Arab Street: One of Singapore's Coolest Neighbourhood

"Singapore is so boring. It's small and has limited scenic places. It's constantly crowded wherever you go. What's so fascinating about Singapore?"

Singapore is just a tiny red dot in the entire globe. We lack natural resources - no scenic beaches and flora and fauna. Most of the attractions are man-made. We are very good with artificial presence - i.e. Gardens by the Bay is a perfect example of a man-made garden at the heart of Singapore.

The moment there is a public holiday, I would flock to the neighbouring country - none other than Malaysia. Food and shopping are generally cheaper as compared to expensive Singapore. And... it's obviously less crowded. Singapore is just too congested!

Okay, those were just my thoughts.

Now, I think I've grown to like Singapore a little more with the every-changing neighbourhoods. With more cultural scenes, there is much to appreciate now. The government has opened more room for arts and creativity.

With my camera, I get to explore Singapore with a different perspective.

And so i think Arab Street is indeed one of the coolest estate. More than nice architecture, arts and culture, I like the close knitted kampong spirit that is evidently present.

Singapore's veteran creative hub Arab Street continues to thrive, morphing into a calmer and cooler version of its once young and overly energetic self. Arab Street celebrates its colourful heritage.

Rather than just one road, Arab Street actually refers to the area including Bussorah Street, Haji and Bali Lanes and Muscat Street.

This also an area of indie boutiques, restored shop-houses and street arts (not a common sight in Singapore) -- that attract anyone from buskers to tourists to families.

Sir Stamford Raffles formed a Town Committee in 1822 and mapped out areas designated for individual communities to live in. These areas were the European Town, and the Chinese, Chuliah, Arab and Bugis Kampongs. Rapid urbanisation subsequently took place in the Kampong Glam district, and Arab Street became the area’s main shopping street.

Arab, Indian, Bugis, Javanese and Chinese traders set up their businesses there, and the street became a mixed enclave.

Arab Street is the centre of Muslim activities in that area, and is famed for its speciality shops, Muslim restaurants and more.2

History

#Singapore