The legendary Raffles Hotel in Singapore has been closed for restoration, but we have good news! It’s reopening its doors in the second half of this year! Baroque Travel finds out all the details
Hosting dignitaries, celebrities and the rest of us since it opened in 1887, the historic Raffles Hotel is one of the main reasons to visit Singapore; it offers a taste of a bygone era, and of the city’s fascinating history, as well as every possible luxury.
When it reopens its doors later this year after what will amount to a year-long renovation and refurbishment, the Raffles Hotel will still offer every single one of its special elements – excellent service, a relaxed, luxury ambience, the charm and heritage that it has become synonymous with. The only difference will be that everything will be even better, including the hotel bars, restaurants, courtyards, guest rooms… you name it.
Currently in Phase 3 of the massive restoration program that started in December 2017, the renovation will bring new life to this historic building and will retain its status as the flagship of the Raffles Hotels & Resorts brand. In 1987 it was declared a National Monument by the Singapore Government, which should give you an idea of the meticulous attention to detail involved in the restoration. The magnificent Colonial architecture has been beautifully preserved in keeping with a structure of its historical significance.
Of course, there will be differences when the new Raffles Hotel Singapore opens its doors – including a number of new facilities that include guest experiences and dining concepts. There are also three new categories of suite accommodation – Residence, Promenade and Studio – bringing the number of suites at Raffles Hotel Singapore to 115 from the original 103.
The Residence Suites, which will be located in the Raffles Arcade, will comprise four one-bedroom and one two-bedroom suites. They will be named after famous local mid-1900s cinemas: Alhambra, Diamond, Marlborough, Odeon and Theatre Royal.