Orchard Road overview

Orchard Road equals shopping – lots of it. The dazzling glass and chrome boulevard that dissects Singapore has become synonymous with spending, and all travellers will find themselves perusing the bevy of department stores at some point, even if just to escape the muggy heat. Orchard Road is unashamedly vaunted and flaunted as the premier shopping district of Asia, with literally hundreds of malls lined side by side with a sprinkling of world-class hotels. The retail megastores peter out to the north, where a number of museums and colonial buildings can be found. The excellent MRT system covers the length of Orchard Road but walking is the best way to soak in the heady hedonistic atmosphere. Weekends are especially chaotic as locals and tourists converge en masse to eat, drink and spend. The only physically strenuous activity will be carrying your shopping bags.