Singapore: Global Gateway Summer 2025 (A Day in the Life 1)
Leann A: Places: Favorite – Kampong Gelam
On the 18th of June, my cohort headed down the streets of Bugis and took a twenty-three-minute walk to a Malay Heritage Community called Kampong Gelam, marking the start of a day full of color and culture.
The first major attraction in Kampong Gelam that we saw was Haji Lane. Being one of the country’s smallest streets, Haji Lane, in its 200 meters of glory, is home to dozens of boutiques that sell everything from vintage clothing to party supplies. Haji Lane is named after the pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims undertake, which is the Hajj. In the past, the lane and nearby Bussorah Street were used by Muslim pilgrims to stay and for services related to their pilgrimage. These businesses catered to those preparing for or returning from the Hajj.
The second place we visited, which is also one of the most important monuments in Kampong Gelam, is the Masjid Sultan. Like all mosques, the Sultan’s Mosque faces Mecca and serves as a religious sanctuary for Muslims in the area. Stepping into the mosque, everyone was required to dress modestly, so we were given sarongs and scarves. Maybe it was because I was able to enjoy the fan in the mosque after walking in the sun, but the mosque brought some kind of relief and calmness. I tried not to take pictures to respect the people praying.
Originally, the mosque was a very modest one-story building, but after decades of use, it needed repairs. People from the community donated thousands of dollars to the completion of the building, and the less fortunate members of the community donated empty dark soy sauce bottles to be traded for money. These bottles can now be seen forming a ring around the base of the gold dome.
The highlight of my time at Kampong Gelam was getting to shop at all the stores. I think one of the best ways to connect with a culture is to shop. It helps you interact with the people and see more of what is common and needed in those areas. I also really like shopping. From the S$1 matcha ice-cream to the rows of jewelry stores, it’s safe to say that my cohort and I had the time of our lives. One store that we spent a lot of time in was a perfume store. Even after taking a shower, I could still smell the scent of ‘Symphony’ on my wrist. It had a more floral and fresh scent profile and was the store attendant’s personal favorite. I ended up getting some perfume oils, including a very warm oud.
As someone still learning about Singapore’s diverse communities, I found it inspiring to see how this area uplifts and showcases Malay contributions to the nation’s story. Kampong Gelam left me with a deep appreciation for how culture, when nurtured and celebrated, can flourish in the most powerful ways.
Avery C: Daily Life in Singapore
Every day in Singapore starts with a purpose. My mornings begin around 8 am when I leave the hotel in search for a local breakfast spot. It’s become a goal to try a different place each day. The food plays a very central role in Singaporean culture, and it’s come to be one of my favorite things about this study abroad program.
After breakfast, I meet the rest of my cohort to walk to class. Classes are held every day except Sundays and usually last about two hours. The walk to class is a part of the experience itself, trying to find the shaded walkways, and just looking around and watching the locals.
Lunch follows class, and it’s another opportunity to explore. Singapore’s hawker centers have so many options, it’s often hard to choose. The dumplings are always a good choice. I’ve also learned that it’s great to ask the locals their recommendations, it almost always leads to something yummy! I love being able to try new food with the cohort and connecting through the food.
Each afternoon has an activity scheduled. The pace we keep daily can be very exhausting but ultimately is very worth the experience and learning. My favorite place so far has been Gardens by the Bay. The Flower Dome, with its special lily exhibition was stunning. There was so much life in the dome and such a beautiful thing to witness. I would highly recommend to anyone!!
Connecting with culture in Singapore has been less about going to touristy areas but about being present in my everyday routine. I’ve found that food has a huge part in understanding local life. I’ve learned about different customs and communications, and how returning your tray to a specific area where there is a halal and non halal sign is a simple act of respect.
I also try to engage with the locals whenever possible. Even short conversations with shopkeepers or stall owners have taught me so much. Another way I connect is by observing daily habits. The public transportation like the MRT is always quiet, and I’ve noticed how it is very common for strangers to sit together while eating. I have come to admire the way of living and have been slowly adapting it to my own routine here in Singapore.
Cate L: Food in Singapore
Throughout my time here, I’ve been so happy with the variety of cultural influences in the food scene. Everywhere we go, the diversity is reflected in the meals we find. I have noticed so many different influences everywhere we go. I remember seeing so far Indian, Chinese, Malaysian, Thai, Indonesian, and even American food. I have been surprised to see familiar chain restaurants like Shake Shack, McDonald’s, Starbucks, and more brands from the United States. One of the highlights of my experience has been having more Indian cuisine. I have been loving all the Indian food I have tried so far, especially the Masala Dosa/Thosai, Butter Paneer, Roti Prata, and Nasi Biryani.
All the food has been relatively inexpensive for eating, with prices ranging from three dollars to ten dollars per meal. The portions have also been very generous! I have been eating at Hawker Centers and Food Courts for most of my meals, that have been a collection of food stalls and restaurants all in one place. These spaces bring together dozens of stalls and people under one roof, creating an energetic and welcoming environment to try new dishes. Something new I tried was Singapore’s famous Carrot Cake, which definitely differs from the carrot cake I am familiar with.
The Carrot Cake I had was savory fried radish and prawn cakes, and egg mixed in with chili oil sauce. Carrot Cake comes in two different versions, White and Black. I preferred the Black Carrot Cake more because I felt it had a strong flavor. The main difference is the inclusion of soy sauce, fish sauce, and the strength of the sauce. Through food, I’ve learned how history, migration, and culture intersect in everyday life.
This experience has taught me so much about the intersection of culture, food, and community. It’s not just about the ingredients or the dishes themselves, but the shared experience of eating together in these vibrant spaces. I’m excited to continue exploring and learning more from the food culture here!
Sidney M: Places: Routine
One place that has become a part of my daily routine is the mall at Bugis Junction! That mall is full of different stores and restaurants that are both convenient and far enough to be a bit of an adventure. I’ve been there numerous times and spent more than I care to admit. One of the things I admire the most about the mall is how great the air conditioning is. It might sound like a small thing, but in Singapore’s heat and high humidity, strong AC makes a huge difference.
Lately, one of my favorite things about Bugis Junction has been shopping for collectibles and plushies. I’ve found so many cute ones that aren’t as easy to get back in the U.S., and they honestly bring me so much joy. Recently I’ve been spending a good amount of time, and money, on the claw machines. They’ve been both incredibly fun and slightly addicting. Even when I don’t win, it’s still exciting to try. And when I do win, it makes my day. I feel like I’ve beaten the odds, which honestly is true since claw machines aren’t designed for people to win! Below I have added a picture of me playing on a claw machine. I unfortunately won nothing that day, but the privilege of enjoying something so simple and insignificant is one that I don’t take for granted and am incredibly grateful for.
Bugis Junction has become more than just a mall for me. It’s where I go to unwind, treat myself, and enjoy the small stuff that makes life feel a bit more fun!