The hype
Unbeatable value for the location and pool, but the rooms are shockingly small.
Hotel Boss
$100-160/ night
Book this if You want a modern pool and unbeatable location for the price of a hostel, and you plan to spend zero time in your room.
Why People Love It
- Incredible location between Kampong Glam and Lavender MRT
- Large outdoor pool with city views (rare at this price point)
- Founder Rou Gu Cha (legendary pork rib soup) is literally downstairs
Quick Take: A massive, high-traffic dormitory for adults where the pool is great but the walls are made of paper.
Reviewed by @stephanietrebell: I was honestly shocked by how clean and modern this place was. The marble bathroom felt so luxe, and chilling by the rooftop pool with those skyline views was the perfect way to end my day. Definitely my go-to for saving money without sacrificing style in Singapore.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Premier' room upgrade is mandatory if you have more than one suitcase, otherwise you'll be stepping over your bag to get to the bathroom.
- You are a solo traveler or couple who packs light
- You prioritize a good pool and gym over room size
- You want to be walking distance to Haji Lane and Bugis
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7.5
- Housekeeping: Daily and generally efficient, though missed spots (dust on ledges) are common due to high turnover.
- Bathroom hygiene: Functional but clinical. Grout is usually clean, but some reports of lingering damp smells.
- Maintenance: High traffic means wear and tear—scuffed walls and loose fixtures are not uncommon.
- Linens & towels: Standard industrial white. Clean but can be scratchy; check for stains upon arrival.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells perfumed/fresh; hallways can smell musty or like food from nearby rooms.
Sleepability™
5.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Slamming doors and hallway chatter
- Plumbing noise from neighboring bathrooms
- Low-frequency hum from equipment rooms (avoid room 1959)
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel has 1,500 rooms, so check-in/out can be a zoo
- There is a 24-hour Cheers convenience store on the ground floor
- You can weigh your luggage in the lobby for a small fee
What to pack
- High-quality earplugs or noise-canceling headphones
- Universal travel adapter (limited outlets in some rooms)
- Flip-flops for the pool deck
Room Genie
Best picks
- Premier Queen with Balcony (City View) for slightly more breathing room
- High floor (15+) facing the city to minimize street noise
Rooms to avoid
- Room 1959 (flanked by equipment rooms, loud hum reported)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (high foot traffic noise)
- Standard rooms if you have large checked luggage
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper and kindly request a room on a high floor (15+), far from the elevator and equipment rooms. Please avoid room 1959. A city view facing away from the other tower would be appreciated.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool actually nice?
Yes, it's surprisingly large for a budget hotel and has a nice view, but it gets very crowded in the evenings.
Is breakfast worth it?
Skip it. It's a chaotic buffet. Go to the food court downstairs or walk to a local kopitiam for better, cheaper food.
Can I store my luggage?
Yes, there is a luggage storage service in the lobby, but it can get busy.
Is it close to the MRT?
Yes, Lavender MRT is a 5-minute sheltered walk away.
Are there fridges in the rooms?
Yes, small mini-fridges are provided, but they aren't very cold.
Is it good for families?
Only if you book multiple rooms or a Family Triple; standard rooms are too tight for parents plus kids.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Founder Rou Gu Cha' restaurant downstairs is a Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient—eat there.
- ✨
Walk behind the hotel to the Rochor River path for a quiet morning jog.
- ✨
Use the side entrance near the food court to avoid the main lobby crowds.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators require a key card scan *before* you press the button, confusing everyone.
💡The 'balcony' might just stare directly into a stranger's room 10 feet away.
💡There is a hidden vending machine corner if you need late-night drinks.
💡The air conditioning is centrally controlled in some blocks and can be freezing.
💡You can hear the 'ding' of the elevator from rooms near the lift lobby.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Hotel Boss is located and what's nearby.