Singapore Prime Districts

5 mins walk to Simei MRT and East Point Shopping Centre. Fully Furnished, Well Kept. Immediate. All are Welcome. Asking S$3.2K

Nexus 2 + 1 Study (1055 sqft). High Floor, Good View. Partial Furnished. Excellent Condition. Expatriates preferred. Available 1st Sept '08. Asking S$5.3K

Imagine a residence with the space of a mansion, the skyline view of a high-rise building and the facilities of a luxurious condominium. That’s what you’ll get at the Marq on Paterson Hill. Taking high-end living to another level, this newcomer in the prime districts of Singapore is your dream come true.

Space is a given when it comes to The Marq. Forget about those so called luxurious condominiums that are very often just cramped units stacked in the air. The generous people behind The Marq bring to you two different layouts – the signature tower with 6000 sq ft units and the premier tower with 3000 sq ft. They were also clever enough to put in 6.5m double volume space across living and dining rooms. We are serious when we call The Marq mansions in the sky. On top of all that space, you enjoy true luxury in terms of the elegant design and sheer decadence. The Marq is the only development in Singapore that boasts a private 15m lap pool in each unit. Lined on the balcony, you can take a dip while gazing at uninterrupted 180 degrees panoramic view of the Orchard skyline. Now this is luxury.

You don’t pay only for the design; you also pay for the neighborhood. Which is the crème de la crème of high end living in Singapore. Paterson Hill has long hailed as the most exquisite of all districts, even among prime living areas, it is considered the best. Only developers with impeccable taste able to attract the posh crowds start a project here. As such, if you move into The Marq, you’ll be living among some of the coolest and most accomplished people in Singapore. Furthermore, all around you are sophisticated condominiums and private residences, secluded from the hustle and bustle of the world outside like a mini paradise of luxurious living. Yet Paterson Hill is so easily accessible. You are connected to the rest of Singapore through expressways just beyond the neighborhood. A short drive takes you to Raffles Place and Orchard Road is within walking distance. Everything is a breeze!

Trust us when we say life’s very, very good at The Marq. What more can you ask for when you live right beside Orchard Road, the shopping and dining haven? The shopaholic in you would be glad to know that a stroll takes you to all your favorite brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, DKNY, Armani and more! To give those sore legs a break after an intensive shopping session, you could relax at 5-star hotel lounges, try some of the high tea paraphernalia at Hilton, it is heaven. Dinner could be a very difficult decision, prime ribs at Lawry’s, buffet at Carousel, sushi at Aoki all call out to your taste buds. Everyone needs a break from the crazy stress these days. Living at Paterson Hill means you could get one anytime. There are so many spas in the vicinity, we personally recommend Comfort Space at Paragon for a relaxing massage followed by a French manicure. All these right in the neighborhood; you live life to the fullest when you live at The Marq!

Join the ranks of the elite and posh and move into The Marq now! Contact Keith, our professional realtor at keith@singaporeprimedistricts.com for more information on The Marq and other luxurious developments!

Everyone knows where Orchard Boulevard is. But not any Tom, Dick or Harry could live here. Reserved for only the rich and elite, this exclusive stretch of downtown Singapore offers some of the most luxurious homes.

Location is critical, as we at Singapore Prime Districts understand. And Orchard Boulevard fulfills this criterion perfectly. Situated just next to the heart of Orchard Road, it has convenient access to the shopping belt, for starters. The Central Business District is just a 10 minute drive away, so you would never be late for work. You are also well-connected with the rest of the island through the Pan Island Expressway. Despite staying in the midst of downtown, Orchard Boulevard maintains a quaint and serene atmosphere. The only buildings around are sophisticated private residences and 5 star hotels. Filled with lush greenery and the sweet sounds of chirping birds, it’s really a paradise unto itself.

So the area is great, but what about the condominiums? Rest assured, our professional agents have scouted Orchard Boulevard and they are impressed, to say the least. First on our list – the Boulevard Residences. Immensely luxurious and elegant, the high-end condominium is made up of 2 sleek towers linked with a sky bridge. Paneled with full length glass windows, it provides a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the city below. The designers were also thoughtful enough to create units that either faces north or south to avoid the glare from our tropical weather. We also adore their sky terraces where you could enjoy a relaxing yoga session while the cooling breeze brushes against your skin. At Orchard Boulevard, exquisite and tasteful design is a given, not a bonus.

Yes, yes, we know you can’t wait to hear about the shopping. Living so near to Orchard Road, shopping is without a doubt, pretty darn good. Just beyond your doorstep, there’re high-end malls like Forum and Palais Renaissance which are stocked to the roof with big, international labels. Go crazy with the this season offerings from Dolce & Gabbana, Hugo Boss, Louis Vuitton and much more. If that’s not enough for you, stroll further down and Takashimaya and Paragon come within sight. Hold your breath for Chanel, Tiffany’s, Armani and Miu Miu! To all you shopaholics out there, Orchard Boulevard is your sweet demise.

Of course, we at Singapore Prime Districts don’t simply recommend Orchard Boulevard for the shopping, good as it may be. This area is worth buying into because of its laid back lifestyle and exclusivity. Imagine coming home from a hard day’s work without having to face rush hour traffic jam. Then going to 5-class Chinese dinner at Jiang Nan Chun, the signatory restaurant of Four Seasons Hotel. After dinner, enjoy a tangy cocktail in Hard Rock Café with good live music. Or take a slow walk in the tranquil neighborhood. This is what Orchard Boulevard is truly about – suburban lifestyle in an urban setting.

And what are you waiting for? Contact Keith at keith@singaporeprimedistricts.com to move into the elegant and luxurious Orchard Boulevard now!

Everyone defines fun differently. If you were to ask us folks at Singapore Prime Districts, we’d say without a doubt that fun is life in the River Valley area of downtown Singapore. With a front porch lined with high-end retail and a backyard full of thumping clubs and bars, this place simply screams fun, fun, fun!

Clubbing animals and pub crawlers love River Valley. Simply for the fact that there is perhaps no other area in Singapore with more night spots. As the sun sets, funky crowds creep into the district hunting for the perfect chill out session. And they usually have their wish granted. River Valley is home to some of the best clubs and bars in Singapore. Zouk, the Godfather of the local clubbing scene pumps away just within the vicinity. Come down for their world class DJ performances, uber chic girls and guess what – genuine Andy Warhol pieces. Fancy a night of drinking? We at Singapore Prime Districts have our very own pub crawling schedule. Start from a Japanese izakaya for yakitori and sake, move on to Highlander for quality whiskey, then perhaps a strong tequila short from Velvet. Every night in River Valley is party night!

Epicureans and shopaholics too, love River Valley. Simply for the fact that this area is armed with unique fashion styles and decadent restaurants. A trip to the new mall Central would help to explain. Instead of the run-of-the-mill stuff in Orchard, you get independent shops bringing in Korean and Japanese fashion ranging from kawaii to stylish to rebellious. As for those hungry souls out there, we at Singapore Prime Districts know just the fix at Sage, famous restaurant in River Valley and Singapore. Serving up succulent beef cheeks and indulgent desserts, this is the answer to your desires. Just to add some character to the package, River Valley is also an arty district with several galleries. Think you’ve got an eye for art? Make a few purchases for the new dining room, all within the neighborhood!

Rednecks and cab drivers too, love River Valley. Simply for the fact that it is so easily accessible. Closely linked with Orchard, Raffles Place and City Hall you are a short drive away to the office and the shops. No more crazy traffic during the rush hours; you can reach work and hit home in a breeze. Whenever you need a beer to rewind from a day with the bitchy boss, Clarke Quay is just within walking distance. Throw in the fresh air by the river, even the reddest of rednecks could find some inner peace. And this is why we at Singapore Prime Districts too, love River Valley. Simply for the fact that apart from the party crowd, we find calm and quiet in a little café or a stroll around the riverside.

If just like us, this is how you would define fun then contact Keith at keith@singaporeprimedistricts.com for our pub crawling schedule and other exciting lifestyles in River Valley! Don’t drink and drive!

New standards are being set everyday in the arena of luxurious condominiums in Singapore. But few can outlast and outrun the Orchard Residences. Deeply impressed by its sheer extravagance and exclusivity, we at Singapore Prime Districts believe it’s probably the best address on the island.

Take one look at the layout of the Orchard Residences and you’re bought. There’s the exclusive bit. With only 175 super luxurious units and selling by invitation, the Orchard Residences is truly reserved for the rich and elite. Moving in means life among posh people like yourself. The amazing designers also added lustrous fittings to the interior for toe-curling comfort at home. Yet these points pale in comparison to its desirable location. Standing at Orchard Turn, the Orchard Residences parks itself at the most prime of all prime lands in Singapore. Right beneath you are the funky crowds and hustle and bustle of the shopping belt. Stretched to a height of 218m, it’s also easily the tallest building along Orchard Road and that elevates you to a level above everyone else. The panoramic skyline of buzzing downtown should be quite a feast for the eyes. Here’s to a good life – in the sky!

Sounds exciting? That’s just half of the story. The nice people behind this project are offering a better deal – buy a unit and get a shopping mall as well. Attached to the Orchard Residences is ION, the latest high-end retail centre in the city. Life will never be boring again because you can expect more than 400 food and retail outlets popping up from Ion. And they’ll not be cheapskate stuff either. Here’s a list of confirmed flagship stores: Christian Dior, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and Giorgio Armani. Together, they’ll take up 50,000 sq ft of retail space. That’s a lot of fabulous shopping to be done. What’s best – they’re connected to your doorstep, press a few lift buttons and you’re ready to kill. A nice bit of detail, ION will come with an art gallery aimed to become the venue for important art events. So the next time they bring Salvador Dali to Singapore, you might be able to go in your pajamas.

So who are the masterminds behind this paradise? We thought you’d never asked. They are Sun Hung Kai and Capitaland who rule the Hong Kong and Singapore real estate markets respectively. When the two moguls combined forces on the Orchard Residences and ION, it proved to be a splendid hit. Just the awards could sweep you off your feet. The development has won two EG Retail and Future Project Awards, the Best Architetural Entry and the Best Retail Development over 20 000 m², at MAPIC held in Cannes, France. But the sales speak the loudest. With so many people vying for a unit, the first phase of sale of 98 units was a blast. Now those who failed to get their hands on this beauty are willing to pay much more in the second hand market. With very good reasons too, this is indeed the most attractive development we at Singapore Prime Districts have ever seen in recent years.

Dreaming of moving into the Orchard Residences? Dream no more, contact Keith at keith@singaporeprimedistricts.com and we’ll send you packing for the best address in no time!

You may not have heard of Mount Sophia. And who can blame you? With so much attention paid to Cairnhill, Orchard and Somerset, it’s easy to forget about this quaint area behind the Dhoby Ghaut. In this issue, we at Singapore Prime Districts will show you why you must take note of Mount Sophia, the urban sanctuary in downtown Singapore!

Convenient location, peaceful environment

We don’t call Mount Sophia an urban sanctuary for nuts. The location speaks for itself. This tiny stretch is tugged nicely at the back of Orchard Road, the pumping heart of the city centre. Close to the Pan-Island Expressway and the Fort Canning Tunnel, the rest of Singapore lies at your doorstep. Furthermore, this ideal spot faces Somerset and City Hall so going to work will be a breeze. That only explains the urban part. Here’s the sanctuary. Although Mount Sophia is next door to the busiest street in Singapore, it maintains a serene and relaxing environment. Hidden from the noise along the shopping belt, this area is peaceful and elegant. All around you are sophisticated condominiums and private residences lined with lush greenery. You actually look forward to going home for that calming atmosphere. Mount Sophia is home sweet home indeed.

There’s something for everyone

Apart from a peaceful home, everyone needs some spice in life. Mount Sophia has plenty of that, too. How can life ever be boring when you live nearby so many malls and restaurants? Ladies, grab your purse, this is a haven for you and your girlfriends. You could shop till you drop for luxurious goods in Plaza Singapura, the Cathay and Park Mall. For those with a naughty streak, get a Brazilian wax at Strip, well-known for their kinky designs. Gentlemen, don’t feel left out. Enjoy a powerful workout session with the boys at Fitness First, the mega gym. Or catch the latest action flick at the Cathay cinemas. If just like us, you love food, then Mount Sophia has various restaurants to offer. Try our favorite American restaurant Billy Bombers for piping hot ribs, crispy thick cut fries and creamy milk shakes. Then have the Rochor Original Beancurd for dessert. Life at Mount Sophia can be so sinful.

Great colleges of Singapore

If your child aspires to be the next Picasso or Warren Buffett, then Mount Sophia might be the right place to live. This area is home to many great colleges of Singapore. For the arty child, there is the prestigious college of the arts, LaSalle. Providing students with the best experience in learning the arts, they are linked to over 40 cities globally. Having produced undergraduates who win awards local and abroad, LaSalle is not your run-of-the-mill arts school. For the business-minded child, there is Singapore Management University, the only business school in Singapore that was featured in TIME magazine. Applying the American pedagogy that promotes self-learning and innovative thinking, the ambitious albeit young college boasts graduates who move onto Goldman and Merrill Lynch. Your talented teenagers would find going to school so much more convenient. Why? They could just walk across the street.

We love Mount Sophia because it’s well-connected to the city centre yet spared from the noise and crowds. While you enjoy life in the fast lane downtown, you could return home to a peaceful sanctuary. It’s like having your cake and eating it, too.

To get your hands on that slice of cake, please contact Keith at keith@singaporeprimedistricts.com!

• Semi-D near Novena MRT 5+1 (Land 2300 sqft, Built up 3500 sqft) Asking S$13,000

• Good Class Bungalow At Binjai Park (Land 20000 sqft, Built Up 8500 sqft) Asking S$35,000

• Inter Terrace at Lor J Telok Kurau (Land 2400 sqft, Built Up 2000 sqft) Asking S$5,000

• Viz At Holland 2+1 (818 sqft) Asking S$4,500

• Kim Yam Road 3+1 (1206 sqft) Asking S$4,500

• Tiong Bahru Road 3+1 (1120 sqft) Asking S$3,500

• Yong Siak Street 2+1 (940 sqft) Asking S$3,200

• Mackenzie Road 3+1 (2400 sqft) Asking S$6,000

• Centurion Residences Semi-D at Puay Hee Avenue 4+1+1 (3725 sqft) Asking S$2.3 Mil (S$591 psf)

• Good Class Bungalow At Binjai Park (Land 20000 sqft, Built Up 8500 sqft) Asking S$25 Mil

• International Plaza (936 sqft X 2 units) Asking S$2,620,800 (S$1400 psf)
  

• Cairnhill Residences 2+1 (904 sqft) Asking S$2.2 mil (S$2400+ psf)

• Parc Palais 3+1 (1367 sqft) Asking S$950,000 (S$695 psf)

• One Amber Studio (570 sqft) Asking S$741,000 (S$1300 psf)

• One Amber 3+1 (1278 sqft) Asking S$1,661,400 (S$1300 psf)

• Braddell Park 3+1 (1302 sqft) Asking S$820,000 (S$630 psf)

ABOUT THE LISTING

- Land 2400 sqft, Built Up 2000 sqft
- Fully Furnished
- Very Nicely Renovated and Well Kept
- Prefers Expats / Company Lease
- 2 years lease, Available Mid August
- Asking S$5,000

ABOUT THE LISTING
- Built Up 3,725 sqf
- Freehold
- Cluster Housing with Swimming Pool, Children's Playground, Gymnasium
- Basement Car park
- Jacuzzi
- No west sun
- 4 Bedrooms (Ensuite) + maid's room + study
- Near to MRT & Amenities
- Minutes to Town
- Asking only S$2.3 mil

Call Kelly today at 82883948!

ABOUT THE LISTING

- 2+1, approx 818 sqf
- Open Concept Kitchen
- Full Pool View, Luxurious Lifestyle
- Windy and Bright!
- Furnished / available immediately!
- Rental asking S$4500 neg

ABOUT VIZ @ HOLLAND

Address: 221 Queensway
Type of Development: Condominium
Tenure: Freehold
District: 10
Year of Completion: 2008
No. of units: 165
Developer: Sim Lian Pte Ltd

- Brand New! Just TOP
- Along Queensway
- Walking distance to Commonwealth MRT Station
- Food Centre, Shops, Markets
- 5 Minutes Drive to Orchard Road
- Stroll to Holland Village!

ABOUT THE LISTING

- Binjai Park
- Land Area Approx 20,000 sqf, Built Up Approx 8500 sqf
- Lush Greenery with swimming pool
- Cottage Style
- Privacy with long driveway
- Can park up to 6 cars
- Refurbished Recently
- 6 bedrooms
- Jacuzzi
- Luxury Lifestyle
- Sale Price asking S$25 mil neg
- Rental asking S$35,000 per month

ABOUT GOOD CLASS BUNGALOW

Everyone knows what a bungalow is. But did you know in Singapore, we have a special type of bungalows listed as Good Class Bungalows? Holding true to their name, these bungalows bring luxurious living to a whole new level. Follow us as we guide you through a show-house session the Good Class way!

The number one criterion for a bungalow to be listed Good Class is its size. And this is not our bias; it’s clearly stated by the URA. The minimum plot size for a Good Class Bungalow is approximately 1400 sq m. That’s a whooping piece of land for a house! With that kind of generous size, you could imagine how grand and spacious Good Class Bungalows are. Those of you with green fingers would love to know, that these bungalows usually come with a wide lawn fantastic for gardening. Also, watch out for that parquet patio for a classy cocktail party and some harmless flirting! And did we mention the big car porch for your sexy Ferraris? So you like your house big? Get your hands on one of these super-size babies.

If the bungalows are ugly, there’s not much point of them being big. Fret not, because these bungalows are truly magnificent in the design department. Trust us, we know. In Singapore where land is precious, developers don’t waste an inch of it building horrid houses, particularly not when they are Good Class Bungalows. These gorgeous houses are often of colonial design, reminiscent of late19^th century England architecture. There are also some which resemble beach resorts or take on a playful yet tasteful twist of modern design. Expect splendid strokes on the interior side, too. Smooth marbled floors, Italian bathroom and kitchen fittings are frequently being used. Not for the common bourgeois, these Good Class Bungalows would please those in a class above all.

We don’t want our pretty bungalows next to the noisy wet market, do we? Good news, everyone! Most of the Good Class Bungalows are located in Bukit Timah and Holland Villages, the two crème de la crème landed residential areas in Singapore. Whenever you tell someone you live in either district, he will give you a look of respect mixed with jealousy. We’ve tried it and it works every time. These two areas are highly exclusive and reserved only for the rich and elite who can afford it. Within each area, you’d be delighted to find many fine dining establishments to entertain and impress. Also in the vicinity are lush country clubs for a game of golf and a great massage afterwards. Life in a Good Class Bungalow can get rather addictive.

Perhaps the most unique thing about these Good Class Bungalows is the acknowledgment and recognition they receive from the local government. They are grouped into Good Class Bungalow Areas and special care and attention is given to these high-end places. For example, the nice people in URA have a conservation plan for these areas and emphasize that they should be kept wooded with flora and fauna. Furthermore, due to the aesthetics and desirability of these bungalows, the URA stresses to maintain the buildings in their pristine condition. That means, the chances of you losing your house to government land reclamation is very low. On the contrary, you have the officials looking out for your house as well!

Interested in living the Good Class life? We bet you are! Contact Keith at keith@singaporeprimedistricts.com for professional advice on Good Class Bungalows. Remember, good things can come in big packages as well.

Call us today at 82883948 (Kelly) to find out more!

ABOUT THE LISTING

- 12^th floor

- Vacant Possession

- Good corporate image

- Rental rates approx S$6-S$8 psf per month

- 2 adjoining units (2 X 936 sqf)

- Asking approx S$1400 psf

- Genuine Seller, Must Sell!

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL PLAZA

- 50-storey building located inside the Central Business District of Singapore

- 10 Anson Road (District 1)

- Tanjong Pagar MRT is just next to it!

- Integration of residential, commercial and retail facilities within the building

- Refurbished recently, Good image

TENURE

Tenure is 99 years leasehold with effect from June 1970.

FOREIGN INVESTMENT

There is no restriction on foreigners buying office or residential units at IP.

LOCATION

IP is located at Anson Road and surrounded by well-known landmark buildings in the vicinity, such as :

- Capital Tower

- DBS Bank Building

- Central Provident Fund (CPF) Building

- Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) Building

- Ministry of National Development (MND) Building

- Temasek Tower (formerly known as Treasury Building)

OFFICE TYPES

- From the 5^th to 35^th storey

- Each floor is approximately 2,115 sq. m (i.e. 22,766 sq. ft)

- Each individual unit come with its own Strata Title and the sizes range from 15 sq. m (i.e. 162 sq. ft.) to 219 sq. m (i.e. 2,357 sq. ft.).

Enjoy great sea view or city view while working!

Contact: Kelly (82883948) or Keith (97346864)

ABOUT THE UNIT

- Above #10
- 2+1, 904 sqf
- Asking S$2.2 mil

ABOUT CAIRNHILL RESIDENCES

Developer: Cairnhill Green Pte Ltd

Project Name: Cairnhill Residences

Property Type: Apartments

Location: 31/33 Cairnhill Circle

Total Units: 97 units in 2 towers of 20 storeys

Expected TOP Date: 30 April 2010

Tenure: Freehold

Cairnhill Residences at Cairnhill Circle enjoys superior landscaping, sitting on elevated land overlooking Singapore's prime shopping belt, Orchard Road. It is but a short walk from Paragon and Ngee Ann City, both major retail malls for the designer-elegant, fashionable and quality-conscious.

Many parents are eager to send their sons to the nearby Anglo Chinese Junior School. It is part of the family of Anglo Chinese schools in Singapore, considered to be prestigious owing to both an illustrious history and an equally prominent alumni. Only a few turns after the Cairnhill Circle exit from the Central Expressway, Cairnhill Residences is considerably accessible.

Singapore's famous Newton Circus Food Centre is just around the corner. Indulge in a delicious spread of local delights which will leave you hungry for more. Not to worry though, since the favourite among both tourists and locals is but a mere 0.6km away. Set among a list of other condominiums, Cairnhill Residences will soon be the new kid on the block to join a neighbourhood, just where the heady thrills of Scotts Road and Orchard Road start.

Contact Kelly (82883948) or Keith (97346864) today!

ABOUT THE LISTING

- Land Area Approx 2300 sqf, Built up Approx 3500 sqf
- 5 rooms + maid's room
- Spacious layout
- Quiet, peaceful environment
- Walking distance from Novena MRT
- Minutes to Orchard Road
- Company lease - 2 years
- Available from Mid July
- Asking S$13,000 negotiable

ABOUT NOVENA

Novena is bustling with life on weekdays and weekends with both the office crowd and shopping crowd. There is no lack of eating places at Novena with Novena Square, Velocity and United Square all within walking distance. For even more shopping, Orchard Road is a mere 2 stations away!

Call Kelly (82883948) or Keith (97346864) today!




Photo Credits

ABOUT THE LISTING

- Land area of approx 7000 sqf and built up approx 6000 sqf
- Swimming pool and jacuzzi
- Car pouch for up to 2 cars
- 7 rooms with entertainment room
- Suitable for expatriates / company lease
- Spacious living hall & dinning area with a high ceiling
- Convenient location near to Kembangan MRT station
- Rental at S$18,000 per month negotiable (Can be furnished or unfurnished)



ABOUT SIGLAP

Located on the east side of Singapore, Siglap is spared from the constant hustle and bustle of town. This quaint suburban neighborhood offers a high-end and quiet life in luxurious low-rise condominiums. These developments each have a limited number of units and are absolutely exclusive to only the rich and elite. Many like Siglap for the peace and serenity it provides.

Just because Siglap is in the suburbs doesn’t mean shops close at 5 in the evening. Siglap Centre, the heart of the area is filled with high-end convenience stores and classy dining establishments to cater to a niche crowd. For more variety, the expatriates often drive for 5 minutes to Frankel Avenue and Marine Parade for a whole stretch of luxurious bars, cafes and restaurants. After a scrumptious dinner, they could stroll down the beautiful beaches around the East Coast for some fresh sea breeze. Living in the suburbs has its advantages.

Thanks to the efficient transport system of Singapore, even the suburb is easily within reach from any part of the island. Siglap is accessible via the East Coast Parkway which links to the rest of Singapore. Going into the city takes about 15 minutes so that office in Raffles Place isn’t so far away after all. One added bonus – Siglap being in the east side is very near to Changi Airport. While everyone else leave home early to catch the plane, living in Siglap makes flying overseas a breeze.

For enquries, please contact Kelly (82883948) or Keith (97346864)

Deciding on where to dine for the night in downtown Singapore could be a difficult task. In a metropolitan city with both luxurious international restaurants and authentic local flavors, you would be spoilt for choice! The good news is, expatriates living in prime districts could enjoy cuisine from local and abroad, including delights from wherever they call home.

International dining

Craving for an international dining experience? You could devour it right here in Singapore. Thanks to the multitudes of restaurants featuring cuisine from all over the world, eating is an international affair. Apart from the French, Japanese and American restaurants, we also delve into the more quaint and exotic. The next time you plan to impress your guests, bring them to Shashlik where authentic Russian borscht and escargot are served. This international dining scene further means a dose of comfort for expatriates who miss the food in their home countries. No matter which part of the globe they come from, they could always find a taste of home here.

Local flavors

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. When in Singapore, eat like a Singaporean! Many foreign visitors sing praises of our local delights which are a unique mixture of Chinese, Indian and Malay cuisine. These tropical flavors could be rather spicy because we Singaporeans crave chilies but after a few tries, you may acquire a taste for this addictive ingredient! Our signature dishes include the yummy chili crabs at Boat Quay where you could eat with your fingers in a relaxing environment next to the soothing river. Also, do not forget to try out the fragrant Hainanese chicken rice at Meritus Mandarin Hotel, often cited as the best food in Singapore.

Fine dining

For those who like it haute, downtown Singapore offers some of the most sophisticated and decadent fine dining in Asia. Notably, the restaurant groups Les Amis and Garibaldi are the leading moguls in French and Italian fine haute cuisine respectively. Each operates several luxurious restaurants which feature carefully designed degustation menus which guarantee only the freshest ingredients and finest culinary skills. The Au Jardin under Les Amis is particularly enticing to gourmets because you could dine amidst soothing greenery in the pristine compound of the Botanic Gardens. High-end dining in Singapore has also gained an international foothold as our restaurants and chefs frequently win titles abroad.

Concept dining

In recent years, Singapore sees a rise in concept dining restaurants vowed to provide a completely different eating experience to their clientele. These restaurants usually feature a theme which resonates through their menu and décor. Aurum at Clarke Quay is perhaps the most prominent. Their self-invented concept is called molecular gastronomy where art and hi-tech meet to create concoctions like abalone with pearls and liquid food items served in a syringe. Since its launch, Aurum has attracted a large pool of fans who swear by this amazing restaurant that changes what they think about food eating.

Summary: If you are expanding into Asia but do not wish to give up the comfort of exquisite dining, come to downtown Singapore, the food haven! For more information about living and dining in prime districts of Singapore, please feel free to contact us!

Photo Credit (1)

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As an expatriate working around downtown and Central Business District of Singapore, looking for a luxurious home at the correct pricing could be an arduous task. The rapid increase in downtown housing prices has become a burden to foreigners. Fret no longer because we at Singapore Prime Districts have discovered the ideal area which combines high-end living with affordability - Ardmore Park Drive.

Location
Ardmore Park Drive is conveniently located next to the prominent Orchard Road; in fact it is just a few minutes walk away from the buzzing heart of Singapore. If you intend to drive, you could access Ardmore Park Drive easily through Stevens Road and the Pan-Island Expressway (PIE) which is a broad highway that links up many important areas on the island. Furthermore, traveling to the office in Raffles Place will cease to be a hassle. No longer would you need to wake up early in the morning to avoid rush hour traffic because Ardmore Park Drive is merely 15 minutes drive away from Central Business District. Also, responding to the call for using public transport is also made easier because the Orchard MRT station is about 7 minutes walk away.

Education
We at Singapore Prime Districts understand the concern many expatriates demonstrate for their children's education. After all, in this competitive environment, quality education is of utmost importance. As such, living along Ardmore Park Drive is an added advantage because this area is home to a variety of top-tier schools. Widely recognized international schools such as Overseas Family School and Singapore International School are a stone's throw away. Your little ones can stroll to school and save you the trouble of school buses. If you have daughters, you would be delighted to know that the number one girls' school in Singapore, Raffles Girls' Secondary School is also within the vicinity. Staying near this institution would be an added bonus.

Lifestyle
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road, Ardmore Park Drive is rather quaint and serene. All around, you see elegant private condominiums and plenty of lush greenery that soothes the eye. After a hard day's work, you could unwind at the health spa in Tanglin Club or enjoy a scrumptious dinner at the American Club, complete with a glass of good wine. If what you crave for is life in the fast lane, high-end retail like Palais Renaissance and bars such as Ballymoon are just a short drive from your doorstep. After a crazy night out with the girls, you could return to home sweet home for some quiet comfort and solace in Ardmore Park Drive. Now, that is what we call having your cake and eating it, too.

Pricing
Think all the benefits will cost a hole in your pocket? Think again. Ardmore Park Drive is one of the very few areas near downtown Singapore that are still reasonably priced. While developments along Orchard Road and Cairnhill Circle are sold off at record prices of SGD$4000 to SGD$5000 per sq ft, Ardmore Park Drive is relatively much more affordable. Depending on the design and facilities available in each development, the pricing around this area ranges from SGD$2500 to SGD$3500. However, with many expatriates moving out of Orchard Road and into areas around it, we at Singapore Prime Districts predict that prices will rise in the near future. So if you are interested, act fast!

Summary: Ardmore Park Drive provides the convenience of living near Orchard Road at a reasonable price.

For more information of condominiums along Ardmore Park Drive and other prime districts, please feel free to contact Keith at keith@singaporeprimedistricts.com!

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(SINGAPORE) The Republic ranks as the best place for Asian expatriates to live worldwide, according to the latest survey by human resources consultancy firm ECA International.

Singapore surpasses cosmopolitan cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Copenhagen in Asian expatriates' view, the survey showed. These cities are ranked second, third and fifth respectively in the top 15 locations for Asian expatriate living.

Meanwhile, Kobe (joint third with Melbourne), Yokohama (eighth), Tokyo and Hong Kong (both 15th) are the only other Asian destinations that made it to the top 15 list.

Conducted annually, the Location Ranking Survey compares living standards in 254 locations globally, taking into account climate, air quality, health services, housing and utilities, isolation, social network and leisure facilities, infrastructure, personal safety and political tensions.

'High quality infrastructure and health facilities, combined with low health risks, air pollution, crime rates and a cosmopolitan population, make Singapore a very appealing location for Asians to live in,' said Lee Quane, general manager of ECA International.

'Although we did see a small deterioration in some factors, such as air quality and accommodation in 2007, it still retains its status as being the location with the best quality of living for assignees in this region.'

He explained that Singapore 'was much more affected by haze in 2007' compared with the preceding year, causing it to lose points in the air quality category. Meanwhile, 'recent market developments in en bloc (property sales) had an impact on the supply of standard accommodation'.

Nevertheless, Singapore has consistently been ranked the best location for Asian expats to live for a decade, said Mr Quane, who believes that it will retain that spot despite 'Hong Kong moving up our rankings' this year after sliding for several years, due to improved personal security scores and the movements of locations around it.

'We now see the narrowing in quality of living between Singapore and Hong Kong, but it is unlikely that Hong Kong will match Singapore. The main reason is (Hong Kong's) air pollution, which is unlikely to go away any time soon,' he explained.

At the other extreme, Baghdad is the least favourable place for Asian expats to live in, followed by Kabul (Afghanistan), Karachi (Pakistan) and Port-au-Prince (Haiti), due to the locations' risk to personal security and their lack of suitable facilities, according to the survey.

Business Times - 05 Mar 2008

Over the years, the Indonesian Chinese community in Singapore has grown and expanded into considerable force. This group of hardworking and innovative expatriates appreciates the wonderful life on the island nation because such standard of living is something that they may not receive back in Indonesia. Singapore Prime Districts discusses the reasons that attract and retain this community.

Political stance
Unlike the Indonesian government that gives priority to their fellow natives, the Singapore government is renowned for their emphasis on meritocracy. This ideology provides an equal chance to all and ensures fair competition. Meritocracy in real life application means there is no quota to university entrance or application for business licenses because everyone is judged not based on race but on talent and diligence. In school or at work, the Indonesian Chinese community could maximize their potential through opportunities that may not have been available to them in Indonesia.

Clean and corruption-free
Many South East Asian countries suffer from dire consequences of corruption in both their political and corporate arenas. The case is starkly different in Singapore where our government adopts a harsh stance against every kind of corruption. This leaves Singapore almost corruption-free as we score 5^th out 163 countries in the Transparency International Perceptions Index. Clean public and private sectors enhance efficiency and productivity throughout the island nation; as such quality of life for the Indonesian Chinese community is much higher.

Economic development
Poised as one of the powerful Asian Tigers, the Singapore economy has performed surprisingly well in the past 20 years. Even after the Asian Financial Crisis in 1997, this determined island state picked herself up relatively faster than any other city in the region. This was due largely to the well-planned development routes by the local government that places huge importance on economic performance. As such, the Indonesian Chinese community has over the years, accumulated great faith in Singapore's investment prospects.

Value of investments
Due to the limited land size of Singapore, property is often viewed to be extremely valuable and precious. In comparison with Indonesia where land is in abundance, property investments in Singapore are more lucrative with greater returns. This is especially true for prime districts where the crème de la crop developments are located. Due to the openness of our condominium and private apartment markets, the increase in prices can occur swiftly in a few years, generating profits for investors. Recently, a surge in downtown property demand has in fact done so for the Indonesian Chinese community who prefer to live near Bukit Timah and Somerset.

Home away from home
Singapore is truly the home away from home for many Indonesian Chinese expatriates. They may start off treating this island as a place for business but most of them eventually move their entire families over. This is because Singapore has a lot to offer in terms of standard of living, security and stability. Furthermore, our metropolitan culture means that these expatriates could easily enjoy Indonesian cuisine like beef noodle soup or a relaxing Javanese message in Orchard. So really, home is not that far away.

Summary: For Indonesian Chinese looking for new investments and living prospects, Singapore is the ideal location due to its political stability, economic strengths and equal platform for competition.

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Talented executives around the world are looking for opportunities in the Asia Pacific region; most are raring to move into a new life with exciting projects and investments. However, one problem constantly bugs them and stops them from taking the step forward – their children. Downtown Singapore could be the solution. Hailed as second home to many expatriates, it is well equipped with holistic education and family oriented entertainment for your little ones. Growing up in a foreign country has never been this fun.

Quality International Pre-schools
Kindergartens in downtown Singapore are sophisticated education institutions that understand that a good and early start in learning is important. They mostly adopt an internationally recognized teaching method such as the Montessori system. Where kindergartens develop their unique teaching styles, these methods are also certified by the Ministry of Education and not to mention, avid parents. One such pre-school is the famous Eton House which promotes multiple learning goals for their students. This kindergarten has frequently ranked top among its competitors for its emphasis on learning through interaction and building confidence.

Kids-Friendly Malls and Restaurants
In a bid to cultivate a pro-family environment, various shopping centers and restaurants have transformed themselves to a haven for both the parents and their young ones. These malls feature fashion for juniors, major toy stores playgrounds and specially designed nursing rooms. Housing the largest Toys R’us store in Singapore, Forum Shopping Centre is one of the children’s favorite hangouts. Restaurants like Globetrotter at United Square swear by their slogan of where you can eat and kids can play as they serve up a conducive dining environment for families with energetic little ones.

Close to Nature
A dream-like childhood is not complete without exploring the beauty of Mother Nature. While this may be difficult in severely polluted cities like Jakarta and Beijing, Nature is just beyond the doorstep at downtown Singapore. Apart from the ubiquitous lush greenery along the streets, our National Botanic Gardens is a short drive away at Bukit Timah – the perfect picnic spot. For adventurous tots, the Sungai Buloh Conservation Area provides an adventure in a paradise of tropical flora and fauna. During specific periods of the year, your children can even go bird-watching!

Exciting Holiday Activities
School holidays for a child in Singapore are constantly exciting because there are so many fun-filled activities. You could bring them to the inspiring Science Centre or gaze at the galaxy at the Planetarium. If your children love wet rides, Downtown East has some of the wildest yet safest water slides. Furthermore, arts and music festivals throughout the year carry programs specially catered to children in order to spark off their creativity. These programs often invite children to join in the fun of producing art which can be very enriching at a tender age.

Summary: Singapore is an ideal place for young children to grow up because of its quality pre-school education and pro-family lifestyle malls. If you intend to expand into Asia, don’t hesitate in choosing this island state! Contact us for more details about children and parenting services in downtown Singapore.

Ever since Singapore gained her independence in the late sixties, westernization has crept into this city state’s architecture. Eastern influences in private residences were for a long time deemed out of touch with the changing times. Developers forsake the local flavors for modern designs imported from Europe. However, lately property buyers are gaining a new interest in the unique local cultural roots, especially Peranakan and Chinese buildings from our parents’ era. As such, Emerald Hill Conservation Area is once again in the spotlight of downtown property market.

Peranakan Heritage
Nestled between Orchard and Somerset, Emerald Hill was originally the high-end residential area for wealthy Peranakan families in the early 19^th Century. Today, the Singapore government, in a bid to preserve the terrace houses and shops rich in local tradition has listed Emerald Hill as a conservation area.

These buildings feature the special Chinese baroque architectural styles only available in very few places of the world, such as Malacca and here in Singapore. They usually spot white-washed walls with wooden windows and a black slanted roof. The design is reminiscent of the colonial era.

Buzzing Night Life
The beauty of Emerald Hill does not stop at mere tradition. Life in the area is a fascinating mix of both Peranakan culture and modern night entertainment. Well known for its exotic bars and eclectic late night establishments, Emerald Hill is a glazing spot for drinks and music.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Que Pasa an exquisite wine bar offers one of the best wine-and-dine experiences in this part of town. After a hard day’s work, unwind and rejoice at the Acid Bar with a good drink and some live band performances.

All the exciting night life happens in renovated Peranakan shop houses with wooden furniture and dim yellow lights. Such contrasts between the new and the traditional make Emerald Hill as attractive as an oriental jewel.

Convenient Location
Emerald Hill does not stand alone. Due to its proximate location to Orchard Road and Somerset, you can easily access the shopping belt of Singapore. Retail moguls such as Heeren and Centrepoint are within walking distance. The nearby Cuppage Centre, house to at least 30 different dining establishments would also please every difficult taste bud.

Education for your little ones can be taken care of at the prestigious Chatsworth International School at Emerald Hill Link. This renowned international school is a very popular choice among the expatriate community in Singapore. Save your children the hassle of bus and car rides by staying at the Emerald Hill area as they can stroll to school every morning.

Affordable Prices
Don’t let exorbitant property prices in Orchard scare you off. The apartments and condominiums in Emerald Hill are still relatively affordable because most people are not familiar with the area as a residential site yet. Currently, the average floor rate ranges from S$1000 to S$2000 which is very rare in downtown Singapore.

With property prices rising madly in Orchard, buyers are likely to shift their attention beyond Orchard Road itself and notice areas on its peripheral such as Emerald Hill. As such, our guess is property at this area would increase in value in the foreseeable future. It is perhaps better to buy now than later.

Not many people know much about Draycott. Some may have never heard of this place. Even when the downtown property market is in full bloom, most investors are too focused on the heart of Orchard Road to notice this petite stretch right next to the buzz. However, there are very good reasons to start looking in this direction.

Convenience of Orchard
Draycott is located on the outskirts of town. Tugged away at Tanglin and Scotts Road, you could enjoy the convenience of living less than 5 minute drive away from Orchard Road. Yet, still remain spared from the hustle and bustle.

Shopping
If you fancy retail therapy, trendy malls such as Palais Renaissance and Forum shopping centres are just a throw away. When these places fail to deliver, you could always drop by Orchard Road.

Education
In a competitive island state that worships premium education, sending your children to branded schools is often of top priority. Draycott Drive provides an extra edge in that respect because some of the best schools, such as Raffles Girls’ Secondary School, are located within the vicinity.

Lifestyle
For those who indulge in the finer things in life – a scrumptious dinner with friends or a game of golf to rewind from the week; the American Club is the place to be. The neighborhood is also surrounded in luscious greenery. In fact, families are often spotted taking a long weekend stroll in the relaxing environment.

Prices
All these come at an affordable price. With property prices in the downtown region shooting through the roof, most areas in Orchard Road or those close enough to be in District 10 are expensive. That makes Draycott exceptional. No other neighborhood in town can offer a floor rate as low as $1000.

8 @ Mount Sophia sits snugly beside the Istana and Plaza Singapura. For the uninitiated, the Istana is the Malay or Indonesian word for "palace". In Singapore, it is a ground for the most important ceremonial occasions and state functions.

Prime usage of land surrounds the stately presence along Orchard Road, with the Dhoby Ghaut MRT Interchange leading to Plaza Singapura, a nine-floor urban retail mall and The Cathay Picturehouse, for those passionate about cutting-edge film and international features. The well-reputed Singapore Management University adds dollops of youthful vibrance to a district well-heeled in historical events.

Fort Canning sits just across to the modish malls, unwavering in its historic importance as it still gives a bird's eye view of Orchard Road. Besides, with regular open-air events such as Ballet Under the Stars and World of Music and Dance (WOMAD), Fort Canning Hill complements the cultural interaction of people and venues such as the Singapore History Museum and Singapore Art Museum.

8 @ Mount Sophia offers a tranquil sanctuary with an address so auspicious it only bodes well. Amidst the unwavering buzz of arts and cultural activity, nearby Prinsep Street has cafes and pubs decked in old shophouses of past. Another incentive for those with a sweet tooth has to be the modest yet mouthwatering Rochor Original Beancurd dessert. The coveted 8 @ Mount Sophia is another sell-out project by Frasers Centrepoint Homes.