I have been here once or twice previously when they were under a different brand, but I’m glad to say there’s finally something different this time. Not only the name! The design, the look of the lobby, the theme – everything is so fresh and new.

Can’t say the same about the service of the staff.

The lobby was visibly crowded when I arrived. Everything seemed a bit chaotic. Despite the chaos, it would be nice to have the staff be a little more helpful in giving directions, or maybe a simple greeting? I received none.

Staff or concierge at the door was unfriendly at best. No smiles, and again, no greetings at all. 

I had to help myself to the check-in area where I, the paying guest, needed to ask if they’re ready. Counter was empty but nobody actually bothered to ask if I’m checking in? It feels like a self-service hotel. Lady at the counter took my ID and then started the boring check-in procedure. Absolutely no welcome greetings, no small talk, nothing. From start till the end, the interactions here seemed very cold. Very, very transactional. 

Despite that, the hotel lobby definitely looks beautiful. It’s giving a little low-budget Raffles Hotel but really stunning nonetheless. It seems like the new brand is trying to revamp the whole hotel to be a heritage one. Every decor and design is embracing the culture and history of Singapore.

I made my way to the assigned room straight after, super glad that the forced interaction is over.

Room was clean, the space was okay? I was trying to find if there was any revamp from the previous stay I had here but I don’t see much.

The bed was comfy, nothing interesting about that. I do love the bolster? It added an extra character to the bed with the designed cover.

What I didn’t really love was the stock photo of Boat Quay back during the olden days. It makes the whole room look tacky. Out of all photos, why do I want to have an image of a smelly longkang in the room? But then again, it’s subjective. I for one, think that it’s out of place and should remain framed in the museums.

The view of the room was just.. I have no words. But a photo.

It’s so hilarious to me that they know I’m here for a review (an email was sent out and acknowledged) but they gave zero damns. Absolutely zero effort was given. I aspire to be that unbothered, for reals. I have more to tell but maybe later at the end of this review.

Bathroom was also basic at best.

Bidet is not installed in the room. Just like the service, it’s non-existent. But hey, we made it work. Fortunately, the handheld shower is able to reach the toilet, so thank the almighty god. 

I do apologise, other than the beautiful revamp, I absolutely have nothing great to say about this property. Facilities were okay. The gym was beautiful.

Maybe it was all about the service for me. It ruins everything. I have been to budget hotels with service that made me feel like I’m at the Ritz. I am so serious. The fact that nobody here cared about their work is outrageous to me.

One instance I had was even before checking in, I emailed them of the price if I were to upgrade my room. I was given a fee that was just beyond. I did my own check, the difference in between the room categories are only $20 apart.

I then asked them about it, well, not like I expected much – but the email was ignored. I guess honesty is not part of their business. Hands down, the worst Ascott property I have ever been to.

For a beautiful property, it has a lot of potential. Like, really a lot. The location is superb, it’s in the middle of the city. It’s great.

But will that alone, make me return as a guest? Not in a million years.