Joanna James
From the 1950s to 1980s, Bugis Street was known as a haven for transsexuals in Singapore. As such it began to act as a magnet for tourists visiting the city-state. Its origins are visible even today for Bugis Street is glamourous and great for shopping among other fun things.
The number one reason Bugis Street is famous today is because of the plethora of cheap and massive shopping market that are available here. People come out of Bugis Street with a smile on their face and clutching a hoard of bags. As there are over 800 different stalls selling everything from shoes, clothes, electronics, souvenirs and other knick-knacks, it is easy to see why. Some of the places you should check out to dazzle your inner shopaholic are Bugis Junction and Bugis + which is a brand-new shopping mall with 10 floors and flagship stores for high-end brands.
Your endorphin levels aren't the only things that can be satisfied at Bugis Street, your hunger can be sated too. Not only can you find the best value hotels in Singapore located on Bugis Street you will also find great dining venues. Whether you are looking for Thai food, Vietnamese, Chinese or Indonesian it will be available on Bugis Street. Indulge in such delights like Kaya balls, noodle soup, Thai Ice Milk tea, Hakka yam cake and more.
The Kuan Yin Thong Hood Cho temple has been around on Bugis Street since 1884. It is a Buddhist temple which has used Chinese architecture from the time. It is open from 6 am to 6 pm and is dedicated to the Cundi Bodhisattva who is also known as the God of Mercy. During Lunar New Year, the temple becomes a hotbed of crowds and action all night long as people form queues to come in and pray for an auspicious new year for them and their families. Even if you are not Buddhist you should spend some time visiting the temple. It is only about 10 minutes' drive from Destination Singapore Beach Road.
Nestled deep into a corner of Bugis Street is Haji Lane. It is so easy to miss if you don't know what you are looking for. It is a bright and colourful little cul-de-sac where you can find some pretty little boutiques, cafés, eateries and bars. It is a hip and cool area where the people mirror the easy-going chill.
If you would like to learn about the Malay community in Singapore, the Malay Heritage Centre is the place to start. Not only is it an aesthetically pleasing building to explore, but it also has six permanent galleries which will tell you a detailed and wondrous history. It is open from 10 am to 6 pm every day except on Mondays. So, make sure you add it to your list of places to explore on Bugis Street.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
