RSSNo trip to Singapore is complete without visiting Chinatown, Kampong Glam and Little India, which are reflective of the island-nation's rich ethnic, cultural and historical heritage. The ethnic districts are home to religious monuments as well as quaint shops selling ethnic goods and cuisine.
Chinatown
Chinatown is full of contrasts and has been evolving since 1821 when the first Chinese junk arrived from Fujian province in China. The sailors set up home in the harsh area known as Telok Ayer where the only source of fresh water was from a collection of wells at Spring Street. The heart of activity in Chinatown is the Trengganu/Smith Streets area, but each section of this district carries its own distinct flavor. Mosques, temples and shrines exist in peace in the same area, reflecting the harmonious racial and religious harmony on the island.
Little India
Little India is the focal point of Singapore’s large Indian community, and its streets are a treasure trove of silverware, brassware, ethnic jewelry, jasmine garlands, silk saris and colorful spices. Indian immigrants began arriving in Singapore as far back as 1819 and took up jobs as laborers and in the civil service. Little India truly comes alive during Deepavali, the Hindu Festival of Lights. The streets are gaily decorated, brightly lit and the air is thick with the sounds of traditional music. Other ritualistic festivals like Thaipusam and Holi are also celebrated on the streets. Fortune tellers and spicy smells of Indian curry complete the ambiance of Little India.
Kampong Glam
The Malay population of Singapore is represented in Kampong Glam, a former fishing village located at the mouth of the Rochor River. It had also once been the seat of Malay royalty in Singapore. The Istana Kampong Glam or the Sultan’s Palace is clearly visible as is the Sultan Mosque, Singapore’s biggest mosque with a capacity of 5,000 worshippers. The name Kampong Glam comes from the Glam tree, a native of the region. The oil of the tree was used for medicinal purposes and the tree’s bark was used by the Buginese and Malays to caulk their ships. Elsewhere in this area, visitors can explore the quaint shops of Bussorah Mall outside Masjid Sultan as well as enjoy the Malay delicacies in Kandahar Street.
Arab Street
Arab Street is just a five minute walk from Kandahar Street and is home to the finest lace, sparkling semi-precious stone, colorful rattans, spices and dates in the region. Once upon a time the shops here sold headgear for Muslim men, prayer mats and the Holy Quran as well as numerous textiles required by Muslim pilgrims before leaving for Makkah. Nowadays it is still famous for the religious and traditional items found here, but has also evolved with the time to represent diversity in Arabic and Muslim culture. Besides traditional items, Arab Street is also the place where visitors can buy items like ostrich feathers, iron-on diamantes, filmy organza, and brilliant lame in different colors.
