Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay Sands has been synonymous with the Lion City skyline since opening in 2010. And now, the famed hotel has unveiled its refurbished rooms, elevating the guest experience to new heights.
Traveller: Cathy Wagstaff
Room: Sands Premier Room
Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore, 018956
Date: October 2023
Price range: From $760
Best for: A business or leisure traveller seeking a central Singapore stay
Location
In the heart of Singapore’s vibrant city district across from Marina Bay, this high-end hotel within a sprawling entertainment complex is 1km from Gardens by the Bay and 18km from Singapore Changi Airport.
Within a short walk, you can find
Many delectable dining options and activities within this establishment make it a truly world-class destination. The tranquil waters of Marina Bay and the lush greenery of Gardens by the Bay are minutes away. The Esplanade – with its many theatres and galleries – is nearby for arts and cultural attractions.
Claim to fame
As Singapore’s largest hotel, Marina Bay Sands boasts over 2,200 rooms and suites, crowned by the spectacular Sands SkyPark. The hotel has just reinvested a US$1 billion program to upgrade 850 hotel rooms in Towers 1 and 2, setting the tone for a new era of hospitality with a designed that draws inspiration from Singapore’s multicultural environment.
The hotel’s recent renovation has unveiled renewed refinement and making headway with the launch of its Bay Precinct Strategy, positioning Marina Bay Sands and the Bay area as the epicentre for hosting international events.
The room
My Sands Premier Room, the flagship offering in this revamp, boasts a spacious layout designed for comfort and productivity. With a generous seating area, an oversized work desk, and a plush king-sized bed, the design aesthetic marries modern minimalism with a palette of earthy taupe tones, creating an inviting and serene atmosphere.
The marble-clad bathroom is a work of art, with a deep-soaking bathtub and a rain shower for a spa-like experience. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the stunning cityscape, the shimmering waters of Marina Bay, and the lush greenery of the Gardens by the Bay.
The new design philosophy echoes in the finest details and elevated level of craftsmanship, from the leather cladding of the drawer safe and hangers in the wardrobe. Drawing inspiration from Singapore’s multicultural environment, the bedroom headboard mimics a Chinese screen in a Peranakan shophouse, while the floor is covered with thick Axminster wool carpet featuring a motif similar to textiles found along Arab Street.
© Marina Bay Sands
Amenity game
In-room, wireless smartphone charging pods, bedside lighting and curtain control panels, and motion-activated occupancy sensors that automatically respond to guests’ presence are seamlessly added into the new design with a 75-inch television and an immersive Yamaha sound system with plenty of entertainment.
Tech-savvy guests will appreciate the seamless experience of the hotel’s digital transformation, which sees the launch of its mobile-application-enabled Smart Hotel feature allowing guests to skip conventional check-in and out at the front desk. Users can pre-register and complete verification on their mobile phones, and activate digital keys for room and lift access on their arrival.
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Beyond the rooms
Marina Bay Sands has long been celebrated for its gastronomic offerings, and there’s no need to leave the hotel searching for a world-class meal.
Japanese fine dining at Wakuda or Koma, celebrity hot spots by Gordan Ramsay, and the Michelin-starred steakhouse CUT by Wolfgang Puck.
Perched on the rooftop, Ce La Vi offers modern Asian cuisine against the backdrop of awe-inspiring city vistas. For the flavours of Italy, Lavo Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar serves authentic Italian dishes, including homemade pasta and wood-fired pizzas. The rooftop bar provides an idyllic setting for sipping classic cocktails while gazing at the dazzling city lights.
Spa life
Banyan Tree Spa Singapore is set within Oriental-inspired water gardens on the 55th storey of Marina Bay Sands, with a well-curated spa menu of holistic treatments, massages, calming baths, and facials.
Staying in
There’s a range of activities to keep guests entertained without ever needing to leave the property. The iconic SkyPark, 200 meters above ground, is a must-visit. Whether you dip in the breathtaking infinity pool, sipping cocktails at the bar, or simply relish the panoramic city views. SkyPark Observation Deck – 56 storeys up – offers a scenic view of Singapore’s world-class cityscape and iconic landmarks.
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is a shopping haven featuring over 170 luxury and premium brands with a treasure trove of high-end fashion, jewellery, and lifestyle products. Art aficionados will be enticed by the ArtScience Museum, with its exhibitions that blend art, science, culture, and technology.
© Marina Bay Sands
Stepping out
World-class dining entertainment and cutting-edge exhibitions are all on your doorstep. Be sure to check out the listings at The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, Victoria Theatre and National Gallery Singapore for arts and cultural attractions.
The family factor
Packages for families come with unlimited access to immersive exhibitions and iconic attractions, a fully equipped family suite, complimentary breakfast and in-room dining menus.
Before booking
For those seeking the utmost opulence, the Piaza Collection is the pinnacle of Marina Bay Sands’ accommodation. These ultra-luxurious residential-style suites are located on the hotel’s highest floors and are served by a 24-hour butler team. Dedicated limousine transfers and private lifts to suites ensure a seamless arrival.
Suites offer a spacious living area, separate bedrooms with a king-sized bed, and a private balcony, spanning the entire suite width and providing unobstructed views of the Singapore skyline. It’s the perfect spot to savour a leisurely breakfast or an evening cocktail as the city lights up in all its glory.
Insiders’ tips
Exclusive access to The Club at Renku comes with specific room types, with complimentary afternoon tea, evening drinks and canapés; these include Piaza Suites.
Sands LifeStyle membership gives priority access to sought-after events and restaurants, and you earn unlimited rewards as you shop, dine, play and stay at Marina Bay Sands.
I wish I could take home
The Armoire, a bespoke minibar illustrated with a muted-gold chinoiserie pattern on shiny black lacquer, it is an eye-catching piece of art that opens to a range of specialty tea, coffee, fine wines and snacks, with the chinoiserie design subtly making its way into several of the porcelain offerings in the room.
Signature expert rating
9 out of 10 – Marina Bay Sands’ newly renovated rooms have ushered in an era of new sophistication at this Singapore icon, making it a destination hotel at the top of its game. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or simply seeking an opulent retreat, Marina Bay Sands will leave you enchanted.
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