"How did it strike you on arrival?Burnished wood and velvety forest green interiors, mustachioed mixologists behind a vintage craft cocktail bar – this sexy riverside property is one posh man cave. It’s in an area better known for its luxe condos, but there’s a lively food scene at the doorstep, offering everything from Japanese izakaya grub to gourmet chocolate desserts.
Nice. What’s the crowd like?Mostly male business travelers, couples, staycationers.
The good stuff: Tell us about your room.It was narrow and a bit of a squeeze, but it made smart use of space and with the floor-to-ceiling windows it appeared more spacious. There was a table and leather chair, but working off them was uncomfortable – the table was tiny. This is a room that focuses on getting just the essentials – sleep and shower – done well.
We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The Serta mattress was a dream and there was an embarrassment of pillows. If you’re impossible to please, an additional five types are available from a pillow menu.
How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?They don’t call it a “mini-bar” here – try “refreshment center” instead. The extensive selection included everything from the usual snacks and a Nespresso machine to Italian fruit jellies, a tub of the popular local cheng tng dessert, and healthy treats like chia bars and veggie chips. Would pinch the Bose Bluetooth sound bar.
Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The shower-only bathroom is part of the bedroom and separated by a sliding door. Not for everyone, but it is spacious and the water pressure is great. Like with many other InterContinental properties the products were refreshing lemon verbena ones from Agraria.
We all need some good Wi-Fi. What’s the word that?Fast and free; IHG members who aren’t hotel guests also get free internet by logging in with their membership details.
Anything stand out about other services and features?Marcello is the hotel’s Italian vintage craft cocktail bar – great aperitivos and house-made liqueurs. The gym is tiny but the riverfront area next to the hotel is a lovely (and popular) route for a run. Chomp down on meat for men at Wolfgang’s Steakhouse by Wolfgang Zeiner on the second floor. There’s also a private member’s club, 1880, on the third level, designed by British superstar designer Timothy Oulton.
What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?Heartbreaking: Rooms can be smaller than expected. Memorable: Being smack-dab in a lively food precinct, with some of the city's coolest restaurants and bars at your doorstep.
Bottom line: worth it?Its small rooms, non-entry-level prices and expat-heavy residential location are probably not for first-timers to Singapore. But if you want to see a different side to the country, this could be for you." - Audrey Phoon
