16 DIGS.NET | 10.15.2021
L E G E N D S | R A F F L E S S I N G A P O R E
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W
ITH THE WORLD increasingly
reopening its doors, one property
is making a grander entrance
than most—Raffles Singapore.
As it would, naturally, given the 19th century
heritage hotel's rich history, its luminary-filled
guest list, its verdant views, and its mannered,
immersive ways. The property's stature in
its vibrant island nation is positively beyond
reproach, and just as elevated as the white-glove
service and experience that draws dignitaries
and discriminating travelers alike. Our recent
pause excluded, this was always true. And yet,
the flagship property within the augmented
Accor hospitality group has managed to outdo
even itself, emerging from its chrysalis a post-
pandemic butterfly, still observing health
protocols but cautiously spreading its wings to
showcase the glittering results of a three-phase
restoration completed in 2019.
This was not the first refresh for the baronial
hotel, which was built in 1887 and, exactly one
century later, designated a National Monument
by the Singapore Government. Two years after
that ceremonious distinction was granted in
1987, Raffles underwent another refurbishment
conducted over two-plus years. Not one to
rest on its laurels, the hotel's latest overhaul
was headed by leading figures in the worlds
of international architecture and design, and
preserved its architecture inside and out while
PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SPACES THROUGHOUT THE HOTEL BOAST A GLAMOROUS COLONIAL TONE THAT
MANIFESTS IN POLISHED FINISHES AND OPEN-AIR SPACES THAT ENGAGE WITH LUSH GARDEN GROUNDS.
