The New Majestic Hotel in Singapore offers Design with a capital “D.” But while it offers a hotel experience filled with artwork and decor by all sorts of different artists, theatre directors, and designers of furniture and clothing, the feel is accessible without pretension. There is definitely a touch of whimsy with rooms feeling like living works of art. Many of the rooms feature walls covered in hand-painted murals and original sculptures and artworks, and some even have outdoor bathtubs. With names like “Bliss”, “Aqua”, and “Pussy Parlour” there is a room for everyone.

This hotel of 30 unique rooms is located in one of the most convenient and authentic neighborhoods of the city. Located in the middle of one of the only Colonial historic districts in Singapore, it’s within walking distance of very chic shops, spas, restaurants, as well as Chinatown, and the small ‘gay district’ is only a block away. It’s also a minute walk from the incredibly clean and timely subway system.

Every room at this hotel is different, but there are some really nice details in each one that makes this place feel comfortable and gracious. The longer you stay here the more you enjoy it. I actually want to go back right now just to feel the incredible Ploh sheets and the comfortable bed. There are full-size Kiehl’s toiletries in every bathroom and the bathrobes and slippers make bath time in the open rain shower a truly rejuvenating experience. You can even wind up the specially designed music box that you will find in every room to lull you to sleep at night. Or to help you get up in the morning, there is a Nespresso coffee maker with everything you need for your caffeine fix.

Every morning starts out with a trip downstairs to the restaurant for a simple but well-prepared selection of breakfast with made-to-order eggs and coffee… (none of that watered down drip coffee, but the European stuff). Then you can use the well-designed exercise room or take a swim in the glass-tile pool. By the way, there are portholes in the bottom of the pool that are open to the restaurant below. I like to imagine diners thinking that they are viewing some sea mammal exhibit as I swim by overhead. Is that a manatee?

The thing about this place is that its charms don’t instantly hit you over the head. The longer you stay here the more you realize how great it is. It’s definitely for the type of person who is looking for a different experience. This is not a hotel that you could find in any big city around the world. It’s something special. It offers everything you need but it definitely won’t kill you with service. While the staff here is more than welcome to help if you need them, they aren’t around that much.

I don’t know if it’s the collection of mid-century antiques peppered throughout the place, the incredibly soft linens and feather beds, or the beautiful setting, but I would definitely come back to Singapore just to visit this hotel. Singapore is not my favorite city, but this hotel is definitely on the short list of my favorite places to stay.

31-37 Bukit Pasoh Road Singapore 089845 Ph: 6511 4700