Singapore: Architecture, Asian Civilisations Museum, Little India & Arab Street

One of the coolest things about Singapore is the architecture.  There are very few boring buildings around.  It was cool just riding around the city looking at all the interesting shapes, bright colors, different materials and especially the vast array of styles.  Awesome.  I have a tendency to take too many photos of buildings.  You know this about me:)  Here are just a few of my favs. 

For day 2 of my Singapore trip I used the MRT (subway) to visit some more awesome places.  The MRT is very similar to the MTR in Hong Kong so I felt like a pro after just one ride downtown.  On my way to the Asian Civilisations Museum I walked along the Singapore river.  I loved this view of  Clarke Quay.  So colorful!

Lucky birds.  I bet those noodles were delicious!

There were a lot of statues along the river.

I felt like I was privy to a little secret when I noticed these tiny cats near the bridge.

The museum itself was a really beautiful renovated government house from the early colonial days.  The collection inside featured an exhibit of the Terra Cotta Warriors from Xian, China.  My favorite part of the museum was the history of Singapore and its diverse peoples.  

Actually, it is hard to pick a favorite part of this museum.  I was in love with this artwork!  These statues were really fascinating in person; pure white traditional looking statues with red & black lacquered modern touches.  The warriors above stood on a light box.  So cool.

After a few hours at the museum I headed to Little India.  It was a quick couple stops on the MRT, but felt a world away from the sleek modern + British colonial downtown.

This sign is made of fresh flowers strung together.  It smelled a-mazing.

I don't know exactly what I did expect to find in Little India, but it was not THIS kind of Indian:)

I decided to wander toward Arab Street for lunch.  (A choice which proved to be inspired...mmmm.)  On the way there I passed through the Thieves Market on Sungei Road.  As the name suggests, this used to be where you could get your hands on some 'hot' goods.  Now it is a collection of random second hand stuff: old electronics, books, jewelry, clothes & shoes, you name it.

I'm not sure I have EVER stumbled across a better photo op than this one.  Without worrying about who was around, I snapped this sleeping beauty.  Thankfully his friends nearby just laughed and waved as I left.  On to Arab Street!

   

When I arrived at the Masjid Sultan there was group of children visiting on a field trip.  It made for a bit of a crowd, but I also was able to overhear several interesting facts about the mosque.

The rest of the afternoon was devoted to exploring the shops:)

I thought I was being sneaky.  I guess not sneaky enough!