Mandarin Oriental Singapore

The bad news, if you like surprises, is that the Mandarin Oriental Singapore is pretty much exactly what you’d expect it to be. The good news, if you like hotels, is that you expect great things from a Mandarin Oriental. This is one area where being predictable is definitely not the worst thing in the world.

Actually, old Singapore hands who haven’t visited lately might be surprised by the Mandarin’s very thorough renovation. The look is still subdued and relatively conservative, but it’s quite contemporary, the surfaces are sparkling, and the electronics that keep these guest rooms running smoothly are completely up to date.

Of course much of what makes any Mandarin Oriental special is neither stylistic nor technological: the service, as always, is thoughtful and discreet, the absolute height of professionalism. The Marina Bay location means excellent views of the harbor, the sea and the skyline, despite the Mandarin’s moderate height.

It pays to spring for the Oriental Club, if possible, for access to the private lounge, some complimentary extras, and some of the hotel’s best views. But everyone, equally, benefits from the Mandarin’s restaurant selection, from Cantonese to Italian to Japanese by way of California — not to mention a refurbished spa and fitness center.