Singapore is more than just a bustling metropolis with stunning architecture and picturesque sights—it’s also a shopping paradise that offers a treasure trove of unique items that capture the essence of the Lion City. Whether you’re a foodie eager to explore local delicacies, a tech enthusiast hunting for the latest gadgets, a fashionista seeking the latest trends, or a traveler searching for meaningful souvenirs, Singapore’s shopping scene has something special for everyone.
But shopping in Singapore is about more than just acquiring goods; it’s an immersive experience that allows you to take home a piece of the city’s vibrant culture and dynamic energy. From luxurious shopping malls along Orchard Road to charming street markets filled with local crafts, every corner of Singapore offers a chance to discover and connect with the city’s diverse and innovative spirit. So, as you explore Singapore, let your shopping adventures be a journey through the heart of this extraordinary city, bringing home not just items but memories of an unforgettable experience.
Feast on Flavors: Singapore in Every Bite
Explore a world of delicious food where exciting flavors mix with age-old traditions. Singapore has a variety of tasty treats that showcase the island’s rich blend of diverse cultures.
The Durian Treats
Give the “King of Fruits,” the Durian, a go—it’s famous! You might enjoy its creamy flavor, but its strong smell isn’t for everyone. If you’re unsure about eating the fruit because of the smell, you can still try Durian puffs or cakes, which are softer on the senses. Durians are a huge part of Singapore’s food scene, and whether it’s the fruit itself or a sweet treat made from it, it is a must-do for visitors. The Deli cafe inside Goodwood Park Hotel near Orchard Road is famous for its durian puffs.
Bak Kwa Bonanza
Try Bak Kwa in Singapore, which is similar to beef jerky but comes from pork. You can find it at popular shops like Lim Chee Guan, Bee Cheng Hiang, and Fragrance, especially in Chinatown. This yummy treat is pork soaked in sweet and tasty spices and then grilled. It’s a favorite during Chinese New Year, but it also makes a delicious snack whenever you like it.
Pandan Perfection
The Pandan leaf is an integral part of many desserts in Singapore — it’s famous for its unique sweet smell in cakes and other goodies. Make sure to try something with Pandan in it; it has a gentle and delicious taste loved by everyone here.
Coffee & Tea Culture
Singapore’s way of enjoying coffee and tea comes from a mix of its history with countries like Britain and flavors from Malaysia and China. The regular coffee, called Kopi, and tea, known as Teh, are made in unique ways you won’t find anywhere else. Many people here drink them in the morning at places like Ya Kun. When you’re in Singapore, don’t miss out on trying fancy teas at TWG Tea or great coffee at Bacha Coffee, too.
Laksa Love
Enjoy the taste of Laksa, a spicy noodle soup famous in Singapore. It has creamy coconut milk and special Laksa sauce, with tasty herbs like laksa leaves mixed in. Eating Laksa is like enjoying a mix of Chinese and Malay cooking in one delicious bowl. You can buy Laksa paste or instant noodles at the supermarket to make this yummy dish at home.
Salted Egg Fish Skin
Take a bite of the popular snack called Salted Egg Fish Skin. It’s a crunchy treat that mixes the tasty flavor of salted eggs with thin fish skin to make a just right snack – both crunchy and yummy. And if you’re looking for a brand to try, check out Irvin’s version of this tasty treat.
Kaya Jam
Enjoy Kaya Jam, a sweet coconut spread made from eggs, sugar, coconut milk, and the unique taste of pandan leaves. In Singapore, it’s a favorite at breakfast time. People spread it on warm, toasted bread to make a famous kaya toast. If you want to take some home, you can buy a bottle of Kaya Jam at breakfast places like Ya Kun or Toast Box.
Gadget Guru: Tech Treasures Made in Singapore
Singapore isn’t only famous for its beautiful, tall buildings and great food; it’s also a great place to find excellent, high-tech treasures. If you love gadgets, you’ll be happy here. Some of the tech companies that started in Singapore are now famous worldwide.
Sound Blaster Symphony
You can improve the sound in your home with audio equipment from a local Creative company. They are known for making good sound cards, speakers, and headsets that have changed how we listen to music. Their speakers have won prizes and can give you excellent sound in your house like you’ve never heard before.
Mobile Frenzy
Enhance your collection of gadgets with the newest offerings from Samsung, or discover the latest innovative products at the Apple Store in the iconic
Rest & Recharge
Find the perfect relaxation gift for yourself with Singapore’s own Osim brand. Known for their top-quality products, Osim’s massage chairs or foot massagers are highlights that tourists should consider buying. Since Osim is a local favorite, you might find better deals here than back home. These wellness essentials bring Singaporean comfort and innovation to your living space.
Gaming Equipment Paradise
Boost your gaming with the best gear from Razer, which is all available at RazorStore. They have super-precise computer mice and keyboards that make playing a breeze, so everyone will want a gaming setup like yours. For top gaming comfort, try out the plush and luxurious chairs by Secretlab, a local brand known for its high-quality gaming chairs. You can find all these fantastic items at RazorStore, conveniently located at Razer’s Southeast Asia headquarters (SEA HQ). While there, pop into the RazerCafe in the same place and enjoy some fun gaming-themed treats and drinks.
Shopping for Fashion
Step into Singapore’s vibrant fashion scene, where the streets are a catwalk of contemporary style and traditional threads. Discover an eclectic mix of high-street brands, homegrown labels, and hidden boutiques that offer everything from luxury designer wear to bespoke tailoring. Whether you’re seeking out the latest trends at Orchard Road’s shopping mecca or hunting for unique pieces in the charming shophouses of Haji Lane, Singapore serves as the ultimate fashionista’s playground. Get ready to fill your suitcase with not just clothes but stories woven into the very fabric of the city’s diverse fashion heritage.
Batik Style: Singapore’s Colorful Tradition
Batik is a special kind of cloth with pretty designs, and it’s a big part of what fashion looks like in Singapore. You can buy real batik clothes at local markets or stores focusing on this incredible art. These clothes have unique designs that make your outfits stand out. But it’s not just about clothes – you can also find batik scarves and bags to add some of Singapore’s style to your daily wear.
Fashion Street Finds
Orchard Road is the best place to find cool clothes in Singapore. You’ll see big brand names and local shops like Love, Bonito. The shopping malls on this road have all kinds of stores, from famous worldwide brands to Singapore’s fashion designers. Whether you have a lot or a little to spend, you’ll find incredible stuff to buy here.
Shoe Symphony
In Singapore, shoe shopping is fantastic, especially with well-known local brands like Pedro and Charles & Keith. If you head to Orchard Road, you’ll find all sorts of shoes. From cool sneakers to bright heels for work or even casual sandals for the beach – there’s something for everyone. This place has shoes and fashion tastes for every event. The best part? You can find good shoes no matter how much you want, and they’re all well-made and look great.
Souvenir Stories: Mementos with Meaning
As you go around Singapore, remember that every souvenir you pick up has its own story. Even a small gift can become something unique that holds the spirit of this exciting place.
Merlion Mania
The Merlion is a famous symbol in Singapore with a lion’s head and a fish’s body. You can buy many things with the Merlion on them, like key chains and bottle openers, that show off a bit of Singapore’s character. People like to buy small Merlion statues and cool-looking ashtrays. These things remind you of your trip and are helpful, too.
Orchid Elegance
In Singapore, the orchid stands proudly as the nation’s beloved flower, symbolizing elegance and beauty. This exquisite bloom can be found gracing a variety of delightful keepsakes, from finely crafted porcelain plates to enchanting orchid perfumes that perfectly capture its unique fragrance. For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of orchids, participating in a perfume workshop offers a hands-on experience. Here, you can blend different scents to create a personalized orchid perfume, making a perfect and fragrant souvenir embodying Singapore’s natural charm. Bringing home these orchid-inspired items allows you to cherish the natural beauty of Singapore’s flora, keeping a piece of this enchanting city with you.
Herbal Healing Treasures
Tiger Balm is a famous pain relief ointment that started with the knowledge of ancient Chinese healers. It’s a top thing to buy in Singapore because it’s well-known for soothing aches and pains. Chinese people in Singapore first used it long ago, and it’s famous worldwide. You can choose the classic Tiger Balm ointment or try some newer types. It’s like taking a piece of Singapore’s history and traditional healing with you.
Bonus Tip
Best Place to Buy the Items
Changi Airport isn’t merely a stop in your travels—it’s a shopping destination in its own right, especially at the Jewel shopping mall. You can discover most of the fantastic items in this dazzling complex. Immerse yourself in state-of-the-art electronics, indulge in the sweetness of local delights like Bak Kwa and Kaya Jam, or select from a refined assortment of premium coffee and tea. Jewel’s all-in-one convenience means your last-minute shopping is stress-free and complete without dashing across the city. Plus, with duty-free prices when shopping at Changi Airport, you’ll enjoy significant savings as you gather Singapore’s finest offerings just before your departure.
GST Refund
When you buy things in Singapore, don’t forget you can get some money back. It’s called the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS), and it lets you get back the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is 9% as of 2024. If you’re visiting Singapore and you buy more than S$100 worth of stuff at stores that offer this tax back, you can claim it.
Eligibility Criteria:
- You are a tourist in Singapore.
- You have spent a minimum of S$100 (including GST).
- Your purchases are from retailers that participate in the TRS.
How to Claim Your GST Refund:
- At the store, request a Tax-Free Shopping receipt.
- Bring your purchased items, original receipt(s), and passport to the eTRS self-help kiosks at the airport before departure.
Keep in Mind:
- Refunds are not automatic, and forms must be completed accurately.
- Due to their higher price points, electronic items, fashion accessories, or local delicacies are typically the best purchases to claim GST refunds.
For more comprehensive information on the procedure and what items are eligible, visit the Tourist Refund Scheme Singapore Customs website.
Remember, the refund often doesn’t apply to services like hotel stays or consumed goods. Save all your receipts and follow the process carefully to ensure you receive your refund without any hassle.
