Singapore’s Little India, which marries Indian and Singaporean cultures, was named the 19th coolest neighbourhood in the world by TimeOut. Mexico’s Colonial Americano, an epicentre of art deco and neoclassical mansions, claimed the top spot. Asian neighbourhoods such as Cambodia’s Wat Po Village and Japan’s Shinokitazawa also made the cut, taking the third and seventh places, respectively.
According to the publication, Little India landed on the list for its historical sites and vintage shophouses that contribute to its charm and nostalgic appeal. The place has evolved from being a quaint neighbourhood in the 1970s to becoming a raved multicultural tourist destination by travellers at present.
Some of the most famous landmarks in this vibrant territory include the Indian Heritage Centre, a museum housing over 440 artifacts; Airzone, a six-storey shopping mall; Tekka Centre, a popular wet market among locals; and Tan Teng Niah, aka the last surviving Chinese villa in Little India.
Meanwhile, TimeOut also named Singapore’s Everton Road as the world’s 33rd coolest street in 2022. The location has gained an accolade for its eye-catching murals tracing the rich history of Singapore and an ever-growing number of cafés and food joints offering the best of the Lion City.
