Singapore’s Orchard Road is probably the region’s most famous shopping area. The street is lined with shopping malls packed with local and international department stores, tiny boutiques, restaurants, cafes and snack bars. Strategically placed in-between are many international five star hotels like the Hilton, Le Meridien, Meritus and Marriott, as well as quality local hotels – perfect places to retreat after a hard day pounding the shopping malls. The varied architectural styles are a testament to the area’s growth over the past 20 years as the shopping phenomenon has taken off. Istana Negara Singapura or Presidential Palace, located next to the Meridien Hotel is the (non-shopping) place of interest, although it’s only open to the public on certain occasions. If you’re here to shop, stay around Orchard road and save your energy for pounding the malls.