The Clarke Quay has five blocks of industrial buildings to
go along with the more appealing attractions. This Quay has a variety
of second hand shops, restaurants, and quirky entertainment within its
borders. Many inhabitants and visitors, shop, eat and are entertained by the riverside.
This Quay gained its name from Sir Andrew Clarke, Singapore's second
governor and is considered the commercial hub of Singapore. Many if
the lighters of the day, transported goods to the warehouses, in the
Clark Quay.
Now these warehouses are shops that offer many extravagant goods.
Relatively close to the Clarke Quay on the River Valley Road is the
Whampoa's Ice House, which belonged to Hoo Ah Kay. This early
immigrant from Whampoa, China imported ice from Boston in the mid
1800's. Soon Chinese and European merchants brought their own
architectural styles to the area.
Singapore started its foundations, on the banks of the river 150 years
ago. Once a humble fishing village it soon became a major seaport that
increased trade for the East and West. Soon, the Sansui women and
stevedores filled the streets, as hawkers, fisherman, traders and
workers supplied an abundance of goods.
There is abundance of night life in Clark Quay. Many types of fanfare,
bars entertainment spots and retail shops are easily found. This quay
offers more of a bustling atmosphere and many cultures collide in the
streets.
Clarke Quay is today a mix of modern meets traditional and many of the
Bygone era remnants still remain. Many factories and shops show you
how they make their goods. Visitors to the area will go to the Royal
Selangor Process Demonstration tour.
Individuals whom join the tour learn how to make their own pewter
dish. At the end they receive a certificate of completion, as well.
For more of an adrenaline rush, try the G-Max reverse Bungee. In fact,
this is Singapore's first and only reverses Bungee.
Direct from New Zealand, the open-air capsule catapults you to a
height of 60 meters at a staggering speed of 200km/hr. for an easier
ride, hop onto a traditional trishaw and take in the spectacular
views. Cruises down the historic waterways, in an authentic bumboat,
offer a rare glimpse of old shop houses and go downs.