Have to admit that the IC has been suggested a few times when I've asked about location centric luxuryish hotel. Others have mentioned that the Swissotel and the Fairmont are even better located based on my criteria ie to walk out and be right in the middle of a vibrant area without having to go far - (the area behing the Taj in Mumbai being an example of this and less so the road out in front). Are they the same or similar standard as the IC?

I did note the comments on the Capella and must say it appeals but for me the resort part of this trip will be the Four Seasons Langkawi and so I'd rather stay in the central part of Singapore even though I do plan a trip to Sentosa to take the kids to Universal Studios, night safari etc.

The other alternative is Raffles - isn't that very close to IC and therefore presumably well located or is being a mile or so in a different direction a complete scene change? Is it worth the price difference on the basis that we won't be spending lots of time in the hotel and also if I'm paying for a good hotel it has to be worth it and the comments so far on Singapore luxury hotels suggests that they just aren't.