I'm slowly starting to fall in love with the East part of Singapore. It's a fact that Geylang has a reputation of being Singapore's red light district. I remember years ago when I first set foot in this area, there were indeed scattered brothels with girls seated outside waiting for customers. I was a bit culture shock as it was surprisingly very different from the clean and busy city centre of Singapore.
Some time back, in my quest to find the same photographic memory I had, we walked along Geylang Road, Lorong 8 to 24. Unfortunately, what we found are only terraced houses with large numbers written on the gates, some with hanging red lanterns, with their banner signs indicating CLOSED. The pandemic must have put their businesses into a halt, just like many other businesses. Too bad, I was not able to take photos of these as I am hesitant taking photos of these private properties.
Whilst on the other side of Geylang, in between Aljunied and Paya Lebar MRT, what awes me the most is the plethora of food choices around the area. Most of which are local cuisines like dim sum stalls, malay and chinese hawker centres, coffee shops, etc. Special mention to the rows of fruit stalls that sells their King of Fruits —Durian. I was surprised when I see people dining in at these stalls just to eat durian. I didn't know people actually do that here in Singapore.
Sometimes I do miss the quiet and calm neighborhood of Telok Blangah - especially the sight of trees and greeneries. But almost 4 months since we moved in and I have no regrets choosing this neighborhood. I feel like I am in Manila with the lively streets of Geylang, the densely situated stores and food centers, the shop houses.
And of course, the back alleys that seem to have a life of its own. I'm not exactly sure why I seem drawn to them. Unhygienic or disgusting it may look, but the way they look actually gives a story and a contrast to the bustling city of Singapore. They look like remnants of a forgotten past. They have texture and colors entirely unique to them.
