Singapore’s history as a thriving trading post collides with its ultra-modern design scene, giving it a vivid palette. Many of the city’s hotels have unique stories and facilities, which will keep you entertained if you want to stay in on a rainy day.
While room rates are much higher than in other cities, standards are also extremely high. Experts are still evaluating new entrants like Andaz Singapore and The Capitol Kempinski Hotel, but in the meantime, here are the top seven of the remarkable number of expert-rated hotels in Singapore.
This ultra-luxury hotel in Marina Bay is all about the views; even the bathtubs are set right next to windows. Forbes recommends rooms ending in the number 26, which overlook the Singapore Flyer for “a view that you won’t forget”. During your visit, pause for a moment in the lobby to admire some of the hotel’s monumental 4,200-piece contemporary art collection.
Glamourous through and through, the Fullerton Bay Hotel rooms are decked in velvet and warm lacquered wood, with views that create the impression you are floating on Marina Bay. The prime location is just a short walk away from the Asian Civilizations Museum and the nightlife along Boat Quay.
This architectural icon is best known for its 57th-floor SkyPark and infinity pool, but the rooms are just as decadent with cream-colored interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows. Down at The Shoppes, an assortment of celebrity-chef restaurants, including Waku Ghin, await.
If you want luxury and to spend your evenings gazing at the shining lights and space-age architecture of Marina Bay this is where to stay. Rooms are plush, with granite bathrooms, and many have floor to ceiling windows that make the most of the view. There is a glamorous cocktail bar, several restaurants, a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool and full spa.
The grande dame of Singapore’s hotels hosted the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Ernest Hemingway and is still a favorite haunt of artistic greats. Open again after extensive restoration works, the Long Bar – where the famous Singapore Sling cocktail was born – remains, and suites are lavishly updated, blending classic colonial design with modern comforts.
The standard of all the hotels in this area is exceptionally high, but the Four Seasons has that special something, with unrivalled service and an air of exclusivity. Rooms are decorated in light airy tones with marble bathrooms and lots of natural light. There is a swimming pool on the 20th floor and an air- conditioned walkway to Orchard Road.
Housed in the former General Post Office building, this hotel has some standout features including the landmark buidling itself which is fronted by grand neo-classical columns, a ground floor cocktail bar and an outdoor infinity pool. Rooms are tastefully decorated and the hotel is currently offering a family-friendly staycation package.