ECONOMIC crisis? Spend more money, urge the economists. And some Singaporeans are taking that advice to heart.

They may have put a hold on big-ticket purchases but are not letting up on 'little treats' like Godiva chocolates, otoro sushi or white truffles, now in season and served up at $10 a gram in upscale restaurants.

CRISIS brings opportunities, they say. Golden ones too, with the fall in gold prices.

For some Singaporeans, it means heading to the pawnshops.

These savvy small-time gold investors are snapping up second-hand gold jewellery from these shops, saving up to 30 per cent what they would pay for similar pieces from jewellery stores.

LITTLE India is not only a hotspot for fish-head curry lovers.

At least seven non-Indian food and beverage outlets have opened there in the last 18 months.

The establishments include French restaurant The Black Sheep Cafe in Mayo Street and Western vegetarian outlet Cafe Salivation in Syed Alwi Road.