The Mandarin Oriental Singapore opened in 1987 with 527 rooms and suites. As one of the city's most luxurious hotels, the property features a breathtaking atrium lobby and is located along the beautiful Marina Bay in Singapore. It is the only hotel in Singapore that has been awarded ‘Five Star’ status for both accommodation and spa in the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide for three consecutive years (2012, 2013 and 2014). The hotel is also located right at the front of Turn 16 and 17 of the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix racetrack, the world’s first Formula One night race. Therefore if you are staying in this property for the race next weekend, you're in luck!

All the guest rooms in this hotel features an impressive city, harbour or ocean view and are fitted with high quality surround sound systems. I took advantage of the City Retreat weekend package at S$495++ which comes a night's accommodation in the Premier Ocean room and Champagne Brunch for two the following day. I was lucky to be given a room on a high floor and therefore I was able to enjoy great views of the ocean and partial views of the marina bay area from the tall glass windows in my room. Having had the harbour views multiple times while staying in the Pan Pacific Singapore, the ocean view was a much welcomed change. When I first stepped into the room, I was seriously impressed by the view it had - especially because the Premier Ocean room type was just one tier above the base level Deluxe Room.

The Premier Ocean room (33 sqm) comes with a luxurious goose-down bedding, a large work desk, separate bath and walk-in shower as well as a pillow menu that you can select from. As mentioned previously, there's also a pretty impressive sound system in the room (with some bass too!) where you can even enjoy music from your audio device. The room did not offer a Bluetooth connection for your devices but audio cables are provided for connection.

The spacious marble bathroom comes with a separate bath and shower. Bath salts are also provided by the bathtub but as usual, I would highly recommend bringing your own. Make your way down to Lush which is conveniently located at Suntec City (15 to 20 minutes walk away) and get yourself some decent bubble bars. One thing I couldn't seem to figure out fully is the blinds that are in the bathroom. For some reason, I seem to have difficulty drawing them efficiently and I always end up spending a couple of minutes just to get it the way I want.

Bath amenities were provided by an in-house brand featuring lemongrass and ginger as the base fragrance. While not being branded, I particularly like the refreshing fragrance of these amenities as I think they fit the overall theme of the hotel quite well.

You will also find a complimentary fruit platter located on the table in your room. I brought the Monocle magazine as my weekend reading for this stay. Reading one of my favourite magazines with enjoying beautiful views of the ocean or the Singapore skyline in the comfort of my room is really something that I luxuriate in where possible.

While you will not find a convenient Nespresso machine in this room, you will receive a set of teabags from TWG Tea Company and freeze fried coffee from Segafredo which isn't half bad. You will also find dairy and non-dairy liquid creamer (not the disgusting powder kind) in this oriental-design box.

Having been to a number of hotels in Singapore, the Mandarin Oriental Singapore by far has the most utilised swimming pool. I have never seen that many guests utilising the swimming pool (25m) ever in a hotel. That being said, despite being established in 1987, the hotel has a really nice pool that allows for great views of the Marina Bay area. In fact, with the removal of the floating platform next year, the property will benefit from a greater and unobstructed view of the familiar skyline. I really like the resort-feel of the swimming pool area. The tranquility and peaceful outdoor setting of the swimming pool that is further augmented by day beds and excellent service truly promotes a luxurious escape from the city. Those of you who are hydrophobic can laze by the pool where newspapers, suntanning and sunblock lotions are provided.

Afternoon Tea (S$80++ for two) is also served at the Axis Bar and Lounge which offers breathtaking views of Singapore in a comfortable and modern setting. Those who prefer to have more control over what is served can order from a selection of small plates. Beers are also available at the Axis Bar and Lounge from S$16++.

I guess the most important thing to do while spending time away from home is to indulge in the things you do not normally do. If you spend too much time on weekdays running around, the weekends are great to relax and unwind. Stop running the rat race on weekends and simply enjoy some time alone or with family and friends. Put your mobile phones aside and converse with the people you love over a beer or tea, whichever you prefer.

The night view from the Premier Ocean room is also spectacular. Enjoy views of the Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay and the famous Marina Bay Sands from the expansive windows in the room. Gaze further out into the horizon and watch as the soft glow of anchored ships light up the landscape.

Breakfast is served the next morning at Melt The World Cafe (630am to 1030am). Designed using natural, textured materials including stone, wood, leather and glass, MELT has a stylish, cosmopolitan feel. You can expect to find a variety of breakfast items ranging from pastries, to congees to sausages and omelettes. I was quite impressed to find three different kinds of congee (plain, chicken and scallop) available in the morning but this is a Mandarin Oriental property after all.

There are two omelette stations located in the restaurant so you do not have to worry about being unable to get your cholesterol fix. Speaking of which, you can also ask for an egg white omelette if you are too worried about that. Various cook-to-order stations can also be found but it can get rather busy inside (so wake up early!).

I personally went with the egg white omelette and poached eggs (since I had an egg white omelette) for breakfast. Of course, these made-to-order items are unlimited so long your diet allows for it. The Mandarin Oriental Singapore also has amazingly crispy and golden hash browns which I love!

I really liked the variety provided at Melts The World Cafe and would definitely recommend you waking up for it (even if you aren't a breakfast person!). The open kitchen concept creates a sense of space and diners are able to watch as their food gets prepared. If you are a fan of Indian Cuisine, you will be happy to know that the Indian food section isn't just limited to a miserable selection of two dishes. You will find a range of curries and meat dishes here which are excellent!

More on the Champagne Brunch that is included in this package next week!

The Mandarin Oriental Singapore provides a great opportunity to getaway from the stressful city life without even leaving the country. For those of you seeking a more-balanced getaway, the hotel's fitness centre is equipped with a full range of equipment including a Kinesis Wall, free weights and stretching area. Private classes in the outdoor yoga pavilion can also be arranged with the concierge. If you are looking to relax and unwind in a luxurious setting, the perfect getaway destination is located just minutes away.

Mandarin Oriental Singapore
6 Raffles Blvd Marina Square, Singapore 039594
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