Thursday, May 9, 2013

A-Z of Singapore - B for Bugis

Bugis - one of the places in Singapore that never sleeps. No, I mean literally.

Source
Bugis has a very long and dark history associated with it. Many years back, Bugis served as the red light district of Singapore where anything and everything was possible. Although, it is widely said to be flooded with people today referred to as "trans-women". Bugis also founded the city's "pub" tradition, which in fact goes way back to the 60s. Back in its days of "glory", the streets of Bugis attracted many a Caucasian men who had never witnessed "Asia" in its true spirit and color.

Source
Ironically, this contributed majorly to the country's tourism economy and the whole area flourished in all grandeur.
Source

And then, things slowly changed and Bugis became one of the commercial hubs of Singapore. Of particular significance is the Bugis street, which is one of the largest and busiest shopping locations in Singapore.
Source
Much like our very own Burma Bazaar and China Bazaar, you can get almost everything imaginable and bargain your brains out. As for quality, well it sure isn't the best, but it is not bad as well, as long as you know what to buy.
Source
On the other side of Bugis Street is the Bugis Junction Shopping Mall. One of the largest in Singapore, it is another shoppers paradise. The food court sure is one of the biggest, and smelliest ones I have seen in Singapore. But walking around the food court is surely a wonderful experience.

Alas, when I went yesterday, I wanted to take some snaps, but that is exactly when my phone decided to die down. But sure enough, I'd visit another day and make up for it.

-Prashanth

2 comments: