Travelling seems like an impossible task in 2020. Staycation becomes the only option for a short vacation. After all, we have spent 90% of the time at home since March. When Singapore moved into phase 2, hotels can open up for staycation! Click here for the list of approved hotels. In the end, H went ahead to book a staycation to celebrate our 3rd year wedding anniversary.
Open in 2017, Sofitel Singapore City Center is one of the newer Hotel in this area. Located right at the doorstep of CBD Tanjong Pagar MRT station, you will find many offices as well as dining options. From restaurants to cafes, one will be spoilt with choices.
Plus, it is a walking distance to attractions like Chinatown and minutes of drive by car to places like MBS and Clark Quay, makes Sofitel Singapore City Center a good option for foreigners on a business trip. However, if you are looking to shop in this area, I’m afraid you will only find supermarket - NTUC fairprice, Don Donki and Daiso worth checking out.
Check-in
Sofitel Singapore City Center is located in an integrated development where Offices, F&B and retail, private residences as well as hotel shares the same plot of land. Thus, unlike other hotels, the reception is located at level 5.
We visited on a quiet Saturday afternoon and check-in was fuss-free. Unfortunately, our rooms were not ready at 1pm. We visited the bar and was given a complimentary cocktail. The drinks are nicely prepared and the service is really good! Even if I'm not there on a staycation, I wouldn't mind spending my afternoon here.
The Lounge at Club Millésime
Our stay Prestige Suites comes with access to Club Millésime. Located next to the swimming pool and gym, one can chill in the club and spent their afternoon there. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, there are changes to how it’s operated. Afternoon Tea was removed and evening canapé (6-7pm) is served via ala-cart style. Also, access to the Virgin Active Fitness Club has stopped during this period.
Prestige Suite
The Living Area
The 76 sqm room comes with a living room, dining area, powder room, main bedroom and bathroom. The room is decorated with bold artwork and botanical motifs can be found on the carpet. The warm hues colour scheme makes the room very relaxing and yet has the luxury element in it.
Sadly, there is no view from the room. Our room faces the office building and we had to keep our curtain closed for privacy. Since we are keeping the curtain close, I thought there is no difference between it being at level 10 or 20. Perhaps the view that faces Chinatown is better?
The living area is equipped with a 55-inch smart TV with Bose soundbar making the stay very chill. You can even host a small gathering for up to 4 people. Coincidentally, my friend happened to be in the area and we hosted her in the living area.
Complimentary selection of Minibar
The room came with a complimentary selection of Mini-Bar that offers local snacks. Unfortunately, the snacks and drinks offered are not to our liking. Plus, most of the snacks are lao-hong aka taste expired. Guess, we still prefer minibar to be stocked with the usual soft drinks. Thankfully the coffee and tea are from TWG Teas and Nespresso.
The Bedroom
The bedroom is separated from the living area which I thought was a nice layout. The room comes with a King size bed. Although I prefer a firm mattress, the soft-medium mattress is pretty good. Unfortunately, the pillow is too soft and I should have requested for a firm pillow.
Bath Room
Beautifully designed with a 4-point marble furnishing, the bathroom is stunning. It comes with a bathtub, rain shower and dual sink. On top of that, the prestige suite came with toiletries from Hermès, making the shower feels luxurious.
Breakfast at Racines restaurant
Breakfast is served at the main restaurant Racines instead of the lounge. Unlike the usual buffet-style, breakfast was served by unlimited ala-cart order. Diners can order via a website app provided and food items are served to us by the staff.
Advantages of having ala-cart order is that food is freshly prepared and plated nicely! Food was above average but nothing was worth mentioning. Also, items are served by category instead of the individual item. Eg: Dimsum came with 1 red bean bun, ha-kaw and Siew Mai. I guess you can check with the staff what’s the Dim-sum for the day before making your order. Sadly, there were no desserts or Kueh being offered on the menu.
Swimming Pool & Gym Facilities
The 30-meter swimming pool at level 5 offers the view of Tanjong Pagar iconic Duxton's Hill. The landscaping is beautifully designed with floral and fauna, making it a great hideout for tanning. Located next to the swimming pool, sits So-fit, a 24-hour gym. The gym is equipped with basic equipment for a workout.
Due to COVID-19, hotel guest has to make an advance booking to use the facilities. Below is the time slot and you call to reserve your slot. Each slot allocated is 45 minutes.
Overall, the stay at Sofitel Singapore City Center is pretty relaxing. Love the room itself! Staff was friendly and the service is great. However, the lounge is very disappointing. After all, we do have an expectation for a 5-star hotel. Not sure if the mediocre experience we had was due to measures of COVID-19 implemented by the hotel. Still, considering the amount paid to stay in Sofitel Singapore City Center, I might top up and stay at Conrad or Pan-Pacific instead. After all, the hotel industry in Singapore to be very competitive.
Do continue to practice safe distancing and good hygiene!
Have you stayed at Sofitel Singapore City Center? Do share with us your experience!
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