Be it a fun filled staycation in one of the most desirable destinations on the planet, a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life or a history lesson in some of the most culturally rich hotels in Singapore, these ones have it all!
We at Expat Choice take a look at some of the most notable hotels which promise an experience of a lifetime. Keep reading to find out more! Image Credit: The Barracks Hotel Facebook Page
The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
The Fullerton Hotel came into being in 1928, and it boasts of having hosted some of the most prestigious occupants- The Singapore Club, The Chamber of Commerce, The Economic Development Board, The Ministry of Finance, The General Post Office and The Japanese Army during World War II. Its exquisite design of Doric columns and Palladian architecture is one of a kind, which is reminiscent of the original concepts of the Venetian architect, Andrea Palladio to anyone with an intrigue for Renaissance European architecture. To call The Fullerton Hotel luxurious would be a hell of an understatement! Located on the edge of the Singapore River, it has a colossal catalogue of 400 rooms with a towering atrium which makes for most of the layout of the hotel. The rooms are well equipped with the most modern technology which serves extremely well to tourists. Moreover, people have the option of choosing between two views: the magnificent view of the city or the humongous 25-metre infinity pool on the rooftop. It is in the vicinity of some of the finest arts and entertainment areas in the city like The Marina Bay, The National Gallery and The Asian Civilisations Museum. Video Credit: Insider TV
The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore
The Stamford House and The Capitol Building are two historical landmarks that house The Capitol Kempinski Hotel in the heart of the Civic District in the city of Singapore. With a posh layout of 157 rooms, this hotel proudly hosts a restaurant headed by a Michelin-starred chef. The Stamford House happens to be the older of the two buildings. It was first built in the early 20th century by a British architect, R.A.J Bidwell. It was converted into a boutique hotel and was named the “Oranje Hotel” about three decades after its conception. Without a doubt, one of the most flamboyant movie theatres and environment complexes was built next to the Oranje Hotel. This came to be known as The Capitol Theatre which housed stalwarts like Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford and Ava Gardner who visited frequently to promote their films. However in 1946, after the invasion of The Capitol Theatre and The Namazie Mansion, these three facilities lost their charm. Close to six and a half decades after this invasion, the Capitol Theatre was restored as a cinema theatre and The Stamford House and The Capitol Building became what is known as The Capitol Kempinski Hotel today. Image Credit: The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore Facebook Page
a. 15 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178906
Goodwood Park Hotel
This hotel is rich not only in the decadent desserts that it has to offer, but also in its history. Although it was originally built in 1900, it became a hotel only as late as 1929. The guest list of this hotel is known to have hoarded eminent personalities like The Prince of Wales of England, The Duke of Windsor and some high ranking Japanese soldiers during World War II. Moreover, it also served as a British War Crime Court after World War II. A major historic moment for the hotel was when it became the first in Singapore to house a swimming pool in its premises. One look at the hotel is enough to be reminded of a quote by Lao Tzu- “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” Graceful columns and archways, cream and beige coloured rooms and options between a poolside view or a garden view add to the charm. With as many as six dining options, no one will go hungry at the Goodwood Park Hotel. Coffee connoisseurs can head to the Coffee Lounge for a quick caffeine boost whereas Gordon Grill boasts a wide array of European delicacies. The award winning Min Jiang restaurant is also a part of the restaurant listing if you’re looking for some Sichuan succulents. Among others, L’Espresso and Deli are the places famous for their afternoon tea and cakes respectively while Highland Bar is the place to be for people looking to lower their inhibitions. Video Credit: Insider TV
The Barracks Hotel Sentosa by Far East Hospitality (SG Clean)
This hotel, not unlike most other heritage hotels in Singapore also served as a home to the British Army and the Blakang Mati Artillery Barracks. However, this hotel today proudly offers 40 lavish guest rooms which are a perfect blend between vintage and modern decor. This is one of the newest 5-star hotels to have been built in Singapore. It is located less than a kilometre away from both, the Adventure Cove Waterpark and the entertainment venue, Wings of Time. Moreover, the S.E.A. Aquarium and the headquarters for Universal Studios are also in close proximity- a smart way to attract tourists! All these coupled with a 24-hour front desk, concierge service, free WiFi and continental breakfast make The Barracks Hotel Sentosa the perfect fit for people looking for a much needed rejuvenescent getaway. Image Credit: The Barracks Hotel Facebook Page
a. 2 Gunner Ln, Sentosa island, Singapore 099567
Hotel Fort Canning
Hotel Fort Canning was first built as the Administration Building of the British Far East Command Headquarters. It became a hotel only as late as 2011, but since then it has been one of the leading luxury hotels in the city of Singapore. The history of Fort Canning dates back to the 14th century when it was used by numerous colonial leaders of Singapore as the site for palatial resorts. The hotel gets its name from Fort Canning Park which is a 2-minute walk from the hotel. The rooms at Hotel Fort Canning are fitted with wooden flooring which adds to the taste. Breathtaking park/city views, free tea and coffee and iPod docks are few of the many facilities that this hotel has to offer. For all the fitness freaks out there, the hotel is home to a spectacular gymnasium. Over and above this, there are not one, but two swimming pools that are filled with mineral water treated by a purification system from NASA. Be it local cuisines, Asian food or Western delicacies, the Salon at Hotel Fort Canning has it all. Image Credit: Hotel Fort Canning Facebook Page
The Warehouse Hotel
This building has a healthy resume to itself. Having a history of over a century, this is probably one of the most versatile ones you will ever come across- legal and otherwise. It is known to have been a warehouse (as the name suggests), a spice trading hub, a rather clandestine spot for brewing alcohol and even a raving discotheque in the 1980s. The hotel is home to a rooftop infinity pool constructed by the artist Dawn NG with a grand view of the Singapore River. Apart from the regular rooms which are already state of the art, if you book The River View Suite, you are setting yourself up to be spoilt. With a generous 57 sq m space coupled with a stylish bathroom, high ceilings and the original brick walls of the warehouse, this room is a must-have for anyone looking to give themselves a (not so) little treat. Image Credit: The Warehouse Hotel Facebook Page
Capella Singapore
The Capella we know today actually originated in the late 19th century. It was originally built for the Royal families of the British officers. This six-star stunner is the perfect blend between old and new, with 30 acres of lush green flora, rich colonial architecture and magnificent one or two-bedroom villas accompanied by a separate living area, a plunge pool and an entire terrace. This hotel boasts of hosting not only rooms or suites but also villas surrounded by an island for people looking for the perfect retreat. In addition to the seascape which envelops the Premier Sea View Room, it also has an indoor private Jacuzzi and a ginormous balcony. The Capella is home to as many as 112 rooms accompanied with luxurious king-size beds, huge balconies and bathtubs inside the room- does it get better than this one might ask! With this hotel being in the vicinity of an evergreen rainforest with a view of the South China Sea, the beaches of Koh Samui and the exuberant forests of Ubud, it is the perfect spot for a much-needed vacation. Image Credit: Capella Singapore - Sentosa Island Facebook Page
a. 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island, Singapore 098297
Raffles Hotel, Singapore
The Raffles Hotel, Singapore is no stranger to hosting some of the most illustrious guests such as Somerset Maugham, Charlie Chaplin and Elizabeth Taylor to name a few. It was first constructed in the early to mid 19th century, originally as a beach house, and it was later converted into the hotel we know today. Classical architecture and tropical gardens make most of the landscape of The Raffles Hotel which makes it look elegant as ever. Home to over a hundred rooms, an entire shopping arcade, and almost 15 dining options, this hotel should be on top of your list of travel destinations! The rooms contain beautiful antiques from the Orient, dazzling carpets and teak wood floors which add to the decor. Unlike most other hotels, the Raffles Hotel boasts of having the Raffles Arita Spa for refreshing massages, its own museum, and a Victorian style theatre where various performances are held. Moreover, the hotel also offers a 24 hour butler service and a poolside bar. It’s a paradise for food lovers with the Empire Cafe delivering an exquisite variety of cuisines including Asian, French, Western and fusion food alike. Besides, the popular Singapore Sling is also available at the Long Bar. Video Credit: CNA
