After a recent top-to-toe refurbishment, the brightened rooms and eye-catching cross-cultural decor of this five-star hotel makes Paige Lee Pei Qi feel right at home
Location
The hotel is situated in Clarke Quay, offering easy access to the nearby Boat Quay as well as numerous bars and restaurants in the area. The Raffles Place financial district is about a 15-minute walk away.
Rooms
The property completed an 18-month extensive renovation in October 2016. The 476 rooms and suites were given an overhaul, which made me feel as though I was staying in a brand-new hotel.
In terms of design, all the rooms now take on a brighter tone while maintaining the hotel’s mixed Swiss-Peranakan features. Similarly, the corridors now sport a lighter hue.
Upon entering my Swiss Executive Room, I was enthralled by the panoramic view of the city skyline which stretched across the Singapore River. As well, the platter of chocolates that awaited my arrival added a touch of Swiss hospitality to the overall experience.
One of the main changes to the rooms were the bathroom upgrades. Bathtub showers are now been replaced with standing showers, making the place feel more spacious.
I like how the hotel also provided a Handy smartphone that allowed for complimentary IDD calls to 10 selected countries and data access. This would surely help foreign guests stay connected with their families.
F&B
The Ellenborough Market Café has also undergone a revamp and now sports a vibrant turquoise interior, complete with a sparkling diamond-cut glass wall feature, shedding its earlier wooden-oriented interior and more dated feel.
The international and Peranakan style buffet continues to delight diners with its wide array of fresh seafood and nyonya items such as kueh pie tee and babi pongteh. And of course, not forgetting the signature durian pengat which ended my sumptuous meal on a celebratory note.
Alternative dining options are available at the newly revamped lobby lounge Crossroads Bar and poolside diner Blue Potato, which features a Western a la carte menu with a selection of fine wines and beverages. It also features an open grill kitchen by the pool deck on the second floor, which will be better suited for casual diners.
My room on the 11th level provided me access into the private Executive Club as well, where cocktail hours are from 18.00 to 20.00, offering evening drinks and finger food.
Facilties
Recreational facilities include an idyllic pool area featuring a swimming pool with waterslides – a big bonus for families with children – and an outdoor Jacuzzi.
For gym rats, there is a well-equipped two-storey fitness centre that is open 24 hours. The Pürovel Spa & Sport, an in-house Swiss spa brand, is a new addition to this property.
Service
The hospitality of the staff was remarkable. They were ever-ready to assist me and were quick to greet the guests with smiles. It made me feel right at home.
Verdict
The rejuvenation project was well worth the wait. It has transformed the property into an even more vibrant venue to dine and stay in.
No. of rooms 476
Rates From S$230 (US$160) a night
Contact details
Tel: (65) 6239 1867 / 6239 1848
Website: swissotel.com/hotels/singapore-merchant-court
