Review: Iconic city landmark Raffles Singapore
Location: A short 20-minute hop from Changi Airport, Raffles Singapore resides on Beach Road, named because it was once located on the water’s edge. Since opening in 1887, reclaimed land full of high-rises has popped up around the property, meaning this historic landmark is completely encased by modern-day Singapore.
First impressions: Arguably the grandest of all grande dames, Raffles is intrinsically linked to the city-state’s history, so much so that it was declared a national monument in 1987 and to this day is the only Singaporean property with that moniker. It’s therefore not a surprise that most guests have incredibly high expectations on checking in, including me. It’s impossible to not be impressed by the pristine white exterior, so perfect that it almost sparkles in the sunlight. All guests – residents and day visitors alike – are greeted by Sikh doormen, who are almost as iconic as the property itself. ‘Happy’ (real name Harpeet) welcomes us like we’re family returning home, a style of service that remains for the duration of our stay.
Staff complete check-in as I marvel at the 18-metre-high ivory lobby space complete with epic chandelier. I’m then whisked to a Palm Court Suite, which underwhelms slightly. The room is dark (though is likely in keeping with the building’s original style and design), with two small double beds, which proves challenging when travelling with two small kids. Thankfully, service at this hotel is swift and impressive, and we’re quickly moved to a corner room in the main building – the Lady Mountbatten Promenade Suite, which I wholeheartedly recommend. It’s light, airy and immaculate, with a larger bed to accommodate mini sleep thieves.
The facts: The property completed a significant £150 million, three-year-long restoration and refurbishment project just before the pandemic. All 115 suites (which span nine categories) were renovated. Raffles has always been renowned for its epic culinary offering (it was the first hotel in Singapore to hire a French chef). The latest epicurean outpost is French eatery 1887 by André, joining Cantonese venue Yì by Jereme Leung, wood-fire specialist Butcher’s Block, north Indian restaurant Tiffin Room (which also serves breakfast) and the alfresco Raffles Courtyard.
Afternoon tea in The Grand Lobby was a real highlight, while tourists descend on the iconic Long Bar – the hallowed birthplace of the Singapore Sling. It feels very touristy and commercial, while the refined Writers Bar allows for a far more sophisticated affair.
Locked gates separate the guest-only residential areas and gardens from areas that are open to the public. The rooftop pool offers an ideal place to wind down, with complimentary SPF on tap, while the spa – located within the designer shopping arcade – is the ultimate retreat. Here guests enjoy treatments featuring Biologique Recherche products and hydrotherapy experiences such as a mineral-rich Peruvian pink salt vitality pool and salt vapour steam rooms.
Ideal for: History buffs will adore everything about the property. Ensure you book them on a walking tour with one of the hotel’s historians for the full Raffles experience (from £17).
Explore: The nearby Marina Bay Sands development is highly impressive and a must visit for first-timers to Singapore. Head to the rooftop Cé La Vi bar to enjoy epic cocktails with a stunning view. It can be reached in 30 minutes on foot or in mere minutes by car. Shoppers should head to Orchard Road for big brands or Haji Lane for colourful independent boutiques.
Those travelling with children will enjoy the twice-nightly light displays at the Supertree Grove at futuristic Gardens by the Bay. Foodies should sample the delights of the local hawker markets, with the Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat among the best.
Wow: The hotel’s close connection with its heritage is incredibly impressive. While many properties seek to modernise for the sake of it, Raffles ensures its history is proudly displayed for all to see and experience.
Book it: Rates at Raffles Singapore start at £1,169 a night.
Raffles.com
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