tag:peatix.com,2011:1 2018-11-20T12:57:07+08:00 Peatix Jane Iyer tag:peatix.com,2018:event-349643 2018-05-15T09:00:00SGT 2018-05-15T09:00:00SGT

Fort Canning is a microcosm of Singapore being witness to and reflecting over 700 years of Singapore’s history. From the heyday of the Malay kings of “Temasek” until British arrival in 1819, the hill has been the site for the seat of power. It’s been instrumental in the island’s trading economy; it has had military aspiration and witnessed some of the most dramatic events of Singapore’s past. Nowadays an urban park - a veritable green island in the heart of the city, Fort Canning has many stories to tell.Starting at the foot of the Hill, we will first explore some of our island's oldest landmarks such as the Armenian Church, Central Fire Station and Masonic Lodge. We will then climb up through lush oasis of majestic trees to the vantage point with flagstaff to be carried away by tales of ancient kings and bathing princesses, the accounts of early Chinese explorers and traders and British colonial settlers. Our stop on the Hill will be to learn about the dramatic events which took place in its underground bunker in the days leading up to the Japanese invasion in 1942. Then we will wander through former Christian Cemetery ground and explore few prominent burials among the graves to discover an interesting connection… We will finish our tour in the cooling air of the nearby National Museum of Singapore, where we will learn more about the history and architecture of Singapore's oldest museum.Our Tuesday Small-Group Discovery Walks are aimed at visitors and new Singapore residents, but we find even “old timers” learn a lot. We keep to a maximum of 10 participants and pace the walk to take our sultry climate into account — lots of water and air-con stops are included.Please note confirmation of this tour including the exact meeting place etc will be sent via email to all those registered about 24-hours in advance; this will be preceded by a Peatix or Verlocal message to all registered.We do need a minimum number of 6 to run these; occasionally we have to cancel due to insufficient numbers — but we try not to! (If we must, we’ll of course refund your payment.)Please note that the cost of these tours is a little higher because we are keeping the group size small. The quality, however, will be very high. And don’t just take it from us, here are comments from a recent Tuesday Small-Group Discovery tour:"I would like to thank you for the tour yesterday, it’s been a wonderful morning! Your guide is amazing and so expert about history.""I just wanted to let you know that my aunt had a brilliant time yesterday. She couldn't say enough about the tour and how great your guide was. Thanks so much! I will certainly recommend you.""Your guide was WONDERFUL! We all enjoyed her. I'm looking forward to the next tour.”