The GREAT SINGAPORE SALES is a much anticipated event in Singapore each year. This year, the event is held from 23 May to 20 July 2008. A total of 8 weeks of irresistible discounts and offerings await bargain hunters and shopaholics.

During the Great Singapore Sales, major stores and malls extend their shopping hours till around 11pm every weekend. There will be many late night specials and giveaways during this period. So shop till your heart's content !

Orchard Road is the entertainment and commercial hub in Singapore, which has the longest shopping street in Singapore. It is regularly frequented by locals & tourists. Orchard road got its name from the orchards (nutmeg, pepper & fruit orchards) that lined the road in the 1800s.

On the southern end of Orchard Road are the Istana and Plaza Singapura. While the Botanic Gardens and Tanglin Mall are located on the northern end of Orchard Road.

Traditional Ice-cream vendors like this one (picture on the right) is a common sight in Singapore. You don't have to shop till you drop or get drenched in your own perspiration. Relax and enjoy a cool traditional style ice-cream either on a waffle cone or bread. The price is cheap and you could eat it on the way to the next shopping mall !

Air-conditioned cafes and restaurants are available everywhere along Orchard Road. Drop in for a refreshment as well as to rest your feet from the long walk. In the night, drop in for a drink in one of the pubs.

Chinatown was home to many immigrants who came from China around 1821. They set up homes in the south of Singapore River (today known as Telok Ayer). In the past about 70 years ago, the sight of Chinatown was very different from today. It was filled with colorful and busy activities and trades. Traditional artisans like the letter writers, trishaw riders and clog makers are no longer a common sight.

Today, you could still find traditional trades like the shoe repair artisans (exit D of Chinatown MRT station), Chinese Medicine and medicinal products, traditional Chinese medical halls, Chinese wedding products, Bak Kwa (barbequed meat) and Chinese Tea house.

Pasar malam (which means night market in Malay language) is set up in housing estates and moves around from one location to another. The market lasts from a few days to 1 month. Many stores sell a variety of food, fashion, household items, movie disc and many more at cheap reasonable price. Buyers get to try many traditional home cook food and some are only sold at such night markets.

More to come ....