Beyond the shining surface, a place like home

Marina Bay. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Down the road from the hotel is the Ee Hoe Hean Club (the name means the House of Harmony) one of the oldest millionaires' clubs in Singapore. It was at the club, founded in 1895, that rich Chinese businessmen networked, and it became the headquarters of overseas Chinese who provided financial help to resistance forces during the Japanese invasion of China between 1937 and 1945. According to Joyce, the building still functions as a gathering place for the rich.

About 100 meters further down the road and across the street is a self-branded store selling handmademade bags using authentic crocodile or ostrich leather. I peeked through the window for several nights running as I walked past the shop to the hotel. For those who are interested, the shop opens late and closes early.