A Kaleidoscope of Cultures

Culture diversity is what Singapore strives on. No matter where you walk, you'll see people of all cultures walking amongst each other. This is most evident at the many places of worship.

From Chinese and Hindu temples, to mosques, churches and synagogues, you can see them everywhere - even near each other. One such example could be found along Pagoda Street in Chinatown, where Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu place of worship here, stands next to Jamae Mosque, which caters to the Tamil Muslims in Singapore.

What makes life even more interesting, and perhaps more reasons to celebrate, is the cultural celebrations throughout the year. In January, look forward to Thaipusam, a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya (or Murugan). Also happening around the same time is Chinese New Year, which is celebrated with much gusto, particularly in Chinatown.

Have you said hungry? Well, the rich heritage of Singapore is also evident in the wealth of food choices available. Food centres or "hawker centres" as the locals call it, such as Maxwell Food Centre are one-stop venues with different ethnic cuisines all under one roof!

Newer additions to Singapore’s colourful “foodscape” include celebrity restaurants and trendy eateries in heritage districts. In fact, there's quite a few good eateries and watering holes in the area of our studio. You should enquire about them while you're here!

The city’s retail spots are also a multicultural treasure trove. Treat yourself to Chinese knick-knacks, antiques and jewellery at Chinatown Complex along Smith Street, or explore the quirky stores in Arab Street for unique gifts and curios.

Singapore’s people are also bound together by one common language: Singlish (short for Singaporean English), a delightful slang consisting of English, Malay, Hokkien, Teochew, Cantonese and Tamil words.

If you find yourself in need for words to use, head over to the Official Singlish Dictionary to pick up a few good Singlish words to use while basking in Singapore's glorious sunset!

Visit the official Singapore's Chinatown website for more details about what to do and where!