By Jacqueline Thomas
List of Five-Star Hotels in Singapore
What the tiny city-state of Singapore lacks in size, it makes up in exquisite lodging. Hospitality service in Singapore is legendary because the entire island is so welcoming to foreigners. You'll rarely encounter a stranger who doesn't speak English. The city is friendly and easy to navigate, and impeccably clean. In fact, chewing gum is banned in Singapore to keep the streets clean. Most luxury hotels in Singapore line Orchard Road and are central to shopping, sightseeing and fantastic Asian-fusion restaurants. But there is a fair share in neighborhoods such as Chinatown, the River District and the Financial District.
Four Seasons Hotel
Four Seasons has a reputation for being one of the top luxury brands in the world, and the Singaporean location does not disappoint. This Four Seasons boasts two indoor, air-conditioned tennis courts, complete with a private, professional tennis coach. Another benefit is its personalized and intuitive amenities, such as complimentary coffee with a wake-up call. Expect impeccable service, heavenly beds and lush furnishings.
190 Orchard Blvd.
Singapore 248646
011 (+65) 6734 1110
The Fullerton Hotel
Large rooms, attention to detail and impressive architecture make The Fullerton Hotel a favorite of travelers in the know. Built in 1928, this landmark has been everything from a post office to a hospital but is now a dedicated hotel with 400 rooms and suites. The outdoor infinity pool is a tranquil must-see. Complimentary amenities include bath products from luxury brand Bvlgari. This hotel looks more like a palace, and the staff definitely treats you like royalty.
1 Fullerton Square
Singapore 049178
011 (+65) 6733 8388
Grand Hyatt
Known for its vicinity to shops and restaurants, Grand Hyatt is also one of Orchard Road's full-luxury, five-star hotels. It has a decidedly modern feel, with clean linens and upgraded amenities, such as Bang & Olufsen and an iPod. All rooms have an LCD television of at least 37 inches. For those who want to get away from it all, the Damai Spa is a welcome retreat. Go there to indulge in massages, hot-stone treatments and salon services.
10 Scotts Road
Singapore 228211
011 (+65) 6738 1234
Mandarin Oriental
Mandarin Oriental redefined luxury when the brand opened in 1963 in Hong Kong. The Singaporean property, located on Marina Bay, offers floor-to-ceiling windows, each with a view of the harbor or the dazzling cityscape. Its unusual fan shape makes it an instantly recognizable building on the bay. The Oriental Spa at the hotel offers yoga training and maternity massages.
5 Raffles Ave., Marina Square
Singapore 039797
011 (+65) 6338 0066
Pan Pacific
Luxury appointments, supreme dedication to guest service and a convenient location to three shopping malls make Pan Pacific a top spot. It's considered the world's leading business hotel, but it's also a perfect spot for honeymooners. The most unique feature of the Pan Pacific is its huge, 35-story atrium. The futuristic, blue-lit pod elevators are sure to garner a lingering stare of amazement when you walk in the lobby.
7 Raffles Blvd., Marina Square
Singapore 039595
011 (+65) 6336 8111
Raffles Hotel
A living icon in Singapore, Raffles Hotel is one of the island's oldest buildings, built in 1887. Its classical, colonial architecture is spectacular and worth seeing, even if you don't stay here. On site is the Raffles Hotel Museum, which contains hotel memorabilia from the past 100 years. There is also a collection of high-end boutiques at Raffles, including Armani, Tiffany & Co. and Louis Vuitton.
1 beach Road
Singapore 189673
011 (+65) 6337 1886
Ritz-Carlton
This 32-story hotel features a massive art collection from world-renowned artists. Staying at the Ritz is like living inside a museum. It also has a beautifully manicured garden, complete with its own waterfall. The best part of the Ritz-Carlton Singapore is its incomparably large rooms, ranging from 550 to 650 square feet. Another bonus: panoramic views from your bathtub.
7 Raffles Ave.
Singapore 039799
011 (+65) 6337 8888
Shangri-La
Finding this hotel is a bit like searching for the mythical Shangri-La--it's a hidden gem, tucked away from busy Orchard Road. What distinguishes this hotel from others is its location in the middle of 15 acres of botanical bliss. Spot the Japanese koi in the garden ponds. This grand hotel also has permanent apartment homes, giving the Shangri-La a more residential feeling.
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
011 (+65) 6737 364
About the Author:
Jacqueline Thomas is an award-winning writer and poet. She studied creative writing at the Alabama School of Fine Arts and has written critically acclaimed pieces for over 20 years. Thomas is published in both traditional and online press, and has articles that reached the Digg Front Page.
Photo Credits:
Jo.in.pink, Kunal Mukherjee, Richard Moross, Mike Powell, Terence Ong, Tom Gilbert, Sheriffmitchell