• Neighborhood: Marina Bay
  • Why we love it: Classic and glamorous accommodations with views of Marina Bay
  • Loyalty program: I Prefer (Preferred Hotels & Resorts)
  • From $545

What was once Clifford Pier, a landing point for immigrants arriving in Singapore, is now a snazzy hotel welcoming well-heeled travelers. Located right on the water and clad in glass and metal, the 100-room Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore feels glamorous with a heady scent of gardenias and lilies wafting through its dramatically arched hallways. The plush rooms designed by Andre Fu boast views of the Marina Bay Sands, Customs House, or Clifford Pier; the Premier Bay View rooms offer a private deck and Jacuzzi overlooking Marina Bay.

Come sunset, wind down with a cocktail at the rooftop bar Lantern—named in honor of the pier’s past moniker “Red Lantern Pier”. Order the tequila-spiked Red Lantern or Lime Garden Gin Fullerton Sling and sit back to enjoy the sparkling lights of the waterfront.

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A Glamorous Stay on Marina Bay

I always take a deep breath as I enter the Fullerton Bay. The hotel’s signature scent, a fresh and alluring mix of white jasmine and ylang ylang with hints of red rose and a musky base note (I know because I’m so obsessed with the fragrance I asked what it was), sets the tone for the entire Fullerton Bay experience. A gleaming glass box floating in the Marina, the Fullerton Bay is a sleek and sophisticated choice in the heart of modern Singapore. While there are several restaurants in and around the hotel, the jewel in its crown is undoubtedly Lantern: a rooftop bar with views out over the Marina next to the Fullerton Bay’s 25 meter infinity pool. Tented in white silk and studded with chandeliers, this is where I bring out of town guests for a memorable “welcome to Singapore” drink. There is no shortage of diversions around Marina Bay. Shops, restaurants, bars (many of them on rooftops), museums and theaters are all on your doorstep. For amazing local food, head to the hawker center next to the Esplanade (appropriately called “Gluttons Bay”) or, my favorite, Lau Pa Sat at 18 Raffles Quay.

Fancy a dip?

The Fullerton Bay Hotel’s rooftop infinity pool is so inviting that I’ve been tempted to stick my toes in while enjoying a drink at nearby Lantern bar. Unfortunately the pool is reserved for hotel guests. If you are lucky enough to be staying here, grab one of the lounge chairs in the shallow part of the pool. Add a dab of sunscreen, a good book and the gorgeous views and you’ve got the recipe for a perfectly lazy Singapore afternoon.

Brunch at Clifford

If the occasion calls for an all-you-can-eat champagne brunch, there are plenty to choose from in Singapore. One of my favorites is the elegant Sunday brunch at Clifford Brasserie in the Fullerton Bay Hotel (served from 12:00pm to 3:00pm). All the bases are covered with an appetizer buffet of fresh seafood, pasta, a carving station, and more but the spread is carefully curated and not as overwhelming as some brunch buffets can be. Main courses are served individually from the kitchen. Naturally there is a free-flow Champagne option. A lovely meal in a beautiful setting? How civilized.

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