Singapore – The Raffles Singapore opened its doors in 1887 as a modest 10-room property and has since become the namesake for an entire global collection of hotels. Its white colonial facade, red-tiled roof and long tradition of attentive service continue to draw travelers who want to experience one of the city’s most storied addresses. A recent stay revealed how the property balances its deep history with the comforts expected by today’s guests.
Stepping Into a Living Landmark
The hotel sits in the heart of downtown Singapore, within easy reach of the Merlion and major museums. Guests arrive along a circular gravel drive where uniformed doormen still greet arrivals, a scene that has played out for more than a century. Inside, the Grand Lobby rises three stories beneath a skylit ceiling supported by original Victorian pillars and a dramatic lotus-shaped chandelier. Afternoon tea here remains a signature ritual, with carefully chosen teas, delicate sandwiches, pastries and warm scones served to the sound of a live harpist.
Suites Built for Comfort and Character
Every accommodation at Raffles Singapore is a suite, with even the entry-level options exceeding 700 square feet. The Palm Court King suite features a spacious living room with double-height ceilings, original teak floors and a mix of colonial and Peranakan-inspired furnishings. A separate bedroom holds a four-poster king bed, while the marble bathroom includes dual vanities, a freestanding tub and a large walk-in shower. Guests also receive thoughtful touches such as macarons, chocolate and a chilled bottle of Champagne upon arrival.
Where History Meets the Table
Eight restaurants and bars are scattered across the main building and adjacent arcades. The Tiffin Room offers an extensive breakfast buffet alongside Indian specialties at lunch and dinner, including pani puri and tandoor kebabs. For a more refined evening, Yi by Jereme Leung presents multicourse Cantonese menus that highlight seasonal ingredients. Newer addition 1887 by Andre delivers French-Asian dishes in an intimate setting that has already earned two Michelin stars.
Signature Bars and Afternoon Rituals
Two bars capture the hotel’s literary and social heritage. The Writers Bar, adjacent to the main entrance, serves cocktails named for famous authors who once stayed here, such as the Prince in the Sky inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. A short distance away, the Long Bar remains the birthplace of the Singapore Sling, where guests still toss peanut shells on the floor beneath slowly turning palm fans. These spaces keep the hotel’s social traditions alive while offering distinct atmospheres for different moods.
Service and Small Details That Matter
A one-hour history tour highlights curios and corners that give the property its distinctive character. The rooftop pool provides a quiet retreat on hot days, and the spa offers treatments using premium skincare lines in a tranquil setting. Butlers remain available throughout the stay to handle requests ranging from restaurant reservations to personal shopping. The combination of preserved heritage and attentive, modern service creates an experience that feels both rooted in the past and fully present.
