Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Raffles Hotel: The Grand Lady of Singapore

By Chris Linch

Raffles Hotel opened in 1887 in a rather somberlooking old bungalow known as the Beach House. It was named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore. Tropical suites and sola topis were as much a part of Raffles Hotel's early style as bentwood tables and rattan chairs. Over the years the hotel has evolved into one of the world's most beloved grand hotels and welcomed innumerable celebrities, writers and royalty. Joseph Conrad, Rudyard Kipling, Somerset Maugham and Noel Coward have all become synonymous with Raffles, staying numerous times, and even setting some stories at the hotel. Legend has it that he last tiger in Singapore was chased into the Bar & Billiard room where it was captured.The hotel is the home of the famous "Singapore Sling".

To mark its 100th anniversary, Raffles closed its doors in 1989 and began a two year, $160 million dollar, total renovation. Careful planning has preserved the integrity and beauty of the hotels golden era, while adding the modern amenities expected by today's traveler. The suites offer fourteen foot ceilings, complete with ceiling fan. They are fully air-conditioned, and open onto a verandah furnished in wicker and rattan. Beautifully decorated in individual styles, many of the suites are named for famous guests of the past.

Over four hundred pieces of existing furniture were restored and re used in Raffles. These items bear identifying brass crests signifying that they are a part of Raffles Hotel's past and are displayed throughout the Hotel.

As further evidence of the hotels passion for sharing the hotels long history, over 8,000 items of historical china and silver have been identified, dated, and inventoried. Some of these items go back to the hotels origins. The pieces are used throughout the hotel, and some are on permanent display.

The bars and restaurants retain their unique personality. The Tiffin room continues its service has the primary dining facility. Elegant Raffles Grill provides fine dining: The Palm Court and the Writers bar offer fine liquors and aperitifs, each paying tribute to an earlier era in its own way.

A favorite spot is the Bar and Billiard room. Masculine in flavor, it looks much as it did at the turn of the century. It features two lovely antique billiard tables. One is original to the hotel, while the second is from Government House.

Tropical gardens have always been synonymous with Raffles Hotel. These occupy more than a quarter of the entire estate, providing a tranquil contrast to the bustling city beyond. The delightful sound of singing birds beyond the verandahs and the rustle of palm branches in the breeze recalls the atmosphere of a bygone era and enhances the simpler pleasures of nature usually denied the modern traveler.

Rates begin at 512.00 SGD (about 336.00 at today's rate of exchange

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