Detailing arguably the best hotel in Singapore plus what to see in this viubrant Asian city where east meets west in the very best possible way.
Singapore is the ideal place to break a journey to Australia/New Zealand and is also one of the world’s most vibrant, multi-cultural and exciting cities. Don’t believe the rumours that it comes a poor second best to Hong Kong, Singapore is just as exciting in its own way if you know where to stay and what to do.
Must-see sights are:
- Asian Civilizations Museum
All of Asia’s cultures under one roof. In its eleven galleries you'll see exhibits focusing on the Singapore River, China, Southeast Asia, South Asia and West Asia. The historically- significant building once housed government offices – today, in addition to the museum.
- Singapore Zoo
Renowned both in Southeast Asia and world-wide for its variety of animals and interpretation. Here you can see everything from Chinese pandas to orang utans and white tigers.
- Chinatown
If you’re interested in the culture and sights of the largest ethnic group in Singapore, Chinatown is a must visit for its interesting little curio shops, excellent restaurants and cultural fare. Excellent for souvenirs of Chinese herbs, silks, mahjong sets and jade.
- Little India
As close as you can feel to being in India without the risk of Delhi-belly.Enjoy the traditional temples; culinary delights of Indian curry, or shop for the beautiful Indian textiles.
- Hajjah Fatimah Mosque
Displaying Moorish, Chinese and European architecture and Islamic, Chinese and Christian symbols, this amazing mosque is recognized as a national monument. Although there have been many additions since its construction in 1846, the main prayer hall with its yellow and green stained glass windows remains true to its original look.
- Boat Quay
If you can, go on a Friday night when it is full of working professionals. Packed with bars, restaurants, clubs and shops. It you’re looking for action, you will find it here.
- Mandai Orchid Gardens
Even if you’re not a botanist this place is a ‘must’. The gardens were created in 1951 and tyoday the five acres site has no less than 200 varieties of fabulous orchids, including the light purple Vanda Miss Joaquim, Singapore's national flower. Here you will also find stunning examples of a water garden, an organic herb and spice garden, and an exotic fruit orchard.
Hotels With Style
The plethora of luxury hotels in the city do it proud. There are countless fabulous legends. Raffles – home to the ‘Singapore Sling’ - is fabulous, but having stayed in numerous of them my personal favourite remains the Shangri-La.
The "Shang', as it is known among regulars, has been successful since it opened. What made it remarkable then, as now, was its location and the added extras. Set in 15 acres of rampant tropical greenery, it’s set back above the buzz of Orchard Road – one of THE streets of Singapore.
The more conventional main building, the Tower Wing, was built first, followed by the Garden Wing, whose curvy concrete balconies sport clusters of pink bougainvillea. The piece de resistance though came with the opening of the Valley Wing, with its separate ritzy entrance, gleaming marble floors and floor-to-ceiling windows in all its guest rooms. The level of service is the reason why it boasts a revolving cast of celebrity and top political guests.
All rooms look over the gardens, pool and three-hole pitch-and-putt or the city which lies below.
The restaurants are constantly winning awards - Nadaman for Japanesefine dining, Shang Palace for Cantonese food. Then there are Blu, the Terrace restaurant and jazz bar on the 24th floor, with amazing views over the city, and the new 24-hour restaurant known as The Line.
All guests also enjoy signing privileges at the nearby Traders Hotel, Singapore and Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort on Sentosa Island.
Hotel Awards
Among the countless awards it has won are:
- Best Business Hotel in the World
- Business Traveller Asia-Pacific, 2001-2006
- Best Business Hotel Worldwide
- Business Traveller UK, 2006
- Position 3, Best Overseas Business Hotels
- Condé Nast Traveler (UK), 2006
- Best Hotel, Foreign City, Daily Telegraph (UK), 2005
- "Best Individual Hotel in Asia", Global Traveler, 2005
- Travel Choice Award Favorite Business Hotel, Time Magazine, 2005
For information on the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore, telephone 0800 028
3337 or see http://www.shangri-la.com
