Coolies, Towkays and the Gig Economy
2 reviews
Fuk Tai Chi Museum Entrance
- From its origins as a Free Port, follow the trails of Towkays and Coolies along the Quays and Market places of Singapore
- Discover temples hidden in plain sight, visit the house of a Triad boss, touch an original Coolie coin and understand how their daily Gig-economy had similarities and parallels to today's economy
- Explore the huge divides between the Agent recruiters and their indentured "Piglets", as the labourers were sometimes called, the role of Indian money-lenders, subsidised gambling trains, and how the Coolie-coin system effectively removed real cash rewards
- This tour will upend many of your assumptions and show things in a new light
- Explore historic UNESCO Temples which were used as a hang-out by coolies and also to boost love-luck with incense sticks!
- Understand why coolies were sometimes called "Piglets", how they were paid by Gigs and how they could spend it
- Find out about the original subsidised Gambling trains to Malaysia!
- Enjoy a refreshing themed tea inspired drink as you explore the former house of a Triad Boss, and a Coolie-coin themed cookie!
- Receive a Coolie-coin Cookie as a gift, while you explore
What to expect
Fuk Tak Chi Temple is one of the oldest former monasteries in Singapore and has now become a museum
Explore the history of Hsu Chung-mao during the tour
Having your great time with your friends and family for your holiday
Understand how their daily Gig-economy had similarities and parallels to today's economy
Explore the artistic value of the Coolie Currency
Discover temples hidden in plain sight during the tour
Riverhouse is the latest multi-concept space in Clarke Quay, offering a modern Chinese restaurant
Explore UNESCO’s historic temples that were once used as coolies’ meeting places
Reviews
Sort by:
Filter by:
Review for: Coolies, Towkays & the Gig Economy
The tour was a marvellous and insightful experience into the lives of those who came before. It was wonderful with Patrick as our guide who explained information thoroughly and with great thought and respect. Will definitely bring more peers in the future when things allow for larger groups. Definitely eye opening and compelling for the heart to shift our perspectives.
Helpful
Review for: Coolies, Towkays & the Gig Economy
Didn't manage to go on this tour but want to give kudos to the tour operator who very kindly offered a complimentary +1 pax for a rescheduled date.
Helpful
Contact us
Got a question about this activity? Ask us on live chat!
You might also like...
Singapore Food tours
L'Angelus French Restaurant in Chinatown
Enjoy unique dining experience at L'Angelus French Restaurant located at Chinatown. Book through Klook for discounts and special offer.
Book now for today
English guided
Instant confirmation
5.0
50+ booked
NT$ 1,130
Singapore Food tours
Nanyang Rojak: Immigrant Mixes that Endure Food Private Tour
Enjoy amazing deals here when you book this Nanyang Rojak: Immigrant Mixes That Endure tour!
Private tour
English guided
Private group
Instant confirmation
5.0
NT$ 1,482
Singapore Fitness
The Ripple Club Water Cycling in Singapore
Aquaspin™ combines the benefits of indoor cycling with aqua aerobics. Burn up to 800 calories, get rid of cellulite, boost your blood flow with us while enjoying the view from our 5 gorgeous locations in Singapore!
English guided
Up to 3 hrs
Instant confirmation
4.8
100+ booked
NT$ 1,140
Singapore Beauty services
First Timer Offer: Luxury Organic Facial Experience
Get this luxury organic facial experience from Pure Tincture Pte Ltd for first-timer in Singapore and get amazing discounts!
Instant confirmation
5.0
NT$ 4,103
Singapore Wellness
Amore Fitness & Define
Book your slot now at Amore Fitness in Singapore and choose between group classes or personal training for your fitness journey!
English guided
Up to 3 hrs
Instant confirmation
4.1
100+ booked
NT$ 1,216
Singapore Day trips
Fort Canning & Civic District Heritage Walk
Fort Canning & Civic District Heritage Walk
Private tour
Small group
English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
5.0
NT$ 1,915
20 off
Sale
Singapore Day trips
Walk Through 700 Years of History at Fort Canning Park
Get amazing deals here when you join this tour in Fort Canning Park!
English guided
Instant confirmation
5.0
NT$ 1,140
Singapore Workshops
Mini Treehouse Workshop at The Sundowner
Build a mini Japanese zen garden or a treehouse on a bonsai, to take home! Experience our beautiful secret rooftop garden while you are at it. Try it now!
English guided
Up to 3 hrs
5.0
50+ booked
NT$ 2,120
Singapore Ferries
Batam Island Country Club Golf with Ferry from Harbourfront
Instant confirmation
50+ booked
From NT$ 5,015