| Update: A previous version of this article stated that Ritz-Carlton had been removed. That was the case in this morning’s PDF list. STB has since updated the list to re-include Ritz-Carlton. |
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has now approved a total of 127 hotels for staycations, or approximately a quarter of the 400+ hotels in Singapore.ย
There was a fair bit of confusion this morning, as the STB first published a list with just 116 hotels on it. Among the removals were several budget hotels and the Ritz-Carlton. The list was later updated to the full complement of 127, with all the removed hotels reappearing.ย
For a comprehensive list of staycation tips, deals and reviews, be sure to check out The Milelion’s Staycation Portal. I’ll be adding additional resources and reviews in the days to come.ย
Which hotels are approved for staycations?
The following 127 hotels are now approved to take staycation guests:
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The new faces from the upscale and luxury segment include the InterContinental Singapore (the one in Bugis, not the Robertson Quay one) and Mandarin Oriental.
There’s also a host of new budget options from the Hotel 81 chain (try the Tristar!)ย and the oft-forgotten Fragrance Hotel. According to The Shutterwhale, all Fragrance Hotels were supposed to be rebranded into ibis Budget properties, so I’m surprised to see them still trading under the old names.ย
Here’s a map showing the geographical spread of staycation-approved hotels.ย
What staycation deals are on offer?
I’ve compiled a comprehensive article detailing the various staycation deals available, a list which gets updated daily as more packages come in.ย
In general, you’ll get much better value by paying for staycations with cash than redeeming hotel points, although exceptions apply (e.g a program with fixed value redemptions like Accor Live Limitless).ย
What will the staycation experience be like?
The STB has published an extensive list of regulations that hotels must comply with before they can accept staycation guests.
I’ve covered the details here, but you can expect things like:
- Staggered check-in/out timings (the Mandarin Orchard is assigning guests an arrival time slot between 2 to 5 p.m)
- Capacity constraints on pool and gym usage (Marina Bay Sands is asking guests to pre-book time slots for the famous infinity pool)
- Contactless delivery of room service and other amenities (YOTEL’s made a staycation package around its robots)
- Modified club lounge happy hours (the Shangri-La has closed its club lounge and is serving complimentary snacks at the Champagne Bar instead)
- No breakfast buffets (W Sentosa [and many more I’m sure] is doing an a la carte menu served buffet style)
Get ready for Phase 2 staycations: What to expect from Singapore hotels
Hotel rooms will be limited to a maximum of five concurrent guests, with extensive cleaning between stays and more single-use items.ย
I recently completed a stay at the W Sentosa Cove, and in my review I’ve highlighted some of the things that were done differently.
Conclusion
We’re now firmly in the triple digit range of approved hotels, although there’s still plenty more to come. As expected, hotel deals are coming thick and fast- for a guide to the best luxury and upscale hotel deals, have a check of the links below (more guides to come)
As always, if you spot any good staycation deals be sure to ping them over to me and I’ll take a look.ย
Ritz Carlton is back on. List is back to the usual link too.
yes indeed! there’s been some weirdness with the STB site, but i think it’s all settled now. 123 total approved.
Saw the STBโs weblink, now expanded to 127 hotels.
Possibly due to system maintenance or page updates happening consistently, especially with the fluid situation we’re in these days.
You’re gonna be a busy bee too with all the changes of late. Things to look forward to I guess!
What’s the hotel name, for the 1st picture used with the outdoor bathtub?
that’s the hotel soloha, which i’m quite excited to review in a couple of weeks.
do note the picture shows one of their outdoor suites, not all rooms come with that feature. but even a suite should cost you around 150-200 at the very most.
Hey Aaron great job with this and the recent articles. STB and the hotel association should name you an ambassador of sorts for promoting such great information and supporting the industry.
Kudos to you