Visit to Geylang Serai

In early November, I played host for 1 day to 2 Japanese youth on their 1st visit to Singapore. They are part of a group of 13 youths who came over on a cultural exchange program.

Since it was close to Hari Raya Puasa*, I thought it might be an interesting experience for them to visit Geylang Serai*. This was the best time to go since the main road was decorated with lights and there was a big bazaar with hustle and bustle as the locals prepare for the festivities.

Got them to try a few of the local 'delights' like bandung*, steamed corn kernals, steamed peanuts and cut ice-cream*. They really loved the ice-cream (image 2). Nastumi got a pretty henna design done on her wrist for the first time. Hiroshi tried on a songkok* and tried to look good in it. And they were both very pleased with the little souvenir they got: a design of their names cut out of coloured plastic and made into a key chain. It was rather well done actually.

It was a pity they had a curfew to observe and so we had to leave early. But it was nonetheless an enjoyable time for them and I certainly enjoyed being the 'local guide'. :)

Actually to be honest I think that was the most fun I've ever had at Geylang Serai. The place is usually rather quiet at other times of the year.

To see more photos of the visit click here.

* Glossary:
Hari Raya Puasa - The celebration of the new year according to the Malay calendar, following a month of fasting. Much like the Chinese Lunar New Year, except for the fasting month.

Geylang Serai - An enclave for the Malay community. Similar to Chinatown and Little India. Click here and here for some interesting photos and videos.

bandung - A drink favoured by the Malays. It's a mixture of Rose syrup, condensed milk and water and it's usually drank cold.

cut ice-cream - A thick slice cut from a huge block of frozen ice-cream. Placed either onto a slice of soft bread or clasped between two thin wafers. Sold mostly from mobile freezers on motorbikes. (Part of it can be seen in image 2 above. We had the wafers.)

songkok - Traditional headgear for Malay males, worn together with their traditional outfits during festivals or important events such as weddings. (My spelling might a little off here though.)