1. What are some popular items sold at the Little India Arcade?
Some popular items sold at the Little India Arcade include traditional Indian clothing such as sarees, kurta tops, and salwar kameez sets; Indian accessories like bangles, bindis, and earrings; spices and herbs used in Indian cuisine; handmade crafts and souvenirs; and religious items such as statues of Hindu deities.2. What is the history of the Little India Arcade?
The Little India Arcade was established in 1984 by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) as part of efforts to preserve Singapore’s cultural heritage. It is located within the larger Little India district, which was originally a settlement for Indian laborers in the 19th century.
3. How many shops are there in the Little India Arcade?
There are approximately 160 shops in the Little India Arcade, offering a variety of goods and services such as clothing, jewelry, food, beauty services, and more.
4. Is bargaining allowed at the shops in the Little India Arcade?
Yes, bargaining is a common practice at many of the shops in the Little India Arcade. However, it is recommended to be respectful and negotiate politely.
5. What are some events or festivals celebrated at the Little India Arcade?
Some events or festivals celebrated at the Little India Arcade include Deepavali (also known as Diwali), which is a Hindu festival of lights; Thaipusam, a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan; Pongal, a harvest festival celebrated by Tamils from South India; and Holi, a spring festival also known as the “festival of colors.” There are also cultural performances and street markets held during these festivals at the arcade.
6. Are there any places to eat at the Little India Arcade?
Yes, there are various eateries located within or near the Little India Arcade that offer authentic Indian cuisine such as biryani rice dishes, dosas (pancakes made from fermented batter), and tandoori dishes. There are also cafes and bakeries serving Indian-inspired snacks and desserts.
7. Is the Little India Arcade open on weekends?
Yes, the Little India Arcade is open daily from 10am to 8pm, including weekends and public holidays. However, some shops may have different operating hours, so it is best to check with the individual stores for their opening times.
8. Is there parking available at the Little India Arcade?
Yes, there is a small paid parking lot located at the entrance of the Little India Arcade, as well as nearby street parking in the surrounding area.
9. Can I take photos at the Little India Arcade?
You are generally allowed to take photos at the Little India Arcade, but it is always best to ask for permission before taking pictures of people or inside shops.
10. How do I get to the Little India Arcade?
The Little India Arcade is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest MRT station is Little India (NE7) on the North East Line, which has an underground exit that leads directly into the arcade. It can also be reached by several bus routes that stop at Tekka Market or Serangoon Road/Little India station. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or drive to there.
2. How is the atmosphere at the market in Little India?
The atmosphere at the market in Little India is lively, bustling, and full of energy. The streets are often crowded with people shopping, hawking wares, and socializing. The market is filled with bright colors, aromatic smells, and the sounds of vendors calling out their prices and products. There is a sense of community and cultural heritage as many people come to shop for traditional goods and foods from their home country. Overall, it is a vibrant and lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Little India’s culture.
3. Are there any special events or festivals held at the Little India Arcade?
Yes, there are several special events and festivals held at the Little India Arcade throughout the year. Some notable ones include Deepavali (also known as Diwali) which is a major Hindu festival of lights, Thaipusam which celebrates the victory of good over evil, and Vesak Day which marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha. These events often feature traditional cultural performances, street bazaars selling ethnic goods and foods, colorful decorations, and religious ceremonies.
4. Is bargaining acceptable at this market or are prices fixed?
Bargaining is acceptable at this market. Prices are not fixed and can be negotiated with the seller.
5. What kind of souvenirs can be found at the Little India Arcade?
The Little India Arcade is known for its vibrant and colorful selection of traditional Indian handicrafts, fabrics, clothing, jewelry, and spices. Visitors can also find a variety of souvenirs such as miniature Hindu deities, traditional Indian musical instruments, decorative items like incense holders and lanterns, carved wooden figurines, and hand-painted pottery.
6. Are there any notable street performers or artists in the area?
Some notable street performers and artists in the area include:– The Naked Cowboy: A street performer known for his signature white briefs, cowboy hat, and guitar who can often be found in Times Square.
– Matteo Archonidi: An Italian painter who sets up his easel on the High Line and creates colorful, vibrant paintings of New York City scenes.
– Daniel Weitzman: A chalk artist who creates impressive 3D illusions on the sidewalks of New York City.
– The Bucket Boys: A group of musicians who use buckets, trash cans, and other household items to create energetic and rhythmic drum performances on the streets of Times Square.
– Marthalicia Matarrita: A Dominican-American visual artist who creates vibrant murals throughout the city and also offers live painting performances at events.
7. How long does it typically take to explore the entire Little India Arcade?
The time it takes to explore the entire Little India Arcade can vary depending on how fast you walk and how many shops you stop at. However, on average it can take around 1-2 hours to fully explore all the shops and stalls in the arcade. If you want to take your time browsing and trying out different foods, it could take longer.
8. Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known shops that are worth checking out?
There are plenty of hidden gems and lesser-known shops in every city, and it really depends on your personal interests. Here is a list of some potential options to consider:
– Vintage stores: If you love unique and one-of-a-kind items, check out vintage stores in Edinburgh such as Herman Brown or Armstrong’s Vintage.
– Independent bookshops: Edinburgh has numerous indie bookshops that offer a great selection of books, including Topping & Company Booksellers and The Old Town Bookshop.
– Art galleries: For art lovers, Edinburgh has several small galleries that showcase local artists’ works. Some suggestions include Stills Gallery, Ingleby Gallery, and Coburg House Art Studios.
– Specialty food shops: There are many locally owned food shops in Edinburgh that offer unique and high-quality products. Some examples include George Bower Butcher Shop for meats, Real Foods for organic ingredients, and Eteaket for specialty teas.
– Antique shops: Browse through antiques at places like Circus Antiques or Bob Hope Antiques for a chance to find some treasures from Scotland’s past.
– Handmade crafts: Visit the weekly Grassmarket Market or Stockbridge Market to support local artisans while picking up some beautifully crafted gifts.
– Music stores: Music lovers might enjoy browsing records at independent record stores such as VoxBox Music or Underground Solu’shn.
– Second-hand bookshops: If you’re a bookworm looking for a bargain, head to gems like Armchair Books or The Last Word Saloon.
– Local fashion designers: Explore the many boutiques in the West End of Edinburgh featuring clothing from local designers like Loveramics or Jane Davidson.
– Fair trade goods: Check out Fair Trade Scotland for fair trade products from around the world while supporting ethical shopping practices.
9. What are some of the must-try local snacks or food specialties found in the market?
There are many delicious local snacks and specialties found in markets around the world. Some must-try options include:
1. Churros – a fried dough pastry typically served with cinnamon sugar or chocolate dipping sauce.
2. Börek – a savory pastry filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.
3. Falafel – deep-fried chickpea balls often served in pita bread with toppings such as tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, and hummus.
4. Samosas – fried or baked triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat.
5. Tamales – corn-based dough steamed or boiled in corn husks or banana leaves and filled with a variety of ingredients such as corn, chicken, beans, and cheese.
6. Empanadas – stuffed pastries made with savory fillings such as meat, cheese, or vegetables.
7. Banh mi – a Vietnamese sandwich typically filled with grilled pork or chicken, pickled vegetables, herbs, and sauce on a crusty baguette.
8. Arepas – round cornmeal cakes that are grilled and stuffed with various fillings such as cheese, meats, beans, or eggs.
9. Mangosteens – a tropical fruit that has a sweet white flesh similar to lychee but with a unique tangy flavor.
10. Sachertorte – a Viennese chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and covered in dark chocolate ganache.
10. Is it recommended to visit the Little India Arcade during a certain time of day for better deals?
It is not necessarily recommended to visit the Little India Arcade at a specific time of day for better deals. The shops and street vendors in this area are open throughout the day and may have different promotions or sales at any given time. It is always a good idea to take your time and browse around to compare prices before making a purchase.
11. Can you find traditional Indian clothing and accessories at the market?
Yes, traditional Indian clothing and accessories can be found at the market. Some popular items include sarees, salwar kameez, bangles, bindis, jootis (traditional shoes), and dupattas (scarves). These items may also vary based on the region in India that the market specializes in.
12. Is it easy to navigate through the narrow streets and alleys of Little India?
It can be challenging for some people to navigate through the narrow streets and alleys of Little India, especially if they are unfamiliar with the area. However, with a map or GPS, it should not be too difficult to find your way around. Furthermore, many locals and shopkeepers in the area are friendly and willing to help if you ask for directions.
13. Are there any reputable antique dealers or collectors in the area?
Yes, there are several reputable antique dealers and collectors in the area, such as:
1. The China Closet Antiques and Collectibles: They specialize in antique furniture, pottery, glassware, and decorative items.
2. Brimfield Antique Collective: This collective features a variety of antique dealers offering unique items such as vintage clothing, home goods, and collectibles.
3. Agamede & Co.: This upscale boutique specializes in European antiques and fine art.
4. Turnpike Antiques: Located in nearby Sturbridge, this dealer offers a variety of antiques including furniture, glassware, and ceramics.
5. Rita Ford Music Boxes: For collectors interested in music boxes and other mechanical instruments, this shop offers a wide selection of restored pieces.
6. Walter Palmer & Co.: This local dealer specializes in American antiques from the 18th and 19th centuries.
7. Sturbridge Antique Shops: A group of five antique shops located on Main Street in Sturbridge that offer a range of furniture, home decor, and collectibles.
8. Hunt & Gather Antiques: Located in Uxbridge, this shop features an eclectic mix of antiques from various eras including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Mid-Century Modern.
9. Footsteps Antiques Gallery: This large multi-dealer shop in Worcester offers a diverse array of antiques including furniture, jewelry, books,and more.
10. J.James Auctioneers & Appraisers: For those looking to bid on rare or valuable antiques at auction or need an appraisal for their own collections, this reputable company can help.
14. What forms of payment are accepted by most vendors in Little India Arcade?
Most vendors in Little India Arcade accept cash as the primary form of payment. Some may also accept credit and debit cards, but it is best to bring cash with you for smaller purchases.
15. Are there any nearby restaurants or cafes where one can take a break from shopping?
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes within walking distance from the shopping center, including:
1. Olive Garden
2. Red Robin
3. Panera Bread
4. Starbucks
5. Chipotle Mexican Grill
6. The Cheesecake Factory
7. California Pizza Kitchen
8. P.F Chang’s China Bistro
9. TGI Fridays
10. Five Guys Burgers and Fries
16. Can you find authentic spices and ingredients for Indian cuisine at this market?
It is highly unlikely to find authentic spices and ingredients for Indian cuisine at this market. The products available at flea markets are usually generic and not specific to any particular cuisine. It is best to look for such items at specialty grocery stores or online retailers that cater specifically to Indian cuisine.
17. How does pricing compare to other markets in Singapore’s city center?
Pricing in Singapore’s city center is generally higher compared to other markets in the country. This is due to a combination of factors such as high demand for residential and commercial properties, limited land availability, and the city’s status as a global financial hub.
In terms of residential properties, prices in the city center are significantly higher than those in suburban areas or outlying districts. A prime location in the central business district (CBD) can command prices upwards of SG$2,000 per square foot, while luxury developments can fetch prices exceeding SG$3,000 per square foot.
For commercial properties, rent and purchase prices in the city center are also significantly higher than those in other areas. Prime office space in the CBD can cost around SG$10-15 per square foot per month, while retail space can cost even more depending on the location.
Comparing to other global cities, Singapore’s city center also ranks among the top 10 most expensive real estate markets in the world alongside cities like Hong Kong and New York City.
18..Are there any recommended guided tours for those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Little India?
Yes, there are several guided tours available for those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Little India. Some recommended tours include:
1. Little India Heritage Trail by Monster Day Tours – This tour takes visitors on a walking journey through the colorful and bustling streets of Little India, showcasing the neighborhood’s rich history and cultural heritage.
2. Walking Tour of Little India by Journeys – This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Little India, including visits to iconic landmarks, markets, temples, and historical sites.
3. Ethnic Enclaves Tour by Inside Visions – This tour not only covers Little India but also includes other ethnic enclaves in Singapore such as Chinatown and Kampong Glam, providing a broader understanding of the city’s multicultural diversity.
4. Cultural Cooking Experience in Little India by Food Playground – For those interested in experiencing the culture of Little India through its cuisine, this cooking tour allows participants to learn how to cook traditional Indian dishes from locals.
5. Trishaw Tour of Little India by Singapore Sidecars – Sit back and relax in a vintage trishaw as you explore the sights and sounds of Little India with a knowledgeable guide who will share stories about the neighborhood’s history and traditions.
6. Private Customized Tours by LocoMole – Create your own personalized tour of Little India with LocoMole’s app that provides interactive audio guides, games, quizzes and challenges to help uncover hidden gems in the neighborhood.
These are just a few recommended guided tours for discovering the rich heritage and culture of Little India. Visitors can also check with their hotel concierge or visit tourist centers for more options.
19.What cultural experiences are offered attheLittleIndia Arcademarket, such as henna tattoos or traditional dance performances?
The Little India Arcade market offers a variety of cultural experiences, including:
1. Henna tattoos: Visitors can get intricate and beautifully designed henna tattoos done by skilled artists.
2. Traditional dance performances: The market often hosts traditional dance performances, such as Bharatanatyam and Kathak, showcasing the rich Indian culture.
3. Sari draping: Visitors can learn how to drape a sari, the traditional Indian garment, from experienced shop owners.
4. Cultural workshops: There are various workshops organized at the market where visitors can learn about traditional Indian arts and crafts, such as rangoli making or embroidery.
5. Indian food tasting: The market has numerous food stalls offering traditional Indian snacks and dishes for visitors to taste and experience.
6. Musical performances: Occasionally, there are live musical performances featuring traditional Indian instruments like sitar, tabla, and sarod.
7. Mehendi art demonstrations: Visitors can watch demonstrations of the beautiful art form of mehendi (henna) application by skilled artists.
8. Cultural merchandise: The shops at the Little India Arcademarketoffer a wide range of cultural merchandise such as handicrafts, jewelry, clothes, and spices that reflect the vibrant Indian culture.
9. Traditional ceremonies and rituals: During major festivals or celebrations in the Indian calendar like Diwali or Holi, visitors can witness traditional ceremonies and rituals being performed at the market.
10. Language lessons: Some shop owners offer basic language lessons in Hindi or Tamil for those interested in learning more about these languages commonly spoken in India.
20.How do locals perceive tourists visiting and shopping in this area of Singapore?
Locals generally perceive tourists visiting and shopping in this area of Singapore positively. Many see it as a sign of the city’s thriving tourism industry and appreciate the economic benefits that it brings. Tourists are also often seen as contributing to the vibrant atmosphere and diversity of the area.
There may be some locals who feel that tourists contribute to overcrowding and high prices in the area, but overall, they are welcomed and valued for their contributions to the local economy. Some locals may even enjoy interacting with tourists, sharing tips and recommendations on where to go and what to see.
However, there may also be instances where locals encounter rude or disrespectful tourists, which can leave a negative impression. Overall, as long as visitors are respectful of local customs and culture, they will likely be warmly welcomed by locals in this area of Singapore.