Latest news with #Spectra
The Age
12 hours ago
- The Age
Singapore is a ‘crazy rich' city, but here's how to do it affordably
While many excellent museums offer insights into Singapore's unique cultural cauldron of Chinese, Malay and Indian influences (standouts include the National Museum and the Peranaken Museum), it's even more compelling to experience it firsthand. Monster Day Tours offers excellent free (aka tip-based) walking tours of Chinatown, Kampong Gelam and Little India that showcase these vibrant districts' intriguing histories, sights and cuisines. You'll get a similar perspective by visiting a prominent place of worship, such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – an imposing, Tang dynasty-style complex built in 2007 that claims to house the Buddha's left canine tooth. Others are the atmospheric and deity-covered Sri Veeramakaliamman Hindu temple and the arresting gold-domed Sultan Mosque. Entry to all three is free. For live entertainment, the durian-shaped Esplanade theatres next to Marina Bay Sands (MBS) have a year-round program of free performances, and the district's nightly free sound and light shows – Spectra at MBS and Garden Rhapsody in Gardens by the Bay – are unmissable. If you watch the 8pm Spectra show, you'll have time to walk to the 8.45pm performance of Garden Rhapsody. Trail warrior Despite Singapore being the world's third most densely populated country, it's surprisingly easy to escape the urban embrace and discover restorative open spaces. The Central Catchment Nature Reserve is a tranquil oasis with 20 kilometres of trails winding through more than 2000 hectares of native forest. A popular option is the seven-kilometre TreeTop loop, which includes an impressive 250-metre-long suspension bridge from which you may glimpse long-tailed macaques and flying lemurs. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is another gem, offering hiking and biking trails through one of the largest surviving remnants of primary rainforest. It's home to both the city's tallest tree, a 60-metre seraya, and its highest natural peak, the 163-metre-high Bukit Timah Hill. If you do only one hike, make it the 10-kilometre trek from Mount Faber Park to Kent Ridge Park along the Southern Ridges, a network of parks and reserves with captivating city and coastal views. Easily accessible by public transport, the trek has highlights including the city's tallest pedestrian bridge (the undulating Henderson Waves), a treetop boardwalk and several World War II sites. If you're more of a stroller than a hiker, Singapore has free gardens galore, from the stunning 82-hectare UNESCO World Heritage-listed Botanic Gardens, home to more than 300 plant species, a swan-dotted lake and a stunning orchid collection (well worth the $S15/$18 entrance), to Gardens by the Bay, a fusion of futuristic Supertrees with tranquil spaces such as the Kingfisher Wetlands and the Serene Garden. While there's a charge to enter the climate-controlled Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, the rest of the complex is free. Just be warned that any outdoor exertion in Singapore's legendary humidity is going to induce Olympian levels of perspiration, so dress accordingly and carry plenty of water. Art addict While many of Singapore's museums contain impressive art collections (the National Gallery boasts South-East Asia's largest public collection of modern art), it can get expensive to visit them all. Fortunately, the city's streets and laneways are ablaze with murals and sculptures which can all be enjoyed at no cost. You'll find prolific artist Yip Yew Chong's works all over the city, but some of his most evocative murals depict traditional life in Chinatown. Muscat Street is another hotspot, with two ornately carved eight-metre-high granite arches book-ending colourful Omani murals and mosaics, as is Haji Lane in Kampong Gelam, which is decorated with bold artworks by street artists from throughout the world. To discover the city's varied collection of public sculptures, download one of the National Arts Council's self-guided art trails. For kid-friendly phone-based fun, check out the playful augmented reality experiences available at many notable sights via Google Maps (enter 'Singapore' and they'll be marked with a pin). Frugal foodies While you could easily squander a week's wages at any of Singapore's 51 Michelin-starred restaurants, for those on a budget, we have two words for you: hawker centre. You'll find them all over the city – busy, noisy, cavernous food courts lined with compact stalls selling outrageously good food for refreshingly low prices. Feast on Singapore staples such as Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow and spicy laksas, then return the next day for minced pork noodles, popiah spring rolls and chilli crab. Loading While there are dozens to choose from, you can't go wrong at the Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown Complex Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat, which has the added benefit of being next to 'Satay Street', a laneway that changes into a nightly food orgy with its sizzling satay stalls. The customary Singapore breakfast of kaya toast with coconut jam and soft-boiled eggs isn't for everyone, but it's a budget-friendly option available from traditional kopitiam coffee shops and most food courts.
Sydney Morning Herald
12 hours ago
- Sydney Morning Herald
Singapore is a ‘crazy rich' city, but here's how to do it affordably
While many excellent museums offer insights into Singapore's unique cultural cauldron of Chinese, Malay and Indian influences (standouts include the National Museum and the Peranaken Museum), it's even more compelling to experience it firsthand. Monster Day Tours offers excellent free (aka tip-based) walking tours of Chinatown, Kampong Gelam and Little India that showcase these vibrant districts' intriguing histories, sights and cuisines. You'll get a similar perspective by visiting a prominent place of worship, such as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – an imposing, Tang dynasty-style complex built in 2007 that claims to house the Buddha's left canine tooth. Others are the atmospheric and deity-covered Sri Veeramakaliamman Hindu temple and the arresting gold-domed Sultan Mosque. Entry to all three is free. For live entertainment, the durian-shaped Esplanade theatres next to Marina Bay Sands (MBS) have a year-round program of free performances, and the district's nightly free sound and light shows – Spectra at MBS and Garden Rhapsody in Gardens by the Bay – are unmissable. If you watch the 8pm Spectra show, you'll have time to walk to the 8.45pm performance of Garden Rhapsody. Trail warrior Despite Singapore being the world's third most densely populated country, it's surprisingly easy to escape the urban embrace and discover restorative open spaces. The Central Catchment Nature Reserve is a tranquil oasis with 20 kilometres of trails winding through more than 2000 hectares of native forest. A popular option is the seven-kilometre TreeTop loop, which includes an impressive 250-metre-long suspension bridge from which you may glimpse long-tailed macaques and flying lemurs. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is another gem, offering hiking and biking trails through one of the largest surviving remnants of primary rainforest. It's home to both the city's tallest tree, a 60-metre seraya, and its highest natural peak, the 163-metre-high Bukit Timah Hill. If you do only one hike, make it the 10-kilometre trek from Mount Faber Park to Kent Ridge Park along the Southern Ridges, a network of parks and reserves with captivating city and coastal views. Easily accessible by public transport, the trek has highlights including the city's tallest pedestrian bridge (the undulating Henderson Waves), a treetop boardwalk and several World War II sites. If you're more of a stroller than a hiker, Singapore has free gardens galore, from the stunning 82-hectare UNESCO World Heritage-listed Botanic Gardens, home to more than 300 plant species, a swan-dotted lake and a stunning orchid collection (well worth the $S15/$18 entrance), to Gardens by the Bay, a fusion of futuristic Supertrees with tranquil spaces such as the Kingfisher Wetlands and the Serene Garden. While there's a charge to enter the climate-controlled Cloud Forest and Flower Dome, the rest of the complex is free. Just be warned that any outdoor exertion in Singapore's legendary humidity is going to induce Olympian levels of perspiration, so dress accordingly and carry plenty of water. Art addict While many of Singapore's museums contain impressive art collections (the National Gallery boasts South-East Asia's largest public collection of modern art), it can get expensive to visit them all. Fortunately, the city's streets and laneways are ablaze with murals and sculptures which can all be enjoyed at no cost. You'll find prolific artist Yip Yew Chong's works all over the city, but some of his most evocative murals depict traditional life in Chinatown. Muscat Street is another hotspot, with two ornately carved eight-metre-high granite arches book-ending colourful Omani murals and mosaics, as is Haji Lane in Kampong Gelam, which is decorated with bold artworks by street artists from throughout the world. To discover the city's varied collection of public sculptures, download one of the National Arts Council's self-guided art trails. For kid-friendly phone-based fun, check out the playful augmented reality experiences available at many notable sights via Google Maps (enter 'Singapore' and they'll be marked with a pin). Frugal foodies While you could easily squander a week's wages at any of Singapore's 51 Michelin-starred restaurants, for those on a budget, we have two words for you: hawker centre. You'll find them all over the city – busy, noisy, cavernous food courts lined with compact stalls selling outrageously good food for refreshingly low prices. Feast on Singapore staples such as Hainanese chicken rice, char kway teow and spicy laksas, then return the next day for minced pork noodles, popiah spring rolls and chilli crab. Loading While there are dozens to choose from, you can't go wrong at the Maxwell Food Centre, Chinatown Complex Food Centre or Lau Pa Sat, which has the added benefit of being next to 'Satay Street', a laneway that changes into a nightly food orgy with its sizzling satay stalls. The customary Singapore breakfast of kaya toast with coconut jam and soft-boiled eggs isn't for everyone, but it's a budget-friendly option available from traditional kopitiam coffee shops and most food courts.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Epic Group, Creative Group to boost fashion manufacture in India
The JV was initiated under the leadership of Epic Group chairman Ranjan Mahtani, and in partnership with Creative Group, which is led by chairman Vijay Agarwal. The collaboration was marked by a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on 9 January 2025, which has now been formalised through a shareholder agreement. The venture is supported by an initial funding of $15m and aims to reach a turnover of Rs5bn ($60m) in the foreseeable future. Under the Spectra JV, the inaugural project is a denim and bottoms manufacturing plant with the capacity to manufacture 700,000 units monthly. Spectra will lay emphasis on sustainable practices, innovative approaches, and initiatives that contribute to community growth. Some of the key features of the initiative include use of renewable energy sources to maintain a reduced carbon footprint; creation of 3,000 jobs initially, with the goal of increasing employment opportunities to 10,000 as operations expand; and introduction of advanced manufacturing techniques for apparel production. Combining the manufacturing expertise of Epic Group with Creative Group's 50 years track record in textiles, the collaboration seeks to deliver value to clients, associates, and stakeholders and contribute to India's ascent as a leading centre for eco-friendly garment manufacturing. 'We remain grateful for the opportunity to work alongside dedicated teams and partners who share our vision. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to sharing more updates as Spectra grows and evolves,' said Epic Group. "Epic Group, Creative Group to boost fashion manufacture in India" was originally created and published by Just Style, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Daily Express
11-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Express
Free eye checks, glasses for 573 Ranau folks
Published on: Wednesday, June 11, 2025 Published on: Wed, Jun 11, 2025 By: Clarence Dol Text Size: Dr Joachim (centre) examines the eyes of a man during the eye screening programme at the Kundasang Open Stage. RANAU: A total of 573 residents in Kundasang received the benefits of free eye examinations and glasses through a community programme organised by the Sabah Golf Association (SGA) in collaboration with Spectra led by Dato' Seri David Sew. The two-day programme began on May 2 and was held at two different locations. Advertisement Deputy Chief Minister II, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam said the initiative was a meaningful effort in helping residents, especially those with vision problems. 'Programme like this directly helps improve the quality of life of the local community through the organisation of charity events. It is a form of giving back to the community,' he said when visiting the programme at SMK Bundu Tuhan recently. Some 123 students from SMK Bundu Tuhan who underwent the examination were given them free glasses. Meanwhile, 300 residents received the same benefits on the second day of the programme at the Kundasang Open Stage, bringing the total number of 423 recipients. Dr Joachim, who is also Minister of Local Government and Housing and the Kundasang Assemblyman, thanked SGA for the welfare programme. He also thanked SMK Bundu Tuhan Principal Prince Abd Halim Chan, and the school administration for their support and cooperation. He thanked the sponsors Sinaland Sdn Bhd and Primaland Sdn Bhd and welcomed more participation from non-governmental organisations (NGOs), private companies and associations to organise programmes that benefit the rural community. Meanwhile, SGA Secretary and Project Director, Ian Yong said this pilot programme is part of efforts to help the needy, especially students. 'The partnership with Spectra allows us to conduct comprehensive eye examinations and distribute free glasses to students and local residents who are identified as eligible. 'We hope that those who undergo these examinations will enjoy better vision, thus improving their learning and daily lives,' he said.
NDTV
27-05-2025
- NDTV
From Forest Views To Farm-Fresh Flavours: Why The Reimagined Leela Ambience Gurugram Is The Ultimate Urban Escape
There are luxury hotels, and then there are sanctuaries. The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel & Residences has recently stepped into a new identity, firmly planting itself as the latter. I recently had the pleasure of spending a fabulous weekend here with my husband and daughter, and it truly redefined what a family staycation could be. A seamless blend of holistic wellness, sustainability, and indulgence, this reimagined property has etched itself into our hearts as a haven of calm and curated luxury. From the moment we arrived, the warmth of the hospitality was unmatched. Every interaction- from the front office to the restaurants to the spa- was rooted in genuine care. We felt welcomed like family. As we checked into our serene Forest View Room, overlooking a lush 1,000-acre forest, I felt an immediate sense of calm wash over me. It's hard to believe such tranquillity exists just minutes from the heart of Gurugram's commercial bustle. A Space Designed For Families And Mindful Living Positioned now as a luxury urban sanctuary, The Leela Ambience Gurugram invites guests to immerse themselves in a space where nature and modern comfort coexist harmoniously. With direct access to a high-end mall and beautifully appointed rooms, suites, and residences, it's perfect for both business travellers and families seeking restorative escapes. One of the most heartening aspects of our stay was the hotel's commitment to holistic wellness, not just as a service, but as a way of life. I was really impressed to see their recently constructed in-house hydroponic Green House that grows lettuce, herbs and tomatoes without soil. I even tasted a few herbs, and they tasted so fresh and clean! It's a great step towards saving the environment and upholding the ethos of sustainability. In fact, all the restaurants at The Leela Ambience Gurugram incorporate the fresh produce into their meals, not just from the Green House but also the nearby nursery and 3.5-acre Leela Organic Farm, just 30 minutes away. The commitment to clean, fresh produce is inspiring. At Forest View Deck, an open-air dining space by the pool, one can enjoy a nice meal made entirely from ingredients sourced directly from these farms. The view of the green expanse paired with dishes full of colour and flavour would create an experience that was both luxurious and grounding. Spectra - Multi-Cuisine Restaurant We began our culinary exploration at Spectra, the hotel's vibrant 24-hour multi-cuisine restaurant. With its seven live kitchens, Spectra offered everything from comforting omelettes to indulgent vada pav and chole bhature at breakfast to an elaborate Asian and Indian spread at lunch. My favourites were the soft baos and the extensive dessert bar, featuring everything from tarts and cakes to ice cream. Courtyard Garden: For High Tea And Walk In Nature I experienced luxury in the lap of nature at the all-new Courtyard Garden. In the evening, we settled into the Courtyard Garden for high tea under a cabana. With barefoot luxury beneath us and lush greenery all around, the health-inspired teas were a delight. I particularly loved the blueberry green tea, which paired wonderfully with open sandwiches, bruschetta and a burger- guilt-free and delicious. We ended the evening with a leisurely walk through the courtyard, feeling completely at ease. Zanotta: Italian Restaurant After a great swimming session at the pool, we were famished, and my daughter demanded pasta. I was thankful for Zanotta, a fine dining Italian restaurant right there in the hotel. The chef curated a special set menu that surprised and delighted. My daughter's request for pasta was met with flawless spaghetti in white sauce, while we enjoyed a memorable dining experience showcasing fresh ingredients and refined techniques. Each dish was better than the last one, and all of them were mouthwatering. Aujasya Cafe: Holisitc Wellness Cafe Wellness at The Leela Ambience Gurugram isn't limited to massages and mindfulness. It's woven into the very soul of the hotel. Post-spa Aujasya Cafe is the place to be to continue your wellness journey. This thoughtfully curated cafe, located beneath the Spa lets you dive deep into a holistic culinary world. Every dish is created with superfoods, local ingredients, and sustainability in mind. I absolutely loved the Thar Quinoa Salad with baby spinach and slow-roasted ash gourd. The Himalayan Earth Bowl, with red rice kedgeree, tofu, and beets, was nourishing yet light. The Bitter Chocolate Orange Pave gave us the perfect ending to our meal-indulgent yet guilt-free. I realised how all the ingredients felt fresh and tasted great. The beverage selection deserves a special mention: from the Blueberry & Chia Seed Smoothie (a hit with me) to a classic vanilla shake (a hit with my daughter), the drinks were fresh and invigorating. I also plan to try traditional wellness teas like Turmeric Ashwagandha latte on my next visit. Yes, I will definitely go back for another hearty meal at the cafe. Perks Of Staying at The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel: Kids Club by The Leela: My daughter had an absolute blast at the Kids Club by The Leela- a safe, engaging play zone with a slide, basketball ring, and crafts. She spent a great deal of time there, engaged with drawing and other fun activities. That meant I had some time to myself. The Leela Spa: Knowing my daughter was happily occupied gave me the perfect opportunity to indulge in a blissful Swedish massage at The Leela Spa. The spa rooms were clean and well-kept. The therapist was well-trained and accommodating. The best part: soothing aromas of oils left me feeling completely revitalised. The spa's elegant design and post-treatment green tea added an extra layer of serenity. The Leela Pool: We all look forward to some pool time on a staycation, and the weather was perfect to enjoy the dips in the clean water, surrounded by the beautiful view of the forest. We could also enjoy beverages and snacks at the cabanas around the pool. Staying at The Leela Ambience Gurgaon was a thought-provoking experience What left the deepest impression on me was how every touchpoint at The Leela Ambience Gurugram reflected a thoughtfulness rooted in sustainability. From the in-house water bottling plant that eliminates single-use plastics to rainwater harvesting, water aerators, and the Leela Nursery that supplies every flower and plant across the hotel, it's a place that takes its responsibility to the planet seriously... without compromising on luxury. Our weekend at The Leela Ambience Gurugram was a journey into mindful indulgence. It's the kind of place where families can unwind, reconnect, and discover that true luxury lies not just in opulence, but in how well it makes you feel. And feel good, we did. We returned home feeling lighter, happier, and already planning our next stay and a definite visit to Zanotta and Aujusya Cafe.
