The quaintly attractive area of Joo Chiat is one of Singapore’s popularly frequented districts. A characteristic and yet cosmopolitan area this district offers an array of attractions that will draw the attention of the visitor.
Joo Chiat was initially developed for the cultivation of spices and coconuts, but in later years it became one of the city’s upscale neighbourhoods, serving as a seaside vacation destination for the wealthy. Today it remains attractive and magnetic, drawing a steady stream of tourists and sightseers.
The district features some of the metropolis’ most esteemed architectural highlights, along with an array of typical shophouses. The local streets are filled with buildings of an earlier era, with elaborate facades surmounted by shuttered upper floors. You will find a myriad of assorted commercial establishments with merchandise running the gamut from household necessities to bicycles and structures of joss paper which are burned to honour ancestors according to Chinese tradition. You will also find an array of attractive restaurants offering excellent culinary creations. There is no doubt that this neighbourhood is counted amongst Singapore’s most interesting areas.
By taking a stroll through the streets of the quarter you will be able to discover many unexpected delights. The visitor will be able to sample treats like the popiah, which is a Hokkien spring roll consisting of delicate dough wrappers filled with carrot, turnip, egg, prawns and mashed peanuts. Another interesting creation is the Malay style curry puffs which are square pieces of flaky pastry filled with chicken, mutton and other savoury fillings.
Not to be missed are the special dumplings known as bak chang; these treats are steamed balls of rice filled with pork, mushrooms, chestnuts, soy and egg. There are also mini-dumplings which are an excellent tasty snack. You will also find numerous noodle stalls where you will be able to sample traditional noodles, served with tasty sauces and accompaniments. Another delectable treat is the kueh, soft sweet rice cakes which come in bright colours like vivid pink, green and yellow.
If you are a visitor seeking hotels in Singapore an outstanding choice would be the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Singapore. These fine Singapore hotels offer appealing accommodations with a selection of modern amenities.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.