Arab Street In Singapore-enjoy your holiday in Singapore ~ Travel and Leisure

Singapore is easily one of the cities in the world that provides ample entertainment for all generations. With award winning establishments like the Singapore Zoo and Sentosa Island, there is more than one way to enjoy your holiday in Singapore.

The Singapore you see today is a cocktail of cultures and nationalities that seamlessly collide to create a rainbow effect. Not only do so many migrants live together, but they live harmoniously and many of their roots and first settlements are preserved for its historic value. Roaming in to these areas such as China Town, Arab Street and Little India is akin to taking a snap shot of history and preserving it.

The tourist who wishes to absorb the essence of Singapore beyond its glamour and glitz will discover its roots in quaint districts as Arab Street. Kampong Glam is the district of Singapore which was once the seat of power of Malay royalty, and Arab Street is its main artery. On this street one would find an array of shops selling silks, material, perfume and plenty of food.

Kampong Glam is earmarked as a preservation site, and still today one would find many Malay Muslims to live and work in these parts. Although their population did not reach large proportions, their culture and practices have lived on.

Whilst in this area, your gaze will fall on the magnificent onion shaped dome of the Sultan Mosque. Gold in colour, the mosque is placed on a ringed structure that is created entirely out of the bottoms of glass bottles. All Muslims pray facing Mecca/Makkah, and due to this, the mosque had to violate zoning orders and the road at the rear end of the mosque is actually crooked to accommodate the mosque. This is a typical example of how accommodating Singapore is towards the many cultures that reside in the nation.

The entire area is brimming with strong Arabic influences. Some of the architecture that remains has been preserved since the first settlement in 1819. A mix of old and new shops can be found on Bussorah Street that sells scarves, brassware and other regional handicrafts. Along Haji Lane, one would discover local fashion entrepreneurs who were allured by the charm of the area and established many of their boutiques along the streets.