Arab Street – The hippest neighborhood in Singapore

Arab Street is an actual street in Singapore, but the term also refers to the encompassing neighborhood of Kampong Glam. Most prominent is the towering Sultan Mosque. Originally built in 1824 for the first Sultan of Singapore, the Mosque was designated as a national monument in 1975 and serves as a focal point for the Muslim community.

The pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare is clustered with Lebanese and Turkish bistros. The colorful patterned tile seating and wafting smells of shawarma and garlic transport you to the middle east.

On Baghdad Street and Haji Lane you will come across incredible murals on the buildings. They are simply captivating and give the neighborhood edge, character and color.

The murals span through the alley ways, on the faces of cafes and restaurants. The streets are warm and inviting. I could easily have wasted a day sipping espresso in a cafe or stayed the evening at any of the fine dining restaurants, but you find yourself walking the street to discover what lies around the corner.