A New Welcome Retreat in the Enclave of Orchard Road @ Vibe Hotel Orchard Road

The recently opened Vibe Hotel Orchard Road, located in the residential enclave of Orchard Road, within easy access to Singapore's busiest and longest shopping belt, is the perfect place of retreat in town, catered for travellers looking for a hotel with a character that provides a welcome retreat amidst contemporary design.

We checked into our room on the 10th floor. The Deluxe Room, fitted with a bathtub and dressed in tufted fabric and muted colours, invites travellers to kick back and relax in a thoughtfully designed room to soothe the senses. We love the comfortable king-sized bed, the huge 55-inch LED TV with cable channels, and the multiple universal outlets around the room for easy access. The open-concept wardrobe further adds to the expansiveness of the room's experience, combining functionality and style.

Work up a sweat anytime at their 24-hour gym with essential equipment ideal for your daily workout routine. In addition, the outdoor swimming pool is open from 6am to 10pm.

Exclusive access to Vibe Pantry for all-day refreshments is only available for their corporate members. However, we had the opportunity to check the pantry out, which has cupboards and countertops filled with cola and energy drinks, as well as packets of nuts, granola and chips snacks to munch on throughout the day.

Located in the lobby of Vibe Hotel, their all-day dining restaurant ROOS offers a laid-back dining experience away from the bustle of Orchard Road with a wide selection of menu offerings ranging from Aussie-inspired brekkie items, all-day grills, handmade pasta, and a selection of Asian food fare brimming with local favourites. The interior was gorgeous. There is ample natural light pouring through the tall floor-to-ceiling glass windows, with a cascading waterfall view, as well as intimate and cosy pod seatings.

During our stay, we enjoyed our dinner at ROOS. The lush cafe setting transforms into a watering hole at night. The island bar serves up an assortment of classic cocktails, craft beers and an impressive selection of curated wines from around the world available by the glass. We ordered the Crispy Honey Prawn Dumpling with mentaiko sauce, cream of wild mushroom, Kurobuta Pork Chop, Truffle Gnocchi, Kombu Butter Tagliatelle, and Singapore Laksa to share.

A complimentary breakfast at ROOS is also included for the next morning from 7am to 10.30am (last order 10am). It comes in a set of a choice of mains, with pastries, yoghurt and drink for each person. We opted for the Chef's Brekkie and the Chicken Congee set.

Words and photos by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Vibe Hotel Singapore Orchard
24 Mount Elizabeth
Singapore 228518
Tel: +65 67381188
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Directions:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down orchard Road to Lucky Plaza. At the end of Lucky Plaza, turn left into Mount Elizabeth Road. Continue walking down Mount Elizabeth Road. Walk to Destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Hotel Soloha @ Keong Saik Road - New Charming Boutique Hotel Nestled In The Culture Rich Keong Saik Neighbourhood

Treat yourself to an adventurous weekend escapade at Hotel Soloha - a new 45-room boutique hotel nestled within Chinatown's heritage and cultural epicentre, Keong Saik Road. It is the perfect place to experience Singapore's unique culture, and its strategic location is home to a good number of bars, restaurants, and eateries as well.

Designed by interior design firm Avalon Collective and architect Asolidplan, step through the wooden panel doors into a whimsical space decked in elements of urban jungle chic and tropical modernism, with local artists adding their own inimitable touch to the space.

Situated just right next to the technicolour bar reception counter, attention may be particularly drawn to its 3m wide pop-art mural by local artist, Ethrisha Liaw. The mural, along with her artwork in the guest rooms, revolves around the central theme of ‘play’, exploring tropical sensuality through the use of pop gradients and uncanny visual textures to create a sense of dynamic movement.

Marvel at the 13-metre high painted art piece by local artist Danielle Tay installed in the lift shaft, which further emphasised the forest theme of the hotel. The artwork, aptly named ‘Spirit of the Forest’, seeks to take guests on a journey of curiosity and adventure in a mystical forest as they ride the elevator.

The Hotel offers five types of rooms – the standard, superior, deluxe, loft and suite – with deluxe rooms starting from $250++ per night. We checked into the Loft room with a comfortable double bed on the mezzanine floor. Upon entering the room, guests are immediately greeted by its warm and inviting elements such as the veneer wood panels or grey-cosy wallpaper, a classic rattan chair, and bright pops of colour added by the bright orange headboard and experimental collages by local print designer, Ethrisha Liaw, beautifying its walls.

To wash away the grime of the day's adventures, guests may be pampered in the bathroom with its patented Hansgrohe Raindance shower, figured glass panels, a magnifying vanity mirror, and the hotel’s in-house toiletries, including lemongrass shampoo and lavender body wash.

Climb up the ladder steps to recline on the plush 30cm-thick mattress which allows for restful sleep for both light and heavy sleepers. The hotel also offers a Smart Cable TV armed with cable and paid channels, and access to YouTube, Netflix and Spotify - perfect for a long night’s binge on one’s favourite television series. The Smart Room Control Unit in every room allows guests to manage lighting and air-conditioning with the press of a button. A variety of preset light settings from ‘party’ to ‘romantic’ give guests the luxury to create the ambience they desire.

Other facilities at Hotel Soloha includes the Games/Meeting Room on the first floor. It is equipped with its very own table tennis table, and doubles as a meeting room.

Or step out into the lush alfresco area at the Courtyard on the second floor for a relaxing afternoon.

As night falls, have dinner at the newly-opened fusion ramen establishment Takeshi Noodle Bar, located right within Hotel Soloha. It offers a curated selection of ramen such as the Sliced Wagyu Beef with Truffle Iberico Tonkotsu, Honey Roasted Iberico Pork with Burnt Miso Iberico Tonkotsu, Seafood Szechuan Mala Iberico Tonkotsu, and Truffle Mentaiko Linguini with Aburi Salmon & Ikura. To complete the indulgent meal, go for their delectable sides such as the mentaiko oysters, char siew and grilled sirloin beef strips.

The hotel also offers a complimentary breakfast buffet, available from 7am to 10am, with breakfast classics such as the scrambled eggs, sausages, hash browns and cereals, to go with your coffee, tea or juice.

‘Soloha' combines 'so', an expressive portmanteau that emphasises the idea of 'to such a great extent' and 'aloha', the catchy Hawaiian greeting that is about living life. Hence, to be Soloha essentially means living an expressive, #yolo life filled with superlatives. Hotel Soloha aims to create a destination hotel that not only fits into Keong Saik’s charming self but is also a modern interpretation of a Singapore that is bold, stylish and cultured. For the dreamers and adventure seekers-alike, it is the perfect place to go on an adventurous journey or a weekend getaway, with free reign given to unfettered imagination, creativity and infinite possibilities.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Hotel Soloha
12 Teck Lim Road
Singapore 088387
Tel: +65 62228881
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW Line, NE Line)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight down New Bridge Road. Turn right onto Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right again onto Keong Saik Road. Walk down Keong Saik Road. Turn left onto Jiak Chuan Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Crowne Plaza @ Changi Airport - Treat Yourself To An Unforgettable Escapade And Discover Jewel Changi Airport's Newest Attractions With The Stay, Shop, Play! Room Package

Whether you're a local or a traveller in Singapore, seeking for a short getaway while discovering Jewel Changi Airport and its new Canopy Park attractions, rest assured you’ll be guaranteed a fantastic holiday experience with Crowne Plaza Changi Airport's brand new Stay, Shop, Play! Room Package.

Relax and revitalise in a sanctuary of calm and modern comfort perfectly encapsulated by the spacious, well-appointed rooms of Crowne Plaza Changi Airport. Eliciting a cosy and contemporary feel with warm hues, delightful touches, and smart technology, expect superior lumber with their luxurious bedding, and bathroom designed to pamper. The bathroom has a separate soaking tub and a tropical rain shower to envelop you in a cocoon of rejuvenation.

For the Runway View rooms, you'd be greeted with impressive views of the airport's runaways through the large glass panels as planes touch down and soar off to the blue skies. The Deluxe rooms, on the other hand, offer a stunning view of the iconic Jewel Changi Airport.

Take a dip in the pool, relax by the resort-style pool or unwind at the Essence Vale Spa for a mind-numbingly relaxing massage, or take your time to hit up the bar bites and drinks available all day at the Club Lounge.

And if you feel like sweating it out, hit up their newly refurbished and extended Fitness Centre, which is accessible 24/7, allowing you to get the workout you need. Fitness equipment includes treadmills, rowing machine, elliptical machine, exercise bike, free weights, kettlebells, punch bag and Yoga mats.

The Stay, Shop, Play! Room Package includes complimentary access for 2 adults and 1 child to the Canopy Park, a recreational wonderland located at the topmost level (L5) of Jewel. The canopy park welcomes the young and young at heart with an array of exciting play attractions. Explore the newly opened attractions - Discovery Slides, Foggy Bowls, Petal Garden and Topiary Walk nestled among the lush foliage with the complimentary Canopy Park tickets.

Expect plenty of fun at the Discovery Slides, a giant 4-in-1 sculptural playscape. Climb up to the top of the viewing deck at the edge of the play structure for a bird’s eye view of the Forest Valley and Rain Vortex.

The little ones can play hide-and-seek at the Foggy Bowls, where they can bask in the pools of mist and experience playing in the clouds.

Be charmed by the creative displays of seasonal flowers from around the world at the Petal Garden and take a selfie with the photo-friendly animal topiaries - orangutans, elephant, peacock, chameleon and crocodile at the Topiary Walk.

When night falls, relax at one of the many vantage points surrounding the Rain Vortex and enjoy the spectacular light and sound show, running from 8.30pm to 12.30am daily at hourly intervals.

Choose from plenty of dining options over at Jewel Changi Aiport for dinner, before heading back to your abode in a delicious, sleepy daze after a day of fun. Continue to feast to your content at the complimentary buffet breakfast spread for 2 adults at Azur, available from 6am to 10am.

The Stay, Shop, Play! Room package includes:
• Daily buffet breakfast at Azur for 2 adults and 1 child below 6 years old. (Breakfast charge for child between 7 - 12 years is S$10++)
• Canopy Park tickets for 2 adults and 1 child* (per room per stay), including access to Discovery Slides, Foggy Bowls, Petal Garden and Topiary Walk
• Complimentary 24-hour parking at Changi Airport Terminal 3B Car Park (single entry parking per stay)
• Late check-out till 4pm (subject to availability)
• Complimentary WIFI

For reservations or enquiries, contact Crowne Plaza Changi Aiport at +65-6823-5388 or email: reservations.cpca@ihg.com. Or book online.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Crown Plaza Changi Airport
Changi Airport
75 Airport Boulevard
#01-01
Singapore 819664
Tel: +65 6823 5300 / 1800 787 1221
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Park Regis Singapore @ Merchant Road - Eat Your Way Through Singapore's Heritage With Park Regis #sginsiders Heritage Food Trail

Park Regis Singapore is an upscale brand offering quality accommodation and strategically located in the heart of the city. It is within walking distance to the happening night spots along the Singapore river. Even popular tourist attractions such as the main shopping precinct of Orchard Road and Sentosa Island are within easy access. The hotel is just a stone's throw away from Clarke Quay MRT Station, its prime position places itself within walking distances to Chinatown, Clarke Quay. Raffles City and Marina Bay as well, so that it acts as an ideal base for sightseeing activities and offers accessibility and convenience in exploring the city over the leisure weekends!

This 4-star hotel offers 202 contemporary open-concept guestrooms, with a modern feel and tropical Australian touch accentuated with timber accents, full glass panels and a palette of warm colours, creating a warm cozy vibe for guests to indulge in the luxuries of this stellar hotel. The rooms also offer either an impressive view of the hotel's swimming pool and waterfall or a spectacular view of the city's night life for guests to soak in from the comforts of their beds.

In line with the Singapore Bicentennial which celebrates the country's 700-year rich heritage, Park Regis Singapore recently launched a #sginsiders Staycation Package with prices starting from just S$218++ per night. Available from May to Oct 2019, the #sginsiders Staycation Package includes:

• Complimentary access to #sginsiders Heritage Food Trail held every Saturday morning, 9.30am - 12.30pm (valued at S$99)
• Complimentary use of e-scooter for 2 hours
• Complimentary daily buffet breakfast for up to 2pax
• Late Checkout until 3pm (subject to availability)

Park Regis's annual #sginsiders trail is back with a culinary spin to take guests back in time though a unique guided walking tour around the vibrant hoods in the vicinity, where four famous homegrown food spots are featured, each with a unique story to tell. Held every Saturday at 9.30am, enjoy unique local food experiences during the #sginsiders Heritage Food Trail just a walk away from Park Regis, where you get to relish in a variety of local delights within Park Regis's neighbourhood at Chinatown, known to be home to Singapore's diverse heritage.

The trail starts off at Hong Lim Market and Food Centre where guests get to enjoy the iconic Singapore Breakfast with the traditional Kaya Toast and a cup of Kopi/Teh.

The flaky curry puffs from Tanglin Crispy Curry Puff are freshly made every day, and generously stuffed with a variety of fillings such as chicken, sardine and otah.

Our second stop lands us at a 83-year-old Cantonese pastry shop Tong Heng, which is popular for its diamond-shaped 'Dan-Ta' (egg tarts).

With over 80 years of experience to perfect their pastries and desserts, Tong Heng is known for their egg tarts and a wide range of other confectioneries.

As we venture further into the hearts of Chinatown, we enter Mei Heong Yuen Dessert, a Singapore Chinatown Heritage Brand specialising in different varieties of traditional pastes and unique snow ice bowl.

We got to try some of their popular flavours such as the local favourite Chendol Snow Ice and the Strawberry Mango Snow Ice.

Lastly, the tour ends with a sweet and savoury delicacy at Lim Chee Guan, a stall started back 80 years in 1938 selling 'Bak Kwa' (dried barbequed meat).

Not just a popular Chinese New Year Snack, the Bak Kwa can also be enjoyed at all times throughout the year! What better way to experience it than at this 80-year-old Singapore Bak Kwa Specialist store.

"It is important for us to spotlight hawker culture in this food trail as it is a way of life for many locals across races, gender, and age, and reflects the identity of the nation. This is also our way of supporting Singapore's nomination of Hawker Culture for the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage," as shared by Jack Chua, General Manager of Park Regis Singapore. Considering Park Regis's close proximity to some of the country's most iconic food places, it is truly a great way to experience Singapore's rich multi-cultural history through food from a local perspective.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you can look forward to more relaxations and comfort back at Park Regis with their great facilities and amenities such as a 25-metre outdoor lap pool with a waterfall feature, a well-equipped gym with a Bondi Book Corner, self-service Laundromat, e-scooters for rent, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

The Melbourne room - a 72-sqm meeting room is also catered for corporate functions and events. This meeting space has a centrepiece view of the gorgeous cascading waterfall from the full glass windows. The meeting room also comes with built-in projector, a large screen, up-to-date visual equipments, as well as conference facilities available for hire.

Renovated in Mar 2015, the refurbished hotel saw brand new additions to the hotel's facilities and upgrades on bedding items in all four room types. The rooms are so comfortable that you might find it pretty hard to say goodbye after your weekend getaway at Park Regis Singapore!

As part of the #sginsiders Staycation Package, guests also get to enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet for up to 2 pax, which includes a scrumptious spread of scrambled eggs, french toasts, sausages, bacon, porridge and dim sum, as well as a station where eggs of your choice are made a la minute.

Get your sightseeing on wheels covered with a complimentary 2-hours use of the e-scooter. Just hop onto one parked outside the entrance of the hotel, and go on an exhilarating ride to discover the best of Singapore.

For more information on the #sginsiders Staycation Package, visit http://www.parkregissingapore.com/specials/

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is a media invite.


Park Regis Singapore
23 Merchant Road
Singapore 058268
Tel: +65 68188888
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Directions:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Turn right onto Merchant Road. Walk down Merchant Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]