Review: The Clan Hotel Staycation

Excellent facilities, food and design make The Clan Hotel a great staycation choice (but maybe not the Master Series rooms).

While Far East Hospitality is perhaps better known for their mid-range brands like Rendezvous, Oasia, and Village, they’ve been making a concerted effort of late to go upscale.ย 

The first shot was fired with the launch of The Barracks Hotel in 2019, a 40-room colonial villa on Sentosa with ornate rooms, bespoke service and prices in more rarefied territory. Now comes The Clan, a 324-room luxury hotel at the heart of the Telok Ayer and Amoy heritage district.ย 

Clan Hotel | Photo: Clan Hotel

The Clan Hotel was originally supposed to debut in Q2 2020, but COVID saw the soft launch getting pushed to mid-February 2021, with the property officially opening its doors on 1 March 2021.ย 

I considered visiting during the pre-opening phase to take advantage of the hotel’s (quite spectacular) launch special, but decided instead to delay my visit and give it a little more room to find its feet.ย 

So is this property ready for prime time? In terms of hardware, most certainly. In terms of service, there’s still some fine tuning required. Oh, and you probably shouldn’t be shelling out more for a Master Series room, no matter what the media reviews say.ย 

๐Ÿ“‹ In This Review
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Booking a Clan Hotel staycation

As part of their opening blitz, The Clan Hotel has been farming out the following corporate rate to a wide range of partners, such as members of the SMU Alumni Association.ย 

That’s the rate I booked, and it’s actually quite decent, all things considered. You can enjoy two nights with breakfast from as low as S$292 nett (1 pax), with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival.ย 

Rate for 2 nights
ย  1 adult 2 adults
Deluxe Room S$292 nett S$315 nett
Premier Room S$386 nett S$421 nett
All rates include breakfast and can be cancelled up to 24 hours before arrival.
Book by 31 May 2021, stay by 31 August 2021.

If you don’t have access to this rate, then from now till 31 May 2021, the hotel is offering a 2-night stay in a Premier Room for S$588 nett, inclusive of breakfast and a one-way limo transfer. Guests will also receive a S$100 voucher for a future stay at the Oasia Hotel Downtown, Orchard Rendezvous Hotel or The Barracks Hotel.ย 

I decided to go with the Premier Room because it’s larger (31 sqm vs 24 sqm for a Deluxe), and because all Premier Rooms are part of the so-called “Master Series”, enjoying additional benefits such as:ย 

  • Customised in-room refreshments (choice of 5 items)
  • Handmade soap selection
  • Turndown service
  • All-day breakfast
  • The Clan Daily Special
  • The Clan Keeper Service (precinct tour, complimentary garment pressing)
  • Home/airport limousine transfer (unclear if this is still included)

Here’s the thing though: having completed the stay, my take is that the Master Series perks aren’t worth paying for. In fact, I feel the hotel misrepresents the benefits, because quite a few of them involve a further upcharge. I’ll discuss this more in a separate section.ย 

Clan Hotel: Arrival & Check-in

Clan Hotel Singapore
Clan Hotel Singapore

The Clan Hotel is located at 10 Cross Street, part of the Far East Square complex. It occupies a newly-built 30-storey bronze skyscraper; not tall by CBD standards, but strategically positioned to give guests unobstructed views.ย 

The hotel is just across the road from the Telok Ayer MRT station on the Downtown Line (it’s not directly connected to the station though). Alternatively, the Raffles Place MRT is a five minute (unsheltered) walk away.ย 

Complimentary onsite parking at Far East Square is available for in-house guests (one single entry coupon per night). If you’re taking a cab, ask the driver to keep right on Cross Street as you approach the hotel. Cross Street is a one-way stretch, and you’ll have to make a big loop if you miss the turn.ย 

Clan Hotel entrance
Approaching Clan Hotel

I arrived around 12 p.m on a Wednesday.ย The Clan Hotel staff greeted me on the ground floor and offered assistance with luggage.ย 

Clan Hotel driveway
Clan Hotel driveway

After completing the usual Safe Entry and temperature screening procedure, I was ushered into the hotel proper, through a set of dark frosted automatic doors. These will be locked at night, and you’ll need your keycard to gain access. Be careful to bring it when you head out, because I’m not sure if the reception counter on the ground floor is manned 24/7.

Clan Hotel entrance
Clan Hotel entrance

Reception is on the second floor, and guests wait for the lift in a darkened, quiet entrance foyer. This forms a calming contrast to the hustle and bustle of the streets outside, almost like a peaceful loading screen as you transition from one location to another.ย 

Clan Hotel lift lobby
Clan Hotel lift lobby

The dramatic architecture draws your attention to a barely-visible inscription on the wall- the Clan Hotel’s mantra. It’s a lovely sentiment, but the unfortunate placement of a CCTV camera directly below lends a somewhat authoritarian reading to the text.ย 

Clan Hotel philosophy
Clan Hotel philosophy. Photo brightness has been boosted for visibility.

Take the lift one floor up and you’ll enter the hotel reception, which is quite simply gorgeous. Japanese interior design firm KKS International (who Far East have taken a shine to, engaging them for their triumvirate of hotels on Sentosa) have created soaring ceilings with full height windows for sunlight to stream in, bathing the open-shelf display cabinets and plush furniture in a warm glow.

Clan Hotel lobby
Clan Hotel lobby
Clan Hotel lobby
Clan Hotel lobby

Oriental artifacts fill the shelves, while a collection of ornate umbrellas (apparently on sale at four digit prices) line the walls.ย 

Clan Hotel umbrella collection
Clan Hotel umbrella collection

It’s not just visually arresting; your other senses will be engaged too. In fact, the first thing that might catch your attention is a distinctive scent called “Kindred Spirit.” A mix of earl grey, long jing and tie guan yin blended with sandalwood and white musk, this fragrance was created specially for The Clan Hotel by local perfumer Scent by SIX.ย 

Clan Hotel lobby
Clan Hotel lobby

Suspended above the check-in counters are 150 painted aluminum panels folded in a variety of geometric forms and hung at different heights. This art installation by Grace Tan is called “The Pact”, and is meant to symbolize the close ties and bonds formed between early immigrants who settled in Singapore in the early 1800s.ย 

Check-in area
Check-in area

For those who shun human interaction, self check-in counters are available as well.ย 

Automated check-in counters
Automated check-in counters

In a corner of the lobby was a tea parlour, where the welcome tea ceremony takes place.ย 

Tea serving area
Tea serving area

Guests at The Clan Hotel are greeted with a tea ritual, prepared by affable tea master Alex Choi. Alex worked as a tea specialist with Singapore Airlines prior to joining The Clan, and suffice to say, this man has forgotten more about tea than I’ll ever know. His face turned to abject horror when I told him I didn’t partake, and he insisted I at least try some of the Ritual cold brew. It turned out to be very refreshing.ย 

Tea ceremony
Tea ceremony
Tea ceremony
Tea ceremony

In addition to the Ritual cold brew, a Nanyang Ritual tea is served. All teas at the Clan Hotel are supplied by Pryce, one of those atas tea companies I’d probably know about if I were into the stuff. Tea is served along with a cold towel and a bite-sized tau sar piah that’s flaky and sweet.ย 

Check-in formalities took a couple of minutes, and I was escorted to the room after that.ย 

Clan Hotel: Premier Room

Clan Hotel corridor
Clan Hotel corridor

The Clan Hotel has 324 rooms, split into the following categories:

Room Type Number of Rooms Size
Deluxe 246 24 sqm
Premier 60 31 sqm
Grand Premier 18 36 sqm

Grand Premier rooms are the only category that come with a bathtub, but are not open for bookings yet. I did manage to get a look inside one of them, which I’ll briefly discuss in the next section.

I stayed in room 1701, a Premier Room on the 17th floor.

Room 1701
Room 1701

Premier Rooms are located at the corners of each floor and have wraparound views of the neighbouring districts. They are only available in a King/Queen configuration, so those who want twin beds will need to pick a Deluxe Room instead (all rooms take a maximum of two people).ย 

Premier Room
Premier Room

The Premier Room strikes a decidedly modern business tone, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The dรฉcor plays it safe with a soothing color palette of muted tones and warm lighting, and the L-shaped layout provides extra space for lounging by the windows.ย 

Clan Hotel Premier Room
Premier Room
Clan Hotel Premier Room
Premier Room
Premier Room
Premier Room

The window bay opposite the bed features a long settee that runs the full length, interrupted only by the desk.ย 

Window settee
Window settee

Another seating area has been created at the window next to the bed.ย 

Window sofa
Window sofa

The King-sized bed was firm and extremely comfortable.ย The sheets do a good job of retaining heat, allowing me to set the air conditioning to artic chill with nary a complaint from The Milelioness. Speaking of air conditioning, I might just have been unlucky but I found the vent rattled loudly when it was set on low. The noise disappeared only when I cranked it up to high.ย 

Clan Hotel bed
Bed

The Clan Hotel has a pillow menu for all guests, with the following options:

  • Comfort-U Body Pillow
    • Full body support. Enables muscles & joints to truly relax. Multi-functional body pillow
  • Sidesleeper Pillow
    • Extra comfort for side sleepers. Reduces strain on neck & upper back
  • Latex Pillow
    • Made with 100% natural latex. Reduces head & neck pressure. Breathable interior cell structure provides shape retention
  • Micro-Gel Pillow
    • Hypoallergenic. An alternative to goose down feather, Micro-Gel fibre emulates the lightness and air-trapping abilities of natural down and is supremely comfortable

Trust me, you haven’t lived until you try a U Body pillow. I’d never heard of it before, but it supports your neck and shoulders in a way unimaginable.ย 

U-Body pillow
U-Body pillow

One bedside table had the room phone and hygiene kit.ย 

Bedside table
Phone and hygiene kit
Clan Hotel hygiene kit
Clan Hotel hygiene kit

The other bedside table had a Audio Pro BT5 Bluetooth speaker. This provided crisp music playback, and connecting was simple.ย 

Bluetooth speaker
Bluetooth speaker

Both bedsides have a full range of lighting controls, as well as one USB charging port and one universal power outlet. Do note that one of the power outlets is occupied by the Bluetooth speaker.ย 

Bedside control panel
Bedside control panel
Bedside control panel
Bedside control panel

The room had a large desk that can be used for work or as a dressing area (there’s no flip up mirror, so you’ll need to bring the portable one from the bathroom). The stool is backless, however, so it’s not good for prolonged periods.ย 

Work desk
Work desk

A UV light box was on the desk, giving you a nifty way to sanitize your phone and other small devices (the jury’s still out as to whether these really work though).ย 

UV sanitizing box
UV sanitizing box

Two universal power outlets and USB ports were built into the top left of the desk, as well as an ethernet port.ย 

Work desk power outlets
Work desk power outlets and ports

Wi-Fi speeds were fast enough, but still towards the bottom third of all hotels I’ve stayed in. This could be more of an issue during peak occupancy periods.ย 

ย  ๐Ÿ”ฝDownload ๐Ÿ”ผ Upload
Mandarin Orchard 273 Mbps 294 Mbps
Villa Samadhi 62 Mbps 53 Mbps
M Social Singapore 46 Mbps 49 Mbps
Conrad Centennial 40 Mbps 44 Mbps
YOTELAir Changi 29 Mbps 49 Mbps
W Sentosa Cove 34 Mbps 34 Mbps
Ascott Orchard 29 Mbps 29 Mbps
Duxton Reserve 28 Mbps 29 Mbps
Mandarin Oriental 28 Mbps 28 Mbps
The Fullerton Hotel 23 Mbps 24 Mbps
PARKROYAL Pickering 24 Mbps 23ย Mbps
Shangri-La Singapore 19 Mbps 18 Mbps
Pan Pacific Singapore 19 Mbps 19 Mbps
Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore 19 Mbps 19 Mbps
InterContinental Bugis 15 Mbps 15 Mbps
The Capitol Kempinski Hotel 16 Mbps 13 Mbps
Hilton Singapore 13 Mbps 14 Mbps
Marina Bay Sands 11 Mbps 11 Mbps
The Clan Hotel 9.6 Mbps 9.6 Mbps
Andaz Singapore 8.0 Mbps 9.5 Mbps
Four Seasons Singapore 6.7 Mbps 9.8 Mbps
The Barracks Hotel 7.3 Mbps 7.7 Mbps
Hotel 81 Tristar 7.0 Mbps 6.8 Mbps
Raffles Hotel 6.9 Mbps 6.8 Mbps
Hotel Soloha 4.7 Mbps 5.1 Mbps
Hotel G Singapore 4.4 Mbps 4.8 Mbps
Internet speeds based on Speedtest.net scores

The 55-inch TV was mounted on the wall, with the option to pull it out and swivel for easier viewing in bed. While it’s not possible to connect your own HDMI cable (the system is locked down, preventing you from changing input source), there’s a Chromecast already attached for streaming media content. Setting up the Chromecast was a bit clunky, but once it was done it worked like a charm.

Television
Television

Prior to arrival, Master Series guests are invited to select up to five items for their in-room refreshment basket. This is a one-time benefit given on the first day, and not replenished subsequently.ย You should obviously choose based on preference rather than price, but if you really want to know, I’ve included the list prices of each item below:ย 

I’m pleased that the snacks on offer were the premium stuff. I love Oreos as much as the next guy, but they would be pretty off-brand considering the hotel’s positioning.ย 

Here’s my basket:

Master Series snack basket
Master Series snack basket

A tea set was placed on the settee, with a bundled up welcome gift of Nanyang Ritual tea plus some bak kut teh cookies. Oddly enough, housekeeping replaced the tea pot on the second day with a transparent glass one instead.ย 

Tea set and welcome gift
Tea set and welcome gift
Nanyang Ritual tea and bak kut teh cookies
Nanyang Ritual tea and bak kut teh cookies

Further refreshments were found at the mini-bar area, in the form of a Nespresso machine and tea selection.

Coffee and tea making facilities
Coffee and tea making facilities

Tea is a common motif across Far East properties, and just like The Outpost and Barracks Hotels, two canisters of tea were available at the minibar: British Breakfast and The Ritual blends by Pryce tea. The canisters have been glued to the base to prevent guests from “accidentally” bring them home.

Clan Hotel Pryce Tea
Clan Hotel Pryce Tea

The mini-fridge is empty, so you can store your own items here.ย 

Mini-fridge
Mini-fridge

As we were staying close to my birthday, the staff had prepared a small cake, which was delivered to the room later.ย 

Birthday cake
Birthday cake

The open-concept wardrobe at the entrance of the room provided space for luggage storage, as well as an ironing board. Master Series guests get complimentary pressing for two items per day (non-cumulative). I sent a shirt and got it back within 20 minutes.ย 

Wardrobe
Wardrobe

Inside the wardrobe drawers were a built-in safe and a hairdryer.ย 

Safe and hairdryer
Safe and hairdryer

The bathroom was a mixture of grey marble and stone tiles. It’s not large enough for dual vanities, but the backlit mirror and TOTO washlet still gave it a contemporary and luxurious feel. The washlet is a tad oversensitive though- it would light up and mist itself whenever it detected the slightest movement in the bathroom.

Clan Hotel Premier bathroom
Clan Hotel Premier Room bathroom
Clan Hotel Premier Room bathroom
Clan Hotel Premier Room bathroom
Clan Hotel Premier Room bathroom
Clan Hotel Premier Room bathroom

As part of the hotel’s environmental policies, plastic water bottles are not provided. Instead, a special tap has been installed for filtered water (although there’s absolutely nothing wrong with drinking straight from the faucet- it’s Singapore, people).ย 

Filtered water tap
Filtered water tap

Premier Rooms don’t come with bathtubs, but the shower area was plenty spacious, with a rain shower and handheld showerhead. A bench at the rear provided a space for feet washing.ย 

Shower area
Shower area
Shower area
Shower area

Bathroom amenities were by Vuudh, a line from the Thai skincare brand Harnn. They had a lotus & osmanthus scent- perhaps to match the hotel’s tea selection.ย 

Vuudh bathroom amenities

As a Master Series guest, you’re also entitled to a series of handcrafted soap- relaxing lavender, refreshing peppermint, exfoliating lemongrass and eucalyptus.ย 

Clan Hotel soap collection
Clan Hotel soap collection

This was slightly confusing at first because the associate who escorted me to my room asked which of the three I preferred, which led me to think they’d take away the other two. Fortunately, that didn’t happen, and I was able to try them all.ย 

Other bathroom amenities include two dental kits (with mini Colgate tubes), a shower cap, sanitary bag, shaving kit, comb and vanity kit.ย 

Clan Hotel bathroom amenities
Clan Hotel bathroom amenities

On the whole, I found the room quite to my liking. No doubt it’s down to how new it is, and the fact that the interior design matches my preference for modern luxury, but even those whose tastes veer different will appreciate the premium touches and finishings.ย 

Clan Hotel: Grand Premier Room

Grand Premier Rooms are the largest the hotel has to offer at 36 sqm (vs 31 sqm for the Premier and 27 sqm for the Deluxe). However, this category is not yet open for sale, and the staff couldn’t provide a timeframe for when it would be.ย 

I did manage to get a peek inside one of them, and what struck me the most was how similar it was to the Premier Room. The only meaningful difference, as far as the bedroom is concerned, is that the color tone is darker, with grey finishings for the settee and area behind the bed. A small partition has been built around the side of the bed closer to the door, providing a smidgen more privacy.ย 

Clan Hotel Grand Premier Room
Grand Premier Room
Clan Hotel Grand Premier Room
Grand Premier Room

The additional 5 sqm goes to the bathroom, where both a bathtub and shower cubicle are available. The bathtub has a nice bath pillow, but it’s quite narrow and is definitely single occupancy only. The shower area is noticeably larger than the Premier Room, and is rectangular shaped with a long bench.ย 

Grand Premier Room bathroom
Grand Premier Room bathroom
Grand Premier Room bathroom
Grand Premier Room bathroom
Grand Premier Room bathroom
Grand Premier Room bathroom

Since these rooms aren’t up for sale yet, we don’t know how The Clan Hotel intends to price them. If you absolutely must have a bathtub then I suppose this is the room for you, but remember- there’s a lovely jacuzzi on the 30th floor with heated water and stunning views.ย 

Clan Hotel: Facilities

Pool Gym Spa
Yes: 7 a.m to 11 p.m
Yes: 24 hours No
Kids’ Club Business Centre Others
No No N/A

Swimming Pool

Clan Hotel swimming pool
Clan Hotel swimming pool

The Clan Hotel’s swimming pool is located on the 30th floor, and is open from 7 a.m to 11 p.m daily. The pool has a maximum capacity of eight guests, and usage is limited to 60 minutes per day, although this isn’t strictly enforced if occupancy permits. In fact, when I visited on Wednesday and Thursday there wasn’t any staff member at the pool area; it was only on Friday that they stationed someone there to check bookingsย (presumably in anticipation of the weekend crowd).ย 

Thanks to its rooftop location, the infinity pool boasts commanding views of the surrounding CBD and gets plenty of sunlight during the day. There are exactly eight partially submerged pool loungers, so every guest is guaranteed one.ย 

Clan Hotel swimming pool
Clan Hotel swimming pool

In the evenings you can catch the sunset too, clouds permitting. I’d highly recommend booking the sunset slot where you can witness the day turn to night, and watch the buildings illuminate around you.ย 

Clan Hotel swimming pool night view
Clan Hotel swimming pool night view

As lovely as the pool is, the real hero for me is the heated jacuzzi. This takes a maximum of two people at a time, so be considerate to other guests, but what pure bliss it is while it lasts.ย 

Clan Hotel jacuzzi
Clan Hotel jacuzzi

Gym

The Clan Hotel’s gym is located on the 30th floor (just next to the pool), and is open 24 hours a day. Guests can book 60 minute slots, but again, it’s probably unnecessary unless you’re staying during a period of high occupancy. A maximum of 10 people can use the gym at any one time.ย 

I’m no fitness buff, but I can tell you this is one of the most impressive gyms I’ve seen in a hotel. It’s done up like a dojo, with an extensive range of equipment.ย Beyond the usual treadmills and free weights, there’s also a trampoline, punching bags and even a Wing Chun wooden dummy.ย Exercise mats and medicine balls are stacked on racks, and everything is in pristine condition.ย 

Clan Hotel gym
Clan Hotel gym
Clan Hotel gym
Clan Hotel gym
Clan Hotel gym
Clan Hotel gym
Clan Hotel gym
Clan Hotel gym

The gym enjoys plenty of natural light, with sweeping views of the surrounding buildings.ย 

View from Clan Hotel gym
View from Clan Hotel gym

The cycling machines face inwards, pointed at a large series of LCD screens. A tablet on the wall allows users to select an exercise program to follow.ย 

Clan Hotel gym
Clan Hotel gym
Exercise screen
Exercise screen

Some of the other stations have their own integrated iPads with instructional videos too.ย 

iPads

Outside the gym are lockers and shower facilities, which leads me to suspect the hotel may soon be offering gym memberships to non-resident guests. These would be equally useful in the future for guests with early arrivals or late departures who want to freshen up.ย 

Locker area
Locker area
Shower room
Shower room

The Clan Hotel: Breakfast

QIN restaurant, Clan Hotel
QIN restaurant, Clan Hotel
Served at Cost Style
QIN S$36++ Set menu
Hours Sparkling Wine? Discounts?
6.30 a.m to 10.30 a.m
(until 11.30 a.m on Sat, Sun & PH)
No N/A

Breakfast is served at QIN restaurant, which occupies the 4th and 5th floors. Confusingly, the elevator floor guide shows QIN on the 5th floor, but you’ll actually need to head to the 4th for access- the 5th floor area is closed for now.ย 

Access QIN from the 4th floor, not 5th

Breakfast is served daily from 6.30 a.m till 10.30 a.m (11.30 a.m on weekends and public holidays).ย 

QIN restaurant, Clan Hotel
QIN restaurant, Clan Hotel

Here’s the breakfast menu. Guests can each choose one of the six items available; the local porridge and chef’s special rotate daily. A free flow of coffee/tea and (bottled) juice is also served.ย 

QIN breakfast menu (Click to enlarge)
QIN breakfast menu (click to enlarge)

All breakfast sets come with kaya toast and a fruit bowl. Hainanese kaya fans be advised, QIN serves the green Nonya pandan version (which I found quite bland, despite its deep color). It would also have been nice if they’d reheated the toast before bringing it to the table.ย 

Kaya toast and fruit bowl
Kaya toast and fruit bowl

On the first day, we tried the pancakes and the chef’s special, which was five spice pork belly tacos.

The pancakes were presented beautifully, but the taste was off, almost like McDonald’s hotcakes. I suspect they used margarine or some other shortening instead of butter. Also, the menu description mentioned maple syrup, but it was so thick I got suspicious. One giveaway of artificial maple syrup (referred to euphemistically as “pancake syrup”) is its viscosity. Its thick, sticky body comes from corn syrup and added coloring, whereas maple syrup is naturally thin.ย 

Pancakes
Pancakes

The pork tacos looked messy, but were actually quite delicious. The toppings were an interesting mix of mustard, pomegranate seeds, corn and cherry tomatoes.ย 

Pork belly tacos
Pork belly tacos

On the second day, I opted for the QIN Breakfast, which is really just a traditional English fry-up. What was nice is that the staff (or at least the manager who served us) weren’t too by-the-book; I was able to request additional sides of smoked salmon and avocado without any charge.ย 

QIN breakfast
QIN breakfast

The Milelioness had the porridge of the day, which turned out to be fish porridge.ย 

Congee of the day
Congee of the day

She enjoyed the flavor, but later found that a couple of fish slices were undercooked. We flagged this to the manager, who apologised and offered a substitute dish. We went for the daily chef’s special, which was seafood mie goreng.ย 

Seafood mie goreng
Seafood mie goreng

The noodles were tasty and the egg yolk was runny. The prawns were sweet, but the kitchen should really be deveining them before sending them out.

You don't want to know
Everybody poops

On the whole I’d say breakfast was good quality, with presentation and ambiance well ahead of most Singapore hotels. I’d be curious to see how the kitchen performs during peak periods though, as most of the dishes look rather labor intensive to prepare and plate.ย 

The Clan Hotel: Other Dining

QIN Restaurant
QIN Restaurant

I visited QIN for lunch on the first day, where diners can choose from two set menus priced at S$39++ or S$49++. A further S$12++ gets you soup and coffee/tea, but that feels a bit too steep in my book. The full a la carte menu can be found here.ย 

QIN lunch set menu | Click to enlarge

I went with Set A, and wasn’t disappointed.ย 

The starter was QIN’s slaw, which the staff told me was a play on yu sheng. Fresh greens were topped with peanuts, citrus and plum dressing, creating a crunchy, tangy mouthfeel.ย 

QIN's slaw
QIN’s slaw

Chicken rice without rice may sound sacrilegious, but the intriguingly-named Hainan, No Rice Please was paradigm shifting. Rice was replaced with barley grain balls (still infused with chicken fat and pandan fragrance, of course). A free-range organic chicken was neatly divided into breast meat atop broccolini and thigh meat formed into roulades. The breast meat was topped with a sliver of crispy chicken skin, and the thigh meat was dotted with garlic chili aioli. Shoyu jus was poured into the bowl to finish it, bringing all the elements together in a beautiful harmony.ย 

Hainan, No Rice Please
Hainan, No Rice Please

The theatrics were impressive enough, and the flavor was every bit its equal. Purists may scoff, but it takes cojones to reinvent the classics, and this was Hainanese chicken rice like I’d never experienced it before.ย 

QIN’s take on strawberries and cream features candied chili, compressed strawberries, peanut streusel and soft vanilla cream cheese. It’s a deconstructed strawberry cheesecake, and it’s utterly divine.ย 

Strawberries and cream
Strawberries and cream

I was very surprised to learn later that QIN is a concept by Tung Lok. Yes, that Tung Lok, who you’d associate more with traditional Chinese banquets than bold experimentation. It’s a testament to the culinary prowess of their chefs that they’d be able to bang out Chinese classics on the one hand, then turn around and do something like this.ย 

If you do visit the restaurant, try to do set lunch as the a la carte prices are very steep (S$28-S$68++ for mains).ย 

Clan Hotel: Activities

The Clan Hotel’s website lists an exciting range of activities, such as a brewery & tasting tour by 1925 Brewing Co., a workshop on Chinese music or sandal making, and a walking tour documenting the lives of Samsui women.

The thing is- none of these are included in the room rate. They’re organized and run by outside companies, and unless these are exclusively available to in-house guests, I don’t see why you couldn’t just cut out the middle man and book direct.ย 

What is included is the Precinct Tour, which happens every Wednesday and Friday at 4 p.m. Tours are limited to seven guests, and pre-bookings are highly recommended. In theory, this is only open to Master Series guests, but in practice they’ll roster in other guests if capacity permits. It’s nice that they’d do that, but another reason why I don’t think it’s worth shelling out for a Master Series room (at least on weekdays).ย 

Precinct Tour
Precinct Tour

The tour lasts 90 minutes, and brings you around the Amoy and Telok Ayer areas, with pitstops at the Singapore City Gallery in the URA Centre and Maxwell Food Centre (where the guide bought us all some lovely sugar cane juice).ย 

The Clan Hotel: Service

Service at the Clan Hotel is a bit of a mixed bag.ย The lady who checked me in could not have been more helpful and cheerful. She helped arrange pool and gym bookings, arranged for me to view the Grand Premier Room, and remembered my name throughout the stay. Likewise,ย our guide for the Precinct Tour was awesome, and talking to Alex about tea never gets old.ย 

The rest of the experiences were more uneven.ย 

One of the supposed perks of staying in a Master Series room is access to the Clan Keeper, a sort of butler service to take care of whatever needs you have. The idea is personalised attention, but the experience was completely anonymous. There was noย pre-arrival introduction email, no on arrival meet and greet, not even a business card left on the desk in the room. I went through my entire stay not knowing who my Clan Keeper was, much less having a single interaction with him/her.ย 

Turndown service (again, only for Master Series rooms) was haphazard. We received it on the first night, but not on the second (yes, the DND sign was off). On the night our room was turned down, some Pulse Point oil was placed on the bed, but that was the only indication that someone had been there. Bathroom amenities, towels and coffee wasn’t replenished, curtains weren’t drawn, and it’s almost like they abandoned the room halfway through.ย 

Turndown essential oil
Turndown essential oil

That seemed par the course for housekeeping, which appeared to be done in a rush. For example, the room was made up on the second day, but pillows were left in an untidy stack on the settee. Other hotels would neatly arrange guest items like cables, bags and shoes; there was nothing of the sort here.ย 

Housekeeping on the second day
Housekeeping on the second day

So I’d say The Clan Hotel excels at informal guest interactions, but falls short with the behind-the-scenes stuff. Putting in some additional structures and SOPs (e.g a personal introduction by the Clan Keeper, a detailed letter of Master Series room benefits on arrival, a note under the door if turndown service was missed) would go a long way.ย 

Are Master Series rooms worth paying for?

While early media previews have waxed lyrical about the perks of a Master Series room, I remain unconvinced about its value.ย 

As a reminder, here’s what Master Series guest can expect:

  • Customised in-room refreshments (choice of 5 items)
  • Handmade soap selection
  • Turndown service
  • All-day breakfast
  • The Clan Daily Special
  • The Clan Keeper Service (precinct tour, complimentary garment pressing)
  • Home/airport limousine transfer (unclear if this is still included)

I’ve already highlighted the issues with the turndown service and Clan Keeper in the previous section, so I won’t repeat them here.ย 

All-day breakfast isn’t much of a perk. It just means that if you want to sleep in, they’ll serve you a limited breakfast selection all the way till 4 p.m. It’s hard to get excited about that, frankly.ย 

All-day breakfast menu
All-day breakfast menu

The Clan Daily Special almost feels like false advertising.ย In theory, this is an opportunity for guests to sample local hawker fare through a curated selection of dishes.

Savour the gastronomic delights of Singapore’s favourite local hawker fares perfected through generations of master culinary skills. Select your choice from the distinguished curation by Dr Leslie Tay who is the champion advocator for Singapore’s hawker heritage, and we will arrange for your in-room dining pleasure.

Master Series rooms can place orders between 5-7 p.m daily, but it’s not free. Your options are S$30 for 15 pieces of satay or king prawn laksa, S$31 for nasi lemak, S$33 for fishball noodles and S$36 for bak kut teh.

Clan Daily Special | Photo: Jasmine Teo, 8 Days

Needless to say, these are tourist trap prices, and I don’t see why this is advertised as a Master Series benefit when it’s not really “included”. Heck, most of the vendors they work with (Legendary Bak Ku Teh, Ponggol Nasi Lemak, Li Xin Fishball) offer delivery, so you could order the same items for yourself and spend much less.ย 

Then there’s the complimentary home/airport limousine transfers, which are supposedly a perk of Master Series rooms based on the press release and various media stays.ย However, I was given no such option, and the only information I could find on the hotel’s website listed this as a paid (S$81 nett) service.ย 

So what does the extra money get you? A larger room, some snacks and handmade soap. Unless you really need the additional space, I’m doubtful this really enhances your Clan Hotel experience.ย 

What would make a Master Series room worth paying for, in my opinion, is the inclusion of executive lounge style benefits like afternoon tea and evening cocktails. I really did want to try more of the bites and tipples at QIN, but the steep prices (S$30 for a cocktail) scared me off. Given how new the hotel is, wouldn’t it make sense to let premium guests sample their wares and perhaps become repeat customers down the road?ย 

Verdict

Clan Hotel
Clan Hotel

The Clan Hotel boasts lovely design and a unique vibe, but what tarnished my stay was the buyer’s remorse. I think I’d have enjoyed it much more had I just booked a Deluxe Room, as the inability to justify the extra money paid forย Master Series perks kept weighing on my mind.ย 

Deluxe Room guests will still get access to the same excellent pool and gym, a breakfast that’s a refreshing change from the paint-by-numbers approach at other hotels, and maybe even a spot on the heritage tour, capacity permitting. That’s certainly good enough for me, and anyone else in the value-seeking clan.ย 

Visited The Clan Hotel yet? What’s your take?

๐Ÿจ In Summary

Excellent facilities, good food and lovely design make The Clan Hotel a great choice for a staycation, although there’s a nagging feeling the Master Series isn’t worth the premium.ย 

Do say: I’m a clansman

Don’t say: That’s, er, spelled with a ‘C’

Milelion Staycation Ratings
ย 
Aaron Wong
Aaron Wong
Aaron founded The Milelion to help people travel better for less and impress chiobu. He was 50% successful.

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ZYX

Hi Aaron, I think it’s more appropriate to note the room type (suite/non-suite) & membership status together with your star rating also. Thx

JW19

4 stars for Andaz I presume would be based on your experience. I believe the no pool access rates will put it near Duxton (Everything Else Reserved)

Anon

any 0.5* yet?

ZYX

Hotel 81

Jani P

Great review! One incredibly pedantic note: maple syrup in Singapore tends to be the lighter grades in both taste and color, which are indeed runnier, but if you get the heavier/darker grades, they have a stronger taste and are more viscous as well. You rarely see these outside Canada though. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maple_syrup#Grades

P-S

I stayed for 2 nights during the preview, sharing my experience here. The service was much better. Received an email to arrange for limo service, a lady actually came to find us and escorted us to the car. She also passed us her namecard. She escorted us to our room and even took her shoes off when entering the room to do room introductions. (First time experiencing this, blew my mind.) We were just chilling and didn’t use any of the clan keeper services. A guy at the reception downstairs offered a drink when we waiting for someone else. They… Read more »

Brandon Teoh

As always consistency is the greatest challenge.
Only question is was the good service at the beginning for show only?

mOjO jOjO

It sticks out like a sore thumb amongst the heritage buildings.

hha3838

I might try this hotel but gosh, is it trying just a bit too hard to be hip? That shouty ALL CAPS mission statement wall inscription thingy just sounds creepy…looks like something from a dystopian wuxia movie- maybe The Untamed Meets Big Brother from the novel “1984”…and that CCTV is a glorious little touch LOL The rack of vintage (??) umbrellas- looks like it’s from the set of the Kingsmen movies ๐Ÿ˜€ Colour palette and design of the rooms reminds me somewhat of the Conrad and QIN restaurant has plenty of natural light…like Racines@ Sofitel City Centre. Snack basket provided… Read more »