Why You Should Eat By This 3.2km-long River in Singapore
The Singapore River (新加坡河畔) is no longer like what it was about 30 years ago. Today, it doesn’t look like a mess and doesn’t smell like garbage, after undergoing a major revamp initiated by the government. The 3.2km-long River flows all the way from Kim Seng Bridge, through the Central Business District (CBD) area, to Buona Vista.
Back in the olden days, Singapore grew around the mouth of the river (i.e. the port) so it became the hub of trade, commerce and finance. You can say Singapore prospered precisely because of this River. Due to urbanization and expanding trade, there was heavy traffic on the River, causing water pollution. The River’s economic role has shifted from one of trade to one of tourism.
One of the most relaxing things you can do for free in this little red dot is to eat by the Singapore River and admire the stunning view. The teal waters, albeit not as crystal clear as those in Maldives, still have a calming effect. Take in the whole serenity of the area, watching the boats sail down. You might receive an occasional wave from tourists on the boats too!
Sitting along the riverbank also allows you a full, unobstructed view of the reverse bungee jump, as you witness humans tossed high up in the sky and get spun 360°. Their shrill screams may interrupt the peace for a while, but that’s okay.
You can always grab some iced coffee or matcha ice-cream from the shops in the Central Mall to accompany you. Well, if you’d like a proper table and chair, with people serving you, you can opt to eat at one of the restaurants by the river. Budget travellers know that they shouldn’t be looking in that direction, though.
With or without company, just enjoy the breeze and immerse yourself in this area steeped in heritage. Imagine huge volumes of trade at the River, imagine our forefathers toiling hard, striving to forge us all a better future. Which they did. So we have the River like it is today.
Just a word of caution: don’t get too near with many cans or bottles. You might end up floating in the River.
How to get there:
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay MRT
Bus: 2, 12, 33, 51,54, 61, 63, 80, 124, 145, 147, 166, 174, 174e, 190,197, 851, 961, 1N, 2N, 3N, 4N, 5N, 6N, NR 1, NR 2, NR 3, NR 5, NR 6, NR 7, NR8
Walk through the Central and you’ll see it. It’s that simple.
