One of Singapore’s oldest department stores is right around the corner from YOTEL and is as good a place to start as any. Opened by CK Tang in 1932, TANG’S moved to Orchard Road in the 1950s; the design is inspired by palaces in Beijing’s Forbidden City and incorporates many auspicious practices from feng shui – most notably a number of octagonal forms including an octagonal tower. (Eight – or 'fa' – is traditionally a sign of prosperity.) TANG’s and the adjacent Tang Plaza are home to a mix of local and international brands, as well as a variety of cafes and restaurants.

Celebrating 10 years on Orchard Road in 2019, ION is an eye-popping, futuristic mall that’s home to flagship stores from luxury brands such as Cartier, Dior, Prada and Valentino. There’s also a gallery and installation space on Four, as well as ION Sky – a panoramic viewing gallery on the 55th floor. 

A sleek, fashion-forward destination that combines well-known brands (Bathing Ape, Max Mara, Y-3) alongside a slew of upcoming talent and local heroes such as Beyond the Vines womenswear, Supplies & Co. menswear, and cutting-edge fashion from L’Armoire.

Created as an incubation space to nurture emerging local talent, Design Orchard combines co-working spaces, a rooftop events space, and retail units under one roof. The building itself is the work of local architects, WOHA, and is home to more than 60 local designers and brands.

In complete contrast to ultra-modern Orchard Road, the historic neighbourhood of Emerald Hill was developed in the early 20th century by local Peranakans – or Straits Chinese – who acted as go-betweens for local Chinese and the British. Stop off for a cocktail at No. 5 Emerald Hill or browse for souvenirs and antiques at One Price Store (whose name is not to be taken literally, by the way!)

If you are visiting Singapore from abroad, you can claim back the 7% GST (Goods and Service Tax) if you spend more than S$100 – click here to find out how.