Discover The Way Of The Paranakans In Captivating Geylang Serai

As the treasured site where Singapores first inhabitants laid down its roots

, Geylang is a city that is a culmination of past splendour and modern wonder. Located on the east coast of the Singapore River, the countrys largest concentration of Malays is also found in Geylang Serai, which has been named after the abundance of lemongrass (serai) that is found in the region. Lined with vibrant historical buildings, the area is protected from redevelopment due to its historic and cultural significance and is thereby also home to numerous protected structures that date back to the regions illustrious past. Renowned for its around-the-clock eateries that serve up local treats such as frogs legs porridge, there is also no shortage of delectable dim-sums, as the tasty dumplings are sold in nearly all of its food stalls.

Visitors touring Geylang for the first time must stop over at charming Malay Village which takes travellers on a trip back in time to the lifestyle of the Malay community in the swinging 1950s and 60s. Exploring the prevalent trends, crafts and lifestyles of the area during its heyday, guests can gain valuable insight into the composition of a Malay kampong while weaving tools and local handicrafts are also on display. Stage performances are another highlight in the Village, which also displays musical instruments that were popular during the era. Several local coffee shops line the streets here and serve as glimpses into the coffee culture and daily routines of inhabitants during those early days of settlement.

Another must-see quarter of Geylang is of course Joo Chiat which is brimming with historic Peranakan shop houses that hark back to the golden age of the community. The buildings in this region of Geylang are a curious mixture of colonial architecture and local tastes of the 20th century. Dubbed Joo Chiat after a famed milliner, the multi-hued historic buildings found here are also some of the protected sites within the island.

Known for its impressive architecture, Katong is also a hotbed of Peranakan culture in Geylang, which offers guests a unique look at traditional Peranakan cuisine, households and local products. Highlights include the Katong Antique House with its Peranakan furniture and costumes, as well as the Eurasian Heritage Centre where Eurasian cuisine, culture and music are explored in detail. Those with a flair for embroidery should head down to Rumah Bebe where beadwork is also available while a visit to Katong will prove incomplete without stopping over at the holy Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple with its breathtaking murals.

Geylang Serai Market is also worth the visit as the two floored building stocks the finest Malay and Middle Eastern products in the region. Expect to find aromatic spices, colourful cosmetics, scarves, baits and fresh produce while rare local delicacies such as turtle eggs and snake eggs are also available here. The food court at Geylang Serai Market is also popular with tourist for the array of Malay treats that are sold in the venue at affordable prices.

Those in search of a luxury hotel Singapore also should look no further than the stylish Raffles Hotel, Singapore. Pleasantly situated less than 30 minutes from Changi Airport, this elegant and historic establishment is also a very conveniently located Singapore hotel near the Esplanade.

by: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

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