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Raffles Singapore

Singapore

History marries hospitality at this original city centre oasis

Heritage and sophistication: To stay at Raffles Hotel Singapore is to immerse oneself into the golden age of travel. Whether being welcomed by the hotel’s liveried Sikh doormen, strolling along the polished teak verandas overlooking tropical gardens, whiling the day away in one of the 115 atmospheric suites or exploring the plentiful dining and drinking options, a stay is sure to inspire lifelong memories of luxury and tradition.

A storied location: The grand, white, neo-Renaissance building that hosts Raffles Singapore is iconic across the city-state and beyond. It was completed in 1899, 12 years after the opening of the original hotel, and hailed as one of the most beautiful and innovative of the century – it even featured Singapore’s first electric lights and fans. Stories abound about the events it has played host to, from the last shooting of a tiger in Singapore to the invention of the world-famous Singapore Sling cocktail. It was designated as a National Monument by the Singapore Government in 1987, with the last extensive renovation completed in 2019.

A day at Raffles: Begin with a stroll in the hotel’s lush gardens, which occupy almost half of the entire estate – a true oasis of peace tucked away from Singapore’s liveliness. Then choose whether to take a dip in the rooftop swimming pool or seek relaxation elsewhere at the signature Raffles Spa, before being spoilt for lunch choices: you can sample north Indian fare at Tiffin Room, avant-garde fire cooking at Butcher’s Block or contemporary Chinese cuisine at Yì by Jereme Leung. The afternoon brings the option to enjoy the famous afternoon tea experience or hunt for souvenirs and the latest fashion items at Raffles Arcade. After dinner, don’t miss a visit to the Long Bar for a taste of that famous Singapore Sling or the exclusive Writers Bar for literary-themed libations.

What about service? The fabled Raffles Butlers are the hotel’s ambassadors of thoughtful care. They each receive specialised training and have pioneered a style of gracious and intuitive service that countless around the world have tried to emulate.

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