"How did it strike you on arrival?It's connected to the Tanjong Pagar train station in the Central Business District and is surrounded by office buildings, so that sets a bit of a corporate tone for the place as you arrive. The smallish ground floor entrance area showcases a beautiful hand-blown glass chandelier that lends fluidity to the feel. I had to take the elevator up to 5th floor, which opens up to a much larger space with a reception desk and lobby bar. The slightly masculine interiors were russet and brown with lots of mirrors and rose gold accents - Art Deco meets Prohibition.
What’s the crowd like?Mostly business travelers considering its location. Staycations are popular with local couples and families on the weekends, when the surrounding area is quieter.
The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The design of my lead-in category room was contemporary - lots of neutral colors livened up by pops of vibrant patterns on the rug, cushions and bed bench. The wardrobe has 20th-century explorer vibes, with its low chest of drawers that resemble a travel trunk and a full-length framed mirror propped up against the wall.
We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Great support from the Sealy mattress, sheets were Egyptian cotton with a 400 thread count. A nice touch was the nine-pillow menu that included smaller Child and Junior options.
How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?I loved the adult coloring book of Singapore cityscapes in the room which came with a set of colored pencils. You're not supposed to remove it from the room though. No coloring in the lobby. The mini-bar had a selection of Asian beverages by local brands, with popular Singapore flavors like Water Chestnut & Sugar Cane, Coconut and more, which set it apart from that of other luxury hotels. If more mini-bar items are requested, a droid butler delivers them to you - that's what I'd kidnap.
Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The rainshower was—as a Singaporean would say—shiok (highly satisfying)! The Lanvin products helped, of course. There was a bathtub too which came with a wine and book holder, just what I needed.
We all need some good Wi-Fi. What’s the word on that?Fast and free for guests.
Anything stand out about other services and features?The hotel has its own gym, but guests also get access to some wellness programs at the adjoining Virgin Active Fitness Club.
What was most memorable about your stay?For a foodie like me, what made a stay here memorable was the location - many of Singapore's best restaurants and bars are within walking distance. And a train station is literally right below the hotel if you need to get anywhere else.
Bottom line: worth it?Brand new rooms, in an area with plenty of local flavor (a couple of Singapore's best hawker centers are nearby as are rows of heritage shophouses and residential HDB blocks) and all the food and drink options you could want at your doorstep - totally worth it." - Audrey Phoon
