The new cycling experience offered by Mandarin Oriental, Singapore allows guests to revel in a luxe retreat while uncovering some of the city-state's most iconic landmarks
I tried my hand at urban cycling for the first time recently – exploring the Marina Bay area on two wheels for a weekend getaway. My usual biking routes were on trails away from the city area.
Turned out the newly-launched Bikecation experience by Mandarin Oriental, Singapore was a refreshing adventure for Singapore residents who want to rediscover their urban backyard while on their staycation.
Prior to arrival, I booked my slot for the customised bicycle which the hotel has in partnership with SG Bike. Soon after my check-in, I was off on my biking expedition, complete with delicious healthy snacks and drinks, complimentary from the hotel.
For the uninitiated, there are two recommended specially-designed routes to take from the hotel’s centralised location. The City Bike-Venture covers the Esplanade Park, Merlion Park, Waterfront Promenade, Helix Bridge and Youth Olympic Park, while the Garden Bike-Venture allows one to explore the Singapore Flyer, Bay East Garden View, Marina Barrage, Gardens by the Bay and Tanjong Phu Promenade.
I took the former to enjoy the scenic cityscape, pausing only to make a pit-stop at a roadside café to rest and people-watch.
I also deliberately chose the afternoon-evening slot to be able to chase the sunset as I made my way soaking in the sights of the splendid waterfront on my leisurely escapade.
There is an early morning slot which one can pick to catch the sunrise too.
Location
Mandarin Oriental, Singapore, with its prime location at Marina Square, is in close proximity to the financial hub. Numerous luxury boutiques, entertainment venues, and Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre are just minutes away.
Rooms
The calming interiors of my Marina Bay View Room on the 19th floor laid in juxtaposition with the dazzling expanse of Marina Bay Sands and Raffles Place Central Business District area. Be it mid-day or night-time, the view was always stunning.
To recharge after cycling, I relaxed in the large bath and walk-in shower, and indulged in exquisite bath and body care with the hotel’s stock of luxurious Diptyque’s toiletry collection.
F&B
The Bikecation accommodation package includes a daily breakfast for two at Melt Café, where a mouthwatering buffet spread of international and local culinary delights awaits amid contemporary interiors, an uplifting ambience, and wistful background jazz music.
For my first meal of the day, I was greatly tempted by the lavish offerings at the various breakfast stations. I ended up with a hearty breakfast of baked waffles, butter-filled pastries, cheese platter, omelettes, salmon sashimi, as well as servings of century egg congee and roti prata with curry chicken.
What an invigorating way to fuel up and start the day right.
Facilities
For more fitness fun apart from biking, I also explored the luxury hotel’s outdoor swimming pool and fully-equipped fitness centre.
There is nothing more relaxing than enjoying a quiet dip and then lounging by the 25m swimming pool in a tranquil and lush outdoor setting, overlooking the bustling city.
The fitness centre caters to all levels of ability and conditioning, and is a gym enthusiast’s dream come true with a full range of equipment including a Kinesis Wall, free weights and stretching area. I even managed to get a personalised body fat analysis from the in-house certified personnel.
Service
The service was warm and welcoming. The hotel concierge were really helpful and assisted me on the adjustment of my bike seat to ensure a smooth ride. They always greeted me by name and were very attentive, even providing me with an umbrella when it was drizzling outside.
Verdict
For those eager to explore their own backyard on a leisurely pace while getting some exercise along the way, the Bikecation is an ideal option which allows one to luxuriate in the creative comforts of an urban getaway while also satisfying their adventure streak with an interesting cycling experience.
Rate: From S$399 (US$293.60) per night in the Ocean View Room with various inclusions
Contact details
Tel: +65 6885 3030
Email: mosin-reservations@mohg.com
Website: www.mandarinoriental.com/singapore/marina-bay/luxury-hotel/offers/bikecation
