Best heartland hotels in Singapore
Visiting town for a staycation can get repetitive after a while, since it’s the same old hotels that always get booked up. For a change, embark on an adventure in the suburbs and check out some of these lesser-known hotels located away from the CBD. Get away from the touristy crowds at these heartland hotels. It’s still close to malls and good food, so you won’t get bored.
Table of Contents
- Best heartland hotels in Singapore
- 1. Shipping Container Hotel @one-north – Stay in a ‘tiny home’
- 2. Genting Hotel Jurong – Walking distance to Jem, Jcube & Westgate
- 3. Park Avenue Rochester – Suites from $300/night
- 4. Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong – Boutique hotel with infinity pool
- 5. Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore – Stunning views
- 6. D’Hotel Singapore – Also has a halal rooftop restaurant
- 7. Aqueen Hotel Paya Lebar – For foodies & shopaholics
- 8. Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy – 10 min walk from ECP & Cafes
- 9. Village Hotel Katong – Peranakan-style staycation
- 10. The Serangoon House – Opulent Indian colonial theme
1. Shipping Container Hotel @one-north – Stay in a ‘tiny home’
Image credit: Shipping Container Hotel
Experiencing tiny home living doesn’t require a flight to Europe – just get down to Queenstown to check this off your bucket list. Despite its small exterior, the Shipping Container Hotel at one-north is really spacious inside.
You’ll find an air-conditioned bedroom with a king-size bed, a fully-equipped kitchenette, and a spiffy standalone bathtub if you’re in the mood for a hot soak. There’s enough room for 4 adults, and in case you need more space, the living room has a hidden Murphy bed. If more people are joining in, you can request for an additional mattress at $50.
Image credit: Shipping Container Hotel
Don’t let the hotel room’s secluded appearance fool you; you’ll still have access to WiFi and Netflix if your idea of a vacation is to lepak in bed all day. If you feel like heading out, take the train from one-north MRT station one stop down to Holland Village where there are plenty of dining options.
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2. Genting Hotel Jurong – Walking distance to Jem, Jcube & Westgate
Image credit: Resorts World Sentosa
We’ve got good news – you don’t have to cross the border to stay at a Genting Hotel as there’s one right here in the West. Genting Hotel Jurong is ideal for those who want connectivity within their reach but still crave a quiet getaway among the flora and fauna. Just 3-6 minutes away are 3 major shopping malls where you can shop, watch a movie, or grab a bite to eat.
The rooms are decorated in vibrant colours with large windows allowing lots of natural light to stream in, making it very inviting. Drop by their gorgeous outdoor pool for a leisurely dip or their gymnasium to work up a sweat.
Image credit: Resorts World Sentosa
If you are feeling famished, head down to Cafe Football to satisfy your hunger. Avid fans of soccer will appreciate the subtle nods to the game as well as classic sports bar grub.
3. Park Avenue Rochester – Suites from $300/night
Image credit: Park Avenue Rochester
It’s no secret that we Singaporeans want to live bougie but on a budget. If you’re feeling thrifty, check out the 1-bedroom executive deluxe suite at Park Avenue Rochester. With a cosy and homey decor, it measures a whopping 377 sq ft, sports a luxurious king-sized bed, and a flat screen tv.
It also comes with a fully functional kitchenette, so you can cook up a storm during Netflix marathons. For what it offers, it’s also pretty affordable from about $259/night. Where else can you get a hotel suite below $500/night? Whenever you’re hungry, Rochester Mall next door offers a wide variety of local and western restaurants.
Image credit: Trip.com
Plus, they have a stunning outdoor swimming pool with a mini waterfall, surrounded by a garden, so you can enjoy the lush greenery while you swim.
4. Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong – Boutique hotel with infinity pool
Image credit: IHG
What was once the Joo Chiat Police Station has now been transformed into Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong. Decorated with Peranakan murals, tiles, and furnishings, the decor is vibrant and artistic, making it the perfect staycay spot for the ‘Gram.
The rooms even feature floor-to-ceiling windows that can create a larger sense of space and offer bird’s eye views of the neighbourhood.
Image credit: IHG
Get in a leisurely swim with laps in the long outdoor infinity pool that overlooks the pretty Joo Chiat shophouses.
Image credit: Baba Chews
Check out their in-house restaurant, Baba Chews Bar & Eatery that offers a fusion of local and western cuisines.
There are also plenty of IG-famous cafes and restaurants in Joo Chiat if you feel like exploring the neighbourhood.
5. Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore – Stunning views
Image credit: Discover ASR
With its cool and earthy tones, the rooms at Citadines Connect Rochester Singapore will give you a sense of Zen the moment you walk in. Take advantage of floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy sweeping views of this off-beaten neighbourhood while relaxing in the calming ambience.
For the full experience, choose the deluxe garden room for access to the mini garden where you can do outdoor yoga every day.
The pool has deck chairs so you can chill or read a book while you soak up the rays.
Image credit: Discover ASR
It’s also worth mentioning that the hotel has a refresh and recharge area where you can take a shower before you’ve checked in or even after you’ve checked out.
If you’re looking to explore this part of Singapore, you can check out Timbre+, a bar known for its live music, at one-north or Star Vista mall.
6. D’Hotel Singapore – Also has a halal rooftop restaurant
Studio balcony room.
Image credit: Klook
Elegantly decorated, each room at D’Hotel Singapore includes a 37-inch flat screen TV, a king-size bed, a rainfall shower, and a free-standing soak tub. You can even cast your favourite movies and shows to the big screen using Google Chromecast.
Image credit: Capitaland
The Halal Mixologist – the folks behind Wanderlost Lounge – have done it again with a beautiful fairytale-themed halal bar at D’Hotel that serves Italian and French cuisine. Enjoy a meal and soak in the scenic view of the Tiong Bahru skyline while sipping on their non-alcoholic beverages.
Image credit: @donayameiyawanling
Check out their Mixologist recommendations like the Iago Aladdin ($16) for something citrusy and invigorating. Those who like fruity and sweet drinks should try their Cenderawasih ($16), which has lychee, grenadine, mint, juniper, and lemon.
The halal bar even has pretty neon signs, a plantscaping dining area, quirky lamps, and comfy couches that are truly Insta-worthy and worth impressing that special someone with.
7. Aqueen Hotel Paya Lebar – For foodies & shopaholics
Image credit: Klook
Located near PLQ Mall and Geylang Serai, Aqueen Hotel Paya Lebar is a great place to stay for shopping and eating local Malay food.
Image credit: Eatbook
Taste your way to bliss by trying popular dishes at Geylang Serai market which is only a 5-minute drive away. Be sure to try the famous Cendol Geylang Serai ($2) and Mutton Briyani ($6) from Geylang Hamid’s Briyani stall.
With Hari Raya just a few months away, you can also head down to the Joo Chiat Complex to shop for new Baju Kurung and jewellery.
8. Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy – 10 min walk from ECP & Cafes
Image credit: Grand Mercure Roxy
Grand Mercure Singapore Roxy has rooms that are perfect for families with little ones. In a natural and homely setting, the rooms are furnished with either a king-size bed or 2 twin beds to suit your needs.
If you’d rather stay in, grab a bite at one of the hotel’s in-house eateries – Feast Roxy which serves local and western dishes, Jia Wei Chinese restaurant, or Wave Cafe.
Of course, there’s a pool to lounge about in your swimwear.
Image credit: Trip.com
If these amenities don’t do it for you, head over to East Coast Park and get a bite from the nearby cafes at Parkland Green, a food and lifestyle hub at the beach. It is just 10 minutes away when you walk via the Marine Parade underpass.
There are also a couple of malls nearby including Roxy Square where you can get yourself a mani-pedi and the recently furbished i12 Katong that sports an indoor climbing wall.
9. Village Hotel Katong – Peranakan-style staycation
Club Room.
Image credit: Village Hotel Katong
Peranakan decor welcomes you from the moment you walk through the doors of Village Hotel Katong. With 7 types of rooms to choose from, the hotel accommodates couples and families from their most basic Superior Rooms to their luxurious suites.
Image credit: Village Hotel Katong
You can cool off and unwind in their outdoor swimming pool. Or, if you are a Far East Hospitality member, you can access the Peranakan Club Lounge for complimentary cocktails in the evenings.
While you’re in the ‘hood, get a deeper understanding of the culture by checking out the many heritage walking tours that are conducted in the area. To commemorate the occasion, snap some Instagram-worthy photos at the famous colourful shophouses. And don’t miss out on the famous 328 Katong Laksa just around the corner.
Book a Katong and Joo Chiat food tour ($100).
10. The Serangoon House – Opulent Indian colonial theme
Image credit: Marriott
Those of you who love Disney will absolutely adore The Serangoon House. Gold embellishments cover the beds and furniture, giving off major Disney princess vibes and an atas-like feeling. That said, you’ll be getting a taste of the high life without spending a fortune.
Image credit: Marriott
You don’t have to leave the hotel if you’re hungry, just head down to GupShup restaurant. Enjoy cultural delicacies from Punjab, Delhi, Bombay, and Calcutta at this eatery that sells gourmet tapas. For midnight cravings, hit up the restaurant kiosk for takeout food or exotic drinks.
Just a heads up – even though this hotel is quite chic, it’s a small boutique hotel. So don’t bring too much of your barang-barang or expect a royal room unless you opt for the suite. Instead, think of the smaller space as providing a more intimate and cosy atmosphere.
Visit these heartland hotels in Singapore
By booking a room at one of these lesser-known heartland hotels, you’ll be able to avoid crowds and exorbitantly high rates. If you’re on a budget but still want to have a staycation for a quick getaway or to celebrate a special occasion, then this might be a great alternative.
To find more hotels for your next staycay, check out:
Cover image adapted by: IHG , Shipping Container Hotel , Marriott
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