que pasa

In Singapore, Orchard Road is the main shopping district. It is interesting what you see at different times of the year. Shopping (from window shopping, to purchasing, to just having somewhere to go and something to look at) is a huge part of Singaporean life.

The Great Singapore Sale
Singapore has the Great Singapore Sale around June and July every year. Which is great because prices are heavily discounted, until you realize that the stores marked up the prices so that they could then mark them down and make you think that they are doing you a big favour. Okay, so there are some really good deals out there, but how can anyone stand all the shoving, elbowing that occurs when the women fight for stuff? And the looooong lines at the changing rooms?!?!?

I suppose it is quite an experience (everyone should try it at least once), and I hope you do get good deals. For me, I would rather stay away during this time. Kudos to the salesgirls who put up with the impatient shoppers' demands.

Chinese New Year
Noticed that shops with banner advertisements had crossed out quite a number of red-colored items with the words "SOLD OUT". Red is the color of the season, and one cannot get enough of it. (Unless you happen to be in the phase of your life where black or white is the new red, and I suppose your parents will be very frustrated this new year.)

This year was the first time in my life I was at Orchard Road on the second day of the chinese new year, and almost eighty percent of the shops were closed. Guess that is what happens when the majority of the workforce is taking a break. Interestingly enough, there was still quite a crowd in town. Malays, Indians, Caucasians, tourists, and Chinese kids. I could not decide which was more interesting: people looking rather lost that they could not shop (what were they going to do?) Or the fact that there were so many Chinese kids not spending time with their family during the season when they should be spending time with their family (what does this say about family bonds?)

Christmas
Many have commented that Christmas is too commercialized, and that season loses its meaning. But do they really care when stores are making such attractive offers? Of course, I question again, the actual "discount" that is being offered, but who really cares when everyone is in the mood for gift giving? Furthermore, most people would have just received their bonus payments so what a great time to use that wonderful thing called "extra purchasing power"!

I like shopping during Christmas. Yes, the malls are still crowded (perhaps just as bad as the Great Singapore Sale), but the vibes are better. People do not just buy for themselves, but for their loved ones as well. Decorations are out, christmas carols are played, special christmas performances are brought in... all this helps to create the happy feeling. Spread the love!

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Meeshell and I were having a conversation the other day and we both agreed that there is always a sale going on here. Which is great really, provided the dress that you bought the other day does not go on a bigger discount the week after you buy it.