Rediscovering Comfort in Familiarity: A Staycation at Carlton Hotel Singapore

In a world where exotic destinations and far-off adventures often steal the spotlight, there’s something inherently special about embracing the comforts of home and embarking on a local staycation.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Nestled in the heart of Singapore’s bustling city center, The Carlton Singapore is a luxurious 940-room hotel renowned for its impeccable service, elegant design, and world-class amenities. Despite the appeal of far-off destinations, there’s something truly unique about indulging in a local staycation at this iconic hotel, where every amenity and indulgence awaits at your doorstep.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

From the moment you step into the elegant lobby of the Carlton Hotel Singapore, you’re greeted with an air of sophistication and warmth. Whether you’re in the mood for relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy within the confines of this luxurious retreat.

But why choose a staycation? A staycation offers the opportunity for much-needed rest and rejuvenation without the hassle of long-distance travel. Instead of spending hours navigating airports or sitting in traffic, you can indulge in self-care activities, catch up on your reading list, or simply enjoy quality time with loved ones. Carlton Hotel Singapore boasts a range of luxurious accommodations, including spacious rooms and suites, each exquisitely designed to provide guests with utmost comfort and relaxation. From plush furnishings and modern amenities to breathtaking views of the city skyline, every detail has been carefully curated to ensure a memorable stay.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

During my stay in their Studio Room featuring contemporary décor and thoughtful touches, equipped with a plush king-size bed, I experienced the epitome of comfort. The room also includes a well-appointed en-suite bathroom with luxurious amenities, providing a spa-like experience in the same space. Whether indulging in a refreshing rain shower or soaking in the deep bathtub, I felt rejuvenated. The room also offers modern conveniences such as a flat-screen TV with cable channels, high-speed internet access, and a minibar stocked with refreshments.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

If you are booking a room category that includes access to Premier Club Lounge, you will treat yourself to perks where you can relish a lavish buffet breakfast featuring an array of delightful options. Later in the day, unwind with a selection of premium alcoholic beverages paired with delicious bites, all while enjoying a serene view and the privacy offered by this upscale setting.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

In addition to its luxurious accommodations, the hotel offers stunning pools to unwind in style as you soak up the sun’s rays or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Guests can also indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment at the wellness center, or work out in the well-equipped gym to maintain their fitness routine while away from home. The large gym features a range of modern exercise equipment, including cardio machines such as treadmills, elliptical trainers, and stationary bikes, perfect for cardiovascular workouts. For those looking to build strength and tone muscles, the gym also offers a variety of weight training machines and free weights.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Furthermore, the gym at the Carlton Hotel Singapore provides guests with access to amenities designed to enhance their workout experience. These amenities include towels, genders separated saunas, locker rooms with showers and toiletries, allowing guests to freshen up after their workout sessions. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or simply looking to squeeze in a quick workout, the gym provides everything you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

For culinary enthusiasts, Carlton Hotel Singapore offers an array of dining options to tantalize your taste buds. From award-winning Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant to sumptuous buffets at Café Mosaic, each meal is a culinary journey filled with flavors and aromas that will delight even the most discerning palate.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Carlton Hotel Singapore

I particularly enjoyed myself at Tuxedo Patisserie, a sophisticated dining destination that combines classic elegance with modern flair. Situated within the hotel’s premises at the lobby, the patisserie offers a chic and inviting ambiance, with sleek furnishings, muted tones, and subtle lighting creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. Whether you’re meeting a business associate for coffee or catching up with friends over sweets, the place provides the perfect backdrop for any occasion. Guests can also savor expertly brewed specialty coffees, artisanal teas, and refreshing beverages, all served with meticulous attention to detail.

Carlton Hotel Singapore

But perhaps the greatest allure of a staycation at the Carlton Hotel Singapore lies in its ability to transport you to a world of tranquility and relaxation without ever having to leave the city? Here, amidst the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s vibrant streets, you can find sanctuary and solace in the lap of luxury, indulging in all the comforts and exploring the surroundings that this iconic hotel has to offer.

With this perfect opportunity to unplug and disconnect from the demands of everyday life, when you find yourself in need of a getaway, consider embarking on a local staycation at Carlton Hotel Singapore. Whether it’s a weekend retreat or a leisurely day trip, a local staycation promises to refresh your spirit, rejuvenate your soul, and remind you of the endless wonders that await in your own backyard.

https://bit.ly/CHSMAYA10
Use Promo Code ‘𝐌𝐀𝐘𝐀10’ for *10% off when you book for a stay at Carlton Hotel Singapore
Validity Period: 1 March to 31 May 2024
Stay Date: Now to 30 Dec 2024
*T&Cs apply, valid for all room types

Carlton Hotel Singapore

Address: 76 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189558
Tel:  +65 6338 8333
Fax: +65 6339 6866
Email: mail@carltonhotel.sg

Best of West Japan in the New Normal: Tips and Recommendations

Hey there my fellow travelers, how have you been?

It’s been so long since we’ve been able to pack our bags and explore the world, hasn’t it? But now that things are getting under control and the pandemic is easing up, it’s time to get excited about traveling again!

And guess what? I recently visited Japan, the country that had been at the top of my bucket list for the longest time! I have to admit, I was feeling a bit nervous about traveling to Japan during these times, but fortunately, I had a great itinerary planner who helped me immensely! Not only did she provide me with fantastic recommendations, but she also addressed all my queries and put my worries to rest.

MY TIME IN JAPAN

During my trip, I spent nearly two weeks exploring the rural areas of West Japan, which offered a unique and distinctive journey. Since there was a lot of commuting involved, I heavily relied on my JR West Rail Pass to get around. In general, you do not need to make a reservation for your luggage when taking a train with your JR West Rail Pass, but is great to check online for the latest regulations before we travel.

The rail pass is exclusively available to foreigners and provides unlimited rides and free seat reservations, even on the Shinkansen. I strongly recommend getting one as it is convenient and cost-effective, helping you save a lot on transportation expenses. During my time in Japan, I purchased a 5-day Kansai-WIDE Area Pass and a 7-day Kansai-Hokuriku Area Pass, which covered my entire trip.

I decided to stay in hotels near the train stations for my accommodation, and it turned out to be the best decision ever! Not only did it save me from unnecessary traveling, but the hotels themselves were also incredibly comfortable, with top-notch amenities and services that exceeded all my expectations. It was everything I could have asked for in a hotel!

INTO THE FINER DETAILS

As this was my first trip since the pandemic began, I’m incredibly excited and grateful for the experience! To ensure that it doesn’t fade from my memory, I’ve decided to note down the major highlights in my blog. So, read on to learn more about my escapade!

DAY 1 – 3: OSAKA

Upon arriving at Itami International Airport, I made a transit to JR Osaka Station and checked into Hotel Granvia Osaka. The location of this hotel is perfect – situated right above Osaka Station! The Granvia Lounge on the top floor was a nice touch, with complimentary refreshments and business support services for guests staying on the Granvia floors.

Let’s talk about the food scene in Osaka! I always have a thing for Takoyaki, adoring its rich umami flavor, crispy texture on the outside, and gooey consistency on the inside. Although this can be found in Singapore, it is a must-eat in Osaka, as this dish is believed to have originated from here. I spotted a cool Takoyaki store where I could sit to admire the chef in action before devouring the hot snack, lovely! What’s more, this store is conveniently located at a walking distance from my hotel!

Besides exploring the iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle, Umeda Sky Building, and the vibrant Dotonbori district, I also ventured out to Arima Onsen, a hot spring town nestled in the mountains, for a peaceful getaway. The hot spring was incredibly relaxing, and the rural atmosphere was a welcome change from the city. You must try the Sansho Pepper Steamed Pork Bun when you are at here – it is extremely delightful!

DAY 3 – 5: TOYAMA

My trip to Toyama was absolutely amazing with many incredible things to do and see! For a start, I visited Fujiko F. Fujio Museum, a fascinating attraction for enthusiasts of the popular anime series, Doraemon, and its creator. Additionally, as the birthplace of the author of Doraemon, the museum holds a unique significance that adds to its allure.

The impressive bronze Takaoka Daibutsu is one of three largest buddha statues in Japan. It depicts Amida Buddha, who is believed to be the Buddha of Infinite Light and the ruler of the Western Paradise, seated in the lotus position with a grandeur that is truly awe-inspiring! Feeling really glad to check this out for the trip.

Toyama is famous for local delicacies such as Hotaruika Firefly Squid and Shiroebi Prawns, that are seriously mouth-watering no matter being cooked or eaten raw. I had them at a few places, including a sushi place, and a shop where they are served with a sake buffet!

Now, let me tell you about the cherry on top of my Toyama experience – Hotel Vischio Toyama! This hotel is situated right beside JR Toyama Station, surrounded by vibrant shopping malls, with its reception located on the 5th floor of the MAROOT shopping mall. The hotel’s modern design is impressive and I loved the glimpse of Alps from my hotel room! There is a garden-inspired public bath, and the breakfast buffet featuring approximately 60 local Toyama dishes was my foodie’s dream come true! Don’t even get me started on the guest lounge that provides complimentary refreshments!

DAY 5 – 7: KYOTO

During my trip to Kyoto, I was excited to explore the city’s iconic temples and shrines, which had always been on my bucket list. One of the most impressive ones was the Yasaka-jinja Shrine, famous for its stunning architecture and striking red torii gate at the entrance. This attraction was conveniently located near the bustling shopping district that I couldn’t wait to explore.

To make the most of my visit, I decided to stay at Hotel Granvia Kyoto, which came highly recommended by my friends. The hotel’s location above JR Kyoto Station and proximity to World Heritage Sites like Toji Temple and Nishi-Honganji Temple made it an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural landmarks.

Additionally, the Granvia Lounge, exclusively available to Granvia Floor guests, was a favorite of mine as it offered complimentary refreshments and express check-in/out services. For those interested in Japanese art and craft tours, the newly opened Atelier Japan on the third floor was also worth a visit.

DAY 7 to 9: NARA

I stayed at this amazing hotel called Nara Hotel, which I feel is a total highlight of my trip! This hotel is not like any others but a historic building with a unique and traditional Japanese style architecture. The exterior is made of wood and has a classic charm to it that makes it stand out. The building has a grand entrance with a porch, where guests can enter through large door. Once inside, guests will be greeted with a spacious lobby adorned with charming Japanese-style decor and furnishings.

I feel the hotel has a very welcoming and warm atmosphere, with a lot of natural light. Can you believe Nara Hotel has been around since 1909? Even famous peeps like Albert Einstein and Audrey Hepburn have stayed there!

There are many scenic trails in and around the hotel grounds for exploration, and I went to check out the Former Daijoin Temple Garden, St. Raphael Chapel, and Terrace Garden to get some Instagram worthy shots. The sceneries are perfect and I’m very satisfied with them!

But wait, there is more! The Tea Lounge in the hotel had the most delightful cakes, coffee, and tea, with a view that was just amazing. I even spotted some deer strolling by while I enjoyed my munchies.

Waking up to the next morning for a traditional Nara breakfast of tea porridge and pickles was one for the books, so delightful that I will never forget!

DAY 9 – 11: OKAYAMA

While exploring Okayama, I decided to venture off the beaten path and discover some unique spots. As much as I loved visiting the stunning Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle, and Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, I wanted to find something different. That’s when I stumbled upon Hotel Granvia Okayama.

This hotel was luxurious, and it quickly became one of my favorite places to stay. Not only was it a popular choice for wedding celebrations and travelers, but it was also conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from JR Okayama Station. And let’s not forget Lumiere, the hotel’s café where they served up the most delicious seasonal fruit parfaits made with locally sourced fruits. I felt like I was indulging in a little slice of heaven with every bite!

The real adventure began when I started exploring some unconventional recommendations from Irene. I visited a museum dedicated to jeans, which was surprisingly fascinating. I also checked out a Japanese sword museum and even went on a tour of a local beer factory! And of course, no trip to Okayama would be complete without experiencing the renowned Seto Ohashi. These unique sites were truly captivating, discovering a whole new side of the city.

DAY 11 – 13: SHIGA – OTSU

As my journey is coming to an end, my planner got me to stay in Otsu, a charming city conveniently located near Kyoto Station for my airport transfer. She suggested the Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel, which turned out to be a spectacular choice! My room was incredibly spacious, and the view of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, took my breath away.

The hotel has plenty of lavish amenities, like hot spring bath, an outdoor pool, and complimentary shuttle service to and from Otsu Station. But what really impressed me was the welcome counter in JR Kyoto Station, where I could drop off my luggage and explore the city before heading to the hotel with ease.

While there are many activities to participate, I spent most of my time taking leisurely strolls around the freshwater lake. The scenery was absolutely picturesque, with stunning mountains, lovely parks and beaches surrounding the area. Walking around this lake was incredibly calming, the perfect way to unwind after a long journey.

Omigyu is a type of wagyu beef produced in Omi, a province in Shiga prefecture that includes the city of Otsu. It is known for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and flavor, making it one of the most highly-regarded types of wagyu beef in Japan. The beef is typically served in high-end restaurants and is considered a delicacy. I was thrilled to finally taste it, and it was truly a culinary experience to remember – I must thank my planner again for this wonderful recommendation!

DAY 14 – BYE BYE JAPAN

The journey from Kyoto to Kansai Airport was an absolute breeze, thanks to the Kansai Airport Express and my trusty JR West Rail Pass. I couldn’t believe how effortless the whole experience was!

Boarding the direct train from JR Kyoto Station was a total no-brainer, and I didn’t have to worry about any extra fees since my rail pass covered the fare. The train was super comfortable and spacious, with plenty of room for my luggage. I was able to kick back and relax while enjoying the beautiful scenery as we zoomed towards the airport.

When we finally arrived, finding my way to the airport terminal was a piece of cake. The whole trip was so stress-free and enjoyable, it was hard to believe I was traveling! I highly recommend this option to anyone looking for a hassle-free way to get from Kyoto to Kansai Airport. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

A HEARTFELT THANK YOU NOTE TO IRENE

I can’t stress enough how much fun I had in Japan! From the incredible sights and activities to the delicious food and friendly locals, it was an unforgettable experience. But let me tell you, planning a personalized trip to Japan can be a daunting task, especially with the language barrier. This is why I’m really feeling thankful to Irene, for being such an amazing itinerary planner who made the most out of my time there.

Thanks to her meticulous planning, I was able to tick off most of the things on my list of must-see and must-do activities. With the new restrictions in place, reservations were needed in many places, but she had me covered. Her knowledge of attractions, travel times, weather, and the latest pandemic rules was top-notch, and she kept me up-to-date throughout my trip. It was clear that she had gained her expertise through years of experience working with a variety of travelers, from families to solo adventurers. Her thoughtfulness and insider knowledge proved invaluable and made my trip all the more enjoyable.

If you are planning a trip to Japan, I highly recommend getting in touch with Irene! Her email is at misoconsultation21@gmail.com, or you can send her a message on Instagram at https://instagram.com/irene_sohst.

Overall, Japan is an amazing destination that I would recommend to anyone looking for a travel experience all round. Whether you’re into the bustling city life or the tranquil countryside, Japan has something for everyone! So what are you waiting for? Start planning now to get your wanderlust fixed!

Brand New Party Experience with PartyDiva.Co!

Celebrations can start from homes and we will find ways to create new memories with our love ones for all our special occasions.

party diva!

2020 is EPIC. We lived half a year like a lifetime and get the longest weekends that we always wanted. Since COVID 19 hit us, the virus has morphed into a globally pandemic that has changed the way we live and interact with one another.

We now face new norms of socializing and this makes me cherish the company of my loved ones even more. Celebrations should start from our safer home and from there, we can begin to find ways to create new memories for all our special occasions.

With National Day coming this 9 August, how would you spend this special day with your loved ones? The National Day Parade (NDP) is gonna focus on Singaporeans celebrating in our homes, instead of the floating platform at Marina Bay.

That said, I’m officially a party planner for my family! And I need to find a variety of National Day themed products to make my celebration a truly memorable one!

PartyDiva.Co,
https://partydiva.co/sg55, a collaborative e-commerce & marketplace for Gifting, Events and Party Planning came into my rescue! It is an e-commerce marketplace that brings merchants & consumers together all in one place for a seamless party planning experience.

This National Day, besides retailing their own thematic decorative, PartyDiva.Co also pulled together a roster of thematic offerings curated by some of our favorite homegrown brands! With them, I get to support local brands while feasting my tummy & eyes on their limited edition offerings.

Just a few clicks online & what I wanted got delivered to my doorstep! I love this truly Singapore experience!

Check out what I have selected from PartyDiva.Co for my National Day Celebration with my family!

1) AMICI Catering

Celebration always involves food, and this is especially true for Singaporeans since eating good food is our national hobby! AMICI Catering, a homegrown boutique caterer, offers this mini gourmet 5-course National Day Buffet ($108+) that let me pick my preferred dish for each course. This set can feed up to 7 people.

party diva!

Check out their exclusive National Day menu offerings of up to 15 different dishes for selection – I had a hard time deciding myself. The specially designed menu is a hearty East-meets-West fusion repertoire that tastes just as good as it sounds!

The mini buffet came in microwaveable boxes, with plates, utensils, serviettes & plastic table cloth too. All of these are placed neatly in a heat insulated bag to keep the food warm while I prepare and doll up for my celebratory meal.

party diva!

I always relish a freshly made gourmet meal and I simply adored what I have chosen here. The Garlic Fried Rice with Chicken Floss & Spring Onion, Oven-baked Cajun Style Basa Fish with Peppers and Mixed Vegetables Cutlets are so delicious!

party diva!

This National Day Set comes with a complimentary 6” Raspberry Lychee Rose Cake too, concluding the meal on a sweet note. Nice one!

And if you think a complimentary cake doesn’t taste good, you are wrong. This cake from AMICI Catering is fantastic! Moist, soft and fluffy – every mouthful is decked with juicy lychee & perfumed with a delicate rose fragrance, super delish!

2) Nasi Lemak Indulgence

Greedy me saw this & I know I must have it! National Day MUST HAVE a national dish for celebration right? YES! OMG this limited edition savory 8-inch Nasi Lemak Cake ($132) from Nasi Lemak Indulgence is the bomb! Taking a leaf from grandma’s old recipe book, Nasi Lemak Indulgence re-created the traditional Nasi Lemak with their very own twist.

One bite of the ‘cake’ packs the burst of the combinative flavors that makes the Nasi Lemak a true Singaporean favorite. I 10000% recommend you to get this if you are a true nasi lemak lover with a taste of nostalgia & want to impress your love ones!

party diva!

This beautiful cake is here to tantalize our tastebuds while representing our ethnic groups with the variety of specially selected ingredients.

The seasoned sambal topped with Goreng Tempeh, anchovies peanuts in Kicap Manis is meant as a symbolic gesture towards the Malay in Singapore. Likewise, the Papadum is a nod to our Indian community, accompanied with Fried Shrimp Paste Chicken and Blue Pea Rice as a token for the Chinese & Peranakan in Singapore.

Artfully pieced together as one, the cake presents itself as a representation of celebration, not just for good food and great times, but for the diversity that makes Singapore such a special place for us. From meaning to flavor, this has got everything I want in a satisfying nasi lemak meal – now I can have my cake and eat it!

Cut this up like a cake and served! It is pretty easy to cut but difficult for me because I felt really bad ‘destroying’ it.

I reckon this cake can cut up to 10 big slices though there are only 8 chicken wings. Even without the chicken wings, rest assured it will still be highly satisfying for everyone.

Nasi Lemak Indulgence freshly makes their cakes and the cake was warm when it arrived at my place. The thick layers of eggy omelette, chunky otah and yummy blue pea coconut rice go so well together with the sweet & spicy sambal to add a touch of tang to the symphony of flavorsEven the cucumber slices by the side taste so good! The bottle of papadum that comes with the cake adds crunch to the cake too.

3) Kueh Ho Jiak

party diva!

National Day celebration also means having heritage food right? My family loves nonya kueh and decided to get the award winning Kueh Ho Jiak for snacks.

Kueh Ho Jiak is famous for their varying rendition of traditional kuehs with aesthetics that go in line for any festive celebration or trend – all without the use of artificial colorings.

Their handmade kuehs are also popular because they can be customized to suit different occasions & celebrations. Look at these beautifully designed ones for their National Day Celebratory Platter ($37.50) here, so pretty & patriotic right?

party diva!

This platter has red & white kuehs representing the Singapore flag6 mini png kuehs (rice cake), 5 kueh lapis and 4 Merlion ang ku kuehs (with grated coconut fillings) plated beautifully on fragrant pandan leaves. All of these are also vegan with no eggs used.

4) Three Wisemen

party diva!

By now, most people know I love my alcohol and a celebration is not considered as one unless it comes with it. Three Wisemen tops this off with a really yummy NDP-themed cocktail, the Nana Sling! ($90, set of 5 x 120ml bottles).

party diva!

Nana Sling is a seasonal Summer cocktail that requires 5 days to make. An unmistakably tropical concoction, this drink is a heady mix of lemon juice, homemade blossom water, pomegranate syrup and Brugal Rum infused with banana leaves, all combined with the intense orange flavour from shots of Cointreau. Cheers with the cute bottles!

5) Pétale Tea

party diva!

What about my non alcoholic family members? Of course they are also my priority and I prepared limited-edition blooming tea from Pétale Tea for them!

party diva!

As Singapore’s No.1 blooming tea expert, this National Day gift set ($65), includes their limited-edition tea “My Fair Lady”, 5 best-selling tea flavours and 2 tea glasses to complete the set! The tea glasses are really perfect for us to admire at the tea bloom before enjoying it – a complete sensory experience!

Beautiful blooming teas with tantalizing flavors & many health benefits. This drinkable art-in-the-glass is ready in just 5 to 10 mins!

6) PartyDiva.Co

party diva!

A party with no decorations is no party at all! I elevated the ambiance & presentation of my sumptuous spread with PartyDiva.Co’s limited edition National Day themed bundle ($100), featuring their very own customized bunting, cupcake stand, cake and food toppers that feature Singapore icons such as the Merlion & Gardens by the Bay, as well as local slangs such as “Relax Lah” and “Shiok Ah”!

PartyDiva.Co also has a virtual photo booth (VBooth) whereby we can take thematic photos, decorated them and share with everyone! All we have to do is to click on the link below:

https://partydiva.co/sg55

Playing around with the stickers has never been this fun and easy!

All the vendors I have chosen are homegrown brands, which makes #SupportLocal especially meaningful during this National Day.

So what are you waiting for! It is time to start planning & make your celebration a truly unforgettable one. Get PartyDiva.Co to put together a tasteful event like mine! This one-stop platform is really convenient & cost effective, you’re gonna love itPartyDiva.Co is my partner for celebrations and I’m looking forward to more parties and festivities with them already!