Go on a mini-vacation in the Little Red Dot and stay in your fave neighhourhood
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to catch up on some extra quality time with your significant other or if you just want to treat yourself, one thing’s for certain: Everyone needs to take a breather every now and then. If you haven’t got the time to go globe-trotting, why not stay put and indulge in a staycation? There’s something really satisfying about not having to pack your passport and avoiding airport traffic. So, go ahead, relax. It’s okay to feel a little smug about not having to queue at immigration.
Lucky for us, Singapore’s teeming with awesome neighbourhoods to explore. No matter how long we’ve lived in the Little Red Dot, it never fails to surprise with cool new restaurants, shops, events, and attractions. Why not hop in a cab or MRT and check out one of Millennium Hotels and Resorts’ six hotels and stay for the weekend? They’re all strategically located in some of our favourite Singapore locales:
Robertson Quay
Looking for a respite from after an epic Friday night at Clarke Quay? Plan ahead and book a staycation down the Singapore River at Robertson Quay. Nothing beats capping off the weekend with a laid back brunch at one of the neighbourhood’s great cafes, bars and restaurants. Don’t forget to take a slow breezy walk down the iconic river at night!
Have a staycation at… For the millennial globe-trotter, there’s the Philippe Starck-designed M Social with self-check in kiosks and spacey communal spaces perfect for networking. In your downtime, pop by Beast & Butterflies, M Social’s signature restaurant for some of the best fusion cuisine in town. Are you a Scandi-fan who loves the #loftlife? Check out Studio M for minimalist designs, uber plush beds that you won’t want to get out of and the panoramic city views. If you’re looking to bring the whole family, we suggest giving Grand Copthorne Waterfront a try. Not only is it close to all the Quays, it’s also a stone’s throw away from the city. And don’t say we didn’t warn you, but the steak at Grissini is to die for. Charcoal-grilled Wagyu? Yes please!
Orchard Road
From glitzy malls to heritage walks, you can find anything and everything on this stretch. From Chanel to chicken rice, art galleries – this place has got it all. Want something more chill? While you’re in the neighbourhood, make sure to explore the colourful shophouses on historic Emerald Hill!
Have a staycation at… Spend the night at Orchard Hotel and take your time exploring every nook and cranny of this shopper’s paradise. It’s strategically located along Orchard Road so you’re always just a short walk away from your favourite restaurants and shopping centres. Here’s our hot tip: when your arms are loaded with shopping bags, simply head back to your hotel room and stash your goodies before moving on to your next destination – you’re welcome.
River Valley
There’s more to River Valley than meets the eye – sure, it’s mostly residential buildings but there are also some hidden gems such as the Zion Road Food Centre, Little Farms, and Greenwood Fish Market. There are also some great shopping malls such as Liang Court, Valley Point and Great World City. Another reason we love River Valley? It’s just a hop and skip away from the awesome cafe and bar scene at Tiong Bahru.
Have a staycation at… Once you’re done with wining and dining, why not work on your tan at Copthorne King Hotel’s outdoor pool? They’ve also got an awesome garden terrace where you can sip on your happy hour cocktails and get a stunning view of the city – definitely the recipe for a relaxing weekend!
Chinatown
Even if Chinatown is one of Singapore’s oldest and busiest neighbourhoods, it always finds a special place in the heart of the most discerning local. Beyond the kitschy souvenir shops and the overpriced hawkers lies our favourite streets – Ann Siang Hill, Club Street, Duxton Hill and Keong Saik Road where you’ll find the hippest bars and hottest new tables that are the talk of the town.
Have a staycation at… We say check out stylish and contemporary M Hotel Singapore which has Tanjong Pagar MRT and the legendary Lau Pa Sat food centre within walking distance. Although it’s geared more towards business travellers, it’s family friendly too. In fact, there’s a Family Suite room with its own Jacuzzi! We also recommend checking out J Bar for their happy hour specials and live music.
Hello, weekend!
Say hello to the staycation life and take advantage of Millennium Hotels and Resorts’ Hello Weekend offer! Guests can get 10% off their stay when it falls on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday, including breakfast for two. You’ll also get 20% off dining at award-winning restaurants such as Beast and Butterflies and Hua Ting Restaurant for exquisite Cantonese dishes.
This article is sponsored by Millennium Hotels and Resorts.