Thanks to my bro who had enough SPG points (12,000!) to redeem for a free night at the property so I took the chance for a 2D1N staycation. I knew the property is quite old but I also heard they have since refubished so I thought I’d give it a shot.
(Plus, Platinum members get free Executive Lounge access. Yay!)
LOCATION – Located just off Orchard Road along Scotts Road, nearest MRT is Newton station. But the journey from the station to the hotel is not fully sheltered so it’ll be tough if it rains. Otherwise, if weather permits, it is a nice 5-10mins stroll to Orchard Road.
CHECK IN – Checked in at the front desk – was surprised they were able to accommodate me at 8:30am. A very much welcomed gesture. The platinum member who booked was not able to check in til later afternoon so the front desk said they will only activate the lounge access for my keycards when the booking platinum member is physically registered.
ROOM – I asked about the platinum upgrade and was told the highest floor is already the upgraded room (2126). I actually thought Plat member should get at least a club room or even a Suite upgrade (according to SPG’s website) but I guess they were full. But it annoys me how hotels don’t actually follow through with tier benefits and you’d literally have to ask for it, sometimes sheepishly even though you are supposed to be entitled to it / them.
EXECUTIVE CLUB – Located on the 3rd floor alongside the function rooms. Access is via your keycard, which means you don’t have to report your room number to the club staff. The place was really nicely done up (refurnished?) with a touches of old school luxury eg rich velvety colors and materials. The “afternoon tea” from 2-4pm was a poor showing as there were only cookies, 2 choices of cakes, with coffee, tea, soft drinks etc. There were empty bread baskets and empty plates only the table which I later learnt was not because they ran out, but it was meant to be placed there for cocktail hours. Being ready ahead of time is not un-necessary but it makes the offerings look bad. There seemed to be only 1 staff around during these hours, which meant multiple tables left uncleared.
Cocktail hours was excellent for a change tho! It was quite crowded by the time we headed down at 5:30pm and seats were quickly filled up. There were hot bites, cheeses, breads, fruits, salads, and pastries. Selection of wines and baileys (yay!), and blended whiskeys. Service was excellent, with the staff informing of last call for food and offering alcohol right up to 8pm.
Breakfast at the club was also a cosy affair. There were made to order egg dishes but no menu cards indicated. You just request for them. Abit strange.
FACILITIES – I went swimming in the afternoon on level 5 and the pool was a good size with many sunbeds around. There were also a steam room, sauna, and a good size gym on the same floor.
CHECK OUT – Done at the lounge and fuss free.
The place was ideal for a staycation but perhaps not so much for tourists. Still, nothing much to complain for a free stay using points!