Boutique Hotel In Singapore

The ancient history of Singapore is indelibly linked to that of its nearest neighbour Malaysia. Situated on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula the connections are obvious but the two nation states have seen a significant divergence throughout the ages. Occupying a prime geographical location in the South China Seas, Singapore has been a prized location for a succession of traders, from the Chinese and Indians whose influence is still keenly felt today, to the British occupation, a time during which much of the groundwork was laid for modern Singapore.

Much of the credit for recognising the economic potential of Singapore is given to Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles who was charged with establishing Singapore as a South East Asia outpost of the British Empire. His success in realising the state's enormous potential is recognised by a statue of the man in the city and many buildings, streets, and commercial properties which bear his name. Colonial influences still abound in the city in some of its most famous structures and landmarks, most notably the Fullerton Hotel, a former general post office erected to commemorate the centenary of British rule.

The Fullerton Hotel is typical of the architectural excellence in Singapore, which extends to an eclectic mix of outstanding buildings. Some are similar to the Fullerton in a colonial style, others draw inspiration from South East Asian styles, and others are ultra-modern masterpieces which house business facilities, five star luxury hotels and leisure pursuits. There is an upper limit to building in Singapore, of 280 metres, which helps to unify the appearance of many different architectural styles.

Many of the great boutique hotels in Singapore occupy some of its most elegant and dramatic buildings. Architecture is certainly a prominent feature of boutique hotels and defines the boutique concept more than most other boutique hotel characteristics. The second most significant contribution to a boutique hotel experience is the superlative levels of personal service, which in Singapore is a renowned speciality.

The boutique hotel concept originated in New York as an antidote to the large, impersonal and faceless hotel chains which predominate in the worlds major cities. With an emphasis on style and character the original boutique hotels were largely privately owned, independently run establishments. A more intimate, hands-on approach to personal service defined the concept as well as often quirky or individual architectural and design features. Luxury, exclusivity and service have become the main features of contemporary boutique hotels the world over, whether independently run or not.

Some of the boutique hotels in Singapore are the very finest five star hotels but since the star ratings system was devised as a description of available guest facilities and amenities it does not necessarily describe the best boutique hotels, which may be limited in space and therefore in some of the features available in the larger luxury hotels. Boutique hotels in Singapore are popular for their individuality and style which forms the basis for a more personal Singapore experience.

While a boutique hotel in Singapore may lack some of the features found in a large hotel resort they are certainly mindful of the demands in a city with such a reputation for business, finance, and commerce. Business facilities are a common feature with most Singapore hotels and the boutique hotels are no exception. Guests should expect internet connectivity throughout and a range of other business facilities such as direct dial dual-line telephones, work desks and state of the art televisions with satellite news and other channels. There may also be a dedicate business centre complete with computers, and fax, printing and copying facilities.

What there will certainly be in Singapore's boutique hotels are 24 hour room and concierge services, on hand to deal with any queries to enable guests to make the most of their stay in the hotel and city. The highest levels of personal service come as standard whether that's for information and booking on restaurant and leisure facilities or car hire and corporate services.

It is often the individual touches which make any stay more memorable and within the boutique hotels in Singapore these are very much in evidence. Information and assistance when required, fresh flowers, original art and decor, individually designed rooms and spaces and a myriad of other personal touches all combine to great effect and raise an otherwise standard luxury hotel to boutique status.

A major part of any personal experience within a hotel is the dining facilities and like other facets which define a boutique hotel, the dining options will be tailored for the ultimate personal experience. Dining environments will be uniquely and stylishly presented and the menu will consist of the very highest quality produce used in local specialities and wider cuisines. There may also be other bar and lounge environments in which to enjoy the rare ambience that comes with the best boutique hotels in Singapore.