Singapore


The Experience

The competition among five-star hotels in this tiny city state is fierce, but the Four Seasons consistently wins the highest honors. Perhaps it's conveniences like air-conditioned tennis courts, in-room spa service or the intimate, clubby lounges. Location could be another factor; the Four Seasons is just around the corner from the shopping at Orchard Road, a short drive from the financial district and within easy reach of all of Singapore's sights.

The Rooms

In the regular rooms, the decor is traditional Four Seasons: rich, dark woods, a mix of striped and patterned fabrics, plush armchairs and big marble bathrooms with double sinks, separate showers and tubs -- they could just as easily be in Europe as Asia. The suites, however, have more decorative touches of chinoiserie. They're also generously sized, ranging from 800 to 2,200 square feet for the Presidential suite. If you're trying to decide between a room and a suite, the premier rooms are an excellent compromise: These corner rooms feature bay windows with views overlooking the botanical gardens.

The Service

The moment the immaculately dressed bellman leaps to open your car door, you know the level of service is going to be top-notch. Singaporeans are mind-bogglingly efficient compared with their Southeast Asian neighbors, and you'll be hard pressed to find a fault here. The concierges are fantastic at guiding you in the right direction and obtaining reservations; waiters are solicitous and fast.

The Highlights

Next to the somewhat cold marble reception area in the lobby you'll find a comfortable living room with overstuffed armchairs and natural sunlight filtering through dark wood shutters. The clubby vibe continues at the bar at One-Ninety, with its plush sofa and leather chairs, and is carried through into the downright gentlemanly billiards room. The 65,000-square-feet spa and fitness center takes up two floors, and includes a sophisticated golf simulator, a wood-floored exercise studio and a lap pool surrounded by bougainvillea and palms. For lovers of dim sum, the elegant Deco-Chinese-decorated Jiang-Nan Chun is just another of the hotel's great assets.

-- Laurel Delp

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