Singapore Travel Guide

Singapore: Discover the Diverse

Tourists flock to Singapore year-round for a sampling of the world's heritage-rich cultures converging in one city. Singapore's cultural diversity reflects almost 200 years of colonial history with immigrant cultures originating from Chinese, Malay, Indian, Eurasian and Arab ethnicities. Each ethnic enclave is unique in itself and offers an abundance of local charm and character, good food, and  great accommodations.

Little India: Sensual Overload

Tickle your senses in Little India. Hear the teasing tinkling of trinkets, smell the seductive scent of spices, see the gorgeous glimmer of gems, feel the softness of silk saris. No other place in Singapore can offer your senses an all-out treat.

Lying to the east of Singapore River, this ethnic neighborhood was not originally a part of the Raffles Plan of Singapore, where urban planning segregated the colony into different enclaves particularly designated for Singapore's different races. When the Indian immigrants of Chulia Kampong became too crowded, many moved into what is now know as Little India.

Today, Little India is a  treasure trove that can offer the bargain-hunter amazing discounts on silverware, ethnic jewelry, saris and everything else in between. Here, you'll find quaint Singapore hotels which are tastefully restored Peranakan houses offering comfortable rooms and authentic Singaporean hospitality.

Chinatown: Distinctive Flavor

When the first Chinese settlers from Xiamen arrived in Singapore in 1821, they set up a community around the southern part of Singapore River, which is known today as Telok Ayer. Despite the harsh conditions that the first settlers were subjected to, Chinatown grew into a thriving little community.

Today, it is the venue for well-conserved buildings, great food, charming Singapore hotels and centuries-old practices. The Chinatown Heritage Centre, wet market and hawker center in Chinatown Complex are worth visiting for an authentic cultural immersion experience. For a unique experience in luxury, try a night in one of Singapore's chic Chinatown gallery hotels.

Kampong Glam: Old-world Charm

This lively Malaysian quarter is located east of the Singapore River. Prior to Singapore's British colonization, the neighborhood was home to Malay royalty. Under the Raffles Plan, the Kampong Glam was designated for the Sultan of Singapore. As the area's community grew, the population spilled over to Geylang Serai.

Today, Kampong Glam has become the place to go to for the best bazaar-style shopping in Singapore. The Sultan  Mosque, Hajjah Fatimah Mosque and Istana Kampong Glam are great sites to visit for a taste of old-world charm. While these and other parts of Kampong Glam have been declared as National Heritage sites, many modern Singapore hotels have also been erected to accommodate even the most discerning guests.

When visiting Singapore, stay at the Harbour Ville Hotel in Singapore - A popular boutique hotel in Singapore.

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