Zen in the city and throw in a staycay while you’re at it.
Sometimes, aromatherapy or a quick yoga sesh just doesn’t cut it. Wellness tourism is thriving with many travellers opting for mindful programs during vacations. Singapore’s also bitten by the bug as many hotels are slowly (but surely) paving way for curated experiences that hit the right spot in rejuvenating your mind, body and soul. From workout sessions to spa retreats and healthy dining options, zen your way around these hotels in Singapore with wellness programs.
Carlton City Hotel
Carlton City Hotel sure knows how to mix business with pleasure. Located in the bustling Tanjong Pagar, it’s the perfect luxe stay for anyone who finds themselves in the Lion City for work.
The program: The hotel has a Wellness Weekend Staycation for two, which includes a night’s stay, a complimentary yoga class of your choice at Yoga+, just two minutes away from the hotel, and a breakfast buffet at Plate or a gourmet sandwich meal from artisanal cafe Tuxedo. It’s the perfect getaway to recharge and rejuvenate if time is not in your favour.
Carlton City Hotel, Deluxe Room from S$288++ per night; Stay Period: 5 April 2019 to 29 March 2020 (check-in on Fridays or Saturdays), 1 Gopeng St, Singapore 078862
Six Senses Maxwell
You’d least expect this grandiose hotel to be located in the heart of Chinatown – but there it is, taking over a row of shophouses and glistening with heritage and European aesthetics thanks to French designer Jacques Garcia. Wellness retreats aside, the hotel also pays close attention to sustainability approaches such as recycling old bars of soap into new ones for low-income communities.
The program: Try the traditional Chinese medicine ritual – for $300 per pax, you get a consultation with practitioners along with a pulse diagnosis. It’s then followed by TCM tidbits and recommendations for herbal remedies and dietary therapy. Alternatively, experience the Vanda “Miss Joaquim treatment with warm amethyst crystals and end off with a wellness lunch to fuel and energise the new you.
Our writer, Amelia, tried the Vanda Miss Joaquim treatment, which whisked her away to stress-free heaven. “It started with a deeply relaxing massage with warm amethyst stones that melted all my tensions away like an absolute dream, followed by a body scrub and clay mask session for baby-soft skin. A nourishing dose of essential oils and a good nap at the relaxation room later, I walked out feeling like I was floating on a cloud. 10/10 would recommend, especially for busy urbanites who are in need of some quick yet luxurious R&R.”
Six Senses Maxwell, $300++ per pax; King Superior Merchant Room from $210++; 2 Cook Street, Singapore, 078857
Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa
Staying at any hotel in Sentosa is like a mini vacay but Sofitel Sentosa Resort & Spa hits the spot with its Parisian decor and touches of nature. The hotel is set atop a cliff above Tanjong Beach, so expect stunning 360-degree views of the South China Sea.
The program: The specially curated Bond and Celebrate package at So Spa takes you through a tranquillity-filled day. Gather your crew for a 60-minute private group yoga class followed by your choice of any 45-minute massage. End off amongst lush tropical greenery at LeBar with an afternoon tea set of sweet and savoury bites and artisanal teas.
Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, From $200++ per pax, available for groups of 4 to 12 pax till 31 Dec 2019; Luxury Room from $275; 2 Bukit Manis Road Sentosa, Singapore 099891
Marina Bay Sands
MBS gets major points for its IT factor and location. The infamous infinity pool at Marina Bay Sands Hotel has seen countless celebrities frolicking in it. Perched 57 floors atop the iconic building, it feels like you’re swimming on the edge of the world.
The program: If you’re looking for another out-of-world experience, the hotel offers sunrise yoga at 7am at the Sand SkyPark Observation deck, so you can start your day at the top of the world, literally.
Marina Bay Sands; Banyan Tree Fitness Club, $35 per pax, daily (excluding Wed & Fri): 7am-8am; Deluxe Room from $419; 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956