Given that COVID-19 has ruined your travel plans this year, why not treat yourself to a staycation instead?

With international travel still off the cards, a staycation is the perfect way to get your travel fix. If you’re looking for good food, adventure, or simply some R&R, look no further; here are four hotels for you to check out and things you can do during your stay.

RAFFLES HOTEL

Reopened this August after a two-year restoration, Singapore’s iconic Raffles Hotel has been given a fresh new look. This includes a revamped lobby and suites. If you’re a foodie, their newly opened restaurants are sure to pique your interest.

At 藝yì, celebrity MasterChef Jeremy Leung offers his modern adaptation of traditional Chinese cuisine. Le Dame de Pic features the culinary creations of Michelin-starred chef Anne-Sophie Pic, while Butcher’s Block will satisfy your cravings with their premium meats cooked over a wood fire.

For a cultural experience, go museum hopping at the Asian Civilisations Museum and the National Gallery, both of which are no more than a 15-minute stroll away. Thereafter, head back to the hotel’s Grand Lobby for afternoon tea, a must-do during a stay at the Raffles.

VILLA SAMADHI

Tucked away in the tranquil forest within Labrador Nature Reserve, this 20-room boutique hotel is the perfect place to escape the noise of the city. The rooms exude a colonial charm that is in keeping with the building’s history as a garrison for British Army officials

Savour the serenity as you wander around Labrador Park in the evening, and make your way to the jetty for a stunning view of the sunset.

Before dinner, head to the cosy lounge to unwind with a cup of tea and a good book from the extensive library. Or, if you prefer, enjoy an aperitif at the Chandelier Bar instead. A two-minute walk along the jungle boardwalk will get you to Tamarind Hill, a restaurant that serves authentic Thai and Shan cuisine with a modern twist. Housed in another colonial-era building, your stay at Villa Samadhi would not be complete without a meal here!

THE WAREHOUSE HOTEL

Located on the banks of the Singapore River, this building was built in 1895 by a successful Hokkien merchant to be used as a shipping warehouse. Back then, the neighbourhood was operated by Chinese secret societies, and was the red-light district of its time.Situated within that rich history, the warehouse was converted into a modern heritage hotel that now offers five-star luxury experiences.
If you’re in the mood to explore, borrow a bike from the front desk and ride along the river. Stop for lunch at one of the many eateries along Robertson Quay, such as Toby’s Estate, Super Loco, or Aburiya. Venture a little further to the quaint streets of Tiong Bahru, and take yourself on a heritage tour of one of Singapore’s oldest housing estates with this online tour map.

MARINA BAY SANDS

Book a stay at one of Singapore’s most renowned hotels and experience unparalleled luxury during your sojourn. With Gardens by the Bay, The Shoppes, and the ArtScience Museum right at your doorstep, discover what Marina Bay has in store for you.

Take a dip in their famous infinity pool and see Singapore from a new perspective as you soak in the spectacular view of the city. After cooling off in the water, enjoy a refreshing cocktail while you lay back and relax on their poolside loungers.For dinner, you’ll be spoilt for choice with world-class dining options. From a multi-sensory Japanese dining experience at Koma to the imaginative Californian cuisine at Spago, tantalise your taste buds and take a trip around the world through food.

If you need retail therapy, The Shoppes has it all. Boasting more than 170 luxury brands, you can take all the time you need to browse through some of your favourite labels. While you’re there, check out the first ‘floating’ Apple Store, which offers the best of Apple products as well as a 360-degree panoramic view of the skyline.