Singapore for Women
Singapore is blessed with many relaxing spas
It is generally safe for women travelling alone in Singapore, especially when walking the streets at night as Singapore has a low crime rate. Streets are generally well lit and crimes against tourists are rare. Still, women travellers are advised to avoid deserted places and to remain vigilant against molesters and pick pockets in crowded places. Do note that women who are six months pregnant or more may be refused entry.
Although Singapore is an extremely modern city, majority of the population are fairly old-fashioned. Do dress conservatively, especially if you are exploring the heartlands or places of worships. Sun bathing in the park is a huge no-no while going topless on the beach is considered taboo. Doing so could get you into trouble with the law. Having said that, it is fairly common for local women to dress in revealing clothing when they hit the bars or clubs at night. So take your cue from the locals and dress accordingly.
Singapore for women – shopping
For those who love shopping, you’ll find that Singapore is a shopping paradise with a myriad of shopping malls to choose from plus some bustling marketplaces filled with bargains as well.
The city’s premiere shopping belt, Orchard Road, had recently undergone a US$26.7 million makeover and the whole two kilometres stretch has now become even more vibrant with upgraded infrastructures, interesting streetscapes, lightings as well as performances and art exhibitions.
In addition, shopaholics are now spoilt for choice with new malls that have been introduced along the stretch like ION Orchard, 313@Somerset and The Mandarin Gallery. The best time to visit Singapore for some of the best deals is during the Great Singapore Sale which runs from May to July. More on Orchard Road.
However, glitzy shopping malls aren’t the only place for some serious shopping. Women travellers should also head down to Arab Street to hunt for some of the best textiles and carpets that this historic stretch has to offer. Here, you can bargain hunt for the finest Thai silk, Persian carpets, intricately woven baskets, Moroccan lamps and other exotic trinkets that catches your eye.
While there, you should also head to Haji Lane (the street just after Arab Street) for funky, independent ladies apparels and jewelleries by local and foreign designers. Bargaining is encouraged. More on shopping.
Singapore for women – entertainment
Lot 1 offers great shopping and entertainment
For entertainment, do check out the ladies night happening mostly on Wednesdays at the various bars and clubs in town. Some of the best bars can be found along the Clarke Quay stretch where ladies are spoilt for choice with outlets ranging from Attica to The Arena. The best place to be seen on a weekend is either Zouk or Velvet Underground located at Jiak Kim Street where you can expect to rub shoulders with eye-candies ranging from male celebrities to models. More on bars and nightlife.
Singapore for women – spas
Walking around Singapore under the heat and humidity can take its toll on you. Luckily, there are plenty of wellness centres and spas that offer you every possible pampering.
They range from luxury spa villages to wellness centres located outside the city centre to cater for the budget conscious. For the well heeled, you will be pleased to know that home grown brand, The Banyan Tree, has just opened a spa retreat at the Marina Bay Sands with their signature treatments.
For those wanting some peace and tranquility in spa village setting, head down to Sentosa island where The Sentosa Resort & Spa is located. Spas that are located outside the city centre and tourist zones are generally less expensive but still offer very good services. More on spas and Sentosa Island.
Singapore for women – courses
Singapore is a food paradise so it makes sense that you include cooking courses as part of your travel itinerary. One popular course that is highly recommended by the Singapore Tourism Board, Lonely Planet and Singapore City Scoops is Cookery Magic (117 Fidelio Street, off Siglap Road, Tel: +65 63489667).
Singapore for women – children
There are plenty of open spaces and parks where your children can run around and enjoy the greenery. The Botanic Gardens is a must visit with attractions such as the Ginger Garden, Evolution Garden, Coolhouse and the Children's Garden to keep your kids amused. It spans 63.7 hectares (providing ample space for your kids to run around) and is a great place to have picnics.
There are also special concert performances held from time to time. And if you do need some quiet time away from your kids, luxury hotels in Singapore do provide nurseries where staff can take care of them while you enjoy some fun time on your own. More on Singapore for kids.
