Mandarin Oriental, Singapore Hotel

Singapore

Stepping out from the airport into the dense heat of the Lion City, you'll be in need of respite - which is where Mandarin Oriental Singapore comes in. A 20-minute drive from Changi, the hotel has been an icon of the skyline since 1987. But the striking exterior – one side monolithic, the other sharp-edged and pyramid-like – belies the luxury within.

Initially designed by architect John Portman, it has been spruced up along the way, but the towering atrium remains. This ensures the classic lobby experience: a lounge area, orchid-dressed check-in, carefully curated art, a boutiquey pastry and coffee shop – and excellent people-watching.

Each of the 427 rooms is a spacious affair and suites come dashed with contemporary yet classy pink or blue hues, plus gilded accents, mid-century touchpoints and marble aplenty.

When it comes to a little urban aprication, the pool is found in a loft spot with panoramic views over Marina Bay. It’s the ideal tonic, with helpful staff popping over with drinks and cool, scented towels. The spa delivers excellent massages in a cosseting space, to help balm any residual jetlag.

Elsewhere, the eight restaurants and bars run from refined, poolside Italian to steakhouse classics and modern Cantonese in the elegant confines of Cherry Garden. The lauded MO Bar is one of Asia’s best places for cocktails, with a creative, thematic drinks list, and guests staying in selected suites can access the exclusive Haus 65 lounge.

Spots ripe for exploration are on your doorstep – head across the water to the glorious Singapore Botanical Garden. Pootle towards Kampong Glam and Little India (20 minutes by foot), or venture into Tanjong Pagar or Chinatown for the night markets. A ride with Singapore Sidecars is a fun way to get your bearings. Consider the city an urban sanctuary – for stopovers and city breaks alike – with solid experience and a youthful spirit.

Doubles from £467.

Words by Blossom Green.