Need a special souvenir to sum up your time in Singapore? We've got a list of unique and cool Singapore mementos sure to fit the bill.
We’re a pretty sentimental bunch here at HoneyKids. We love us a good nostalgic memento, especially when it comes to our kids. But what about if a close friend is leaving Singapore or – gasp! – you’re going yourself? The Covid-19 pandemic has meant many families are leaving the Lion City to return to their home countries (sob). So, if that’s you or someone you know, you’ll want the perfect keepsake to remember your time here. But where to buy Singapore souvenirs that aren’t your usual tourist tat? We’ve put our thinking caps on to bring you the best Singapore souvenirs to gaze on fondly from far-off shores and evoke fond memories. Just make sure to order your gifts and goodies in time to slip into that shipping container!
The best Singapore souvenirs and gifts
1 // Traditional Peranakan pottery
Ooooh, we cooed with delight when we were looking for where to buy Singapore souvenirs and discovered Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle. They fire up the family kiln several times a year (it’s Singapore’s oldest surviving dragon kiln) to create some absolutely stunning pieces. We’ve treated ourselves to a few colourful, authentic goodies from the Peranakan pottery range, as we couldn’t resist our own Singapore souvenirs (see above!). The handpainted details are stunning, the quality is top-notch and we thoroughly recommend. From umbrella stands, vases, lamps and bowls to plates, pots and tiffin holders, you’re sure to find a beautiful Singaporean gift. And the range online is the tip of the iceberg – there’s heaps more at the actual physical shop! Workshops are also available.
Pottery Jungle, 85 Lorong Tawas Singapore 639823; open daily 9am–5pm
2 // Singapore tote bag
How about this cool shopper bag for an affordable memento? Independent Market has some truly awesome Singapore-inspired gifts, and we’re big fans of the Let’s Jalan tote bag ($22.90). It folds away to a dinky little pouch you can easily carry in your handbag, then voila! Instant memories of the Lion City, plus a handy-as-heck way to carry all your supermarket goodies. This reusable marvel means it’s easier than ever to ditch the disposables and reminisce at the same time. Top marks.
3 // Singapore Monopoly
Who doesn’t love a board game? While Monopoly can cause us to get a tad competitive, it’s still got a special place in our hearts. So, if you’re looking for Singapore souvenirs, how about the Monopoly Singapore edition with its local streets and landmarks? Pick one up at one of our fave online toy stores – we found it for $39.90 at Toyster.
4 // Cushions for foodie fans
Presents with a practical use tick all the right boxes for us. So when we saw these cushions from Independent Market that celebrate local delights such as chilli crab and chicken rice, we were in our element. Fond memories of the best local food ever, and top comfort too while we daydream about dinner. What’s not to love? These cushion covers are $30 each (inserts sold separately).
5 // Children’s books about Singapore
One for the kids: how about a gorgeous children’s book about Singapore? It’s something you can treasure every time you enjoy a story sesh with the tiddlies. We’ve pulled together our favourites in one handy read, so be sure to take a peek! The best news? If you’re stumped over where to buy Singapore souvenirs, this one’s easiest of all – check out these bookstores to get started!
6 // Picture-perfect postcards
When we came across these Papercranes Design postcards from Naiise, it got us thinking. Easy to post, easy to pack to bring home… and then simply whack in a few photoframes and Bob’s your mother’s brother! Gorgeous illustrated scenes of some of our fave hotspots = awesome Singapore souvenirs to hang on your wall. There are both colour (set of four, $10.80) and black-and-white options (set of eight, $21.60) to choose from, and we LOVE.
7. Hanging ornaments
Not just for Christmas, we’re crushing on the beautiful handmade hanging ornaments by The Lion Rock Press. How cute would those tiny Singapore shophouses or mini tiffin holder look in your home?! So cute we can’t stop at just one. Head to The AC at Raffles to shop in person (they’re the official Singapore stockist).
TheAC, Raffles Hotel Arcade, #02-36, 328 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 188719
8 // Traditional tile earrings
How about a souvenir of Singapore you can wear? Yep, we’re going heart eyes for these beauties from Lovely Strokes: gorgeous earrings that make us think of tiles on traditional shophouses. Bag yourself some bling and reminisce every time you wear them.
9 // Singapore icons plate
Hang it on your wall or simply eat your sarnie off it… either way, this Supermama plate is on our wishlist. It’s part of the brand’s inhouse porcelain collection, which is all designed in Singapore and made with Kihara, a porcelain label in Arita, Japan. This One Singapore 2020 Edition 15cm version will set you back $42, and we reckon it’s worth every cent. If you’re wondering where to buy Singapore souvenirs, you’ve just found your answer.
10 // Elephant Parade models
Also on our wishlist: a Singapore-themed elephant from the ever-popular and awesome cause that is Elephant Parade. There are so many unique and cool variations that it’s impossible to pick just one… which is why this set of three from The Cinnamon Room is right up our alley! Portraying old and new maps of Singapore, each elephant has been lovingly designed by artist Diana Francis. Buy the set for a reasonable $69.90. Don’t forget to head to Haji Lane or Chinatown to find the official shops before you leave!
11 // Clare Haxby prints
Uber-talented British artist Clare Haxby is well known for her vibrant depictions of all things Singapore, inspired by the years she spent here with her own family. Choose from colourful, limited-edition prints of scenes such as heritage shophouses, vibrant neighbourhoods and the city skyline. Since Clare now lives back in Blighty, prints are posted from the UK, but the good news is that delivery is included in the print price (typically around $490). It’s a pricier goodbye gift, but has definite wow factor!
Happy souvenir shopping!
Top image: Amy Potter
