When you think of Singapore, images of futuristic architecture, bustling street markets, and a melting pot of cultures come to mind. Nestled in this vibrant cityscape is the Pan Pacific Singapore, a hotel that not only embraces the spirit of its locale but elevates it to new heights of luxury, thanks to a recent S$30 million (AUD$34.32m) face-lift.
Located in the heart of Marina Bay, Pan Pacific Singapore was one of the pioneering architectural landmarks when the area was first developed in the 1970s. Today, it stands as an institutional pillar of the country’s luxury hotel offerings, bolstering its position with its most recent renovations. The refurbishments, which began in April 2023, include 476 redesigned rooms, new dining and retail spaces spotlighting Singapore culture as well as the renovation of the Ocean Ballroom.
First Impressions Matter
From the moment I stepped into the Pan Pacific, I was struck by its harmonious blend of elegance and modernity. The Grand Atrium and hotel lobby welcome guests with lush greenery including a 130-year-old Bonsai tree centrepiece, floating lantern-like pods over water, and timber walkways and bridges which thoughtfully pay homage to the Singapore River. It’s not just a place to check in; it’s a gateway to the sensory experiences that Singapore offers.
Elevated Luxury Rooms
Each of the hotel’s 790 rooms is a sanctuary of comfort and style. Elevated luxury and comfort are the focus of the hotel’s refurbished hotel rooms, with the Deluxe Rooms, Executive Marina Bay Rooms, and Premier Suite all redesigned. Balconies have been reduced to give extra room space, and beds have been repositioned to maximise views over Marina Bay.
With floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Marina Bay, each room is a serene retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The attention to detail is evident, from the plush bedding to the state-of-the-art in-room technology, ensuring every need is catered to.
While it might be a simple addition, my favourite feature of the rooms was the built-in filtered water taps and glass jugs, which aptly demonstrate the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. When booking a room here, my only recommendation would be to select one with “harbour” in its name to ensure you wake up to the most spectacular city views.
The Executive Marina Bay Rooms and Premiere Suites are the hotels’ top-tier offerings, where guests not only have the best rooms in the building but also have access to the self-service Studio 26 lounge, located on the 26th floor. Open around the clock, the lounge boasts stunning panoramic views of the city with complimentary morning and afternoon pastries, all-day drinks and light snacks.
The Perfect Location
Convenience is key at the Pan Pacific. Its direct connection to three of Singapore’s prominent shopping malls offers guests a seamless retail therapy experience as well as convenient access to amenities, services and endless dining options.
For those travellers keen on exploring further, the proximity to the MRT station is a blessing, providing easy access to a myriad of attractions and a perfect base to explore every part of the city. Being situated as part of the Marina Bay district, the hotel is also close enough to take a leisurely walk or morning run to the Marina Bay waterside, yet far enough from the busy hustle and bustle of the city’s epicentre.
World-Class Dining
Culinary delights await at the hotel’s array of dining options. I was particularly impressed by Edge, the in-house buffet, where a fusion of Asian and Pacific cuisines is served in an interactive kitchen setting. The breakfast buffet options were endless and housed a variety of cuisine stations from all over the world. Pan Pacific Edge also hosts one of the city’s best buffets for lunch and dinner, which in-house hotel guests can avail of at a discounted rate.
Plume, the hotel’s brand-new bar is attached to the grand atrium on the ground level and is a playfully elegant haven for cocktail aficionados. Its creative mixology and chic atmosphere make it a perfect spot for unwinding after a day in the city.
Positioned as a plush ‘destination bar’ dressed in sumptuous red hues with a collection of unique cocktails inspired by the colourful indigenous birds of Singapore. My stay at the hotel coincided with the World’s 50 Best Bars event, so Plume was absolutely pumping well into the evening proving a favourite spot for both local drinks enthusiasts and intentionally acclaimed bartenders. That’s got to say something, right?
Keyaki, the fine-dining Japanese restaurant, is an immersion into culinary artistry that offers authentic flavours and meticulously prepared dishes. It’s situated in the middle of a serene and peaceful Japanese garden on the fourth floor, which makes it feel like you’ve been instantly transported to Japan before you’ve even stepped foot inside the restaurant. My food recommendation would be to order from the Keyaki Kaiseki menu to give you a little taste of everything.
Family-Friendly Facilities
The outdoor pool area, set against a backdrop of skyscrapers, has been redesigned to give off a resort feel and a more family-friendly urban oasis. The renovations have also included an in-house children’s play centre called Urban Village Jungle, which I know all parents everywhere will greatly appreciate.
Should you stay here?
Overall, it’s not just the tangible elements that make the Pan Pacific stand out; it’s the impeccable service. For me, the feeling of being well looked after is the one thing that will often leave a long-lasting impression when it comes to hospitality. Every staff member I encountered was not only professional but genuinely warm and welcoming. Their insider tips on exploring Singapore were invaluable, turning my stay into an authentic local experience.
Pan Pacific Singapore is more than just a hotel; it’s a microcosm of the city itself. Luxurious, diverse, and endlessly fascinating. Whether you’re in Singapore for business or leisure, the Pan Pacific is a destination that truly embodies the essence of this remarkable city.
Disclaimer: The author of this article, John Guanzon, stayed at the Pan Pacific Singapore as a guest of the hotel and the Singapore Tourism Board for the purposes of this review.
