An icon in hospitality for the last 135 years and one of the most legendary hotels anywhere in the world, Raffles Singapore oozes elegance at every turn. The hotel underwent a two-year tip to toe renovation between 2017 and 2019, its most comprehensive refurbishment since the late 1980s; and what a refurbishment it was. With interiors by Alexandra Chamalimaud and restoration by Studio Lapis, what once was a slightly faded property is now a sparkling shrine to a bygone era of luxury, with injections of modernity ensuring the property not just competes with but outshines many in its class.

My full review of the outstanding Raffles Singapore, with plenty of photos, is available over in the Trip Reports forum here: Raffles Singapore: One of the World's Greatest Hotels

If it’s not already, Raffles Singapore should absolutely be on your list of hotels to visit. Beyond the sense of history, elegant interiors, sublime cuisine and refined service, it’s the uncompromising sense of serenity that stands out most about this truly unique of hotel experiences.