Why The Shangri-La Singapore Hotel Is Still The Ultimate Inner City Haven
The very first Shangri-La hotel in the world is a property that keeps on giving
The one thing that will stand out to you when nearing the Shangri-La in Singapore is the sheer size of its grounds and gardens bursting with all the green-jungle-esque goodness the island is famous for. The hotel and its three very distinguishing wings are nestled amongst 15 acres of tropical gardens, just a short walk from bustling Orchard road. Even though the hotel is in the city, you certainly don’t feel it in the lush, luxurious and serene setting of the Shangri-La Singapore.
The grand hotel was the first-ever Shangri-La in the world, and is separated into three parts to accommodate any and all of your travelling necessities. The Tower Wing first opened in 1971 and has its very own (redesigned) lobby, lobby lounge and themed suites for those traveling with little ones (think safari, castle and treetop themes).
The Garden Wing is a sanctuary amongst the grounds complete with ponds packed with turtles and koi fish, waterfalls and the hotel’s huge central swimming pool. Book a Garden Wing suite if you are on holiday as working remotely from this part of the hotel would prove impossible due to the never ending views of the gardens, over-sized beds and baths.
The Balcony Suites have outdoor hot whirlpool baths, barbeque and sun loungers so you can party privately whilst on your sabbatical. The Valley Wing is often booked out by heads of state, celebrities and those wishing to have the utmost privacy during their stay. With a private arrival and departure lobby and breakfast in the Summit Room, the luxuriousness of this wing should be savoured for the most special of occasions.
Valley Wing guests also have a private butler service, daily afternoon tea with additional beverages and canapés if you decide to extend your tea into aperitivo.
With a mix of Asian and antipodean influencers, Singapore is a destination for epicureans. If you like Chinese food, world-famous Shang Palace, situated at the hotels main lobby is traditional Chinese food made contemporary. Opening its doors in 1971, it is the first ever restaurant to open in the group, and is the only food and beverage concept remaining from the hotel group’s opening. Recently celebrating its 53rd birthday, you won’t get better dumplings, crispy duck or braised bean curd in town.
The hotel’s breakfast is also a feast for the eyes and stomach and offers cuisines from around the world to fuel the multicultural guest list. The fruit section is not-to-be-missed with a selection on local, tropical. Beware that the restaurant that is called The Line for a reason. Get there early (ish) to avoid waiting for a table and if dining outdoors look out for the monkeys and birds that are extremely friendly and fans of the extensive menu too.
In addition to the incredible location, food, the hotel is a haven for adults when it comes to leisure facilities. The Health Club has all the equipment, bands, ball and mats whatever your favoured workout. You can then pop to the pool in jungle-like surroundings and once the dip is done, visit Chi, the iconic spa burrowed withtin the hotels grouunds. Specialists in time-hounored treatments, the spa menu is tailored to treatments originating from Asia.
Last but not least, this hotel loves a family. With a kids interactive play space, Bud, which rivals any Dubai soft play centre. There is a daily bill of activities for children including baking, music and crafts. Upon check in, children also get their very own ‘slumber bundle’ including young-ones toothbrush, comb, slippers, robe and shower amenities. For work or play, this iconic hotel in the heart of the city is a destination in itself and one well worth a stay.
For more information visit shangri-la.com
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