and B) is the lifeblood of Orchard Road, drawing throngs of locals and tourists. It’s also known as Takashimaya Shopping Centre (aka Taka) after anchor tenant Takashimaya department store. It contains more than 130 shops, including perfumers Diptyque, makeup megastore Sephora, Aesop, Shanghai Tang and more. The hungry ones can satisfy their hunger at eateries like Crystal Jade Palace, Takashimaya Food Hall, Bali Thai and Coca. It’s also known as Takashimaya Shopping Centre (aka Taka) after anchor tenant Takashimaya A branch of the National Library offers tomes for browsing, and a quiet café for rejuvenation. [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
Mandarin Gallery
Mandarin Gallery (adjunct of the five-star Mandarin Orchard hotel) is sophisticated mall that’s home to some of the most elegant labels and tantalising eateries. The ground level features high-end brands like Just Cavalli, Vertu and Montblanc, while on the second floor you’ll find Singapore’s most famous fashion designer, Ashley Isham’s boutiques. With Bathing Ape, D&G, Galliano and Emporio Armani stores also here, pick out a simple outfit or a stunning suit or cocktail dress and turn heads on the street.
For food try Wild Honey for an eclectic range of Asian and International fare – their sumptuous all-day breakfasts are quickly becoming the talk of the town, while steak lovers can savour the wonderful cuts of meat at Lawry’s the Prime Rib. Creamy tonkotsu ramen can also be enjoyed at Ippudo’s first outlet in Singapore, although its high popularity means you might have to wait in line a while. Just before you head home, pick up some groceries at jones the grocer, a minimalist designed supermarket that supplies your fill of pasta, coffee and even cake mix. Mandarin Gallery is the perfect place for the fashionista looking for quality labels, or the gourmet seeking a satisfying meal.
According to Time Out Singapore: “Luxe brands such as Paul Smith, Vertu and Victoria's Secret, clad the façade of Mandarin Gallery, but that's not all to this Orchard Road mall. Shop for Japanese lifestyle products at Atomi, go bold with Bimba y Lola, or get your high-end fashion purchases altered at Haute Alteration Initiative. Then, take a break from shopping and sip on teas from Antoinette or The Providore. If it's nearer to dinnertime, fuel up with main courses from Sacha and Sons or Tonkatsu by Ma Maison and you're ready to continue with your retail spree.” [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
Hours and Days Open: Daily 10:00am-10:00pm; Address: Mandarin Gallery, 333 Orchard Road; Website: www.mandaringallery.com.sg ; Nearest MRT Station: Mandarin Gallery is located between Orchard MRT (NS22) and Somerset MRT (NS23) stations.
313@somerset
313@Somerset (linked to the Somerset MRT station) features a concentration of mid-range retail and dining outlets. Retail options are made of a mix of popular local and global fashion labels including Zara, Uniqlo, New Look, Esprit and a Forever 21 flagship store that spans four floors. A fully integrated retail development, it also offers three dining precincts that cater to various tastes and appetites. Hours and Days Open: Daily 10:00am-10:00pm; Address:313 Orchard Road; Website: www.313somerset.com.sg ; Nearest MRT Station: 313@somersent is situated right above the Somerset MRT station and is directly linked to the station.
Fast becoming one of the most popular shopping destinations in the Orchard Road belt, 313@Somerset boasts well-known fashion brands as well as great dining options. Spread over a sprawling eight storeys, ladies will enjoy the trendy and varied designs available at Forever 21’s flagship store, meeting the guys later at Cotton On to shop for basics, or Zara for designs from contemporary European designers. Upstairs, you’ll be spoilt for choice at Uniqlo, with its fashionable clean-cut lines and friendly service. And if you’re not into fashion, the mall also has music and DVD retailer HMV for you to pick up the latest music CDs and movies.
When you need a break, stop for a meal upstairs at Food Republic and select from a range of local favourites, or head downstairs to Swiss eatery Marché to enjoy a superb selection of salads, homemade pastas, rostis, rotisserie chicken, traditional Swiss breads, tarts and more. With so many stores, dining spots and cafes available here, you’ll need at least a full day to explore
According to Time Out Singapore: “This eight-storey mall is a stone's throw away from the Somerset MRT station, and one not to be missed when doing your rounds of shopping in Orchard. 313@somerset houses mid-market fashion brands like Forever 21, Mango, and Zara, as well as local fashion labels The Editor's Market and Love, Bonito. For all your lifestyle needs, check out Muji and Smiggle. Feeling peckish? The top floor has a sprawling Food Republic food court or take your pick from eateries like Haidilao, Marche, Masizzim and more. There is staff selling beverages on a Segway. [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
Paragon
Paragon Shopping Centre (290 Orchard Road) is the ideal destination for fashionistas in search of international brands like Valentino, Escada, and Gucci. Other lifestyle brands in the vicinity include Crabtree and Evelyn, the Food Cellar, and POA Superstore. There’s also a huge Marks & Spencer, spas and beauty parlours, a gourmet supermarket.
There is also a food cellar in the basement, and casual café dining options available on every floor. Dining choices include Ginza Kushi-Katsu, P.S. Cafe, Shimbashi Soba, Halcyon and Crane, Tambuah Mas and Paul. Paragon also houses Paragon Medical, a medical tower that hosts specialist clinics catering to a range of key medical specialisations such as aesthetics or cosmetic surgery, dentistry, radiology, obstetrics and gynaecology, fertility centre and traditional Chinese medicine.
Paragon is an upmarket shopping mall with 200 stores and six levels. Among the luxury goods retailers are Miu Miu, Alfred Dunhill and Salvatore Ferragamo, and fashion labels like Armani Exchange, Diesel, G-Star, and Miss Sixty. Prada and Givenchy have boutiques. For accessories and shoes check out Aldo, Longchamp and Jimmy Choo. There is also a mixture of other labels here, including sportswear brands like Nike, Adidas, Asics, and Pan West, and Paragon Junior clothing and Toys ‘R’ Us for kids.
Hours and Days Open: Daily 10:00am-10:00pm; Address:290 Orchard Rd; Website: www.paragonsc.com.sg ; Tel: 6738 5535; Nearest MRT Station: Orchard MRT Station NS22. Take Exit A.
Shopping Malls in Bugis Area
Bugis Junction (northeast of the Singapore Art Museum) is part traditional mall, part open-air shopping district and one of the few malls in Singapore that has sidewalk cafes and shophouses sitting alongside gleaming new retail places. One signature feature of this mall is its glass-covered shopping street, a first for Singapore in its time. Some of the shops you’ll find at Bugis include department store BHG, Topshop, Converse, Kinokuniya, Cotton On, and there’s also a Shaw cinema on the fourth floor. Popular with teenagers and young adults, Bugis Junction has four levels and a basement, and is handily located right above. Here, you’ll find several cheap eateries as well as more pricey restaurants, offering a range of dining experiences to suit your budget. The five-star InterContinental Hotel is also part of the mall complex. Nearest MRT Station: Bugis MRT station
Bugis+ (formerly Iluma): According to Time Out Singapore: “A runner-up to Orchard Road’s world-famous shopping district can be said to be the Bugis precinct, indicated by the trio of Bugis Junction, Bugis Street and Bugis+, alongside the nearby hipster hideout of Haji Lane and Arab Street. But there’s a certain appeal that Bugis+ possesses that draws shoppers in droves. Could it be the myriad of shopping options such as a two-storey Uniqlo brunch, Sephora and home-grown fashion boutique Editor’s Market. Or the culinary highlights of Genki Sushi, Flaming Don, Bangkok Jam and many more. Don’t take our word for it, but quite possibly it is the mall’s range of entertainment centres, including a cinema, a karaoke outlet, a dart bar, and even a dog-petting café. [Source: Michelle Ng, Cam Khalid and Delfina Utomo, Time Out, July 28 2019]
“This seven-storey-tall façade allows for some spectacular, large-scale multimedia shows, as the building is coated head to toe in Crystal Mesh, or CMesh, an eye-catching media installation made up of thousands of individually controlled energy-saving, fluorescent bulbs. Although envisioned as a busy arts hub when it was opened as Iluma in 2009, the mall's low crowd count, even on weekends, suggests otherwise. If you want to avoid the Bugis throng, you can shop here for clothes from kooky, less-heard-of brands (think Far East Plaza), dine at one of the casual dining joints like Thai Express (#04-06), Chef Daniel’s Kitchen (#07-04/05/06) and Pasta de Waraku (#01-05), or get your fix of KOI bubble tea (#01-25). We won’t judge if you end up spending the whole day – and night – here. Bugis+ also has karaoke, arcade and movie entertainment. Hours and Days Open: 10:00am-10:00pm; Address:201 Victoria Street; Website: www.bugis-plus.com.sg/malls/website/index.aspx ; Nearest MRT Station: Rochor MRT Station and Bugis MRT Exit D
Festive Walk at Resorts World Sentosa
Festive Walk (at Resorts World Sentosa) showcases Asia’s first Chihuly Gallery, the world’s first Michael Graves Gallery and numerous other luxury retail outlets, making it a treasure trove of exclusive and tempting finds. Dale Chihuly is known worldwide for being the pioneer of the glass sculpture movement and for his fluid and colourful installations. A unique collection of his works is on display in Resorts World Sentosa at the Chihuly Gallery, including the Sentosa Persian Tower and the Sentosa End of Day Chandelier. His first retail outlet in Asia at FestiveWalk is where you’ll find exquisite items such as glass setworks, original hand-painted drawings and limited-edition prints.
If you appreciate impeccably designed home decor, be sure to check out the Michael Graves Gallery. The world’s first and only Michael Graves Gallery features various products exclusively designed by Michael Graves himself, including original drawings, fine art posters, books, stationery, personal accessories, kitchenware and even a fashion line for men and ladies. The gallery also carries his signature range of homeware, designed exclusively for renowned Italian manufacturer, Alessi.
For coveted fashion labels and luxury goods, head to the Luxury Fashion stretch at The Galleria in Resorts World Sentosa. Conveniently located at the linkway connecting the three Signature Hotels — Festive Hotel, Hotel Michael and the Crockfords Tower — the Valiram Group has tailored a collection of exciting brands within the 30,000 square foot retail space at Luxury Fashion. Some exclusive brands that have made a debut here include leading Italian jeweller Damiani, Italian luxury menswear label Canali, and Vie Beaute, a modern and interactive beauty hall where you’ll find all the major fragrance and cosmetics brands.
Here is also where you’ll find the world-famous lingerie and beauty brand that’s fronted by the hottest supermodels in the world. Victoria’s Secret at The Galleria is the brand’s very first store in Asia. Perk up your wardrobe with Victoria’s Secret Beauty Rush makeup and fragrances, VS PINK sleepwear and underwear, and delightful Victoria’s Secret accessories that also make ideal presents. Nearest MRT Station: 15 minute walk from HarbourFront MRT (NE1/CC29), Exit E
Changi Airport Shopping
Changi Airport (20 kilometres northeast of downtown Singapore) is much more than just an airport: it is an all-encompassing venue that has a wide range of choice shopping and dining options, entertainment and lifestyle spots, as well as business centres, ensuring a first-rate experience. Other highlights are movie theatres, playgrounds and free internet stations.
Whether you’re a fan of big-name, luxury fashion brands including Hermes and Bottega Veneta, or local footwear specialist Charles & Keith, there’s bound to be a boutique that suits your style. To keep you going while you’re indulging in some much-needed retail therapy are dozens of dining establishments offering different cuisines. Enjoy delicious Chinese fare at Crystal Jade Shanghai Restaurant, unique Peranakan dishes from Kim Choo’s Nonya Kitchen, Singaporean specialties at Prima Taste or grab a sandwich and cup of coffee at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. There are even several bars to have a cold pint of local Tiger beer like Tiger Signature Bar and a nice glass of vino at La Cave Wine Bar.
But it’s not just fashion boutiques and dining establishments, there are also many great lifestyle features to be found here. One of the most notable is the world’s first Butterfly Park in an airport, where you can take a relaxed walk in an attractive garden while admiring beautiful butterflies. Be sure to explore other charming themed gardens such as the Orchid Garden, Cactus Garden, Sunflower Garden and Koi Ponds.
For jetsetters looking to rejuvenate after a long flight, you can look forward to indulging in a full body massage or some foot reflexology at venues including The Ultimate Spa, My Foot Reflexology and The Fish Spa & Reflexology. Alternatively, Changi Airport also has numerous Foot and Calf Massage Stations available for those in need of a quick pick-me-up.
If you fancy spending some time outdoors, be sure to visit the Rooftop Swimming Pool at Terminal 1. Lay back and perfect your tan or if the heat gets too much, take a dip and cool off in the open-air pool. Other highlights in Changi Airport include movie theatres, children’s playgrounds, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, MTV booths and LAN Gaming at the Entertainment Deck, well-equipped business centres, over 550 free internet stations and Wi-Fi access airport-wide to ensure a first-rate airport experience.
Nearest MRT Station: To get to Changi Airport, take the East West Line to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4/CG), then transfer to Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2). Alternatively, take the Downtown Line to Expo MRT Station (CG1/DT35), then transfer to Changi Airport MRT Station.
Jewel Changi Airport
Jewel Changi Airport (also known as Jewel or Jewel Changi, on the landside of Changi Airport) is a nature-themed entertainment and retail complex, Linked to three of its passenger terminals, the centrepiece is the world's tallest indoor waterfall, named the Rain Vortex, which is surrounded by a terraced forest setting. Jewel includes gardens, attractions, a hotel, aviation facilities and more than 300 retail and dining facilities. It covers a total gross floor area of 135,700 square meters, spanning 10 storeys – five above-ground and five basement levels. Its attractions also include the Shiseido Forest Valley, an indoor garden spanning five storeys, the Canopy Park at the topmost level, featuring more gardens and leisure facilities. Jewel receives about 300,000 visitors a day. In October 2019, six months after its soft opening, it had already welcomed 50 million visitors, exceeding its initial target for the whole of the first year.
Sanjay Surana wrote in the New York Times: “At first glance, visitors to the new Jewel complex at Singapore’s Changi Airport might feel like they have entered some mythical dimension. An indoor waterfall — the tallest in the world — drops 130 feet from an oculus the size of a bus. A Canopy Park has nets for bouncing and walking strung as high as 80 feet above the ground. A forest of 1,400 trees provides greenery and shade. [Source: Sanjay Surana, New York Times, April 11, 2019]
“The multi-floored Jewel, an asymmetrical toroid-shaped building between the airport’s existing terminals and the air-traffic control tower, opens officially on April 17. The result of four years of construction and $1.25 billion in investment, the commercial and entertainment structure aims to do what no other building has done: make an airport the destination. “Singapore is a tourist destination, but 30 percent of the people coming through Changi don’t visit,” said Ivan Tan, a senior vice president for Changi Airport Group. The country wants to draw those passengers on connecting flights, get them out to experience a taste of Singapore, so that they might come back for a longer stay.
“The centerpiece of the building is the Forest Valley with a terraced garden, and its heart is the Rain Vortex waterfall. The top floor, called Canopy Park, features bouncing and walking nets, a 165-foot sky bridge, two mazes (one with mirrors, the other hedges), a giant slide, and eight bars and restaurants. The exterior of the 10-story building, which was designed by the architect Moshe Safdie and built by CapitaLand, an Asian developer, is made of glass and crisscrossed with an aluminum-and-steel framework, allowing the entire interior to be bathed in natural light.
“The Jewel is an airport mall on steroids: In total, there are 280 retail outlets and food and beverage stops. Familiar stores line the floors — Foot Locker, Nike, the first Shake Shack in Southeast Asia — as well as local Singaporean brands like Naiise and Supermama. Other amenities include a 130-room Yotelair hotel, a full-size supermarket, an 11-screen cinema, and — don’t forget it’s an airport — early check-in counters. Mr. Tan and other officials hope that the amenities will lure travelers to leave the terminals during their layovers, even for a short time. (Singapore’s entry policy, which allows citizens of about four-fifths of the world’s countries to enter without a visa, should help.) For that reason the Jewel was designed to adjoin one terminal and link to two others by footbridges (passengers in Terminal 4 need a shuttle bus).”
Hours and Days Open: 24 hours; Address:Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Blvd; Website: www.jewelchangiairport.com : Nearest MRT Station and Getting There: Changi Airport MRT Station on the East West Line via the Changi Airport Branch Line. By Public Bus: Services 24, 27, 34, 36, 53, 110 and 858. At the airport itself, Jewel is directly connected to Terminal 1 and can be accessed from both Terminal 2 and 3 via air-conditioned pedestrian bridges. Visitors from Terminal 4 can take the free shuttle bus service from Terminal 4 to Terminal 2, and enter Jewel via the pedestrian link bridge.
Shopping Malls in Novena
Novena is a planning area located within the Central Region of Singapore, bounded by Toa Payoh to the north, Bukit Timah to the west, Tanglin to the south and Kallang to the east. Land in Novena is very expensive because of its close proximity to the Central Area. Central to this area is Novena Square, a mixed used development situated directly above the Novena MRT Station. Adjacent to Novena Square's Office Tower is a sports-themed mall called Novena Velocity. Opposite Novena Square, and across the Junction of Newton Road, Moulmein Road and Thomson Road, is United Square Shopping Mall, a children-oriented mall, with shops catering to infants, kids and parents. Shops located in the Novena area include Starbucks (one in United Square and another in Novena Square), Cold Storage, Decathlon and the newly opened Don Don Donki at Square 2, a Japanese Discount Store.
Square 2 is located at the Novena MRT Station. It was opened on 10 December 2007, and has over 180 specialty stores, selling food and beverage, fashion and accessories, education and enrichment, as well as beauty & wellness services, spanning five floors. Novena Square is a shopping mall. It lies directly above Novena MRT Station. It was opened in December 2000, and has 160 stores on three floors.. From November 2006, Novena Square Shopping Mall rebranded itself as a brand new sports and lifestyle mall with a new building extension, called the Velocity@Novena Square.
According to Time Out Singapore: “Located at Novena, United Square is family-friendly mall that features over 150 shops that caters to your child's everyday needs, from educational playthings to childrenswear to kid-friendly hairdressers. Pop by Flexa to pick up some quirky furniture pieces for the littles ones or if you've got a tween living under the roof, then stop by Tweenage and shop for apparels fit for the young adult. Hours and Days Open: Daily 10.30am-10.30pm; Address:101 Thomson Road; Website: www.unitedsquare.com.sg ; Nearest MRT Station: Novena MRT Station.
Velocity@Novena: From running shoes to camping gears to winter wear, this sports-themed mall is brimming with fitness shops and centres that carry well-known brands like Nike, Light My Fire and The North Face. Shop through Running Lab's wide selection of shoes and accessories for all your track and field needs. And for outdoor enthusiasts, get your travel equipment in order at stores like The Big Country, Outdoor Life and Marmot. Hours and Days Open: Daily 10:00am-9.30pm; Address:238 Thomson Rd Nearest MRT Station: Novena MRT Station.
Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons
Text Sources: Singapore tourism websites, Singapore government websites, UNESCO, Wikipedia, Lonely Planet guides, New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, National Geographic, The New Yorker, Bloomberg, Reuters, Associated Press, AFP, Japan News, Yomiuri Shimbun, Compton's Encyclopedia and various books and other publications.
Updated in August 2020