A small curation of Singapore-themed books with topics ranging from food to photography graced its shelves. Naomi Neoh
There was plenty of room to read and unwind – whether by a long couch and desk or at a modern-looking rocking chair next to the balcony. Nooks and localised touches that guests might appreciate include a corner with four specially curated books on Singapore, a Nespresso machine and TWG tea corner and a stocked basket of in-room nibbles.
The View: Towering 73 storeys in Singapore’s City Hall district, the rooms offer views of the city skyline lined by skyscrapers of the downtown core and central business district. For fans of the Formula 1, the middle- to upper- floor rooms provide great vantage of the racing action from above.
First Impressions: Upon arriving at the hotel’s main lobby, as with large hotels, you’ll expect professionalism when greeted by the porter, doorman and reception. Although my stay coincided with the hotel’s continuing renovations of its suite rooms that left half the lobby closed off, it was business as usual at the five-star hotel without a speck of disturbance or dust.
The Location: Within five minutes of turning right from the hotel, you’ll reach one of Singapore’s newest national icons, National Gallery Singapore. There, browse the world’s largest South-east Asian art collection or simply enjoy a tipple at Smoke and Mirrors.
Alternatively, the heritage and cultural district of South Beach is a short walk across the road. If time and convenience are key, the hotel is connected directly to the Raffles City shopping centre with plenty of dining and retail options.
View of Singapore’s Marina Bay and central business district from the room’s balcony.
The Room: At 1,261 keys, the hotel stands among the largest hotels in Singapore. During my stay, I was perched on the twelfth floor in its newly-renovated Premier King Room, which was more than spacious for two and opened to a view of Esplanade and Marina Bay Sands at eye level.
There was plenty of room to read and unwind – whether by a long couch and desk or at a modern-looking rocking chair next to the balcony. Nooks and localised touches that guests might appreciate include a corner with four specially curated books on Singapore, a Nespresso machine and TWG tea corner and a stocked basket of in-room nibbles.
The Service: The five-star Swiss brand doesn’t disappoint with its turndown service and thoughtful in-room dining service offerings such as a 20-minute Noodle Menu, available around the clock.
Memorable Moment: A special surprise can include a post-dinner delivery of a bottle of wine, chocolates and fresh fruit.
Final Word: The hotel makes a stay at a large hotel in Singapore’s city centre feel personal with its service touches and in-room inclusions.