It’s my last weekend in Singapore, so I decided I should probably take the opportunity to do a little sightseeing, despite the poor weather. I waited for the worst of the rain to clear in the morning, then jumped in a cab to Arab Street to see a different side of Singapore life. Lots of interesting shops (and a nice change from the branded stores that line Orchard Road) and a chance to buy a few souvenirs to bring back home.

Bussorah Mall

Bussorah Mall, just off Arab Street. Bizarrely, this enclave of Muslim life in Singapore is decorated for Christmas.

Sultan Mosque

The Sultan Mosque

Belly dancing shop

One has to wonder whether this is the biggest belly-dancing shop in Singapore, or whether this is simply a belly-dancing shop that caters to the biggest bellies in Singapore?

Maserati

Five brand new Maseratis were lined up in front of Raffles Hotel, presumably for some sort of launch party? Given the high taxes on cars in Singapore, expensive cars like these are a relatively rare sight despite the number of high-earners here.

The famous Raffles doorman

The famous Raffles doorman

Christmas, Singapore style

Christmas, Singapore style. Barney entertains the kids with a Christmas show. I’d wager that less than 10% are Christian. No one seems to care — Christmas here is an all-enclusive holiday, and more importantly, another excuse for shopping!