Few hotels in Singapore can actually beat the Mandarin Oriental Singapore, both in terms of location and hotel views. Located in the heart of the Marina Bay area, the Mandarin Oriental Singapore is also at the centre of commercial activity, well positioned with convenient access to nearby malls such as Marina Square and Suntec City.
Upon arriving at the hotel, the staff proceeded with the check in formalities. Also, being Fans of MO, the chain’s rewards and loyalty programme, we were also delighted when we were informed of our upgrade to the Marina Bay Suite. In addition, we were also offered an S$80 dining credit that could be used to offset the bill at the onsite dining establishments, such as Cherry Garden and MO Bar.
Hotels constructed during the same era all seem to have rooms built around a voluminous atrium. Guests get to enjoy the full extent of the building and its architecture while riding up the elevators to their rooms.
Our stay was beginning to look good right from the start, but it just got better. Arriving in our suite, everything was just as expected, or perhaps even better. A short walkway opens up to the living room, which offers sweeping views of the Marina Bay area.
The living room floorplan isn’t the conventional rectangular one, so they could get a little more creative with the furniture layout. Guests can lounge in the spacious sofa, or even the armchair with ottoman at the corner by the floor-to-ceiling glass window.
Here, you’ll find a pair of binoculars to actually bring you much closer to the sights around Marina Bay.
The flat screen television isn’t placed directly across the sofa, but the viewing angle wasn’t significantly compromised nonetheless.
Shortly after our arrival, the team also sent up some welcome amenities to our suite, which was a pleasant touch.
At the other corner you’ll find a work desk with some stationary, a reading light, and some hotel catalogues too.
There is also a guest toilet located right by the entryway, which is great for instances when you’re hosting a few guests in your suite.
If you prefer to enjoy the sea breeze while admiring the sweeping views of the Singapore skyline, you can also access the balcony from the living room, which can comfortably seat two persons.
The minibar is actually within this side table underneath the coffee machine, with a decent selection of snacks and beverages.
The bedroom is separated from the living room by double doors, which of course can be closed for added privacy.
The layout of the bedroom was pretty conventional. Once again, the large window was a welcome sight, offering a picture perfect view even when you’re in bed.
Because of the doorway, the wall mounted television screen had to be offset to the right, but once again the viewing angle wasn’t compromised that much.
There’s a nice spot for your suitcase under the television. Across the room you’ll find the wardrobe, stocked with laundry bags, bathrobes and slippers.
The bathroom was cladded in marble, and quite spacious. As you enter the bathroom, you’ll have the shower on your immediate left, followed by the bathtub to your right.
Across the bathtub, you’ll find a single vanity albeit with a large tabletop to avoid a cluttered look.
At the far end of the bathroom is where you’ll find the toilet seat.
In addition to the usual toiletries, some antiseptic wipes and hand sanitiser were provided as well.
Perhaps the key highlight of this property is its swimming pool. Located on the 5th floor, the pool extends outwards towards the bay with unobstructed views of the surroundings.
The pool also has some considerable length, perfect for laps.
For those with children, there is a smaller wading pool right behind the main pool.
The fitness centre is also located on the same level, and there you’ll find a wide range of training equipment.
As for dining, guests can expect to enjoy their breakfast either in their rooms or suites, or at the lounge.
During my stay, the lounge was pretty empty so I could pick a lovely window seat to enjoy breakfast with a view.
If you’ve got the time, do make reservations for the dim sum brunch at Cherry Garden.
The establishment offers an impressive selection of dishes served a-la-carte buffet style.
In the evening, it is imperative that you visit the MO Bar for a drink or two. Not only do they have an impressive drinks menu, but the staff there are exceptionally warm and friendly, and they’ll do their utmost to make your evening a pleasant one. Do call in to reserve a window seat too as it can get quite packed over the weekends.
The Mandarin Oriental Singapore truly lives up to its reputation, both in terms of service and hospitality, as well as its location and lovely views. With everything, from F&B offerings to the fitness centre and swimming pool all located within the property, you won’t feel the need to ever leave the property during your stay. However, being co-located with several malls, guests can also choose to simply stroll out for some shopping, or perhaps even take a leisurely walk around Marina Bay! In this regard, the Mandarin Oriental Singapore is sure to impress you on your next visit to Singapore.
