Where to stay in Singapore – the Raffles Hotel
The Raffles Hotel was opened on 1 December 1887, a mere three-storey, 10-room bungalow. It was gradually expanded when three buildings were added to the Beach House, starting with two-storey wings which added 22 new suites, before the Billiard Room was built at the junction of Beach Road and Bras Basah Road, and finally, the Palm Court Wing which was completed in 1894.
The Main Building designed by R. A. J. Bidwell, built on the site of the original Beach House, was completed on 18 November 1899. It was designed with modern conveniences, including powered ceiling fans and electric lights. The Dining Room, which stretched across the entire ground floor, was capable of seating up to 500 people.
Here in the Raffles Hotel, the famous Singapore Sling was first concocted in 1915.
On 1 March 1989, the Hotel underwent major renovations before reopening in 1991. Restored at a cost of S$160 million, with addition of a new block containing a theatre and a shopping arcade with more than 60 shops, Raffles Hotel was able to regain it’s former majesty and splendour. Raffles Hotel remains famous for its tiffin room, the buffet lunch at its Palm Court and for being the location where the Singapore Sling was first concocted.
Boasting 103 splendid suites, each with a beautiful garden view and an ambience as private and intimate as any, visitors can enjoy the colonial architecture, tall ceilings, gentle breezes, and beautiful paintings and art.
The Amrita Spa is second to none in offering luxurious pampering treatment.
Sited downtown, within walking distance of the central shopping belt, this is a place to stay. Prices start a little expensive, but are well worth it if you can afford their rooms which start from USD 330.
More on the Raffles Hotel at Luxuryresorthotel.com
