ION Orchard made me feel like a VIP – the unexpected reception by a friendly doorman set me wondering for a moment if my taxi had dropped me off at a hotel by mistake.

This very new shopping mall in Singapore's famous shopping belt was overwhelmingly spacious but the novel touch-screen directories on every floor were a fun guide.

Four levels above ground of this mall bring together an array of designer flagship stores and other international luxury brands as well as fine dining restaurants, while the four basement levels house a large number of casual F&B outlets and retail shops.

The mall is also the first in the city to boast an integrated mall experience through its ION Art programme. Though not quite a fan of the arts, I found the Opera Gallery and ION Gallery on the third and fourth levels respectively a soothing retreat from the noisy crowd.

At Basement Four, the stylishly designed Food Opera caught my attention, what with its romantic chandeliers, comfy cushioned seats and interesting sculpture exhibits not found in regular food courts. But this is a “high-end” food court, with a cup of black coffee priced at $1.50 instead of the average $0.80 at regular food courts, and a bowl of bak chor mee (minced meat noodle) at $5 instead of the average $3.50. I bought some interesting snacks from a food stall amidst many others dotting the area just outside Food Opera.  

There were so many more shops to visit than the regular malls that I felt I could spend the entire day here and still not be able to explore all that it had to offer. This mall is no doubt an impressive development that has everything possible under one roof, only I hope my elderly parents would take to the extent of walking to do enough justice to its offerings.

Address: 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801

Tel: 6238 8228

Getting there: The mall is linked to Orchard MRT. Taxi/car drop-off is via Orchard Boulevard, Level 2.

Verdict: A refreshing mega-store to hang out on Orchard Road, in comfortable footwear.