IF Singapore resonates to the sound of cash registers ringing up sales, tourists in the Gulf, at least, aren’t going to complain. Better yet, the island offers the chance to celebrate both Islamic and Christian festivals over the season.
Singapore celebrates its longest and most spectacular Xmas light-up this year, from November 11 to January 2. The island nation’s famous shopping paradise, Orchard Road, gets recreated as an Enchanted Garden this festive season, with glittering displays creating a magical atmosphere at night. Meanwhile the shoppers’ haven, Marina Bay, will be transformed with a Christmas Bells light up.
With late night shopping all over the island, and even 24/7 at the famous Mustafa Centre in Little India, on offer are beautiful handicrafts, textiles, clothes and antiques in the fascinating ethnic districts of Arab Street, Chinatown and Little India, and more.
For those looking at a holiday later in the year, Singapore’s Chinatown bursts with life and colour from January 27 to March 4, in celebration of Chinese New Year.