Sometimes you have an experience that is as close as it can get to perfection. Our recent stay at The Barracks Hotel Sentosa was one such experience – impeccable, luxurious and reminiscent of the golden years of luxury travel.
Paying homage to Singapore’s intriguing maritime war history, the boutique 40-suite hotel (part of the Small Luxury Hotels collection) is housed in a former British artillery outpost. Having been lovingly restored, you arrive into a place exuding old-world charm with touches of nostalgia, vintage curios and military accents.
The check-in is swift and charming and we are personally escorted to our 2nd floor suite – where all rooms enjoy a peaceful balcony overlooking the pool and greenery (the ground floor rooms have terraces leading to direct pool access).
The room is spacious with a sizeable bed and a large free-standing black granite bathtub – comfortable enough for two. Rich textures of dark wood, warm brass and leather-accented furnishings provide an historic military feel which complements the modern and plush luxe ambience.
It was a room that quickly calmed our senses and eased us into relaxation mode.
Thoughtful touches abound including a special Japanese vitamin drink (to keep those germs at bay), the plushest bath robes we’ve ever worn (think terry towelling interiors) and a complimentary mini-bar (for snacks and non-alcoholic drinks).
Our afternoon was spent lazing under a shaded cabana by one of the two extensive pools. We were only joined by one other couple the entire time and given there can only ever be 20 rooms occupied at once, there are no restrictions to your lazy pool time. Our cabana included a useful service button where we could order complimentary snacks and drinks including artisanal Italian sparkling water, juices, teas, coffees and gourmet crisps. Of course a classic range of cocktails is also available for anybody who is tempted.
The room package comes with a complimentary cocktail hour – where one can indulge in exotic cocktails accompanied by a delicious platter of treats including cheeses, hor d'oeuvres and mini desserts served in the charming Living Room situated between the pools.
After a comforting and restful night’s sleep we enjoyed a truly delectable breakfast – with highlights including the Quinoa Superfood Salad and the Truffle Scrambled Eggs – one of the best a la carte hotel breakfasts in the business.
It was then onto The Colonial Charm Tour, a private guided morning tour of locations built and occupied by the British armed forces in the 1800s - 1900s, including Fort Siloso, Mount Imbiah, Dempsey, Gillman Barracks and Seletar Estate. The tour ended with an outstanding lunch at the heritage Wheeler’s Estate – an exclusive 4-course dining experience housed in a former British military air-base.
Our stay at The Barracks Hotel was easily one of the best staycations we have done to date. From the luxurious surroundings, the peace and quiet of a spacious boutique hotel, to the world-leading service and an abundance of thoughtful details and touches. This is one hotel which should be on everyone’s list for that next special occasion or just when you need to escape the everyday, relax and revitalise.
