A luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Singapore and Chinatown, The Scarlet promises a lot to offer. Just a short walk from the numerous cafes and eateries at Amoy Street and Ann Siang Hill, you’ll be spoilt for choice should you pick The Scarlet for your next trip to Singapore.
I was a little lost when I first arrived at the hotel, as the prominent building facing the road intersection wasn’t really the main entrance. The Scarlet really is a row of traditional shophouses that were combined and refurbished to the hotel we see today. In fact, the main lobby is located at the first of these shophouses just a short walk from the main intersection.
Stepping inside, I was amazed at what they did with the building. Let’s face it, the traditional shophouses that were built decades ago wasn’t meant for hotels to begin with. However, they managed to convert what seemed to be small and cramped buildings into a modern and luxurious property.
Arrived too early or waiting for some friends? Don’t fret, for the lobby has a spacious lobby with seating and reading materials for your convenience.
The tall chairs positioned around the lobby also added much colour and dimension to the space.
I identified myself as a Small Luxury Hotels Inspired member at the front desk and was immediately offered complimentary breakfast and a late check out up till 3 in the afternoon.
Once I obtained my keys, I headed up to my room very interested to see if the smart use of colours and interior design to give the illusion of space extended beyond the lobby. The room was a corner one, with colours not as bold as those in the lobby. Despite the small room size, the king sized bed fit comfortably.
There was even room for a dressing table and a mini refrigerator beneath the television.
The room also came with a huge wardrobe with an umbrella, laundry bag, slippers, and a safe.
The bathroom was exceptionally spacious, and although I noted the absence of a bathtub, I was more than happy not to have to contend with a tight squeeze while taking my shower.
The sink area was also really elegant, with a nice mix of the traditional faucet design with the marble top.
You’ll be surprised that the hotel comes with a gym that is fairly well equipped, with cardio and cable machines, and free weights.
There is also a small jacuzzi located outdoors that can at most fit only 4 persons.
Breakfast is served in the cafe adjoining the hotel. The service and selection is quite European, which complemented the setting well. You can request to have you eggs made to order, and the coffee and tea selection is very decent.
As only one of the two properties in Singapore under the Small Luxury Hotels portfolio, The Scarlet was on par with my expectations. Of course, one could argue as to how luxurious a small hotel can get, but from my stay, I can say that The Scarlet sure didn’t disappoint.
