Own Singapore

CEBU, Philippines - Singapore is one small City State that is always reinventing itself. When you next find yourself in this Lion City, you will be amazed at the new things that meet your eyes. New buildings are continually sprouting all over, like the awesome Marina Bay Sands Hotel, new amusement parks, new come-on like the gambling casinos, or some repackaged attractions that lure you on. You can’t help but be enticed to make Singapore your own vacation spot for shopping, leisure and fun.

First is the ongoing Great Singapore Sale (May 28 – July 25) when practically all shops, in malls, as well as in the most unlikely places as the Changi Airport or in a small corner in Chinatown, mark down their prices. If you are a tourist, you automatically get additional 10 percent or more discount. Just show your passport. While I was there, even such a chi-chi boutique as Louis Vuitton had well-heeled locals standing in line waiting to get in for a rare mark down on some items.

As Singapore is multi-cultural, you can go to Chinatown, Kampong Glam (Malay enclave) and Little India for some real finds at astonishing bargains. Add to that the different ambiance and food selections in these places.

Second: opened this year is Universal Studios Singapore in Sentosa Island. (I will do a separate coverage of this theme park this Wednesday.) It is a stiff competition to Hong Kong’s Disneyland. On the other side of Sentosa is the Mega-Zip experience from the top of Imbiah Hill 30 storeys down to Siloso Beach. A must-do while in Sentosa! Another thrilling experience is the Luge racecar ride on serpentine tracks downhill.

Third: upcoming happenings like The Scape – a youth center a block wide with numerous levels of activities and exhibits. Formal opening this on Saturday, June 19. Singapore Food Festival on July 16 – 25. This annual gathering attracts food gurus, as well as enthusiasts all over the world. Youth Olympic Games on August 14 – 26. This first ever Youth Olympics hosted by Singapore will have 5,000 athletes from 205 National Olympic Committees. Then, the much-awaited Singapore Grand Prix Season on September 17 – 26 for the 2010 Formula 1 Singtel Singapore Grand Prix – the only night race in the world!

Fourth: there is a fun-filled night life in Singapore. Check out Clarke Quay and you will not be disappointed. 

Finally, you get an instant refund of all your purchases over S$100.00 but be sure to ask for the tax refund form from the merchant. No form, no refund. So easy, so fast. You can have extra cash at the airport for snacks…or for more souvenir shopping!

So, see you in Singapore! Own it! Enjoy it!  ?