Just a couple of months after our previous stay at the InterContinental Singapore, we decided to head back to the property, this time for the Royal Suite experience.
As part of the suite experience, guests are offered complimentary two-way transfers so that you can arrive at the hotel in comfort. The reservations team would typically get in touch with you a couple of days prior to your stay to arrange the transfer service. In our case, the limo was already waiting to pick us up right on schedule.
On board the limo, there was complimentary sparkling and still water, snacks, and wifi. It was also possible to make arrangements during your stay, such as dining reservations, via the tablet provided.
As we pulled into the main driveway, the staff were ready to receive us.
Given that our arrival time was pre-arranged, the check-in process was a breeze, and we were soon issued our key cards.
Located on the top floor, the Royal Suite offers spectacular views of the city. At 85 square metres in size, and with higher than usual ceiling heights, this suite is sure to impress.
The entrance to the Royal Suite opens into a huge living room, complete with a large sofa with an ottoman, a coffee table, and table lamps.
The television is mounted to the feature wall, and while it doesn’t seem to face the sofa, the device can be extended and rotated almost 90 degrees either way, so that the viewing angle isn’t compromised at all.
You’ll notice that there aren’t any cushions on the sofa. After some enquiring, it was explained to us that these items would require additional cleaning in between stays, hence they have been removed from the rooms and suites. Items such as fruit platters and cutlery, which were usually a common sight for staying suite guests and Platinum Ambassador members, have also been omitted by default, but may be arranged if specially requested.
On the other side of the living room is a nice area with a large round dining table, perfect for in-room dining.
Next to the dining table you’ll find a chest, on which is a coffee machine, and within it you’ll find the minibar fridge and complimentary tea and glassware.
This is another view of the living room from the dining area.
Of course, as with all rooms and suites, a work desk is a must. In the Royal Suite, the work desk faces the living room and the television directly, which is positioned nicely should you choose to have business or work meetings in the suite.
In the central area of the suite, marble floor walkways lead you to the other areas within the suite.
On the way to the bedroom, you’ll pass the guest toilet, which it pretty spacious actually.
Further down the corridor you’ll find an area where you can stash your suitcase and other bags that you may have.
A little further in and you’ll reach the bedroom. As the windows do not follow the entire length of the bedroom, you won’t find a situation where natural light floods the space, giving the bedroom a more cozy atmosphere.
There is some additional seating on the side of the bedroom closest to the windows, perfect if you need a quiet corner to catch up on some reading perhaps.
Connected to the bedroom is the master bathroom. Considering that this is a suite, the lack of a double vanity is a clear sign that this needs some rethinking and upgrading.
But other than that, the bathroom was spacious and always fully stocked with amenities during our stay.
In fact, the bathtub can afford to be a little bigger too.
The wardrobe is located right at the entrance to the bedroom, and there you’ll find the usual items such as the bathrobes and slippers, iron and ironing board, and the in-room safe.
As the actual Club InterContinental premises are undergoing some renovations, guests with access were instead directed to a reserved section within Ash & Elm to enjoy the usual club offerings.
Here’s what you can expect for afternoon tea.
For evening cocktails, you’ll also enjoy a selection of savoury canapés and sweets, together with a decent selection of beverages and cocktails.
In terms of the use of the facilities, you’ll need to make reservations for the pool, as it can get a little crowded at times. This is part of the safe management measures implemented at the property in view of the ongoing COVID-19 situation.
As for the gym, given that it is currently being under utilised, no prior reservations are needed.
In terms of F&B offerings, InterContinental Singapore is also home to The Lobby Lounge, which serves up some light snacks for your convenience.
At Ash & Elm itself, this flaming dessert is quite a head-turner.
As suite guests, we were offered the option to have our breakfast sent to our suite instead of having it downstairs. Our order arrived on the dot as we had requested, and it was truly great to be able to dine within the privacy of our suite.
Our stay went without a hitch, and we were also reminded of our return limo transfer on the morning of our departure. As more guests are expected to return to hotels as part of the gradual reopening of the economy, hotels should be prepared to increase the service capacity in order to accommodate a potential influx of guest arrivals. We have already made plans to return to InterContinental Singapore, this time for an even better suite!