Singapore’s Most Historic Hotel Reopens After 2-year Renovation

One of the world’s most historic grand hotels, Raffles Singapore, has reopened following a two-year renovation.

The hotel first opened in 1887 and within 100 years, it was declared a national monument. Not only does the hotel have international acclaim as the birthplace of the Singapore Sling, Raffles has been the setting for many historic moments in Singapore’s history.

The last tiger to ever be shot in Singapore was cornered under the hotel’s billiard room. Guests danced a last waltz in the hotel’s ballroom before the start of Japanese occupation in 1942. It has been an epicenter of international cosmopolitan life for more than a century. It’s also got a remarkable literary history, having hosted Joseph Conrad, Rudyard Kipling and Somerset Maugham in its earlier years (and thus hosting the “Writers Bar” on premises).

“There are few hotels in the world whose names have become virtually synonymous with the cities in which they are located,” Christian Westbeld, general manager of the hotel, said in a statement. “Raffles Singapore is one of the few remaining great 19th century hotels in the world and its restoration has been carefully designed to preserve its unique historic charm, while creating extraordinary experiences for our esteemed guests.”

The hotel has been under renovation since February 2017. This restoration increased the number of suites from 103 to 115, expanded dining offerings and introduced a gift shop, the Raffles Boutique, where guests can pick up historic and cultural memorabilia.

A recent search on the hotel’s website shows rooms ranging from $632 to $8,650 per night.

The last restoration on the hotel was completed in 1991.