Singapore / Attractions / Suburban Singapore / Geylang / Katong

Geylang, traditionally the home of Singapore’s Malay, Arab and Indonesian communities, is alive with market stalls and bustling crowds, particularly during Muslim festivals. Spices and rattan from Indonesia, gems from Burma, cotton and gold from India and perfumes from Arabia ?this is the place for the adventurous shopper who enjoys old shophouses as a backdrop to bargain hunting.

The Malay influence is strong throughout Geylang and this is reflected in both the shops and the food centres where nasi padang,a dish served with rice, vegetables and meat, is a particular favourite. Wander through the numerous lanes off Geylang Road for some delightful scenarios of local life and stroll down Joo Chiat Road for a glimpse of traditional Chinese businesses such as joss stick and candle makers. Also, drop by at Malay Village. Its shops display a potpourri of Malay traditional items like handicrafts, fabrics, prayer rugs, furniture and antiques.

Getting there: Take the MRT to Paya Lebar (E5).

Neighbouring Katong is a quiet residential area formerly colonised by wealthy Straits Chinese families or the Peranakans. Many of Katong’s new apartment blocks have spectacular sea views, while the older Peranakan homes, once seaside villas, now stand back from the sea. Parkway Parade is the place to find shopping bargains, but Katong is best known for its wonderful eating houses specialising in Peranakan cuisine and bakeries selling delicious curry puffs. For Chinese seafood, the shophouses along East Coast Road offer really tasty treat.

Getting there: Take SBS bus 14 or 16 from Orchard Road.