Although many new and large shopping malls are making its dominant presence in this tiny city-state, they can never chase away the many flea markets or Pasar Malam (term in malay) competing for a piece of the pie of their business too. Some flea markets are niche in nature, others are making their presence felt in the big atrium area outside the malls like Hougang Mall and along the open spaces by the roadside. I recalled sharing how with $20, I managed to pick up some precious buys with some adventures in April. You can read it here. Today, let me share 5 unique flea markets you can visit to pick up great buys and their range of prices. I’m sure you will think twice to shop in the big malls.
1] “Thieves Market”
The Thieves Market along the Sungei Road used to house more than 300 vendors and bustling with activities. Since the space was reduced by half for development, housing about 150 vendors, they hardly look visible when walking along Sungei Road since June 2011. However, you can still discover your precious gems with an assortment of electronic gadgets that do not look like they can function normally, cassettes, utensils like pots, shoes, vinyl records, toys and even the old fashioned dial telephone.
It is fascinating to see them hackling for customers amidst the chaos, trying to dispose their goods in a sometimes quarrelsome manner, which is virtually unseen and unheard off in the big shopping malls. Occasionally, one may get caught up in their argument or be the subject of their arguments.
You can find them along the Jalan Besar and Sungei Road, to be more precise, between Kelantan Road and Weld Road. Just bring along $0.50 and $20 to enjoy great buys. Visit them between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
2] China Square Central
This flea market only operates on Sundays between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Located at 18 Cross Street, China Square Central, Levels 1-2, it is a safe haven for comic enthusiast and junkies. At Level 2, the latest editions of comic books and action figure collectibles are being stocked up by book stores awaiting their arrival. A friend of mine who enjoys comic told me this is one of the best buys for anything comic because it’s very affordable and when he visits this flea market, his $$$ are well spent.
At the first level, you can find an array of souvenirs, DVDs, not forgetting electronic goods, among other stuff for the greatest buys. My friend said, “It is even better than the Great Singapore Sale if you are not fussy.” Do bring along between $5 and $30 if you are on a shoestring budget to satisfy your buying craze.
3] Zouk, haven for stall-hoppers, blog-shoppers and trend setter in fashion
This flea market is unique in that it only operates every 3 months, carrying items like pre-loved wears, the hand-me-downs clothes or the trendiest fashion for between $10 and $40. It is being recognized as the most eclectic and one of the best flea markets in town. Mary, a friend told me she recently visited the flea market and managed to buy herself some good quality t-shirts for less than $20, some looked so new like they have never been worn before. Check here for exact day of operation. Find them at 17 Jiak Kim Street, Zouk Club.
4] Push cart at the Icon Village
The Icon Village is situated behind Amara Hotel at Tanjong Pagar. Here, you see stallholders placing their items in push carts instead of on plastic mats or under cheap tentages. Besides, it is surrounded by eateries, most crowded on weekdays as office workers form the bulk of shoppers. Here, anything from children’s toys, accessories and even electronic goods are very affordable. With $50, you can quench your thirst for quality products. My friend, a stallholder, told me business is good because of the affordable prices offered to buyers and shoppers. More details can be found here. However, I’d encourage you to visit for yourself. You will surely not be disappointed.
5] Market of Artists And Designer (MAAD)
While researching for this post, I am surprised there is even a flea market established for the arty people. Aptly situated at the Red Dot Museum at 28 Maxwell road, if you are game, you can perform, exhibit your talent, apart from shopping and selling your crafts, which include, hand-made jewelery, toys and paintings. This flea market is widely known as the budget friendly and an exploding platform for spurts of creative juices to be expressed. Go visit them, opened every first week of the month, between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. with $10 and $50 to get what you fancy. Check them out here for more details.
Who says you need to spend a bomb to own quality products? Go visit these flea markets and share with us your fines and treasure. Love to hear from you.
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