Singapore’s favourite holiday spot gets a swish upgrade
Sentosa – which means “peace and tranquillity” in Malay – is Singapore’s leisure island, known for its beaches, golf courses and attractions like Universal Studios and SEA Aquarium.
Now, Singapore’s grand dame Raffles is upping Sentosa’s luxury game with the much-awaited launch of the Raffles Sentosa. Set within 100,000 square metres of lush tropical greenery, the all-villa resort – designed by interior design studio Yabu Pushelberg – is a serene sanctuary for those seeking respite from the concrete jungle.
How fancy does it get? Each of the 62 villas comes with its own private pool and terrace, but the real dose of quiet luxury is the brand’s inimitable dedicated butler service, offering guests the kind of privacy and personalised care that the original Raffles Hotel in the city is known for.
True to the city-state’s reputation as a foodie paradise, you won’t have to travel far for gourmet pleasures. The hotel itself is packed with highlights, including the upcoming Japanese omakase restaurant Iyasaka by Hashida, helmed by acclaimed chef Kenjiro Hashida, whose father runs a Michelin-starred outfit back in Tokyo. Meanwhile, the hotel’s signature restaurant, Empire Grill, serves modern Italian cuisine and Royal China offers refined Cantonese feasts.
Don’t skip the legendary Raffles Afternoon Tea in the elegant Raffles Room. Decadent and delightful in equal measure, be there to see and be seen – with your pinky firmly up, of course.
More to explore on Sentosa
Tanjong Beach Club, Singapore’s pioneer in cool urban beach culture, is back after a four-month revamp. Now styled as a mid-century modernist beach house, it serves wood-fired coastal dishes like Tajima Wagyu Denver steak.
Universal Studios Singapore (USS) just got a whole lot more mischievous with Illumination’s Minion Land. Inspired by Despicable Me, the new zone features the Buggie Boogie dance party carousel and a real-life version of the Super Hungry Food Stand – so you can live your best Minion life.
1-Flowerhill is a hidden dining gem located in a centuries-old conservation house. The pet-friendly space features a café, grill and a French-Japanese restaurant. Enjoy local treats at Wildseed Bar & Grill or dine al fresco at Camille with panoramic views of the Singapore Strait.
