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Raffles is perhaps one of the best known hotels in the world. The hotel was opened in 1887 and was run by the Armenian Sarkies brothers. The historic Raffles Singapore grew into the iconic hotel we know in the years that followed.

After a period of renovation, Raffles recently reopened and InsideFlyer was there to give you an InsideLook…

Renovation

Two years ago it was time for a thorough renovation – the previous renovation of the hotel was all the way back in 1991, and this time much more had to be done. Pipework was enormously outdated and there were still old-fashioned picture tube TVs in the rooms. Of course that was no longer acceptable for such an iconic hotel. The rooms on the side of the road were also quite noisy. They have improved this so that you should not be bothered anymore. 

The hotel is not yet completely finished with the renovation. There are still final touches that need to be made to the restaurants, which are due to open by the end of the year.

Suites

The entire Raffles Singapore Hotel now consists of 115 suites, previously there were 103. You can choose from a variety of different suites, ranging from Studio Suites, all the way up to the most luxurious Presidential Suite, with an area of ​​more than 260 m². All rooms have been completely stripped and refurbished, but have kept the traditional style.

The hotel now has the following suite types: State Room Suites, Courtyard Suites, Palm Court Suites, Personality Suites, Residence Suites, Promenade Suites, Grand Hotel Suites and Presidential Suites.

The latest technology has also been introduced. For example, every room is equipped with iPads that guests can use to control all kinds of things, from temperature and closing curtains, to turning the lights on and off. You can also make a reservation for one of the restaurants, consult menus and play films on the TV.

Each suite consists of a bedroom, living room and bathroom. Depending on the type of suite you book, the sizes of the rooms are of course different. In the bathroom you will find amenities from the Ormonde Jayne brand.

You can also see many traditional features, such as the control buttons for the fan and the lamps. In this way, Raffles combines the old colonial style in combination with the conveniences of today.

The rooms feel warm and atmospheric, but you might expect a bit more space for the price of €550 per night for an entry level suite. But of course this is Raffles Singapore!

Facilities

Raffles Arcade provides space for various shops and lifestyle spaces. Here you can find new shops, as well as a gallery that shows the history of the hotel. In addition, the hotel has a few restaurants, which will be expanded this year.

You can also find the world-famous Writers Bar here. If you find a stay at the hotel too expensive, then this is still definitely recommended for a drink. The Writers Bar has a rich history and has hosted many famous writers, including Rudyard Kipling and Somerset Maugham.

This Writers Bar is well-known for the good cocktails that are made here. It is certainly not cheap, but it’s a great experience. With your order you get unlimited spring water, a separate welcome drink, cocktail nuts and an exclusive chocolate when you pay.

There are many other facilities at this hotel, such as a swimming pool, a High Tea restaurant, and a Hall of Fame with all the high-ranking guests who have visited the hotel, including the British Royal Family, George Clooney and others.

You can relax in the various gardens of the hotel, or if you prefer a little more activity, there is a fitness room, squash court and the new swimming pool:

Bottom line

It’s great to see Raffles back!

Have you visited Raffles before?

A version of this article first appeared on InsideFlyer Netherlands. Images provided by Raffles and ‘MdTurck’.