The Singapore Tourism Board and various business retail establishments organize major shopping festivals each year. The first event took place two years ago, lasting for eight weeks from 29 May to 26 July, 2009. After the success of the first event, the Great Singapore Sale or the GSS has become a yearly shopping festival. This is organized primarily to promote tourism industry in the country. The major shopping event attracts many tourists. Items like watches, clothes, jewelleries, electronic gadgets and other accessories are sold with discounts as much as 70%.
Major stores and big malls in Singapore extend their business operations till midnight. Tourists experience special treatment with pampering and special privileges like superb dining, and total wellness experiences such as body massages and spa. Shopping sprees can be done at the Orchard Road, China Town, Little India, Marina Bay, Bugis, Southern Waterfront, Kampong Glam and many more.
Major sponsors for this event are the Association of Shopping Centres, Baywatch Association, Orchard Road and the main newspaper publisher in the country, the Singapore Press Holdings (SPH). A great number of dealers commit themselves in this event like the Toy Universe, whose products are made available at the Takashimaya Department Store and the Club 21 Bazaar for gemstones and jewelry enthusiasts.
A part of this event includes the The Great Singapore Sale Challenge. The mechanics of this competition involves a $1000 SGD to be given to each of the participants and a list of items and its type to buy. The winners will be chosen from the group that saves the most on their shopping. All participants will keep whatever items they bought and winners will receive additional prizes.
Singapore has become one of Asia’s favourite shopping destinations that many tourists spend 50% or more of their holiday allowance in shopping alone. Shoppers are assured that all items sold in Singapore even on their greatest sale event are quality products.
Do you like shopping in Singapore? Feel free to share your tips and recommendations.
Photo Credits (Flickr CC): Singapore by maurina
Let's Visit Singapore 