Mandarin Oriental Singapore HAUS 65 Review: Is It Worth the Price?

ABBEY: For our 15th wedding anniversary, we celebrated with a 3D2N staycation at the iconic Mandarin Oriental Singapore, and it turned out to be one of the most relaxing and pampering hotel stays we’ve had.

The experience started seamlessly. There was no need to queue at the hotel lobby because our check-in was done directly at the club lounge. While the staff prepared our room keys, we were invited to enjoy breakfast and choose what we wanted from the menu. I immediately went for the Nasi Lemak. The chicken was crispy outside yet juicy inside, pairing perfectly with the fragrant and well-seasoned coconut rice.

Then came the champagne. They were serving Ruinart, and naturally I had a couple of glasses to start the morning. After all, it was a champagne breakfast. The best part? The free-flow champagne continued from 7AM all the way to 7PM.

Shortly after breakfast, our room was ready for early check-in and we were thrilled to be assigned a high-floor room. Waiting for us inside were anniversary treats including cakes, tea, and a thoughtful handwritten note that made the celebration feel even more special.

The room itself was elegant and incredibly comfortable. After requesting firmer pillows, our sleep quality became exceptional. We rested deeply each night and woke up refreshed every morning. One of our favorite parts of the room was the bathtub. It became our quiet space to relax, reflect on the 15 years we’ve shared together, and look forward to what’s ahead.

At 2PM, we headed back to the lounge for afternoon tea, where the champagne was still flowing freely. The spread included savory sandwiches and freshly baked scones, which we happily requested extra servings of.

Of course, we also explored the hotel facilities. We visited the gym and the swimming pool, eventually taking an evening dip to escape Singapore’s afternoon heat. The pool water temperature was just right, and the evening lighting added a sophisticated and calming atmosphere to the entire area.

From 5PM to 7PM, the lounge served evening cocktails and light bites, although “light” hardly describes the spread. There were noodles, sushi, cold cuts, freshly baked bread, and flavorful meat skewers. It honestly felt more like a complete dinner buffet than simple cocktail snacks.

Our stay also included breakfast at Embu, the hotel’s buffet restaurant. I enjoyed a satisfying combination of chicken curry with prata, noodles, bacon, and sausages. But apparently one breakfast wasn’t enough for us because we later returned to the lounge for another round of breakfast served directly to our table.

We also made good use of the gym during our stay. It was well-equipped with the machines needed for a proper workout, making it easy to stay active even during a relaxing staycation.

Overall, our anniversary staycation at Mandarin Oriental Singapore was nothing short of relaxing and memorable. From the attentive service and luxurious lounge experience to the comfortable room and thoughtful anniversary touches, every detail was carefully prepared to make guests feel celebrated, pampered, and genuinely cared for.

Mandarin Oriental Singapore HAUS 65 Review: Is It Worth the Price?

WILL: If you’ve been following us in our YouTube Channel and Blogger you might remember when Abbey and I celebrated our milestone 10th anniversary during the pandemic at The Ritz-Carlton. Fast forward 5 years, and here we are celebrating our 15th wedding anniversary! This time, we checked into the newly refurbished Mandarin Oriental, Singapore to experience their ultra-exclusive club lounge, HAUS 65.

So, what is it about this lounge that had us putting it straight onto our travel bucket list? Let’s dive in!

For the premium price tag, you expect top-notch hospitality, but the team at Mandarin Oriental truly goes above and beyond to make you feel special. Abbey subtly noted that it was our anniversary, but behold—the team completely surprised me with a birthday cake too and a cute, tiny set of local kaya spread for my birthday! It’s these personalized gestures that make a stay unforgettable.

The Food Experience: Hits and Misses
If there’s one area for improvement, it’s the breakfast variety. The lounge menu stayed the same throughout our 3-day stay. Don’t get me wrong—the food is delicately prepared and tastes incredibly good! But if you love a massive variety, definitely head downstairs to Embu for their huge international buffet breakfast instead (which is also included!).

That being said, afternoon tea at HAUS 65 is an absolute dream. Imagine the rich aroma of freshly baked scones paired with velvety, creamy clotted cream. OMG! They delivered it straight to our table with love. Whew, pure bliss.

Do not underestimate the evening cocktail hour! The spread is so substantial it can easily double as dinner. They layout an incredible array of fresh sushi, grilled chicken, savory meats, and comforting noodle dishes. And yes, the free-flow champagne and premium cocktails were really flowing! Yayyy!

The hotel's location is incredibly strategic for roaming around Marina Bay. We spent our evening walking around Gardens by the Bay, marveling at the glittering skyscrapers that remind us how Singapore leads in tech and banking.
Pro-tip: MO has free bicycles available for you to borrow to cruise around the bay. Wink-wink!

Will We Come Back? Of course! Aside from the stellar service, Abbey and I absolutely love Ruinart Champagne—and this is one of the rare, elite hotels in the city that proudly serves it free-flow as their house pour. For the unlimited bubbles, the gorgeous new Peranakan-inspired design, and the VIP memories, HAUS 65 completely won us over!

***

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, SINGAPORE

(W) https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/singapore/marina-bay?search=singapore

(A) 5 Raffles Avenue, 039797, Singapore

(T) +65 6338 0066

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Pullman Singapore Orchard Review | A Staycation Gem in Orchard Road

ABBEY: Another staycation, another new experience and this time at Pullman Singapore Orchard, and it did not disappoint!

Check-in was seamless, and we were pleasantly surprised that our room on the 10th floor was ready by the time we arrived at 2 PM. After a quick change, we headed straight to the pool.

One thing to note: the complimentary welcome drink was only for one guest, as we had accidentally booked the room for one instead of two. Nonetheless, we made the best of our Cosmopolitan and additionally ordered a PSO Beach Sling, and a basket of fries to snack on. The pool water was refreshingly cold, perfect after basking under the afternoon sun. We even had fun riding the floaters and trying (with some effort!) to steer them around.

After a couple of laps, we went back to our room to get ready for dinner. Just then, the reception called and asked us to open the door. Apparently, we had left the “Do Not Disturb” sign on. To our surprise, Pullman Singapore Orchard had prepared a thoughtful celebration for me: a personalized card, a fruit basket, and even a cake to celebrate the completion of my technical presentation. It was such a warm and heartwarming gesture!

Our room was cozy and cool, the perfect place to snuggle under the soft quilt. We had a restful night and woke up refreshed and energized. That’s exactly what a staycation should feel like.

Big thanks to Rina, Iffah, Sufi, and AL for making our stay so special.

Swimming pool at Pullman Singapore Orchard hotel

WILL: Whenever Abbey and I plan a staycation, I always tell him that Orchard is not my first choice. Why?

•It’s a prime location, which means expensive.

•It’s the shopping district of Singapore, which means crowded.

•And with the crowds, comes the noise.

But then… we couldn’t resist the Pullman Orchard signage calling us. 😂 Since we’re Accor Plus members, we decided to give in to it’s SGD120 deal and honestly, I’m glad we did.

The best part about Pullman Singapore Orchard is its location. You are literally at the center of Orchard’s shopping district. Walk to shop, to dine, or simply enjoy a leisure stroll among luxury boutiques.

Need groceries? Just cross the street to Paragon’s basement. Hungry? Orchard has endless dining options, from food courts to high-end restaurants. You will never run out of choices.

Despite being in a busy shopping street, the hotel itself is serene and relaxing. The outside noise doesn’t penetrate the building, which makes it the perfect place to recharge after a long day.

Check-in and check-out? Less than 10 minutes.

Room service? Spot-on and accurate. Everything runs smoothly, which makes your stay completely hassle-free.

Here’s the part that made me fall in love with Pullman Orchard. On their booking system, there’s a section asking what you’re celebrating. I keyed in “successful presentation” and expected maybe a card or a small cake.

But Pullman surprised us with a personalized card and a huge cake from Anabella. 🎂💌 That’s miles beyond what other hotels usually do. The kind of generosity and thoughtfulness that makes your stay unforgettable.

Hands down, yes. Now I understand why one of my acquaintances is a loyal Pullman fan. I can only hope other Accor hotels in Singapore (and beyond) follow this kind of service standard.

For locals, it’s a worthwhile staycation in Orchard Road. For tourists, it’s the perfect hotel in Orchard Singapore if you want shopping, dining, and comfort all in one place.

If you’re searching for the best hotel in Orchard Road Singapore, Pullman Singapore Orchard is worth your attention. Compare rates at Pullman Singapore Orchard via [Expedia link] or check Accor’s direct perks if you’re an Accor Plus Singapore member.

*** 

Pullman Singapore Orchard

(W) https://www.pullmansingaporeorchard.com/

Mercure ICON Chinatown Singapore Review – Brutally Honest Stay at the Largest Mercure Hotel in the World

ABBEY: Another staycation, yay! This time, we checked in at Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre, and it turned out to be a great choice for a quick city getaway.

We were able to get our room quickly, and to our delight, it came with a lovely view of Chinatown. The bed leaned on the firmer side, which was surprisingly comfortable, and the pillows were soft and cozy. It is perfect for a restful night’s sleep. Overall, the room was clean and well-maintained. The only drawback was a slight odor from the bathroom drain; not overly unpleasant, but noticeable enough to mention. We shared this feedback with the hotel, so hopefully, it gets addressed for future guests.

For food and coffee, ICON LINK at Basement 2 is super convenient. We enjoyed our coffee fix at Tomoro Coffee and even grabbed a quick pizza dinner from Domino’s. Another highlight? The hotel’s close proximity to Chinatown Complex, where we savored delicious dim sum and a comforting plate of sweet and sour pork rice.

Mercure ICON Chinatown Singapore Review –  Largest Mercure Hotel in the World

WILL: In the never-ending stretch of hostels and boutique hotels in Singapore’s Chinatown, one building stands tall and gleaming — Mercure ICON. With over 900 rooms, this isn’t just any Mercure — it’s the largest Mercure ICON in the world.

So… why did Abbey and I check in here? Simple. We fell for the Red Hot Deal from All Accor. Yes, FOMO got us this time.

The Room is Small, but not claustrophobic. You can still open two 20-inch luggage inside but will be  blocking the walkway. But here’s my honest take — the bed was not my friend. This is the first hotel bed that actually gave me a backache. My planned “sleepcation” quickly turned into a “tossing-and-turning” marathon.

As for the bathroom — small, as expected from the room size. But the real works they need to do is the soundproofing. I could clearly hear people talking in the hallway, which made me wish they invested more in thicker walls. 

The location is where Mercure ICON wins. Step outside and you’re minutes away from Chinatown, Clarke Quay, and even Singapore’s CBD. Plus, food is everywhere — hawker stalls, cafes, and restaurants in every direction.

My Verdict – Would I Recommend It?

•For tourists: If you’re out exploring all day and only crash in the room at night — yes, it’s a solid choice.

•For locals on a staycation: You can try it, but don’t expect a plush, spa-like escape.

•For light sleepers or  hard bed sensitive: Maybe skip — your back and ears might thank you.

Mercure ICON Chinatown central, and convenient — but not exactly cozy.

***

Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre Hotel

(W)https://www.mercure-icon-singapore-city-centre.com/ 

(A)8 Club Street, Singapore , 069472

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Dorsett Changi City: Affordable Hotel Near Changi Airport?

ABBEY: If you’re looking for a comfortable and well-located hotel near Changi Airport, Dorsett Changi City Singapore is a fantastic option. Whether you’re in Singapore for a layover, business trip, or a quick getaway, this hotel offers a relaxing and convenient stay.

During our stay, we were provided with a clean and well-equipped room, complete with a kitchenette—a great feature for those who prefer some flexibility with their meals. The bathroom was spacious and modern, while the soft, pristine sheets and plush pillowsensured a restful night’s sleep.

Although we couldn’t take a dip in the outdoor pool due to the rain, we made the most of the sauna and steam room, which provided a relaxing retreat after a long day. These wellness amenities make Dorsett Changi City a great choice for travelers looking to unwind.

For dining options, guests can enjoy meals at the Cosmo Bar and Restaurant within the hotel. Alternatively, Changi City Point, a shopping mall with various restaurants and retail stores, is just a short walk away—perfect for those who want more choices.

One standout feature of Dorsett Changi City Singapore is its day-use option, ideal for travelers who need a short but comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy full access to the hotel’s amenities, making it a convenient choice for a quick rest or layover.

WILL: Looking for a hotel near Changi Airport? Many travelers visiting Singapore need a hotel close to the airport, whether for business trips, layovers, or short-term stays. While Changi Airport is about 30 minutes from Singapore’s main attractions by train, some visitors prefer to stay nearby for convenience.

If Crowne Plaza is fully booked or not within your budget, another great option is Dorsett Changi City (formerly Capri by Fraser, Changi City), which is just one train stop away from Changi Airport.

Why Stay at Dorsett Changi City? Dorsett Changi City is strategically located in Changi Business Park, a key hub for IT professionals and international banks. Unlike Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD), this area is quieter, making it ideal for business travelers and short-term guests.

During our stay, we had a twin room with a kitchenette—a pleasant surprise! The room included a complete set of plates and utensils, which made our stay more convenient. If you enjoy having basic kitchen facilities in a hotel, this is a great option.

A bonus feature was the tap water access, making it easy to refill bottles. 

The bathroom was clean, and the Elemis toiletries were a pleasant bonus—I honestly didn’t expect that kind of quality here.

I was particularly excited about the sauna—one of the reasons I booked this hotel. Unfortunately, it was not as hot as expected, which was a letdown. If you’re hoping for a proper spa-like sauna experience, this might not be it.

Aside from that, the hotel offers a well-equipped gym, pool and a business area but quieter than the Central Business District (CBD) location. 

Who Should Stay at Dorsett Changi City?

✅ Business Travelers – Close to Changi Business Park and well-connected by MRT.
✅ Layover Passengers – Just one train stop from Changi Airport.
✅ Staycation Seekers – Comfortable rooms with great amenities.
✅ Day-Use Guests – A great option for short stays before a flight.

If you're looking for a hotel near Changi Airport that’s affordable, convenient, and comfortable, Dorsett Changi City is a fantastic choice.

Dorsett Hotels - Luxury Worldwide Hotel Chain

(W) https://www.dorsetthotels.com/

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Accommodation Excellence

Expedia Booking.com, Hostelworld: Your one-stop-shop for hotel and hostel bookings. Find your perfect home away from home with Expedia's extensive listings.

KKDAY: Not Just for Attractions. KKDAY offers excellent options for accommodations. Explore and book with confidence.