100368 The predecessors of the glitzy shopping malls, department stores still represent tempting centres of retail therapy.
100369 Saunter down to Japanese department store Isetan and browse its women’s and men’s fashion; Takashimaya with its seven floors of fashion, cosmetics, restaurants, gym and yoga centres and shop at Tangs, a high-end, award-winning store with boutique fashion, fragrance and cosmetics.
100370 You’ll also find Robinson’s, John Little, Marks & Spencer, and Metro along the Orchard Road shopping stretch.
100373 From chic hair salons, decadent spas and rejuvenating treatment salons, Singapore offers plenty of options to de-stress, unwind and walk out feeling invigorated.
100374 Spa menus include Thai and Balinese massages, Ayurvedic treatments and traditional Chinese foot reflexology.
100375 Take your pick from traditional Asian remedies or modern, cutting edge offerings such as at the SKII Boutique Spa, where you can enjoy a full range of SK-II facials and spa services in a serene atmosphere.
100378 Sitting adjacent to the Geylang district is the Joo Chiat/Katong enclave, which traditionally has been the preserve of the Peranakans, middle class locals and the wealthy merchant class.
100379 The Peranakans are descendants of 17th century Chinese and Indian immigrants who married non-Muslim natives from the Malay Archipelago.
100380 They settled in several parts throughout Singapore, but their legacy is best showcased in the colourful shophouses and homes in the Joo Chiat district which sport sculpted facades of animal reliefs and hand-crafted ceramic tiles.
100381 In fact, the area is named after a wealthy Peranakan landowner, Chew Joo Chiat, who built most of the shophouses and residential units in the area.
100382 Take a walk down Joo Chiat Road and drink in the colourful scenery of Joo Chiat's buildings.