No one is there not to make money, it is Singapore!

Day 1 (28 June): Arrived at Changi Airport in the afternoon, I took a taxi to Grand Copthorne Hotel (off Havelock Rd). The taxi driver wasn't so sure himself of the hotel. I showed him the location as signified in the free map (I grabbed one at the I-Counter in Changi), the driver then told me that it's a new hotel at riverfront. Whatever... delayed flight, temperature above 32deg C, as if I care tho! In our intermittent conversations, he again, again and again notified me of the Great Singapore Sales... he was pretty annoying, but on the other hand he's an effective promoter of the event!!

After checked-in at the hotel, I went to Orchard Rd and started my hunting for the new back-slung Loewe camera bag. Hopping from one mall to another, I later managed to purchase one at a good price from a decent looking camera shop at Lucky Plaza. Believe me, no matter how nice the salesman turns to be, the price is margined at more than 100%...

So what is this Great Singapore Sales all about? Takashimaya, Isetans, Tangs and such offer staggering discounts on outdated or stock clearance items. Same goes with some branded designer outlets. In other retail outlets, be a prudent shopper... check the price tag carefully, and bargain reasonably!! No one is there not to make money, it is Singapore ma!!

Camera: Sony Ericsson W900i Camera Phone

Image: Singapore Visitors Center at Orchard Road