District 9 is considered Singapore’s shopping mecca, filled with stores selling the most recognizable brands on the planet, including expensive luxury brands. So, it’s not surprising that District 9 would be a prime residential area occupied by many very affluent families. For those who can afford premium prices, you will find the most elegant of housing estates, condos, and flats. This includes Mount Sophia’s Liv on Sophia, formerly Sophia Mansions, a 19-unit residential building that had been sold to Roxy-Pacific Holdings Limited in 2012 for $43.3 million or S$1,175 psf.  

Aside from being a haven for shoppers, District 9 appeals to prospective property buyers for its acclaimed art and educational institutions. This is where LaSelle Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) is located, as well as School of the Arts (SOTA), Singapore Management University (SMU), and Singapore’s Art Museum (SAM). History and nature buffs can enjoy Bras Basah Park, Fort Canning Park, Istana Park and Mount Emily Park. 

Orchard Road

Orchard Road, a well-known beautifully lit tree-lined boulevard, started out in the mid-1800s as a fruit plantation. By the 1860s the plantation had been replaced by the private homes of wealthy families and aristocrats. In the 1890s, the King of Siam, King Chulalongkorn, bought Orchard Road’s famous Hurricane House. 

Orchard Road has now evolved into another popular shopping area, a street lined with new malls like 313 at Somerset, ION Orchard and Orchard Central. The newest mall is Orchard Gateway. Older malls like Paragon and Mandarin Gallery have been beautifully renovated, making Orchard Road a true shopping paradise. Aside from all the shops, Orchard Road is also where you will find the Istana, the official home and office of Singapore’s President. At the other end of Orchard Road, you will find Goodwood Park Hotel and the Botanic Gardens. 

River Valley

District 9 also includes a residential area called River Valley, which is home to middle class as well as wealthy families. This community of private properties is often overlooked among the glitz and glamour of Orchard Road. River Valley is where foodies can enjoy authentic Singaporean dishes like Nasi Padang and Hainanese chicken rice.