Geylang Serai, Singapore

After the British dispersed the Malay floating village at the mouth of the Singapore River in the 1840s, Geylang Serai became their ethnic enclave, retaining a strong Malay identity right up to this very day. Here lies the home to Singapore's best Malay trades and food, with casual and inexpensive eateries and quaint shops selling traditional wares dotting the district. Other highlights are the Malay Village, the Geylang Serai Market and the Haig Road Hawker Centre. For good bargains in a more modern atmosphere, check out the outstanding array of textiles at the Joo Chiat Complex and Tanjong Katong Complex.