Property name: InterContinental Singapore
Where: Bugis Junction neighborhood
Street address: 80 Middle Road, Singapore 188966
Phone: 65/6338-7600
Rates for Reviewed Suite: Approx US$500 per night
This Property meets our criteria to be BucketListed and received four circles from us on a Trip Advisor review. BucketListing means we would be inclined to recommend and book this hotel for our clients, and likely stay here again.
REVIEW:
I am usually inclined to root for the underdog and love both an overcomer and an overachiever. This is why I grew to like the Intercontinental Brand. Many of their properties are unsung heroes; they excel in service but I am beginning to realize that they often need work on the physical plant.
Now on to the Intercontinental Hotel- Singapore in specific. I am a tiny bit disappointed with the Intercontinental Singapore. Not because it was bad but rather that they have the bones of EVERYTHING they need to be truly stellar. The staff is great and get the concept of service, the location is prime, attached to a convenient shopping mall and right across from the light rail. They have all the ancillary services in check, and clearly Management is engaged. The club lounge had ample presentations at breakfast and at the cocktail hour.
I was really prepared to love this hotel but I couldn’t. Here’s why. It really is time for a complete renovation. The carpet in the halls are soiled and threadbare, the walls are sorely in need of a coat of paint and there should be a general spit shine through the entire property.
We stayed in a Shophouse Suite which was beautiful and a perfect reminder of Singapore’s Peranakan culture, which dates back to the 17th century. This history which may be overshadowed by Singapore’s relentless march to modernization. Peranakan decor was evident and there was ample use of mosaic glazed tiles and intricately carved cabinetry. These suite’s high ceilings and large windows gave light and airiness to the space. Our Suite’s French windows opened onto the indoor mall pavilion adjacent to the hotel. It really was lovely.
The downside of that particular suite is there were small but persistent maintenance issues with the room along with the smell of mildew.
Overall, this beautiful property put me in the mind of an aging rockstar who continues to tour. There are all the signs of a history of greatness but the definite knowledge that there are a few missed notes. Does this mean that I wouldn’t go to see the show? Of course not; but as the Beatles sing “I long for yesterday”. In much the same way, I will be back to this fine hotel but will long for what it really could be with a few tweaks.
Contact us for booking assistance at bucketlistedtravel@gmail.com or through the website at www.bucketlistedtravel.com