Since 1887, Raffles has been Singapore's most legendary address, where turbaned doormen still greet you beneath pristine white colonnades and afternoon tea comes with a side of history. Following an ambitious two-year restoration, this national monument now seamlessly blends its colonial bones with exquisite modern touches. Spread across six tropical acres – you could spend hours wandering the gardens – in the heart of the CBD, you're perfectly placed to explore the Lion City's kaleidoscope of cultures. But with 115 individually designed suites, multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, and that famous Long Bar serving Singapore Slings, you might just struggle to leave.
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Behind that famous neo-Renaissance facade lies a labyrinth of luscious, tropical courtyards and 55,000 plants creating pockets of enchanting greenery between the different wings. The Jubilee Ballroom dazzles beneath a million-dollar lotus chandelier handcrafted in Czech Republic, while multiple restaurants showcase everything from North Indian tiffin boxes to Michelin-starred French fare. There's also a rooftop pool, offering sanctuary from Singapore's humidity, whilst the spa channels Asian wellness philosophies through hydrothermal experiences that will have you floating back to your suite.
Each of the 115 suites tells its own story through carefully curated antiques and artworks – no two are identical. The tripartite layout separates a parlour area and the bedroom and bathroom spaces, with four-poster beds beneath whirring ceiling fans and dark timber floors that gleam like ship decks. iPads control everything from the curtains to entertainment, while marble bathrooms feature deep soaking tubs, perfect for post-exploration recovery. The Personality Suites honour famous past guests with relevant memorabilia (Kipling's is adorned with vintage travel trunks).
Beyond the obligatory Singapore Slings, days might involve tai chi in the gardens before joining a walking tour through nearby Arab Street's spice-scented lanes. The concierge can arrange everything from hawker centre food tours to Marina Bay's light shows. If you still have the appetite for it, the sprawling Gardens by the Bay are spectacular! Back at base, browse the boutiques, indulge in Chef Jordan Keao's Tour De Force dining experience, or simply people-watch from a rattan chair as modern Singapore rushes past these timeless walls.
Order the original Singapore Sling where it was invented in 1915 and channel your inner literary legend. Oh and throwing peanut shells on the floor at the Long Bar isn't just allowed – it's tradition.
Book a Heritage Tour with resident historian Leslie Danker. He'll unlock areas usually off-limits and share tales of when Somerset Maugham held court here (ask about the secret passages).
Those gorgeous teak floors mean you'll hear footsteps from suites above – charming by day, less so at 2am. Request a top-floor suite if you're a light sleeper.
A whole world of street-food smoke, neon gardens and sky-high cocktails in one tiny island.
