Singapore: exceptional places that create experiences

The global meeting point for major events and VIP meetings, Singapore owes this status to its first-class infrastructure. MICE tools that are not only high-performance but also atypical, to make every operation a memorable event. Like the National Gallerywhich has quickly established itself as one of the destination's most prestigious addresses. Probably because organising an event in the heart of a cultural landmark immediately confers a strong added value, capable of making a lasting impression. In this case, two monuments steeped in history and symbolism have been linked by an aesthetic infrastructure and, above all, magnified in an atypical building. These are the former premises of the Town Hall and the Supreme Court. Strolling between these two monuments and under the majestic glass roof that unites them, it's easy to imagine how the National Gallery's facilities are capable of inspiring event organisers and participants alike. Among the National Gallery's 64,000 square metres of space, there are a number of particularly striking spots. These include the Supreme Court terracewhich surrounds the historic dome of the Rotundabathed in light from the glass ceiling. This atypical 510 m² space is capable of hosting events with up to 300 participants in standing format. The versatility of the space means that it can accommodate a wide range of events, although the elegance and originality of the décor tend to attract luxury and fashion events in particular, such as Fashion Week, which on several occasions took to the floor of Supreme Court Terrace... 

The National Gallery also stands out for the variety of spaces that can be privatised, from auditoriums - such as the 212-seat Ngee Ann Kingsi space - to more exclusive seminar rooms and roofstop studios, as well as open-air facilities with comfortable terraces offering panoramic views over Singapore. The Padang Deck (300 m², 180 people) is regularly used for opening cocktails, including events organised outside the National Gallery, thanks to its proximity to Suntec City and Marina Bay Sands. 

Another room, another atmosphere: Chijmes has a less international reputation, which is probably a plus for this more confidential venue. However, since 2018, the blockbuster Crazy Rich Asians has given worldwide exposure to the chapel of this former convent (Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus), whose initials explain the site's "baptismal name". Deconsecrated in the 1980s, then elevated to the status of national monument, the chapel has an undeniable cachet, and event organisers have to play hardball with the many couples wishing to celebrate their wedding there. The neo-Gothic building exudes majesty and indescribable serenity, and it's easy to imagine the memorable nature of an event organised in such a setting.

The chapel, whose original architecture has been preserved, has simply - and discreetly - incorporated the modern facilities required by the MICE sector. It can accommodate 30 tables of ten guests for different types of events. Nevertheless, although the venue no longer has the status of a church, its managers intend to maintain a certain ethic, and reserve the right to refuse events whose nature would betray the Chijmes heritage. " It's no longer a church, it's an events venue. But because of its history, we don't accept certain types of event, such as betting or nudity, says a spokesman for Watabe, the space manager. We try to respect certain principles. Especially as the Catholic Church's 'headquarters' is right next door!" .

As well as the chapel, Chijmes has another MICE option: theAlcove at Caldwell House. This too is a place steeped in history and spirituality, as it is one of the oldest buildings in Singapore. " Walk in my presence and be perfect "The injunction that dominates the alcove - in French, since the building was commissioned by a French priest - adds to the solemnity of the space, whose semi-circular architecture can accommodate events for up to a hundred guests. The Chijmes complex also boasts charming outdoor areas, which can also be made private. The agreement of the owner (Perennial) is required, for which Watabe, in charge of managing the indoor spaces, can help with negotiations. It should be noted that Chijmes is located in a strategic area, close to the Town Hall, and surrounded by numerous hotels covering all price ranges.

For MICE organisers attracted by the "charm of the old", it's hard not to mention the Burkill HallIts construction dates back to... 1868. In other words, a century before the country's independence! Nevertheless, the colonial building is in tune with the times, as demonstrated by the 3D guided tour of its MICE facilities, available online. Burkill Hall can accommodate up to 80 people on the ground floor, and around a hundred on the first floor, which also has a terrace. When it comes to outdoor spaces, it's hard to compete... This one is located in the heart of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, and more precisely in its star setting: the National Orchid Garden. Or how to combine the aesthetics of the orchid with the symbolic significance of this national emblem...

In keeping with the floral theme, the ArtScience Museum pays tribute to the lotus. This time, it's less about heritage than ultra-modern infrastructure. The museum at the Marina Bay Sands complex aims to be a meeting point for art, science, culture and technology. It also offers a host of meetings and events facilities. Product launches, press conferences and fashion shows are a regular feature. The ArtScience Museum has 21 spaces covering almost 5,000 sq. metres, featuring immersive technologies, digital and interactive art.

In addition to event infrastructures, Singapore has another major asset for more exclusive, more informal meetings: the catalogue of restaurants and bars that have flourished in the City-State. The Michelin Guide unveiled last May at Marina Bay Sands lists no fewer than 41 1-star, seven 2-star and three 3-star establishments - including Odette, based at the National Gallery. Among this vast constellation is the work of local star Malcolm Lee, who shines in the Candlenut. It's fine, beautiful, full of colour and flavour, refined without being pretentious... The Singaporean chef draws on Peranakan culture, sublimating his Singaporean "madeleines de Proust" with elegance. Above all, the prestigious macaron has not outweighed the simplicity of the Candlenut's warm decor and service, with smiling staff who, when they mention a particular ingredient or explain a particular Peranakan recipe, seem to share the chef's passion. And it's infectious...

More serious, more sober - more expensive too - and oh so tasty: the Seroja. A newcomer on the local gastronomic scene, Kevin Wong's restaurant should soon be joining the starry trail. It is a vibrant tribute to the richness of Malaysian gastronomy, with particularly precise sourcing and (very) top-of-the-range work. The open kitchen allows the audience to appreciate the precision and exacting standards of this brigade, whose members take turns explaining the inventiveness of each dish as it arrives.

Another name to keep in mind if you're planning a trip to Singapore is that of the chef Violet Oon. Not only for the richness of its cuisine - with its blend of Peranakan, Chinese, Malay and Indian influences - but also for the strategic location of its three eponymous addresses: in Orchard, in the heart of the National Gallery and above all in Changi, in the heart of the international airport.

And for a moment of relaxation, perhaps to celebrate the signing of a contract, Singapore is also home to some prestigious "counters". The city boasts 11 of the 50 best bars in Asia according to the 2022 ranking. These include MO bar (8th), in the hushed surroundings of the Mandarin Orientalor the incomparable Atlas (23rd arrondissement). As well as its plethora of gins, this highly trendy address is distinguished by its Art Deco setting, which is both busy and well-kept, with its wood panelling and frescoes. And this monumental central bar, proportional to the height of the building's ceilings... A must, yet another...