The hype
Travelers are universally relieved by the 2023 renovation, praising the new 'tropical' aesthetic and the impeccable service at the pool.
Mandarin Oriental, Singapore (Sg Clean)
$450-650/ night
Book this if You want the absolute best view of Marina Bay Sands without actually staying inside the chaotic tourist trap that is Marina Bay Sands.
Why People Love It
- The post-2023 'Tropical Modernism' renovation finally ditched the 80s beige for lush, vibrant style
- HAUS 65 is arguably the chicest club lounge in the city (free-flow Ruinart champagne helps)
- The pool deck offers the single best swim-up view of the Singapore skyline
Quick Take: A stunning rebirth of a classic that now feels like a botanical garden in the sky, though you'll pay a heavy premium for that bay view.
Reviewed by @_bernicel: I stayed in the Penthouse suite and the views of Marina Bay Sands from my private balcony were surreal. The living space is massive and the service made me feel like a VIP. Definitely the best spot for a special occasion in Singapore.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Some guests find the atrium design (open corridors) can carry noise from the lobby or restaurants up to the rooms.
- You are a design nerd who appreciates 'Tropical Modernism' (think rattan, orchids, and batik)
- You need a power-breakfast spot that impresses clients (Embu is excellent)
- You want to walk to the F1 track or Esplanade theaters
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.5
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Twice-daily service with turndown that includes placing slippers on mats.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless. New grout, sparkling marble, and high-end Natura Bissé amenities.
- Maintenance: Brand new feel post-2023 renovation. No peeling paint or worn carpets to be found.
- Linens & towels: Plush, high-thread-count linens and thick, fluffy towels.
- Odors & scents: Signature 'Mandarin Oriental' scent (citrus/floral) in lobby; rooms smell fresh and new.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Atrium echo from lobby events
- Marina Bay events (F1, concerts) if facing the bay
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel connects directly to Marina Square mall, which is great for grabbing cheaper eats or essentials.
- Valet is pricey; self-parking in the Marina Square mall is the pro move for locals.
- The pool fills up on weekends; snag a cabana before 10am.
What to pack
- Smart casual outfits for HAUS 65 (no flip-flops allowed)
- Swimsuit for the most photogenic pool in the CBD
- Earplugs if you're visiting during F1 season (September)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Club Marina Bay Room (High floor, access to HAUS 65, unbeatable MBS views)
- Marina Bay View Room (The standard for a reason — floor-to-ceiling windows framing the skyline)
Rooms to avoid
- City View rooms on lower floors (views can be blocked by highway/mall structures)
- Rooms directly near the glass elevators if you are sensitive to mechanical whirring
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a renovated Marina Bay View room on a high floor (20+), ideally away from the elevator bank to minimize atrium noise. If available, a room with a direct view of the MBS light show would be fantastic.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the renovation actually finished?
Yes, fully reopened in September 2023. The 'tired' reviews from 2022 are no longer relevant.
Is the Club Lounge worth the extra cost?
Absolutely. HAUS 65 offers free-flow champagne, afternoon tea, and a chauffeur service within 2km. It pays for itself if you drink.
Can I walk to Marina Bay Sands?
Yes, via the Helix Bridge. It's a scenic 10-15 minute walk.
Is breakfast included?
Depends on your rate. The buffet at Embu is excellent but costs ~$60++ SGD if paid separately.
Does the hotel have a shuttle?
No general shuttle, but HAUS 65 guests get a complimentary chauffeur car for short distances (weekdays only).
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, but with caveats. There's a kids' pool and special buffet corner at Embu, but the vibe is definitely more 'adult luxury' than 'family resort'.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask for the 'Boneless Crucian Carp Congee' at Cherry Garden — it's a tableside masterpiece not everyone knows to order.
- ✨
The 'Teh Tarik' at Embu's breakfast buffet is surprisingly authentic; don't skip it.
- ✨
Use the Marina Square mall connection to get to the Esplanade MRT station without walking in the heat.
5 things to know before you go
💡The atrium architecture is stunning but acts as a giant echo chamber; ask for a room far from the central void.
💡The 'City View' actually includes a lot of highway and mall rooftop — manage your expectations.
💡You can watch the Marina Bay Sands light show (Spectra) from your room if you book a Bay View room — tune your radio to the simulcast.
💡The gym has a chandelier. Yes, really.
💡There is a hidden 'kids' buffet' section in Embu that is lower to the ground so little ones can serve themselves.
Local Playbook
Map
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