Japan has reopened its borders to tourism and entry to the Republic of Korea is practically seamless now — just two indicators that end-of-year travels are set to be back to how it was. If you’ve yet to secure flights, there’s no time like the present to do so.
No matter the destination, one of the highlights of any trip is to commemorate it with souvenirs. Singapore may have prime positioning when it comes to some of the biggest luxury brands out there, but there’s nothing quite like purchasing a piece from a brand’s home ground. The offerings are almost always wider, and one does save a fair bit as compared to having them shipped over.
With the assist of cards such as OCBC’s VOYAGE and Premier Visa Infinite cards, shopping in foreign currency also gives the added boon of collecting air miles. In other words, shopping will help go towards future flights.
To get you started, we round up five popular end-of-year destinations and a number of homegrown brands you wouldn’t want to miss out on.
Tokyo, Japan
For most of us, it’s been more than two years since a leisure trip to anywhere in Japan. The luxury and fashion scene has always been famed for its outré aesthetics with the respect for time-honoured techniques and culture. It’s also almost ski season and what better way to reward yourself for conquering the slopes than with a piece from award-winning brand Comme des Garçons?
Paris, France
Paris is always a good idea — it’s true. No other city in the world would afford the perfect backdrop and vibe for one to just be a flâneur. There’s always something happening in the city, from the numerous contemporary art galleries to fashion boutiques of some of the greatest couture houses around (be sure to visit the newly reopened Dior 30 Montaigne boutique).
Seoul, Republic of Korea
There’s more to Seoul than being the birthplace of the phenomenon that is K-pop. Korean fashion has been gaining traction and recognition worldwide (thanks in part to the music scene). It’s an irreverent mix of trendy streetwear with traditional tailoring, and definitely not for a wallflower. Discover some cute cafes in the city, perhaps venture out to Jeju Island for a bit, but come back and explore the burgeoning fashion scene.
Milan, Italy
Italian elegance is renowned the world over. This is where one’ll get access to the luxury houses that put the utmost importance to craftsmanship, with the use of the best of materials. Indulge in some gelato (have it throughout the year, why not?), walk through the grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and drip yourself with luxury of all kinds.
Singapore
Luxury shopping can also be found in Singapore. If you’re not looking to travel at this moment, there are tons of local brands offering unique expressions of what luxury is. Take in the artisanal, handmade fashion by Lai Chan or explore Carrie K’s jewelled creations designed to help tell stories.
