Words by Benjamin Russell
Thanks to its location off the coast of Malaysia on the strait between the Indian Ocean and South China Sea, Singapore became a hub of global trade over 200 years ago where cultures from across the world converged. Today, the deep-water harbour is the largest port in Southeast Asia and the wealthy city state is a commercial powerhouse in the world’s economy.
These old and new worlds rub shoulders to create a truly unique destination with plenty to explore. Finding a stay that is well located and in tune with all the city has to offer is paramount to getting the most out of your visit, and the InterContinental Singapore has achieved this exquisitely.
Hotel
Located in Singapore’s culturally rich Bugis neighbourhood, the InterContinental is just minutes away from the vibrant streets of Kampong Glam and a short hop by the Singapore Mass Rapid Transit or taxi to the iconic Marina Bay.
Classic cool exudes from this hotel which takes inspiration from the region’s Peranakan heritage. The best of Chinese, Malay and Indonesian style are celebrated in the beautiful interior of the property, culminating in the Heritage Wing with ornate wood carvings, stunning prints and porcelain ornaments.
Room
With 403 rooms, the hotel has 338 in the main tower with 65 in the Heritage Wing. Whichever you opt for, you will find a well appointed room offering modern comfort with a traditional aesthetic as the Asian stylings marry seamlessly with dark wood and luxe silk furnishings.
At 16 floors, many have sweeping views over the city. Club guests accommodated in suites can also enjoy the fact that all day butler service has made a return to the hotel after 28 years.
Food and drink
Breakfast is an impressively large buffet catering to the tastes of its international clientele. Hot and continental options are on offer, as well a wide selection of curries, pho and noodles, to name but a few choices.
Regulars at InterContinental will be familiar with the hotel’s Club Lounge service, where members can enjoy afternoon tea, and cocktails and canapés in the evening, as well as a range of other refreshments in relaxing surroundings.
For a city that is home to the Singapore Sling, it’s no surprise that the hotel also has its own cocktail bar. However, they have outdone themselves in their efforts as both the attentiveness of the service and creativity of the mixology are not to be missed. Located at the heart of the hotel, the Lobby Bar has a bustling atmosphere befitting the international hub in which it is located.
The jewel in the hotel’s culinary crown is LUCE by Davide Giacomelli. The restaurant offers authentic cuisine from his native Italy with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, cooked simply and to perfection for outstanding results. The beef ragu is a standout dish.
There are plenty of other options for dinner too, including Man Fu Yuan, which has been offering traditional Chinese food since 1995; and Chikuyotei, a fine dining restaurant serving Japanese favourites.
Wellness facilities
The hotel’s swimming pool deck really puts you in the heart of the city, with the comfortable open-air pool, jacuzzi, and bar surrounded by skyscrapers. There is also a sauna and those looking for a workout can enjoy the fully equipped 24-hour gym with Technogym equipment.
To do
You don’t have to go far to find a way to get to grips with Singapore as the hotel offers its own Heritage Tours, which depart from the lobby and explore the streets of Bugis and Kampong Glam. Here, you will find colourful, traditional shophouses that line Haji Lane and Arab Street — which are now home to local independent designer boutiques — as well as the 19th century Masjid Sultan Mosque.
No trip to Singapore would be complete without visiting some attractions that feature in the film Crazy Rich Asians. Firstly, you must try a traditional Hawker Centre, or street food market, and while there are many, there are two that are not to be missed. Chinatown Hawker Centre is huge and is home to Hawker Chane, which was once the cheapest Michelin starred restaurant in the world. The second is the Newton Centre, where the movie’s famous foodie scene was filmed.
The award-winning film also showcased the famous Gardens by the Bay, which has to be one of Singapore’s most iconic sites. By day you can enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna but when the sun goes down sit back and enjoy a spectacular light show which takes place twice each evening.
For a different perspective, head to the bar on the roof of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel where you’ll be able to see the light show from above as you enjoy a drink. The space also offers views across the city, the bay and the Singapore strait, which offers its own spectacle of illumination – a carpet of fairy lights shimmering in the night sea, created by the hundreds of ships moored up nearby.
In a nutshell
A celebration of Straits heritage combined with modern comfort and period indulgence, in the heart of one of Singapore’s most interesting areas, makes for the perfect spot to to experience this unique destination.
Factbox
Address: 80 Middle Road, Singapore 188966
Phone: +65 63387600
Website: singapore.intercontinental.com
All hotel imagery provided by IHG Hotels
