I used to live in Singapore and will return later in April this year. Marriott properties in SG were always way too expensive for my budget and needs, I really just need it to be clean, conveniently located near an MRT (or even a bus, I loved taking buses when living there). I'm only LT Gold so I don't care much about upgrades or breakfast, I'd rather go out and have a typical local snack.

I ended up booking the HI Express in Katong but now that I look at the Marriott's website, I see the Aloft Novena and the Serangoon House being around the 200SGD all-in per night, which is perfectly fine for me and both are reasonably located near an MRT.

I also don't understand all the hate online for this property, the smaller rooms are supposedly 18m2, which is the same as the Aloft for example. The decor is..... not at all to my taste but well, who cares... but the chunky bunk beds don't help in making it feel airy and "bigger".

I've stayed at the Vagabond Club twice as well in the past and same thing, it's not for everyone but I liked my stay.

Now I'm just torn between the Serangoon House and the Aloft (and cancel the HI Express)...