Meeting News - October 20, 2008 - (Page 20)

ADVERTISEMENT SINGAPORE I t’s no secret that Singapore is a meetings force to be reckoned with. In 2007, the Union of International Associations named this colorful, cultural city-state the top international meetings city in the world. That honor does more than reflect an excellent infrastructure, location, and state-of-the-art meeting facilities—it also speaks of Singapore’s variety of exciting options, which help take meetings to a new level. SINGAPORE FLYER The Singapore Flyer is a fresh, off-site option that attendees should put at the top of their to-experience list. Newly opened in early 2008, the structure is currently the largest observatory wheel in the world. Reaching 45 stories into the air, the giant wheel offers riders an unforgettable view of the Singapore cityscape—even spanning to Malaysia and Indonesia. Each capsule accommodates 28 delegates, and makes for truly fun business events. CULTURAL SITES Singapore’s vast museum offering lets attendees take a closer, more in-depth look at the region. For an elegant and unique event or dinner steeped in culture and history, meeting-goers can choose the Asian Civilizations Museum. Housing one of the best collections of Pan-Asian cultures and civilizations within 10 themed galleries, the location is accented by a view of the Singapore River. Other great finds with a variety of function spaces are the National Museum of Singapore—although recently refurbished, this is the oldest museum in the city-state— and the Singapore Art Museum, featuring the largest collection of 20th Century Southeast Asian art in a public institution. HISTORICAL BUILDINGS These area attractions pair the past with a forwardthinking spirit—and that magic is perhaps best captured in the Arts House at the Old Parliament. Built in 1827, the landmark—Singapore’s first court house and former Parliament house—infuses an event with a rich blend of history and contemporary art. The Hall, converted from the former colonial courtroom, is suited for sit-down dinners for groups of 60. The Parliament chambers, where live sessions were once held, is also available for group gatherings. CAVENAGH BRIDGE Visitors to Singapore on business have certainly dined on land and water, but they may have never experienced what it’s like to tickle the taste buds at a place where land and water merge—the Cavenagh Bridge. Here, meeting-goers can recapture the romance of a bygone era by dining on one of the oldest bridges in Singapore. Constructed in 1869, the structure is one of the few pedestrian bridges to exist in its original form. Today, the Cavenagh Bridge provides a link between the rich cultural district Out-of-the-box venues bring dynamic culture and color to off-site options north of the Singapore River and the bustling commercial district to the south. It can host approximately 150 guests for a standing cocktail reception and about 120 visitors for a sit-down dinner. OUTDOOR DINING SPACES To further the culinary experience, delegates can dine like the early settlers did at Food Street in Chinatown. Groups can soak in the rich heritage of the surroundings between rows of shophouses and tuck into delectable Singapore street food, prepared by legendary street vendors, or “hawkers.” The street can be closed off for groups of more than 300. NATURE ATTRACTIONS Natural surroundings are another of Singapore’s dynamic elements, as well as a tranquil backdrop for off-site gatherings. At the Singapore Botanical Gardens, event-goers can delight in Burkhill Hall. Boasting beautiful tropical colonial architecture, it is situated at the highest point of the National Orchid Garden—giving attendees a commanding view of the magnificent gardens and beyond. And living creatures of another sort are the focus of the Night Safari. The world’s first night zoo, home to more than 900 animals, promises an experience that’s anything but tame. Groups of 15 to 36 can take in the Cocktail Safari Express, while the Gourmet Safari Express can host 15 to 42 delegates. The 600-seat Ulu Ulu Safari Restaurant completes the rare safari experience. From lush gardens and food streets to museums and even sightseeing attractions, unique event spaces leave a lasting impression. These rare and exciting options reflect an engrained regional spirit that beckons groups to Singapore. For more information Singapore Exhibition and Convention Bureau (212) 302-4861 E-mail: newyork@stb.gov.sg; losangeles@stb.gov.sg www.visitsingapore-usa/mice http://www.www.visitsingapore-usa/mice http://www.www.visitsingapore-usa/mice

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Meeting News - October 20, 2008

Meeting News - October 20, 2008 Contents Letters to the Editor What's Up @ MeetingNews.com People Making News Transportation & Services Conference Centers Advertisers Index Live From the Forum

Meeting News - October 20, 2008

For optimal viewing of this digital publication, please enable JavaScript and then refresh the page. If you would like to try to load the digital publication without using Flash Player detection, please click here.