Whilst I enjoyed the town and city area of Singapore, I was craving for some place different. As such, I went to the Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium for a staycation this weekend. I checked into the hotel at 1pm and the front office already had my details on file. Although I had initially booked for a superior room, I was awarded a two level upgrade to an Executive Room on level 26 (with access to the Executive Lounge on top the floor - level 27) with my Platinum Elite status with IHG Rewards Club. The duty manager at the counter introduced himself and handled the check-in personally which was a nice touch. I was also given two free welcome drinks at the Lobby Lounge that I could redeem for wine, beer or other drinks. On top of that, free breakfast was also awarded to me as the hotel was running some lucky draw promotion for the time being. I was then given a name card containing a direct line to the duty manager in case I needed anything at all during my stay. 5/5 stars for the duty team and the level of service they have provided to their Platinum Elite members.

It is worth noting that IHG has the most number of properties worldwide and therefore, if you're looking for only one hotel loyalty programme that you can benefit the most from, it is definitely a strong contender. Amongst other perks that participating hotels may extend to Platinum Elite members, we also benefit from free internet, complimentary room upgrades, 50% bonus earning on base points, priority check-in and late check-outs.

Although the dated decor continues to affect the hotel holistically for many, I found it to be charming in its own way. While the room was not immense, it was extremely clean and it had everything I needed. I was greeted with complimentary drinks and a fruit basket when I entered the room. There was also a Pillow Menu detailing over 6 types of pillows that I could choose from to make my stay more enjoyable.

The bathroom whilst not having a separate bath and shower area was clean and the chrome was sparkling. The toiletries were an in-house brand but they smelt really good. Toothbrush and other basic toiletries seem to be made of a more sustainable material and were definitely of greater quality even compared to most of the more expensive hotels in the area. One thing you will most definitely notice when you stay in this hotel is the view from above.

I really enjoyed how the atrium looks from the top. The symmetry that accentuates the very structure of this architecture proves to be both pleasing to the eye as well as intriguing in some ways.

The Executive Lounge at the Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium as mentioned earlier, is located on Level 27 and is only accessible with a valid key card. I accessed the Executive Lounge at approximately 5pm only to find it completely empty with only a handful of staff around. They were preparing for the cocktail hour from 6pm but were quick to take my drink orders. Although the lounge was not luxurious, it exuded a rustic and cozy sort of charm. I've heard from seasoned travelers that the very same lounge offers a great view of the fireworks on National Day at the Marina Bay area. Following a quick caffeine fix, I decided to take a walk around Robertson Quay before returning to my room.

I returned just in time for the cocktail hour and there was a basic range of drinks to choose from on top of the usual offerings - red, white, sparkling and beers. The food options were limited and rather lackluster so I would recommend giving the cocktail hour a miss unless you're really too lazy to go out of the hotel. I was greeted with an amazing view - the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel near the popular night club Zouk as well as the Great World City - from my room when I got back.

In the morning, I chose to have my breakfast at the Melting Pot Cafe instead of the Executive Lounge since I favour variety for my meals. The food was decent for a four star hotel - nothing too fancy with mostly predictable offerings. There was an omelette station for all you egg lovers out there but if you're here to visit Singapore, take my tip - skip breakfast in the hotel and take a walk along Robertson Quay instead.

All things considered, the Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium proves to be a fantastic property that offers you both great service and value. I will definitely be back soon to enjoy what this charming property and its surroundings have to offer.

Book your next Holiday Inn stay here.

Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium
317 Outram Road, Singapore 169075
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After spending over four years in Australia where I completed my bachelor's degree, I came back to Singapore missing one thing more than ever - Space. One of the greatest luxury I enjoyed during my time there was the abundance of space. It was not just about the physical emptiness across the country but also the perception of emotional capacity.

Space in Singapore is extremely defined with limited land space and a growing global population. The energy of the society with its residents placing importance on attributes that I do not personally identify myself with, has taken a negative toll on my general contentment. People who know me well enough know I ramble on about the benefits one can enjoy overseas. Finding space to be yourself is difficult in Singapore. Since it's a small country with generally limited things to do on weekends, we often bump into friends and acquaintances on the streets. As a result of that, I believe that we are constrained to be our public self. Whilst I am not insinuating that we all are hypocrites, being only agents of good and acceptable behaviour, there is some semblance to some extent. Being alone in a foreign environment empowers you to be someone different. Although it is debatable as to whether this newly found potential can entrust you into being some one "better" or "worse" in the eyes of the public, it allows you to dig deep and learn more about yourself.

Staycations in my opinion, allows you to do that. It puts in you a familiar surrounding in a different context. The busy Orchard road has now been transformed into your temporary surroundings in you temporary home. This makeshift residence now offers you peace and silence away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whilst the degree of empowerment is reduced in Singapore, it presents an opportunity for a mental hiatus.

“I believe one has to escape oneself to discover oneself.” - Rabih Alameddine

Hotel Review: Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium

On Staycations