The Westin Singapore

Upper-upscale, 305 rooms and suites
Tel: (65) 6922 6888
Email: res.westinsingapore@staystarwood.com
Website: www.starwoodhotels.com

The property in Singapore’s Marina Bay financial district is a short distance from corporate headquarters, a variety of retail shops and restaurants, as well as Gardens by the Bay. It starts with the lobby on the 32nd level through to the 46th of the new Asia Square Tower 2. Since opening in November 2013, it has drawn mostly business travellers, while leisure guests and local staycationers typically check in over the weekends. The new MRT station, Downtown, is close by.

Meeting facilities

The hotel’s 600m2 Grand Ballroom can seat up to 300 people, banquet style, and can be divided into two separate spaces for smaller events. There are 10 configurable meeting rooms totalling 1,350m2 in space, each accommodating up to 10 people and equipped with the necessary audiovisual and lighting amenities. Green events are possible here through a dedicated supply station dispensing stationery and bottled water as required. However, Wi-Fi may be chargeable, depending on the meeting or room package.

F&B

Seasonal Tastes features five interactive kitchens and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets. I loved the breakfast spread which comprised Western varieties such as made-to-order eggs, waffles and sausages as well as local choices such as congee and fried mee hoon (vermicelli), among other things. Several types of fresh fruit juices were available for a healthy start to the day. Gastro bar Cook & Brew offers classical pub favourites and local comfort food, and can be booked for private events for up to 150 people. Gourmet market Daily Treats allows guests to pick up breads, sandwiches, coffee and juices, while the cosy Lobby Lounge is good for afternoon tea and drinks with colleagues or business partners.

Rooms

The 305 rooms are categorised and priced according to the views they command. I stayed in a 40m2 Deluxe room overlooking the port and financial skyscrapers.

I liked that the door opened into a small hallway before leading to the bedroom proper, where the usual amenities such as a flatscreen TV, minibar, work desk and safe were. The king-size signature Westin Heavenly Bed indeed afforded a lot of comfort and sweet, restful slumber. Décor was simple, with a brown and beige palette exuding The Westin’s organic, natural feel, said the hotel’s spokesperson. I also liked that the lights, TV and air-conditioner switched on and off automatically with each entrance and exit.

The bathroom was spacious but I wished the bathtub could be gripped at the edge or had come with some non-slip mat. Female guests may frown upon the lack of a powerpoint at the vanity for the hairdryer; I had to plug in at the workdesk without any mirror, the short cord threatening disconnection at more than a slight tug.

Other facilities

Apart from a business centre, there is also an outdoor infinity pool on the 35th floor overlooking Singapore’s south coast. Business travellers may also work out at the fitness studio, or rejuvenate at the signature Heavenly Spa.

FACT FILE

Maximum pax for meetings
300 at the grand ballroom, banquet style

Recent events handled
Asset management company’s three-day conference for 70 investors at the ballroom (November 2013); week-long banking conference for 200 pax at the ballroom (January 2014)

Sponsored Post