Whether it’s to celebrate a special occasion or just to spend some annual leave days, Singaporeans love a good staycation or outing to Gardens By The Bay. As of September 2022, you can now mix it all together and get the Best Of Both Worlds à la Hannah Montana, ‘cause the Shipping Container Hotel has launched Garden Pod – a container-style hotel at GBTB.
Following the success of their container hotel concepts at Haw Par Villa and one-north, this launch is set to be their most picturesque yet. Seeing as GBTB is one of the top tourist destinations in Singapore, we foresee Garden Pod being quite the hotspot for both travellers and locals looking for a unique staycay.
Here’s the lowdown on what you can expect so you can hurry to get first dibs on the suites:
Image credit: Gardens By The Bay
You may be wondering, where in GBTB could they have plopped an entire hotel? Garden Pod is situated within the Serene Garden, a tranquil Japanese-style zen garden which is accessible via Bayfront MRT station. On foot, it’ll take you about 12 minutes, and you’ll get to enjoy the sights of The Meadow at GBTB along the way.
Evident from the name, a staycation within GBTB gives you the best of both the gardens, and the bay. That is, Singapore’s iconic skyline featuring the towering national pride: Marina Bay Sands. You’ll also get to see the many varied skyscrapers in the CBD twinkling in the distance, while your immediate surroundings are lush nature.
Wake up to exotic species like podocarpus, junipers, and silver bismarckia palms. Translation for those not clued in on botany: gorgeous, gorgeous trees, as far as the eye can see.
Image credit: Gardens By The Bay
Although the hotel is fashioned out of actual shipping containers, don’t go thinking this will be some roughin’ it out situation. Shipping Container Hotel is known for their luxurious suites, and Garden Pod is no exception. The sleek white structures are fitted with floor-to-ceiling windows so all that glorious sunlight can flood in and you can be treated to a grand view from all angles.
Image adapted from: Gardens By The Bay
The duplex suites span 2 levels and are priced $600/night, accommodating up to 4 guests. You can expect a spacious living room with a TV, a comfy king-size bed and queen-size Murphy bed, an ensuite bathroom, a private patio, and a fully functional kitchen.
Should you want to whip out a meal to enjoy at the alfresco dining area, you can even request a complimentary outdoor electric BBQ grill.
Image credit: Gardens By The Bay
Given its location, it’s only natural that the hotel takes great steps to care for nature and the Earth. The building itself repurposes shipping containers that would otherwise have been discarded, coupled with lightweight steel structures to minimise disruption to GBTB’s natural foundation.
Image credit: Gardens By The Bay
Efforts to reduce energy consumption are evident through the installation of solar panels and double-glazed glass, keeping guests cool and reducing the buildings’ carbon footprint. Fun fact: the solar panels contribute to 80% of the hotel’s energy needs.
Other eco-friendly elements include drink coasters made from recycled plastic, sustainably made terrarium displays and drinking glasses, and recycle bins within the hotel for guests to recycle plastic and glass bottles conveniently.
Image credit: Gardens By The Bay
We all know the convenience when it comes to staying within the attraction you’re planning to visit. You get to cut down on transportation time and hassle, and staying overnight unlocks a new level of experience.
One of GBTB’s past events – Begonia Brilliance.
Especially since GBTB is known to have numerous seasonal displays and limited edition exhibits throughout the year, you’re bound to have a different experience each time.
Image credit: Gardens By The Bay
The spacious 70sqm duplex suites can comfortably accommodate families, friend groups, or couples looking for a tranquil staycay – especially if they’ve already ticked a bunch of hotels in Singapore off their list.
You can also get a nifty Gardens By The Bay attraction package at a top-up of $130/pax, exclusive to guests of the Garden Pod. The pass entitles you to:
There are only 4 container suites at Garden Pod, so you can expect room bookings to be snapped up fast and furious. If you have $600/night to splash on a unique and undoubtedly unforgettable staycation, we recommend you hop on over and make a booking sooner than later.
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Serene Garden, Garden Pod at Gardens By The Bay, Singapore 018953
Contact: 6665 7500 | admin@shippingcontainerhotel.com | Shipping Hotel Container website
For more unique things to do in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from: Gardens By The Bay
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