Despite Singapore generally being hailed as a shopping paradise presently only very few shops offer ready made large sizes for expatriates. The frustration of never fitting into anything if one needs a size beyond 8 US (UK 12, Continental 38) added to the vast offer of delicious food and dishes (which you can never resist) results into a full-grown culture shock experience within a few weeks time.

The Asian size LARGE unfortunately corresponds to US size 6 - 8! Designer shops are aware of the problem but still have only a few large size offers, which sell out fast.

Really Fashionable swim wear, lingerie especially non-padded bras are practically non-existent except expatriate imported very hard to find special offers sold on appointment only or offered at Christmas Bazaars.

Expatriate ladies, try shorts and T-Shirts from the men's department!

For all those fortunate to fit into Asian sizes we recommend the following Shopping Centers and Hotel shopping arcades:

All sort of food is available in Singapore with reasonable prices for local items and sometimes hefty charges on imported food you may be craving for very soon. Adjust to local food as soon as possible as you can save a lot of money. Meat is much safer than in Europe, as pork and beef imports from a number of countries are banned due to CFJ and FMD.

Wet market visits are a must to get the real feel of Asia and you will enjoy the fruits and vegetables on offer before you start cooking. Visit the same stands if possible and get to know the vendors. They will certainly give you better prices and goods once they know you are a regular customer. Wet market shopping should take place early in the morning when goods are fresh and it is still cool.

With specialist Provisioner supplying all your groceries to your home if you wish life can be very comfortable and shopping cuts down to what you need to choose for yourself. Daily supplies are perfectly delivered to your doorstep the same or following day of your order. It will take some time until your provisioner is used to your needs. Provisioners also shop at specialty shops or pick up the food you have ordered yourself by phone or fax.

Bills are paid at the end of each month. Be careful when food delivered to your home in your absence has been outside the fridge waiting at the concierge for you to come back. Food does spoil very quickly in the tropics.

View location of Food Chain Stores and Supermarkets here >>>