Joanna James
For a captivating portal to the past, Geylang, with its retro-chic rendezvouses and era-defining enclaves, should top your itinerary! Here’s what you can’t miss in this culture-rich smorgasbord.
From the saris, spices, and sequins of Little India and the vibrantly quirky labyrinths of Chinatown to the eclectic vibes of Kampong Gelam and the gorgeous hotchpotch of architectural motifs adorning the colourful shophouses along Joo Chiat, all of Singapore’s heritage quarters are full of flavour and vivacity. If you want an unforgettable place to begin your immersion into this vintage treasure trove, tickle your imagination with Geylang’s most iconic shophouse museum. Perfectly preserving the lavish artistry enjoyed by the Peranakan elite, every room is a love letter to culture-rich craftsmanship. From dazzling ethnic beadwork slippers and embroidered kebayas to ornate tableware and hand-painted tingkat, it’s easy to feel like you’ve materialized in a bygone era.
This up-and-coming district with its deep-rooted cultural identity is a living tapestry of old-meets-new allurements. From café-slash-concept stores like Knots, where you can sip your coffee and admire the specialty items for sale, to Katong Antique House showcasing centuries of Peranakan masterpieces like painted porcelain, surname lanterns, and artistic tiffin carriers, there is no shortage of rummage-worthy mementos for ardent collectors. However, make sure to unwind with an authentic and affordable feast at the Geylang Serai Market, where you can find some of the best Nasi Pandang and deep-fried rojak in the city! Stop by the Geylang Serai Heritage Gallery for thoughtfully curated exhibits and fascinating stories from the plantation days. For a modern hotel in Geylang offering premier access to its diverse enticements, venture no further than Hotel 81 Geylang.
A timeless 1928 shophouse with a flair for fashion, Rumah Bebe is the go-to for stunning Nyonya clothing like lace-fringed blouses and intricately designed kebayas, as well as the traditional beaded footwear, all customized to suit contemporary tastes. If your tastebuds need a toothsome treat to help you choose between the exquisitely tailored pieces, Rumah also features a bakery known for its Peranakan delicacies! For a holistic lifestyle mall synonymous with family-friendly fun, KINEX is a great option, with its creativity-stimulating activities, pre-loved designer threads, Pinterest-worthy themed cafes, and DIY home décor stores.
Every corner of this vibrant vintage neighbourhood beckons with an inviting little eatery or kopitiam, whether you’re craving decadent kaya toast paired with smoky-sweet Singaporean coffee, a slurp-worthy bowl of Hokkien Mee, or sambal clams paired with fragrantly steaming laksa. However, you simply cannot pass by Sin Huat, Michelin-starred and made legendary through Anthony Bourdain’s obsession with its Crab Bee Hoon.
For a more rustic, slice-of-life trip down memory lane head to this charming Malay cultural centre, where you can take part in community activities like kick volleyball, admire martial arts displays, and roam whimsical galleries lined with nostalgic artefacts. If you have the time, stop by the colonial-era ivory façade of the old Queen’s Theatre, and for an exquisite traditional keepsake, rummage through the giftable antiques at the Eng Tiang Huat Chinese Cultural Shop.
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.
