Emerald Hill, Cairnhill & Monk’s Hill

Once upon a time, Emerald Hill was the epicentre of our famed Peranakan Culture. Today, it is more like a hip joint for the modern world. Few of us venture beyond the first few drinking joints. And thus, too many of us miss that old-world charm that lies just beyond. It wasn’t long ago that the Peranakan Culture flourished here.

Orchard Road was beginning to make its mark as a major tourist haunt. As Orchard Road blossoms, Emerald Hill, begins to fade away as a Peranakan enclave. It didn’t help that the Peranakan Culture was also beginning to fade from the mid-1960s.

Despite campaigns to revitalize the culture here, it must be said success came in a very different manner – and in a very different way too! I invite you to walk with me beyond “the first few meters” and re-discover the old-world charm that lies beyond.

From Emerald Hill, we’ll take the back road to Monk’s Hill. At the foot of Monk’s Hill, we’ll try and understand why (and how they) cart the entire hill to Balestier Plain. This may be a small place, but it carries an old English history that is largely forgotten. While here, we study how Peck Hay Road came about.

We meet at 9am, Somerset MRT station (immediately after exiting at the control station) on the 13th October 2024. You can recognize me with my Tourist Guide badge. This tour will end at Newton Hawker Center.

Note:

• We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour. Tipping guide as follows: $20 for a satisfactory guide, $20+ for a guide who exceeds expectations, and $30 for an outstanding guide.
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and no-shows.
• Call or message Uncle Chris at +65 91814298 for corporate, private, or student bookings.

Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Please understand this method of booking platform can only perform its best with your full sincerity. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule. We look forward to your graciousness and generosity!