Joanna James
As Singapore's trendiest shopping street, Orchard Road is not just the best place in the city for a shopping spree. Here are six ways to spend your time in Orchard Road meaningfully.
Orchard Road is synonymous with the best department stores and luxury boutiques in the Lion City and as such, a tour of the area would be incomplete without a stopover at the ION Orchard, Ngee Ann City and The Paragon. After a shopping spree, it is imperative to tour the confines of Emerald Hill, arguably one of the most picturesque streets in Singapore. Home to the resplendent residences of Malay and Chinese immigrants or Peranakans, the stately homes and gardens in this area transport visitors to one of the country's golden eras.
As one of the most verdant spaces in Orchard Road, Fort Canning Park occupies pride of place in the heart of the country. As a leisure hub as well as a historical point of interest, the park is where one finds the iconic Battle Box, a series of tunnels underground that served Allied forces during the Second World War. Ideally situated near the Singapore History Museum the park is accessible from a number of entrances.
Located down Bras Basah Road, the Singapore Art Museum is another often overlooked attraction that's worthy of a visit. Spread out over an extensive 10,000 square meters, the venue is home to a whopping 8000 works of art by local artists and well as those hailing from Southeast Asia. The contemporary art pieces cover the gamut of Singapore's creative evolution and the works are displayed in 14 thematic galleries which are climate controlled to preserve the contents of each room.
Once called Singapore's Government House, The Istana is no ordinary landmark down Orchard Road. The regal location is where the offices of the Singaporean president are found and the structure in which the office is contained was built by none other than Sir Harry St George Ord, the country's premier governor. Constructed in 1867, the palatial complex which showcases neo-Palladian, as well as Anglo-Indian architectural styles, took two years to complete and feature a Japanese cannon, a statue of Queen Victoria and other historic relics.
No trip to Singapore would be complete without a tour of the National Museum of Singapore and those based at Grand Park Orchard or any similar hotel will find that they have easy access to this illustrious space. Once named the Raffles Library and Museum, the locale documents the country's political, cultural and economic evolution throughout the ages. Those who are travelling the island due to Singapore hotel promotion packages will find that a trip to the museum is a great way to learn about the country.
Having opened its doors back in 1990, this art-house cinema was once called The Picturehouse and to this remains the best place in Orchard to catch a Hollywood blockbuster or an award-winning independent film.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
