It depends on how adventurous you are. Little India has more of a neighborhood feel; the buildings are generally about 2 stories. Orchard Road is nothing but high rise malls. Not much to see there. Lots ot see and experience in Little India. Rooms aren't large in Singapore even if you're staying at places like Tang's. Anywhere in Singapore is safe. Frankly, I wish I'd known about Little India when I first started traveling to Singapore. The Hilton Garden Inn is about 2 blocks from the MRT and you can easily get anywhere. If you want to stay in a hotel with a bunch of malls than Orchard Road works.