Joanna James
Singapore’s charming section of Bugis Street lays claim to a storied past that continues to draw in visitors from not just other countries but also from neighbouring parts of the Lion City.
Located at the very heart of Bugis is one of its proudest and equally, most visited attractions – Bugis Junction. Often witnessing a steady stream of keen shoppers and leisure guests, Bugis Junction is conveniently positioned near Bugis MRT Station and Hotel 81 Lavender which is a hotel near Bugis well worth considering. While showcasing the rich heritage of Bugis, this shopping mall merges the nuances of contemporary indoor and outdoor mall architecture in one stunning depiction that will leave you with plenty of reasons to smile about which will be quite the value addition to the numerous boutiques and cafes that you can while away the hours at.
Found all but a stone’s throw from Bugis Junction is the popular Bugis Village. Packed to the rafters with stalls which sell an assortment of best buys in the likes of souvenirs, handicrafts, snapbacks and phone cases that will easily vie for your attention; Bugis Village doubles up as a flea market as well as a street bazaar. In short, for bargain-hungry shoppers wanting products imported from across Asia, then be sure to pen down the name ‘Bugis Village’ in your bucket list.
Surrounded by well-manicured lawns and pathways is the gleaming structure of the National Museum of Singapore which expertly chronicles life as it once was in the country. Seen as an educational as well as insightful journey that will have you spellbound no sooner you set foot inside, the edifice’s architecture represents a combination of the values of the Renaissance period with that of the Neo-Palladian. The Museum established in 1849 is the oldest of its kind in Singapore and features an extensive collection of historical artwork, cultural exhibits and a host of other artefacts referencing old books, drawings and even negatives.
Constructed in 1846 by a Malaccan merchant lady as a testament to her gratitude for being rescued from a burglary and arson attack at her residence, the Hajjah Fatimah Mosque rises proudly as one of Bugis Street’s most cherished landmarks. Found encircled by Singapore’s modernity and cosmopolitan allure, this place of worship brings together the design styles of Europe and the wider Islamic world. Worthy of mention is the fact that the Mosque contains a mausoleum which is the final resting place of its builder.
Arab Street holds a plethora of nooks and crannies to check out and in short, represents the influences of the Arabs who were among the first settlers in Singapore. While operating as a cool hangout for night owls, Arab Street’s identity is enhanced by the sheer volume of modern-day development which finds refuge alongside one of Bugis Street’s favourite destinations. A slew of welcoming gift shops are perfect to pick out rare souvenirs and valuable finds while the cafes that are nestled on the avenue which faces Sultan Mosque must not be excluded whenever you need an added source of refreshment and energy. On a concluding note, do allocate time for the stylish museum found here which will escort you back to how Singapore appeared during the 60s and 70s respectively.
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.
