Singapore
Hotels
Featured Hotel
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Singapore is a series of islands off the south coast of the Malay Peninsula. The largest of these, called the mainland, holds the capital, the downtown area and it is this area most people refer to as simply Singapore. An island, a city, and a state, this is one of the greatest cities in the world and accounts for much of the business, finance and commerce of South East Asia. It also forms a highly attractive visitor destination and the many first-class Singapore hotels on offer reflect its current world standing in both business and leisure. Its origins as a trading post are tied to the river, around which the modern city has grown. The city's location is perfect for trading in the south China Seas and early recognition of the island's potential was down to Indian and Chinese influences. The city today has prominent areas known as Little India and Chinatown which reflect and celebrate the important historical and cultural contributions of these nations. The spice trade routes of old gave way to an explosion of commerce and industry as the area became a Far East outpost of the British Empire. Under the guidance of Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the foundations were laid for what is recognised as modern Singapore. Many of the buildings and streets bear the name of the man and a statue was erected in his honour, situated on the very spot where he first landed. Colonial influences abound and blend seamlessly with all the flavors and styles of Malaysia and the Far East. Often referred to as a place where East meets West, it is an enduring partnership of cultures which has served the city so well and has resulted in the development of an authentic style and culture all of its own. The blend of eastern and western influences is as evident in the Singapore hotels as anywhere else on this island city state. There are of course the colonial influences in many of the traditional buildings which celebrate the elegance, grandeur and style of a bygone age but there are also many stunning modern masterpieces that would be at home in any major world city. What they have in common are the eastern flourishes and style and superlative levels of personal service. The Central Area is where the majority of Singapore hotels are situated. The mouth of the river, once the natural port for trade now flows into the Marina Bay which comprises the Marina Centre and Marina South districts of the city. A major commercial and business development area, Marina Bay hosts the F1 Grand Prix on the city streets and is home to many entertainment facilities and visitor attractions. The Downtown Core of Central Area is where most of the skyscrapers are, which give the city its distinctive cityscape. Also housed here are the major financial, political and business sectors and many famous city landmarks. Many business oriented hotels are located in or near the Downtown Core. Perhaps the most famous district of the Central Area is Orchard Road, the entertainment and shopping centre of the city. Deriving its name from the fruit orchards which used to line the street, Orchard Road is now filled with all the vibrant sights and sounds within the many shopping malls, restaurants, cafes, and nightclubs which define Singapore to many visitors and residents. Some of the best Singapore hotels are located on Orchard Road or within easy walking distance of it. Linking Orchard Road with downtown is the Museum District, as the name suggests a place in which to experience the art, history, and culture of the East displayed within the museums of the city. The National Museum is here as is the Art Museum, and the Asian Civilisations Museum. The Museum district also has a vibrant arts scene with contemporary arts centres and indigenous dance venues. There are also many churches and temples. Singapore has some of the finest hotels in the world as befits its financial, cultural, and commercial status. Many of these, particularly those within the business districts are particularly tailored for business travellers. The rooms and suites will have an array of features to enable guests to stay on top of any business they have whilst in the city. These may include work desks with dataport and high speed internet access, dual line direct dial telephones with voicemail facility and state-of-the-art televisions with digital world news and business channels. Some of the executive suites may also have a meeting space and exclusive use of a copier/printer/fax machine. Often there are entire executive floors of a hotel given over to business, in which there will be fully-equipped meeting and presentation facilities, and often also a club lounge offering exclusive facilities and services such as express check-in and check-out, as well as breakfasts, snacks, coffees, and evening cocktails. Many hotels will have a dedicated 24 hour business centre containing all the business equipment, plus personnel for business such as secretarial, translation and courier services. While business is clearly important, it is the first-class leisure facilities which really define the high standards of Singapore hotels. Extensive spa and health facilities are common and may comprise swimming pools, sauna, steam rooms and a full range of spa procedures and services. There will also likely be a fully-equipped fitness suite and also access to sports too such as squash and tennis. For those who appreciate style and individuality as much as guest facilities, there are the boutique hotels. These are generally characterised by a certain architectural and stylish appeal, often with original art adorning the walls and an attention to detail in the decor which makes for a more intimate luxury experience. Boutique hotels are renowned for their incredible levels of personal service; anything that can be done to make a guest's stay in the hotel and the city more comfortable and enjoyable will be done. If the business hotels cater for business and the boutique hotels for style and personal service, then the resort hotels offer an uncompromising luxury experience which combines service, amenities and facilities to effect the ultimate luxury holiday or break. Often with an outstanding array of facilities, which can include shops, restaurants, bars, leisure and entertainment options, the resort hotels of Singapore are most found within the Marina Bay area and in Sentosa, a small island linked to the mainland by cable car or a causeway. The city's most popular leisure pursuits are undoubtedly shopping and dining. Many hotels will incorporate both of these features in abundance and every Singapore hotel will have at least one outstanding dining facility and usually many more. Diners should expect the very best cuisine from the East and the Indian subcontinent as well as cosmopolitan European options. With a reputation for excellence, whether that is for business or leisure. Singapore hotels are at the core of that reputation and at the forefront of all that makes this unique island city state so special. |
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