"Give us an establishing shot. Why did this hotel catch your attention? The hotel is nestled in a row of heritage shophouses and its ornate facade immediately gives it character and Asian flavor. That influence is carried through with straw blinds and rattan furniture along the outside corridor—casual touches that make this feel a bit like a resort in the middle of a city. The reception area is a striking combination of black lacquered surfaces and tiles set against yellow and wood accents. Whether you hate it or love it, you get the sense that this is a place that's not afraid to make a bold statement. Tell us about your room. Did you it make you feel at home? My room (no room is the same) was seductively dark and cozy, with a giant four-poster opium bed in its centre. No imagination needed to picture what opium dens looked like in the past, they really did design these after actual opium dens. The bathroom was much more modern—all sleek black tile and chic bathroom amenities by The Organic Pharmacy. Is there a charge for Wi-fi – and is the quality good? Wi-fi is free and fast. What about the food and drink? Any places you would go even if you weren't staying here? The hotel's restaurant has earned a reputation for delicious, refined Chinese food made from sustainably sourced ingredients. It's one of the rare hotel restaurants that regularly draws non-guests. For a drink, there's the Yellow Pot Bar, which shakes up cocktails infused with Oriental influences, like chrysanthemum-laced gin. Anything stand out about the service? The staff seem genuinely sincere and concerned about whether you have a good stay - a real highlight! Check in and check out was very efficient. For a local experience, the hotel can arrange an in-room visit by a traditional Chinese medicine expert, or tea appreciation workshops. Who are your fellow hotel guests? The crowd: A combination of roving rebels who want something different from the usual city hotel, and sophisticated treehuggers, who care about the impact they have on the environment and want to do something about it (though not enough to give up all their creature comforts). What's in the neighborhood? Is this a place you'd want to hang out? The hotel is smack in the middle of food heaven—it's walking distance to Tanjong Pagar Road a.k.a. Koreatown, a couple of popular hawker centers (try Tanjong Pagar Food Centre for local flavor), and some of the most awarded restaurants in Singapore (grab a table at Burnt Ends if you can get one). Is there anything you'd change? Would be nice if the rooms were less dimly lit. Anything we missed? The deliciously delicate, complimentary tea in every room was created for the hotel by Yixing Xuan Teahouse, a local tea shop a short walk away if you want to take some home. Bottom line: Worth it? A unique option for culture vultures and those looking for something different, though the tiny rooms may seem a little steep for the price." - Audrey Phoon
