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Raffles Hotel Singapore Review: By Luxury Hotel Expert Renae Leith-Manos

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Celebrating Raffles Singapore, as it is named number 6 In The World, A Review.

Raffles Hotel Singapore, one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic luxury hotels, has once again made waves by being named the 6th Best Luxury Hotel in the World on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2024 list.

We are again publishing this review where Australian luxury hotel expert, Renae Leith-Manos, visited this legendary property and offers an insider’s look at what makes Raffles Singapore truly extraordinary.

Having first opened its doors in 1887, Raffles Hotel Singapore is not only a symbol of luxury but also a National Monument, named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of Singapore. Fresh from a two-year renovation, this storied hotel is now more exquisite than ever, merging modern refinement with timeless elegance.

A Luxurious Facelift: Raffles Singapore Reimagined

The extensive two-year restoration, completed in 2019, has transformed every corner of the hotel, bringing a new level of sophistication to this historic gem. According to Leith-Manos, the renovation didn’t just maintain Raffles’ original charm but elevated it into a new realm of grandeur.

“The facelift has taken every aspect of this extraordinary hotel to a whole new level,” she notes, adding that the renovation touches on everything from architecture to dining, while ensuring that the soul of the hotel remains intact.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the famous Raffles doorman, a symbol of the hotel’s long-standing commitment to impeccable service. His sartorial elegance sets the tone for the luxury experience that awaits inside, where every detail has been thoughtfully refined.

Raffles Hotel Singapore has been named 6th best in the world

World-Class Dining: A Culinary Wonderland

The hotel’s new 10 restaurants and bars are a major highlight. Each venue is sophisticated, offering culinary excellence in both traditional and contemporary forms. Whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or an opulent dinner, Raffles Singapore offers a diverse array of world-class dining experiences.

Leith-Manos points out that the gastronomy at Raffles rivals some of the world’s best, with each restaurant offering a uniquely curated menu, designed to highlight both global and local flavors. “The dining experience here is truly next-level,” she says, mentioning that the variety of restaurants and the hotel’s attention to detail make it a standout for food lovers.

Opulent Rooms & Suites: A True Sanctuary of Luxury

Raffles’ 115 newly refurbished rooms and suites are a harmonious blend of colonial charm and modern luxury. Each suite has been tastefully updated to reflect the heritage of the hotel while incorporating state-of-the-art amenities. Leith-Manos describes the rooms as “spacious, opulent, and filled with sophisticated touches.”

Among the features that stand out are the Nespresso coffee machines, a complimentary non-alcoholic mini-bar—which is cleverly tucked into a luggage-style table—and indulgent bath products from Ormonde Jayne, a British fragrance house known for its exquisite, decadent scents. Every suite provides a sense of privacy and exclusivity, ensuring that guests feel like they are in their own personal sanctuary.

Click here to hear the conversation with Raffles Managing Director Christian Westbeld.

The Glamour of Raffles: A Touch of Refined Glitz

One of the most breathtaking features of the hotel is its striking bohemian chandelier, which dazzles with 8,214 individual crystals. This chandelier is emblematic of the glamorous, yet tastefully refined atmosphere that Raffles Singapore exudes. It is a reminder that, while steeped in history, this hotel is forward-thinking in its design and elegance.

Leith-Manos captures the essence of this luxury icon perfectly, describing it as “glamour with a touch of elegantly refined glitz every step of the way.” For those seeking a world-class luxury hotel experience in Southeast Asia, Raffles is a destination not to be missed.

A Legacy of Luxury: Somerset Maugham’s Enduring Words

Few hotels carry the same legendary status as Raffles. The hotel has played host to a roster of illustrious guests, from royalty to literary giants. Renowned playwright Somerset Maugham once said, “Raffles Hotel stands for all the fables of the exotic East.” Leith-Manos agrees, explaining that Raffles is much more than just a place to stay—it’s a journey into history, luxury, and unparalleled service.

Why Raffles Singapore is a Must-Stay

In this insightful review, Renae Leith-Manos provides an authentic look into why Raffles Hotel Singapore is not just a hotel, but an experience. From its luxurious renovation to its unparalleled service and culinary excellence, Raffles continues to define what it means to offer world-class hospitality. Whether you’re visiting for its exceptional dining, enjoying a cocktail in its legendary Long Bar, or retreating to one of its opulent suites, every moment at Raffles is steeped in history and elegance.

Raffles Hotel Singapore is, quite simply, one of the greatest places to stay in the world. And as it celebrates its recent accolade as the 6th Best Luxury Hotel in the World, this National Monument continues to shine, reminding us why it has been a favorite for luxury travelers for over a century.

If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, Raffles is the ultimate destination to experience Southeast Asian luxury at its finest. From the glamour of the crystal chandelier to the tastefully designed suites and world-class dining, every inch of Raffles Singapore speaks to its legendary status as a leader in global hospitality.

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Renae elegantly traverses the globe, curating the most exquisite personalised travel, dining, and wellness experiences for discerning women. With over 25 years of distinguished journalism, her work has illuminated the pages of prestigious magazines, newspapers, and digital platforms. Renae’s expertise transcends travel writing; she is a coveted speaker and coach within the luxury hotel industry. Balancing her professional pursuits with a delightful contradiction—a passion for fitness and an indulgence in dark chocolate—Renae infuses a unique blend of authority and Australian charm into the realm of luxury travel.

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