I went in search of what remains of the traditional parts of Singapore. Because yes, there are still parts of the citystate which can be qualified as authentic, and which hopefully will hold against the encroaching steel and glass of present day architecture. Actually, the ancient parts reflect the diverse origins of the inhabitants of the city. There is Little India, Chinatown, there is a moslem quarter. If you step out of the pace of the new city and head for the old, you can find street stalls, old wooden windows, quiet corners of classic houses, and respective old people trying to hide from the concrete of the city.
Items hang above doors to chase away bad spirits.
Some alleys are almost too narrow to let cars enter. It also means you don't see the highrise of the city. If you are tired of the consumerism, of the world-wide chains of fast foods, of the universal architecture of workplaces, these pockets of ancient times are a welcome retreat. But you have to navigate wisely. The areas are small, and before you know it you can step into the 21st century by just turning a corner.