With Singapore’s booming tourism industry, it’s safe to say that there’s just no shortage of ways to celebrate your trip to the nation. One of the best places to visit is Kampong Gelam, a vibrant cultural district that’s the place to be if you want to experience curbside crafters and purchase souvenirs.
In addition to the said activities, there are a number of fun and exciting activities that you can do if you decide to include the mentioned district in your travel itinerary.
Shop
Many people visit Kampong Gelam because of the abundance of carpet and fabric shops, and when it comes to the said items, Bussorah Street is just what the doctor ordered. This, because of the fact that it’s to a slew of souvenir shops, with the occasional antique or jewelry store thrown in for good measure. Simply put, it’s great if you want to purchase souvenirs.
Haji Lane is one the nation’s hidden shopping gems and has built a name for itself when it comes to vintage clothing boutiques. This narrow shabby lane is lined with offbeat boutiques selling cult labels and vintage clothing stores, and it offers a different world of shopping compared to the nation's glitzy shopping malls.
Dine
Kampong Gelam is traditionally associated with Middle Eastern cuisine, and there are many affordable Lebanese, Turkish, and Egyptian restaurants here. Many places are Halal, so don't expect to drink beer with your kebab, though you are welcome to smoke a shisha after dinner.
If you want a place that boasts of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western cuisines, Kampong Cafe should be included in your list. Alternatively, you should also visit Kandahar Street, which is famous for its Nasi Padang restaurants. It’s also a good place to indulge in cheap and cheerful buffet-style Malay/Indonesian fare, with Sabar Menanti being a standout.
Another sit-down restaurant that has long been a local favourite for affordable bar food and drinks is the Blue Jazz Café; while Piedro Negra on Haji Lane is a newcomer serving Mexican cuisine and cocktails.
Tour
As Singapore's Muslim heart, Kampong Glam is home to the city's largest mosque, the Masjid Sultan (or Sultan Mosque), with its massive golden dome and four minarets. Bussorah Street, with its tiled pedestrian area, heritage architecture, and palm trees, is one of Singapore's most picturesque streets, while Kandahar Street, just around the corner, is home to some of the city's most beautifully restored elaborate shophouses.
The Malay Heritage Center, which boasts of nine galleries that showcase the rich history as well as culture of Singapore’s Malay connection is also located within close proximity of the said area.
Stay
Kampong Glam has traditionally been linked with low-cost accommodation, with Sleepy Sam's on Bussorah Street being a long-time favourite among Singapore backpackers, though it has since been surpassed by more high-tech options in Chinatown.
The Sultan, which is housed in ten historic shophouses with a distinct Arabic slant in their design, will appeal to boutique hotel lovers seeking affordable accommodation in an ethnic setting. Budget business travelers in Singapore frequently stay at the nearby Park View Hotel on Beach Road.
Party
Kampong Gelam is not just a place to purchase souvenirs or a hang out for curbside crafters. In recent years, the area has seen an increase in the number of boutique cocktail bars and restaurants springing up within the heritage shophouses. These bohemian, edgy establishments cater to the city's yuppie crowd, and provide a refreshing change from the glitz and glamour of the city's roof bars and trendy nightclubs.
Summing up
In the end, Kampong Gelam is the place to be if you’re a culture vulture who likes to experience local sites or a foodie who just wants to indulge in mouth watering cuisines. Also, boredom is not going to be a cause of concern if you include the said district in your travel plans.
