For frequent travelers, the decision on where to stay becomes more of an objective of locating the “real” Singapore – whatever the perception of “real” might be. Singapore holds an unyielding reputation as a microcosm across a smorgasbord of global cultures. It is a country with a long list of pros in the column of reasons to visit, so the spool of options on where to stay is unsurprisingly daunting. The increasing accessibility of online information via review forums, blogs, and other travel-related websites provides a large resource for potential visitors – but one that needs to be navigated incisively. This point is acutely relevant to a recurring finding that time-rich people with compulsive buying dispositions and high life satisfaction tend to be more frequent travelers (CNR). These are the travelers who covet the “good time” they are having, believing travel to be an investment in life experiences and will happily spend to ensure maximum satisfaction in their visit.
The tiny city-island of Singapore has emerged as an economic powerhouse in Southeast Asia in recent years as rapid growth in its neighboring countries further boosts its own economic development. According to the Singapore Tourism Board, tourism receipts were S$22 billion (US$16 billion) with 18.5 million visitors in 2008. Numbers continue to increase as Singapore progresses further into the 21st century. Despite global downturns in tourism, Singapore’s tourism industry, and more specifically, the hotel and accommodation sector, has remained resilient. This study will analyze the online presence of the hotel industry in Singapore within the context of the time-poor, information-rich society.
Overview of Singapore’s hotel industry
The industry is a major employment generator. It employed about 31,000 workers in accommodation in 2001, with a large amount taken up by part-time and casual employment. Many people think that this industry is low paid and has long working hours, so the quality of employees may not be up to standard. This is, however, not true. With the increasing competition, many hoteliers are sending their staff for training and upgrading courses. Some hotels have even sent their staff for overseas attachments. This has improved the quality of the employees and has also brought about a small increase in wages. With the upgrading in skills and wages, it attracts both the old and young job seekers to take up a job in this industry. With an increase in employment to 48,000 workers, it is projected to contribute a gross value added of 3.5 billion to the GDP.
Singapore offers a wide variety of accommodation to cater to all its visitors. It ranges from budget and boutique hotels to five-star hotels and beach resorts. In June 2003, there were a total of 320 hotels and hotels with a total room supply of 33,149 rooms. This is an increase of over 5000 rooms compared to that in 2002. The hotel’s average occupancy rate was 80% and there was an increase in visitor arrivals, validating the increase in room supply.
The hotel industry plays a crucial role in supporting the tourism industry of a destination. The growth of tourism in Singapore has been supported and complemented in tandem with the growth of the hotel industry. In the next few pages, we will provide an analysis of the hotel industry in Singapore to enable us to understand its operations and functions, and its implications on the tourism industry.
Importance of choosing the right hotel for a memorable stay
The value of choosing the right hotel is quantifiable due to the fact that everyone is constantly trying to make the best use of their time and money. If you are a business traveler, time is of the essence and you want to be as efficient with your appointments and site visits as possible. Location is crucial for this type of traveler, and staying at a hotel near the areas you will be going to will reduce travel time. Time can also be saved with access to business facilities. Considering the price of time, the savings in travel time, reduced inconvenience and access to facilities will far outweigh the per night cost of the hotel.
One of the key reasons it is important to pick a hotel which is suitable for the type of trip you are taking is because you want to maximize the value that you receive. With the current economic downturn, leisure and business travelers alike are constantly looking for good deals. Although it is possible to find a good deal on a good hotel, a good deal on a luxury hotel or what seems like a good deal on a budget hotel may not provide you with the best value.
Singapore’s hotel industry is currently experiencing a short-term decline in occupancy rates, due largely in part to the global and regional economic downturn. The increase in hotel room supply and the relatively low cost of travel and accommodations in the region becomes another reason why travelers should pick the right hotel. Nevertheless, Singapore remains a preferred destination in the region, and continues to be an attractive place to visit.
The importance of choosing the right hotel for a memorable stay while in Singapore is due to the simple fact that not every hotel is suitable for every type of traveler. Singapore is often said to be one of the most beautiful, awe-inspiring and vibrant cities in the world. It is known for being extremely clean, safe and an ideal place to visit for any traveler. Whether you are visiting Singapore on business, taking a family vacation, or taking a trip with your friends, Singapore offers something for everyone, which is why choosing the right hotel is so important.
Luxury Hotels
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is a 5-star hotel centrally located in the Marina Bay area. It is 20 minutes away from Singapore’s Changi Airport and a 2-minute walk to the Promenade Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) station. This contemporary luxury hotel in Singapore features 608 guestrooms including 18 one-bedroom Millenia Suites, 8 Executive Suites, 3 one-bedroom Millenia studio and 1 Ritz-Carlton Suite. The latest refurbishment and the addition of the one and only Ritz-Carlton Suite have brought the total number of rooms to 634 adding to the variety of guest rooms and suites consideration. Each room obtains a large floor-to-ceiling window commanding a splendid view of the city or the picturesque views of Marina Bay. Facilities include 4,200 art pieces shown through the hotel which has earned the hotel an art museum tour. Furthermore, the hotel offers a 4,200-piece museum quality art collection with guided tours, 15,000 square feet garden with tropical plants or the selected weekend Garden Tours and a 24-hour gym for the wellness conscious featuring 17m indoor lap pool, outdoor pool and spa pool with an Aqua green relaxation garden. Completed in 2011, the ESPA is a luxurious retreat designed to alleviate the senses with a comprehensive spa offering treatments and packages, blending time-honored therapies from the East and West. The ESPA also features Singapore’s first authentic Hammam. Subsequently, the hotel offers newly added dining experiences such as the modern French-Mediterranean cuisine and Michelin starred Summer Pavilion Restaurant. With the strategic long-term vision for the hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is an exemplary choice for the luxury traveler. Meetings facilities totaling 35,300 square feet, offering advanced technological equipment with Wireless Internet in both indoor and outdoor venues including a garden in the sky; coupled with the expertise of its highly dedicated ladies and gentlemen, have made the hotel an esteemed choice for meeting and conference planners worldwide. Today, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore has reinvented itself with major initiatives in the areas of design, connoisseurship, arts and culture, making it distinctively The Ritz-Carlton.
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
Singapore hotels recently bagged an armful of awards in the 2007 annual World Best Awards by Travel + Leisure, which is considered the magazine’s own version of the Oscars for the travel and tourism industry. One such winner was the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore. Considered an architectural masterpiece, especially in the evenings, when the Ritz-Carlton takes on the appearance of a glowing modern art installation encased in a massive frame of boldly exclaimed structured lines and angles, crafted by award-winning architect Kevin Roche. The luxury hotel is located in the heart of Marina Centre and is unmissable with its brilliant location marked by the twisting Banyan trees leading the way to the entrance, further still, the amazing view of the Marina Bay. The interior however, is equally as impressive as its exterior, if not more, as it houses a striking collection of over 4,200 pieces of contemporary art including works by Andy Warhol, in public areas; set against a backdrop of stylish, modern chic design with Orient inspired themes. A first glance at the room would certainly remind one of the phrase “a touch of class”. Whether their stay is in a Deluxe Kallang room or a Presidential Suite, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Marina Bay, the city or Kallang River through floor-to-ceiling windows. The spacious room is lavished with the finest amenities ensuring maximum comfort for their guests and to further the experience, guests who have access to the Club Lounge can enjoy an even more luxurious stay with its exclusive access and special services provided. High-speed internet, a spacious workstation, and data ports are also available for the business-oriented visitor.
Marina Bay Sands
As part of a franchise of luxury hotels and resorts, Marina Bay Sands’ status as a premier destination for high-rolling tourists remains intact. This 2,561-room hotel has been up and running in Singapore since 2010, becoming an enclave of luxurious, high-end amenities and a contemporary style that complements its casino and design statement: three 55-storey hotel towers topped by a 340m-long skypark. Each room is modern with tasteful designer touches. Spanning 20 dining options is its restaurant lineup. What sets Marina Bay Sands apart from other hotels of the same price range (besides being an attraction itself) is its exciting concept that has gotten both locals and tourists buzzing. ArtScience Museum has exhibits that are unique and often interactive. Do not miss the digital light canvas or the monthly new media night. World-class entertainment is also at your doorstep, such as the Broadway production of The Lion King and celebrity restaurants and nightclubs. And with all this action, a nice respite is the Banyan Tree spa, an urban retreat for the mind, body, and soul. Lanced next door to the Sands shopping and convention complex has an interesting indoor canal with sampan rides and a show of the Louis Vuitton flagship store being on a floating island.
Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
The superior garden wing rooms exude a Balinese inspired theme with a contemporary twist. At 54 square meters, these rooms provide approximately double the space of a standard hotel room, ensuring that guests have ample room to stretch out and relax. The theme can also be seen in the hotel balcony room, and deluxe balcony rooms. This is especially so upon entering these delightful rooms, where guests will be greeted by the calming sight of an idyllic pool and verdant nature that is sure to take away the stresses of a tiresome day.
The moment that you step foot into The Shangri-La Hotel, you will be impressed by the architecture and grandeur of the interior.
The Shangri-La Hotel is situated at the heart of a tranquil 15-acre property. The landscape is beautifully lined with a myriad of flora and fauna, which will undoubtedly appeal to anyone who delights in the sight of nature. The hotel is also located in close proximity to a number of tourist attractions, including the main shopping belt of Orchard Road and Singapore’s infamous entertainment nightspot, Dempsey Hill. It is essential for a good hotel to offer a prime location and The Shangri-La accomplishes just that.
From its alluring botanical gardens to the magnificent artwork housed in the National Orchid Garden, there are a multitude of attractions to draw travelers to Singapore. Regardless of how eye-catching these panoramic spots may be, it is vital that tourists are able to unwind in comfort after a day exploring. The next luxury hotel to be inspected is The Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore. Intent on providing top quality service to its patrons, this hotel will be reviewed by applying the criteria of luxury set forth earlier.
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
The Four Seasons Singapore has a variety of top-rated facilities that are available to its guests. The hotel has two outdoor tennis courts that are floodlit for cooler play in the evenings and a 24-hour fitness center that features a steam room, sauna, and whirlpool. Spa services are also offered poolside, in the privacy of the guest’s room, or in one of the Spa treatment rooms. The hotel features a 20m resort-style main pool as well as a free-form relaxation pool located in the Spa premises. The hotel provides the highest level of service and cuisine and has made it extremely hard for a hotel of any other class of rating to compete.
The hotel features exotic gardens, lily ponds, and a recently restored, century-old, colonial-style building. The hotel has a total of 255 spacious rooms and 24 suites. All guest accommodations reflect a harmonious blend of high technology and tropical resort living. The room interiors are modern and extremely luxurious with neutral wall coverings, dark teak woods, and deeply toned fabrics. The rooms feature a DVD player, satellite television with a CD player, dual-line telephones, high-speed internet access, and a safe which is large enough to store and charge a laptop computer. The marble bathrooms have a separate shower, a deep soaking tub, and a WC with a telephone. A terry bathrobe and an assortment of toiletries and exceptionally fluffy towels are also provided.
The last of the luxury hotels we explore in this guide is the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore. This hotel is uniquely located on tranquil, tree-lined Orchard Boulevard, in the shopping and entertainment hub of Singapore. The Four Seasons Singapore is only a five-minute walk from Orchard Road, Singapore’s legendary shopping destination. Featuring many luxury stores and leading fashion houses, Orchard Road is a major attraction for those who love to shop. In addition, the Four Seasons Hotel is only a 25-minute drive from Singapore’s Changi airport.
Boutique Hotels
The Warehouse Hotel is a hidden gem tucked away alongside the Singapore River. A carefully restored building along the river which was the centre of trade and commerce in the late 19th century, the hotel is an ode to the past, with its beautiful architecture and a story that dates back to the pre-independence era of Singapore. The 37-room independent boutique hotel has been designed in collaboration with award-winning agency Asylum, who takes the elements from Singapore’s history, culture and the building itself, allowing guests to go back in time to the era which the hotel represents. It features a mix of exposed steel beams and A-frame trusses, with wood furniture custom-made by local craftsmen. The rooms at the hotel each have the story of Singapore at various points in time, interpreted with dark oak floors and rich, luxurious furnishings. A room or a suite at The Warehouse Hotel represents the meeting of East and West, modern and vintage. The hotel has two restaurants, Po, a modern take on Singaporean street food and The Warehouse Patisserie, which provides the perfect opportunity for diners to taste a bit of history, taking iconic Singaporean dishes and sweet treats and adding a modern twist. The hotel also has an outdoor infinity pool, providing a view of the city (albeit significantly altered from when the building was first established) and a fitness center to complete the full experience for any traveler. In 2017, The Warehouse Hotel will have a part of the building re-opened to feature an events space for private and public get-togethers. This and its interesting history will make it a hot spot for both locals and visitors.
The Warehouse Hotel
Stephanie Chai, CEO & Founder of The Luxe Nomad says, “We are always on the lookout for properties that will give our customers a truly unique and memorable experience. We’re looking forward to working with The Warehouse Hotel to piece together an intriguing series of customized experience packages for the seasoned traveller or staycationer.”
Moreover, The Warehouse Hotel will feature a pillar-less multi-functional auditorium space with 200 seating capacity, two meeting rooms, an art gallery and an al fresco style Italian restaurant by Chef-Partner, Beppe de Vito. Belgard Kitchen, currently The Club’s popular all day eatery will reside in the second godown, showcasing an eclectic mix of Italian and local Singaporean flavours. This will be open to not only hotel guests, but to the public as well. With future plans to restore three additional godowns for hotel guest rooms and other lifestyle focused initiatives, The Warehouse Hotel aims to provide a fresh, contemporary experience without losing its soul and grounded history.
The hotel seems to capture the essence and feel of the bustling spice trade era, when European, Chinese, Malay and Indian traders would come together to buy, sell and barter. The intimate 37-room hotel is a throwback to Singapore’s colourful and storied past, set to attract travellers from around the world seeking an alternative hospitality experience. The rooms are furnished in oriental rugs, heavyset iron grills and former plantation chairs while every effort was made to retain the charming characteristics of the original godowns – triple-arched Palladian windows, Cornice Moulding and Baroque Rococo plaster ceilings.
Hotel Vagabond
Located at Syed Alwi Road, Hotel Vagabond is a luxury boutique hotel that reinvents the traditional of the large communal spaces of a salon, and modernizes it to become a comfortable abode and meeting place for like-minded individuals who appreciate art, music, food, drink, and good company. Off the hotel entrance is the hotel’s artist in residence, where ever-changing art pieces are showcased in the rooms around it. The Whiskey Library is for whiskey connoisseurs, where more than 20 whiskeys and cocktails are served, in addition to gourmet foods. The rooms vary from Artist rooms, where an Artist Passport will be given to access places like the Artist Atelier and The Whiskey Library with 2 complimentary drinks, and a chance to work on a project of your own from our resident artists, to a Sky Suite, with a private outdoor terrace. Located in the fringe of Little India, it is a few minutes’ walk from the arts and culture district that is Haji Lane and Arab Street; and within close proximity to the shopping haven of Bugis and the cultural sights and sounds of Kampong Glam. With a prime location that is just out of the city area, guests will find that transport to the central city area and other parts of Singapore would be relatively easy.
Naumi Hotel Singapore
The hotel houses Table by Rang Mahal, a contemporary Indian restaurant, and Kombi, a classic 1970’s Volkswagen that offers authentic Singaporean cuisine. Guests can unwind at the lobby bar or at the rooftop bar. Other dining options include 24-hour room service and a buffet breakfast at the in-house restaurant, The Nook. A member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Naumi Hotel offers a collection of smart luxury and boutique accommodation in Singapore. The stay is located 20 minutes away from Changi International Airport and a five-minute walk from City Hall, Bugis, and Esplanade MRT stations. The hotel is within proximity to major attractions and transportation.
Naumi is a luxurious boutique hotel with a rooftop infinity pool offering sweeping city views. Designed with a sophisticated palette, rooms feature contemporary furnishings, a 40-inch flat-screen TV, and mood lighting. The stylish bathrooms come with Italian bath products and bespoke bathroom amenities. Guests can enjoy a workout at the well-equipped fitness center. The hotel offers free two-way airport transfer services. Union Pay is accepted here.
Budget-Friendly Hotels
Located in the heart of Singapore, Hotel Boss is a rather unusual recommendation for a budget hotel. This hotel has its own swimming pool, though it’s small and not very inviting – but still a rare luxury for hotels in this price range. It’s a huge, modern hotel with 1500 rooms, some of which look out over the city in spectacular fashion. As the hotel was only built in 2015, it’s still fresh and increasingly popular among younger travelers. This can be a good option if split between a group of 3-4 people to use this as a base to explore the city due to their unique room options. With the MRT close by this is a good convenience for sightseeing fanatics, and for food options this hotel is one of the best choices on this list with a wide range of local eateries within a few minutes’ walking distance. Hotel G Singapore is also a newly built budget hotel in the heart of Singapore. This is a stylish and contemporary hotel, with cool modern design features and is a great option for young couples or small groups who aren’t expecting to stay too long in their hotel room. Although no major attractions are immediately close, within 15-20 minutes’ walk you can reach the Suntec City shopping and Marina Bay areas. Similar to Hotel Boss, this hotel is also a favorable option for foodies, with its prime location near Bugis and the famous Golden Mile Food Centre. Hotel 81 has various budget hotels dotted all over Singapore island, but most notable is they have 3 different hotels in the vibrant Little India district – known for its rich culture and delicious Indian food. Prices are almost always very competitive, and rooms are of a typical standard for hotel chains of this price – but these are perhaps the best budget hotel options if you truly want to experience local Singaporean culture. Just 5 minutes’ walk away is the renowned 24/7 shopping center Mustafa Centre, and for a colorful experience the hotels are also close to both Jalan Besar and Pekan Serai markets.
Hotel Boss
Hotel Boss is a prime, upscale choice for travelers who are looking for a location which is situated in the heart of Singapore that offers rejuvenation and relaxation. Strategically located at 500 Jalan Sultan, the 19-storey hotel is steps away from Singapore’s well-known shopping and entertainment hub – Bugis. Just a stone’s throw away from Bugis MRT Station, the hotel is right at the doorstep of Orchard Road, Singapore’s premier shopping street. With its advantageous location near Bugis MRT Station, travelling to other parts of Singapore is made easy with public transportation. This serves as a perfect choice for tourists and travelers coming from every part of the world. Hotel Boss is also accessible to and from Changi Airport with a 20-minute drive. For those in search of local food and cafes, the Arab heritage district Kampong Glam is right around the corner where guests can find a mix of traditional and modern Arab culture. This area is also bustling at night with its trendy and happening bars. The hotel recently earned the prestige of being part of the “Asia Pacific Hotel” by World Association of Hotels and Restaurant. This serves as a milestone foreshadowing a remarkable establishment of the upcoming hotel being a symbol of energetic entrepreneurship and yet humble leadership and making a mark in the standards of the hotel industry in Singapore. With this, the hotel is progressively developing through building brand equity and recognition. Step into our hotel and you will see a myriad of colours following a modern renovated structure. This vision is a modernised take on old colonial architecture. Hotel Boss uses a mix of bohemian and modern themes to embrace Singapore’s traditions and history with a modern twist in the state of modern-day presence. This is also in line with being part of the Kallang area where national sports events and modern culture are on the rise.
Hotel G Singapore
A short 10-minute walk away from Orchard Road, Hotel G Singapore gives you peace and respite from the hustle and bustle. A 15 to 30 minute car ride will take you to any of our top tourist and business locations such as Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa, and Changi Airport. From authentic Singapore hawker fare to Michelin-star dining, Hotel G Singapore is your myriad of food and beverage options. Let us show you our top picks. At Hotel G Singapore, we believe that a good night’s sleep fuels the day’s possibilities. 308 well-designed and cosy rooms bring an exceptional yet understated elegance at an unassuming that offers a restful retreat. Wi-Fi takes top priority at travellers, so does it with us. The entire hotel is equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi, allowing seamless connectivity; information, news, and entertainment. With the convenience of mobile booking and web check-in, finding and reserving a room is made easy, all done within a few screen taps. A refreshing design, state-of-the-art facilities, and personal service make the ideal at Hotel G Singapore.
Hotel 81
Hotel 81 is a very popular hotel chain in Singapore. They currently have 28 hotels located in various areas and these locations are very convenient for tourists as they are situated near MRT stations and public bus services. With its excellent location and easy accessibility, Hotel 81 has garnered many rave reviews from guests. The recent hotels have been upgraded to include an extra wing with family rooms, however with the renovation, room rates in these hotels have seen an increase. Although the price could be a little steep for some looking to stay in a Hotel 81, there are still some older hotels with the standard rooms available and for budget travelers expecting to travel around Singapore and only requiring a place to sleep at night, I would recommend these hotels. A visitor staying at Hotel 81 is just a 10-minute walk from Changi Village, a great place for food and relaxation; situated near the sea where one can opt to travel to Pulau Ubin for a day of cycling. Changi is also where Changi Airport, Singapore’s international airport is located and as such, a day’s transit in a Hotel 81 is extremely convenient for passengers catching a flight on the next day. With its location, budget travelers can enjoy a comfortable and peaceful environment, a stone’s throw away from Changi airport with a nice day of relaxation at the beach in Changi or at Pulau Ubin before catching the flight home.