By Susanna Lo
Room at Gallery Hotel Singapore
The Gallery Hotel in Singapore is arguably the most modern hotel on the planet. The 223-room hotel employs a hip, sophisticated structure that makes it look like a floating Mondrian skyscraper. But the originality doesn't end with it's architecture. The pool at The Gallery is made with glass, giving guest an underwater view of the city of Singapore.
Wows and Woes
This hotel's ultra chic architecture rivals that of I.M. Pei's Louvre Pyramid or the post modern styles of hotels in countries like Dubai.
It seems looking original gives the staff an excuse to be snooty as the service at this hotel left me cold, a rarity in the Asian culture.
Insider Tips
Do not miss a swim at the rooftop, cantilevered, glass pool. You'll understand what it feels like to be a mermaid in a fish tank after this experience.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
Singapore is hot and humid, which makes me grumpy and sticky until I hit the pool at the Oasis Bar. I had a vanilla flavored shaved ice in one hand and a Singapore Sling in the other (a true sin as the drink was invented by the neighboring Raffles Hotel). Then I dipped my head under water and took in the amazing view of the city.
Bottom Line
This is a chic, ultra-mod hotel that doesn't charge an arm and a leg like many boutique hotels.
About the Author:
Susanna Lo is an established writer/director/producer who has won awards in The Berlin and Montreal film festivals and is a member of PEN International. She's written for Paramount on Star Trek: Voyager and Seven Days. Susanna is a dedicated world traveler living in several countries in Europe, Asia and North America.
