Singapore Staycation Spotlight: The Westin Singapore Brings Calm and Quiet to The CBD
PUBLISHED September 27th, 2017 06:00 am | UPDATED March 28th, 2019 11:18 am
From its initial days as Singapore’s tallest hotel back when it was Westin Stamford Hotel, The Westin Singapore now has another sky-high title: the highest hotel lobby in the country. At a stunning 32 floors high, the property is unique in the fact that it actually functions within an office building in the corner of the bustling financial district. But make no mistake, a stay here, especially on weekends, is everything its neighbourhood is not – tranquil and harmonious.
No matter which part of the world you’re in, the Westin experience has always been one of my favourites, alongside quirky vibes of W Hotels and the grandness of the Four Seasons. I make my way up to the expansive lobby, 11 metres high and featuring clear floor-to-ceiling windows that let in light reflecting from the South China Sea. The space is plush and sophisticated, with thick marble flooring, walnut-tone wood, jewel-like furnishings, not forgetting the contemporary statement chandelier over a sole grand piano. The check-in process is quick, and even faster if you’re a Starwood Preferred Guest.
The elegance from the lobby carries over to my room, a Grand Premier that overlooks the cityscape. There is a tin of cookies and a box of chocolate pralines to welcome us – and welcome we were, because who doesn’t like cookies? You’re also greeted by streamlined décor in nature-inspired brown and cream. The 42-inch HDTV, with its array of major cable channels, is unmissable, and a large desk and ergonomic chair by the corner means getting some last minute work done won’t be a problem – but hey, you’re on a staycation. Instead, flip the chair around and enjoy the marvellous view of Singapore’s harbour that you so deserve.
Soon, you’ll want to slide between the sheets of the hotel’s signature Heavenly Bed, which is pretty much synonymous with the Westin brand. Exclusively manufactured by Simmons for the hotel, think lush duvets, down blankets and fluffy pillows that are sure to give you a superior, deep rest. I’d even go so far as to say some of my best sleeps were in these beds. Next to it, a slidable opening brings you to the spacious marble-tiled bathroom with its own freestanding bathtub, luxurious White Tea Aloe bath amenities, extra-large bath sheets (who knew large towels could be so comforting?) and custom-designed bathrobes.
One of the hotel’s primary draws is its excellent dining and wining options, and you’ll find the Lobby Lounge and Seasonal Tastes at the hotel’s lobby level. Grab a quality cocktail (I like the Faulty Sours, a particularly fruity take on the classic sour) as part of the Crafted at Westin programme at the former, or relish an international buffet at the latter. Head up one floor to gastro bar Cook & Brew for some grub by the cheeky Chef Aaron Foster, as he dishes out creations like housemade smoked sausages prepared New Orleans-style, Turkish meatballs, Angus striploin steaks, and decadent lobster rolls topped with pan-seared foie gras. Of course, if you’re looking to eat out, the iconic Lau Pa Sat food market and its smoky satays are a short 10-minute walk away, while celebrity restaurants await at the nearby Marina Bay Sands.
When you’re done stuffing yourself, you can swim all that food off at one of Singapore’s nicest infinity pools. While you won’t get an inhibited vistas of the sea (not since the area around the hotel started building up), the ocean view is nevertheless splendid, especially during dawn and dusk when fewer guests are around. There is also a 24-hour fitness studio with state-of-the-art equipment and customised workouts for you gym buffs, with a full set of workout attire available for rent at USD$5.
If you happen to be leaving on a Sunday, like I did, you can enjoy a miraculous 4pm late-check out if the room is available, as well as indulge in extended breakfast timings, including the hotel’s signature SuperFoodsRx dishes that are served in your room. Nothing like a staycation where you don’t have to feel rushed, right? And what a splendid staycation a visit to The Westin Singapore makes.
The Westin Singapore is located at 12 Marina View, Asia Square Tower 2, Singapore 018961. For reservations, please call +65 6922 6922 or email to [email protected]. See here for the latest deals and packages.
