The Fullerton Hotel Singapore

Singapore's Fullerton is, like Singapore itself, one-of-a-kind, at once a historical curiosity and a modern marvel. The iconic building, designed in the style of such classical Greek structures as the Parthenon, was a colonial landmark, indeed the last refuge of the colonial Governor at the dawn of Singapore's independence.

Though the exterior has been exquisitely preserved, there is nothing colonial within the walls of the present-day Fullerton. The interiors are uniquely clean, bold, and contemporary, full of classical references, yet indulging in none of the ornamentation or retro flourishes that would so quickly turn this hotel into a tacky colonial museum. In fact it is a fine line that the Fullerton walks, in terms of décor, service, atmosphere - how to convey an extravagant, palatial luxury hotel experience without descending into parody or worse, kitsch.

This is not a tourist attraction, after all. Again, much like Singapore itself, the Fullerton is absolutely dedicated to business. Obsequious valets fanning the patrons with palm fronds would only get in the way. Discreet (though no less extraordinary) service is the order of the day. Staffers have a way of materializing seemingly out of thin air when needed, then melting back into the scenery when privacy is called for. Newspapers (or parcels, or polished shoes) are delivered through a compartment in the guest room's wardrobe closet, for the utmost in unobtrusive service.

Rooms either face the sunny central atrium (doubling as courtyard entry) or, from private verandas, overlook the skyline, the harbour, or the river promenade. All are spacious, clean, and modern, and come equipped with broadband internet access, in addition to all the other standard five-star amenities (including the Philippe Starck bathroom fixtures, essential to any self-respecting contemporary hotel).

The Fullerton boasts of one truly unique restaurant, 120 feet above street level. The building once pulled double duty as post office and lighthouse, and now the retired lighthouse offers its harbour-spanning view to dining patrons. Town, Jade, and the Courtyard offer less dramatic vistas but no less impressive cuisine, and the Post Bar, retaining some of the architecture of the original post office, is the hip hotel bar, serving crustaceans and cocktails to the Singaporean elite.

All of this comes at a price substantially lower than expected. Such fine service in such a remarkable environment could easily cost two to three times as much in any other city. And it would probably be worth it - but the Fullerton's price makes it a phenomenal value, on top of all its other strengths. Definitely a hotel with character, and one to unabashedly recommend.

• 400 Rooms
• Style: Modern Design
• Atmosphere: Lively
• 38 Guest Reviews

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