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CNA
a day ago
- CNA
46:42 Min
Explore Singapore's colourful 'hood, discover vinyl havens and go behind-the-scenes of its deepest train station. Finally, meet an American fitness coach who's become one of the locals. Singapore Hour About the show: Welcome to Singapore Hour: your all-access pass to the city that never stops surprising. From iconic eats to cutting-edge tech, vibrant culture to hidden local gems – we bring you the best of Singapore through the eyes of those who know it best. Whether you're here to travel, work, or just soak up the vibe, Singapore Hour is your definitive guide to what's hot, what's next and what you absolutely can't miss.
Business Times
a day ago
- Business Times
Wedding in a park
WHEN PARKROYAL COLLECTION PICKERING – FORMERLY Parkroyal on Pickering – opened in 2013, it set a benchmark for a city hotel in the tropics. Facing Hong Lim Park, the terraced facade of Woha's multiple-award-winning architecture became a new landmark – not just for travellers, but also for Singapore's urban scenery. 'As Singapore's first hotel-in-a-garden with iconic architecture that seamlessly blends urban luxury with nature, Parkroyal Collection Pickering offers a truly distinctive setting for weddings,' says Kung Teong Wah, the hotel's general manager. 'With 15,000 square metres of greenery, sky gardens and tranquil water features, the hotel offers a setting that is romantic and refined.' The building design features plants prominently. Rather than just shrubs in planters, there are swathes of frangipani and palm trees. Other tropical plants drape the 'topographical architecture' of the pre-cast concrete walls that resemble abstract rock formations. At the William Pickering Ballroom, light streams in through floor-to-ceiling glass panels, adding flair as well as verdant views of nature. PHOTO: PARKROYAL COLLECTION PICKERING On the podium level, the William Pickering Ballroom looks out to Hong Lim Park and the surrounding skyscrapers, connecting the wedding ceremony with the city. The ballroom, which can accommodate up to 250 guests, allows light to stream in through floor-to-ceiling glass panels, adding flair as well as verdant views of nature to the wedding decor. For more intimate events, the Alexander Room seats 120 guests. The Outdoor Terrace, meanwhile, is ideal not only as a spill-out area after the main ceremony, but also as a striking venue for cocktail parties and solemnisations – with a picture-perfect vertical garden and the spectacle of ombre sunsets as the backdrop, should the couple choose this magical time of the day. To make the most out of the special garden setting, the hotel offers three Singapore-centric wedding themes. PHOTO: PARKROYAL COLLECTION PICKERING To make the most out of the special garden setting, the hotel offers three Singapore-centric wedding themes: ocean-inspired, with soft pastels evoking the tranquil beauty of the sea; a lush botanical set-up; and a contemporary, sophisticated 'archi-luxe' setting that pays homage to the building's distinctive architecture. A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Friday, 2 pm Lifestyle Our picks of the latest dining, travel and leisure options to treat yourself. Sign Up Sign Up In terms of food, sustainability-minded couples have plenty of choice. 'The culinary team offers 'eco-chic' options, featuring fresh greens from our urban farm and sustainably sourced ingredients, and all menus are free from shark's fin and endangered produce,' says Kung, highlighting Parkroyal Collection Pickering's environmental focus. The hotel's culinary team offers 'eco-chic' options, such as sustainably sourced ingredients. PHOTO: PARKROYAL COLLECTION PICKERING Couples who tie the knot after November 2025 can look forward to the hotel's own 'new beginnings' – it is pulling out all the stops to ensure it remains an attractive venue with a S$3.7 million refurbishment of its function spaces by Woha Architects. The William Pickering Ballroom, for instance, will have a 16-metre-long LED panel that will expand options for engaging presentations. Two LED panels in the Alexander Room and an LED photo wall in the foyer will also enhance seamless programming possibilities as the couple and their guests move from space to space. Couples who wed at Parkroyal Collection Pickering are automatically enrolled in the Pan Pacific Discovery Loyalty Programme. PHOTO: PARKROYAL COLLECTION PICKERING As smaller weddings of 100 to 250 guests become more popular, Parkroyal Collection Pickering's intimate spaces are increasingly in demand. Busy couples also appreciate the hotel's Celebrations Curators, who become their trusted advisers, especially when navigating the complexity of mixed-race weddings. 'Cultural sensitivity is key,' Kung notes. 'Our team is trained to ask the right questions, from halal requirements to understanding different ceremonies, ensuring a thoughtful and inclusive experience.' Couples who fall in love with the Parkroyal Collection Pickering's bucolic environment will be happy to know they will be welcomed back for an anniversary stay – a perk of the Pan Pacific Discovery Loyalty Programme, for which they are automatically enrolled under the Titanium tier. Just a 'little something extra' for them to enjoy, even long after the wedding day.


CNA
2 days ago
- CNA
Singapore urges restraint as Cambodia-Thailand border row escalates
SINGAPORE: Singapore has called for restraint by Cambodia and Thailand amid rising tensions between the Southeast Asian neighbours, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said on Thursday (Jul 24). This comes after the military forces of both countries traded fire along the neighbours' shared border in a dramatic escalation of long-running territorial disputes. "Singapore is deeply concerned by the clashes, and calls on both countries to exercise restraint and cease hostilities. We call on them to de-escalate tensions through diplomatic means and ensure the safety of all civilians," said MFA. The ministry also advised Singaporeans to defer all travel to the border regions. Singaporeans in Cambodia and Thailand should also monitor the news closely, heed the local government's advice and stay vigilant for personal safety. MFA added that there are no reports of Singaporeans being injured in the border clashes so far. Singaporeans in or travelling to either country are also highly encouraged to e-register with MFA here.