On Jul 4, a 21-member UNESCO committee named the 156 year-old Botanic Gardens a World Heritage Site. The committee was reportedly so impressed with Singapore’s nomination submission that the entire group voiced their support and even congratulated the Singapore delegation before results were announced.

And here's more to celebrate: there are plans to improve facilities and research in horiculture and botany, with potential measures coming in place to prevent damage caused by commercialization, neglect and man-made disasters. 

Of course, the Botanic Gardens isn't the only picturesque green space in Singapore: check out these alternatives if you want to avoid the crowds this weekend.