As one of the newest hotels added to our cityscape, Park Hotel Alexandra is a hotel quite unlike the others in town. You might think it is strange to build a hotel in a relatively old neighbourhood, but that is precisely what had us falling in love.

Park Hotel Alexandra is no less polished and modern, and we have since had two staycations at the property. You bet we loved it.

Complete with an infinity pool, a premium roast buffet, one of the most gorgeous bars in Singapore and a stylish coffee place all within the premise, Park Hotel Alexandra is a charming one and here is Why You Should Avoid The Crowd in Town And Whisk Away to Park Hotel Alexandra.

To celebrate its grand opening, Park Hotel Alexandra has launched TRAILS OF ALEXANDRA, an interactive, discovery-oriented Facebook campaign. Stand to win attractive prizes including a 1-night staycation in a suite by answering a fun-filled quiz that revolves around the Alexandra neighbourhood! Scroll to the end of the article to find out more.

Situated just beside Ikea @ Alexandra, Park Hotel Alexandra is barely five months old. There is something about new hotels that we love; perhaps it is the exploration part and all the first impressions. Like an empty canvas waiting to be painted on, we stepped in with zero expectations. And we were welcomed by a nature-inspired oasis.

Park Hotel Alexandra boasts earthy tones and muted colours, creating a warm environment that is homely and comforting. It is very much unlike your typical business hotels which can come across as serious to some, and the fact that it sits within the charming neighbourhood of Alexandra makes it even better when you need somewhere quiet to put up at.

Being pretty much self-contained, Park Hotel Alexandra will keep you occupied during your stay. It is akin to a resort stay, where everything is within the property and there is no need to step out to meet the world at all.

We will begin with the infinity pool that sits on the seventh floor. Who can resist taking a dip here?! This 25-metre infinity pool overlooks Alexandra neighbourhood, including the iconic building The Interlace and endless greenery of the Southern Ridges. It is one respite that you’d need from all the hustle and bustle, and what makes the pool even better is the swim-up bar. Enjoy some cocktails or a glass of fresh juice in the calming waters; sounds like life, ain’t it?

And then, we have the bar. You would never expect to find such a swanky open-concept bar in Alexandra, until Aqua Luna came along. This gem of Park Hotel Alexandra is quite the perfect spot for some after-work drinks, or if you simply want a non-crazy place to enjoy your drinks in the company of your precious ones.

Honestly, funky bars in the city centre are aplenty, but you have to settle with the crowd, and that is what we do not like. And that is also why Aqua Luna is for us, where we wind down with cocktails and a beautiful sunset.

From now till 13 November 2015, quote “ladyironchef” when you reserve your table at Aqua Luna and get 50% off your second drink (of lower value). Advance reservation is required, with a minimum of 2 guests (up to 12 adult patrons) in a single bill.

The Carvery is the hotel’s only restaurant, but it suffices to feed every carnivore. Primarily a buffet restaurant that specializes in meat (you guessed that from its name, yes?), The Carvery offers a gastronomical experience with its different roasts and meats. It is a dream for meat lovers, and while we are sucker for seafood when it comes to buffet, we’d gladly trade them for this spread at The Carvery.

By the way, if you are there for dinner, they serve what is easily the best Yorkshire pudding in Singapore – you have to try it yourself!

Need some coffee? Head down to the lobby and you will be welcomed by the aroma of fresh brew from The Coffee Belt. This new kid in town is one sexy coffee place who is serious about its coffee.

Though minimalistic in appearance, the coffee packs a punch and the barista makes latte art for takeaways too! The pastries and sweets are such pleasers, particularly, the Valrhona dark chocolate cake is awesome – moist and decadent with melty chocolate bits within, and topped with sea salt to balance the sweetness.

And of course, you must be wondering about the rooms now. We stayed on the 19th floor, which is the highest of three Club Room levels; we are too spoilt by the convenience of a club room. The rooms and suites come in different configurations, but the similarity of them all lies in the spanking clean interior with contemporary touches. Two different views to pick from – city or pool. We’d pick the pool anytime.

All rooms come with a 42″ full HD Smart LED TV, and are equipped with wifi, so you can surf without worrying about chalking up your bills. Your basic needs are definitely met with pressed sheets, fresh towels, premium toiletries, and the other miscellaneous such as coffee and tea making facilities.

The strategic location makes it a refreshing alternative from the hotels in the city. Highly accessible via public transport with neighbouring shopping malls, food centres and offices, Park Hotel Alexandra is just minutes away from the city centre; you get the convenience, and you get the peace.

TRAILS OF ALEXANDRA

Park Hotel Alexandra
323 Alexandra Road
Singapore 159972
Tel: +65 6828 8888
Nearest Station: Queenstown / Redhill

This post is brought to you by Park Hotel Alexandra.

Can’t get away for the weekend because there is no one to take care of your dog? Or do you just really need a short escape from the daily grind – even if it meant just for one night?

That is when you seek a respite within Singapore itself. And it is what we all call a “staycation”. For the uninitiated, the term might baffle a little, but it really means having a holiday outside of your house, but still within Home. More often than not, a staycation is a night’s stay at a lovely hotel, and it is one that is undisturbed and pampering all the same.

Hotel options in Singapore are aplenty, and whatever your budget is, there will be something that fits the bill. But budget for such “mini holidays” is a rising concern, and though we’d love to call The Westin Singapore home for a night, not everyone can afford to do that regularly.

But what if we told you there are actually a handful of staycation options in Singapore that are under S$300 per night? Yes, you heard us right. Here is the list you should totally bookmark. However, do note that hotel rates fluctuate every so often and different seasons call for different rates. And what we have here is accumulated based on our various research periods and occasional deals, so it does not speak for the hotel’s rates entirely. Be sure to check out the various properties’ social media pages for flash deals like we did!

Here are 20 hotels in Singapore under S$300 where you can go for a staycation at.

Source: Amara Hotel Singapore

#1 AMARA SINGAPORE HOTEL

Not the sexiest area to do a staycation, but Amara Singapore boasts a really convenient location. Right beside the Tanjong Pagar MRT, Amara Singapore is primarily a business hotel, but we’d like to think of that place as an alternative option.

On weekends, Tanjong Pagar is one that bustles with local lifestyle and heritage. No commercial crowd, no white collars and suited-up businessmen rushing around. It is just an honest area that exudes strong Singapore cultures – explore the local wet markets and food centres, do lunch at the many cafes in the vicinity, go for a post-dinner drink at the stretch of bars just farther up from the station.

Rates start from S$156++ per night.

165 Tanjong Pagar Road
Tel: +65 +65 6879 2555
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Source: Bay Hotel Singapore

#2 BAY HOTEL

Conveniently located at the Southern part of Singapore, just across Vivo City and surrounded by the serenity of Mount Faber Park, Bay Hotel is a small property with basic rooms, but it is good for a simple staycation if you want some undisturbed time with your partner. The rooms are modern and fully air-conditioned, and comes with free wi-fi too. Pack with you your favourite DVDs and it shall be movie night at Bay Hotel with its flat-screen TV.

Rates start from S$144++ per night.

50 Telok Blangah Road
Tel: +65 6818 6666
Nearest Station: Harbourfront

#3 CARLTON SINGAPORE

What is primarily a commercial property is slowly becoming a popular option among locals for a short staycation. Carlton Singapore is undergoing revamps in these two years, and since their new wing is up, it has seen many local couples and families over the weekends.

And if you are staying at Carlton Singapore, you will be spoilt for choice for meals. There is Cafe Mosaic with its international buffet spread, then there is Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant for its ever popular dim sum, and Tuxedo Patisserie bakes pretty mean desserts.

Rates start from S$200++ per night.

76 Bras Basah Road
Tel: +65 6338 8333
Nearest Station: City Hall

#4 CAPRI BY FRASER, CHANGI CITY

This is a relatively unknown spot in Singapore for a staycation, and one that we affectionately recognize as our secret hideout. Capri by Frasers might be at the extreme East side of Singapore, but it is precisely its location that we appreciate. Be away from the crowd, and just retreat to a lush oasis of tranquility and quietness.

Capri by Frasers does not have the best pool though, but that is fine because we were pretty happy snuggling under the sheets in the bright room that is filled with natural sunlight. And Changi City Point is just adjacent to the property, so if you need someone to wine and dine, you have The Oasis to turn to. Read this post for more information.

Rates start from S$210++ per night.

3 Changi Business Park Central 1
Singapore 486037
Tel: +65 6933 9833
Nearest Station: Expo

Source: Dorsett Hotel Singapore

#5 DORSETT SINGAPORE HOTEL

If you have a penchant for cafe-hopping, then Dorsett Singapore Hotel might entice you. The relatively new property sits at Outram Park, and is very accessible to its neighbouring areas like Keong Saik Road, Tiong Bahru, Everton Park and Duxton Hill. There are so many quaint cafes at those areas, and staying at Dorsett Singapore means being so close to good coffee and food.

And a plus point? Dorsett Singapore is just right above the MRT station, so getting around is made easy. If you need a quick shopping fix, Vivo City is just one stop away.

Rates start from S$176++ per night.

333 New Bridge Road
Tel: +65 6678 8333
Nearest Station: Outram Park

#6 FAIRMONT SINGAPORE

Staying in the City Hall is a nice alternative. You are still in the heart of the city, there are plenty of shopping and dining options, but you do away with the massive crowd that you’d get from Orchard Road. Fairmont Singapore makes that nice option if you are looking for somewhere centralized yet not overly crowded, and the lovely thing about a staycation at Fairmont is that you are not too far away

Rates start from S$220++ per night.

80 Bras Basah Road
Tel: +65 6339 7777
Nearest Station: City Hall

Source: Holiday Inn Singapore Atrium

#7 HOLIDAY INN ATRIUM SINGAPORE

You might wonder, “Why Holiday Inn Atrium?” Sure, it is not the top-of-mind choice when it comes to staycation, but we will tell you just why it makes a splendid option.

If you are not one to bum around in a room for fear that boredom will corrupt your soul, listen up. Holiday Inn Atrium Singapore is perfect for the party-goers. Zouk is just across the road, so party away and “home” is just 5 minutes’ away if you get too drunk. Ain’t it perfect for you and your girlfriends? It is like a holistic Ladies’ Night – you party, you dance the night away, you have a PJ’s party and wake up with wonderful memories of your night out.

Or if you are a foodie, then Holiday Inn Atrium Singapore shall be your “base” while you eat your day through around the area. Don’t forget to have a meal at Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant – an underrated restaurant that totally deserves your attention.

Rates start from S$167++ per night.

317 Outram Road
Tel: +65 6733 0188
Nearest Station: Outram

#8 HOTEL JEN @ ORCHARD GATEWAY

Right smack in the middle of Somerset, the new Hotel Jen @ Orchard Gateway is our prime choice when we want a staycation at Orchard Road that will not have our wallets take a beating. Strategically located right above Orchard Gateway – where Phoenix Hotel used to be at – this is one swanky property that is surprisingly very affordable too.

The hotel is not your over-the-top kind of fancy. Rather, it is fun with a touch of modernity, and kinda sexy but nothing intimidating. Bright colours dominate the decor and furnishing of Hotel Jen @ Orchard Gateway, and the mood board is that of young and trendy.

The rooms are nothing too special, but that’s fine by us because the fluffy white sheets are comfy all the same, and we get a view of the bustling Orchard Road. Toiletries are at the bare minimum, so we’d suggest bringing your own. If you are a tourists, setting Hotel Jen @ Orchard Gateway as your base makes commuting around a whole lot easier.

Hotel Jen @ Orchard Gateway is also listed in our guide to 9 amazing hotel swimming pools in Singapore.

Rates start from S$221++ per night.

277 Orchard Road
Tel: +65 6708 8888
Nearest Station: Somerset

#9 KAM LENG HOTEL

For the ones who love reminiscing the past and want to transport back in time, go for a staycation at Kam Leng Hotel – a really small but very retro boutique hotel in Jalan Besar. We love its vintage touches all over. The lobby alone is so charming, and you can even find magazines from four decades ago!

Sure, it is not the most exciting area to stay at, but if you have a room at Kam Leng, you need not even go out. Take some time to explore and rediscover all that are lost in time. The Cabin Room is really tiny, so we’d suggest to go for its Executive Room which is slightly more spacious.

Rates start from S$83++ per night.

383 Jalan Besar
Tel: +65 6239 9399
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

Source: Klapsons Singapore

#10 KLAPSONS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Klapsons is very sexy. This luxury boutique hotel in the Tanjong Pagar district is a very popular option among locals, and it it not difficult to understand why. With a funky interior and playful use of coloured lights, Klapsons Boutique Hotel has room rates that are generally well-priced under S$300.

There are seventeen uniquely designed suites, and you can expect sexiness in the form of open-concept showers, Italian furnishing and outdoor jacuzzi.

Rates start from S$230++ per night.

15 Hoe Chiang Road
Tel: +65 6521 9000
Nearest Station: Tanjong Pagar

Source: Moon 23 Hotel

#11 MOON 23 HOTEL

Another sexy alternative for a romantic staycation with your partner is Moon Hotel at Little India. It looks like just any other random building, and probably unassuming. But step in and you will be charmed by its fancy interior. Cosy yet stylish, Moon 23 Hotel is predominantly white with touches of deep purples. The MRT station is just a 5-minute walk away, so getting around won’t be difficult. Indeed an ideal budget choice for locals and tourists alike!

Rates start from S$103++ per night.

23 Dickson Road
Tel: +65 6827 6666
Nearest Station: Little India/Lavender

#12 OASIA HOTEL

If you want a comfortable getaway without the noise of a city, then Oasia Hotel will work for you. Tucked away from the crowd, Oasia Hotel at Novena feels more like a residence than a commercialized property. Its full-white decor and clean interior makes the room so inviting and the moment you step in, you know you will be in for a good night’s rest.

Expect no lavishness here at Oasia Hotel. Rather, look forward to slowing down and catching a breather, while savouring life with quiet moments. Take a dip at its pool that is situated on the eighth floor and overlooking the Novena precincts; we love how it feels like we are blending right in to the upper class neighbourhood.

Rates start from S$200++ per night.

8 Sinaran Drive
Tel: +65 6664 0333
Nearest Station: Novena

Source: One Farrer

#13 ONE FARRER HOTEL & SPA

A fairly new addition to the local scene, One Farrer Hotel & Spa sits within Little India and you can expect superb hospitality and luxury service. Conveniently located just above Farrer Park MRT station, One Farrer Hotel & Spa has several rooms, suites and villas options. The property is also equipped with free wi-fi, an outdoor pool and a spa.

A staycation here gives you the opportunity to discover the colourful Little India with rich culture and expressions. And because there are so much to eat in the area, you will never run out of meal ideas too.

Rates start from S$230++ per night.

1 Farrer Park Station Road
Tel: +65 6363 0101
Nearest Station: Farrer Park

#14 PARK HOTEL ALEXANDRA

As one of the newest properties in town, Park Hotel Alexandra is an alternative getaway spot if you do not prefer the usual tall buildings in the heart of Singapore. You may wonder what it is like to do a staycation within a residential area, and we will tell you it is nothing short of wonderful.

The new property is clean, spacious and colourful. And we love the outdoor pool so much! Deck chairs are aplenty for you to kick off your shoes and to unwind with some magazines. If all else fails, the stunning bar will keep you occupied.

Rates start from S$200++ per night.

323 Alexandra Road
(Next to Ikea)
Singapore 159972
Tel: +65 6828 8888
Nearest Station: Queenstown

#15 PARKROYAL ON BEACH ROAD

A staycation at PARKROYAL on Beach Road is ideal for all the indie lovers because Haji Lane is just across the street. Such incredible accessibility to all the quirky boutiques and interesting cafes! Enjoy a slice of local heritages and lifestyles, and the many kinds of ethnic cuisines in the hood.

The newly renovated rooms also mean a pleasant experience with elegant furnishings – think king-sized beds, deep-soak bathtub, and complimentary wifi all day through.

Rates start from S$168++ per night.

7500A Beach Road
Tel: +65 6505 5666
Nearest Station: Bugis

#16 PARKROYAL ON PICKERING

For a staycation in a relaxing and quiet environment, yet still not too far away from the city, PARKROYAL on Pickering provides an impeccable experience that leaves you feeling rejuvenated. This eco-friendly hotel boasts of a breathtaking metropolitan architecture that has changed the Singapore skyline. Expect lofty sky gardens with cascading plants, a gym with state-of-the-art equipment, a wellness lounge and a stunning infinity pool with colourful cabanas.

With clever utilisation of space, the room is complete with all you would of a modern hotel room – a huge bed with pristine white sheets, a work desk, built-in wardrobe, a bath tub overlooking the surrounding greenery outside, and quality toiletries. Prices typically start from S$290 per night, but we are telling you that a night here will be so worth every penny and very good for the soul.

PARKROYAL on Pickering is also listed in our guide to 9 amazing hotel swimming pools in Singapore.

Rates start from S$264++ per night.

3 Upper Pickering Street
Tel: +65 6809 8888
Nearest Station: Clarke Quay/Chinatown

#17 REGENT SINGAPORE

Tanglin is a quaint neighbourhood that is not too far away from the main Orchard Road, and if you fancy the elusiveness of that area, then Regent Singapore will make a splendid staycation option. We love its modern rooms and how the hotel exudes that understated elegance and timelessness.

Rates start from S$254++ per night.

1 Cuscaden Road
Tel: +65 6733 8888
Nearest Station: Orchard

Source: Rendezvous Hotel Singapore

#18 RENDEZVOUS HOTEL SINGAPORE

Just slightly farther up from the main Orchard Road, Rendezvous Hotel used to be an old building that looked somewhat dodgy. But its newly renovated facade is a lot more inviting now.

For its strategic location, we’d say it is worth a shot for both locals and tourists alike. Just hop on to a bus and you’re on your way to explore Singapore for her colourful culture and gastronomical delights.

Rates start from S$172 ++ per night.

9 Bras Basah Road
Tel: +65 6336 0220
Nearest Station: Dhoby Ghaut/Bras Basah

#19 ROYAL PLAZA ON SCOTTS

This property may be slightly old, but it still makes an ideal staycation option when you want something affordable with a very convenient location. Royal Plaza on Scotts is famous for its international buffet spread at Carousel, but more than that, we love the accessibility and spacious rooms.

The rooms at Royal Plaza On Scotts are not the most elegant nor posh, but it is self-sufficient – work desk with free in-room wi-fi, flat screen LED TV, a window-side leather seat,  Nepresso machine and TWG tea sachets, complimentary mini bar, and king-sized bed with a concise pillow menu. Over in the bathroom, you’ve got your bath tub and rainforest shower. And have we mentioned how toiletries make a great impact on our stay? Boy, were we pleased to see L’occitane stocked in the shower room.

Royal Plaza on Scotts makes a great option for tourists too, especially first-timers. There are buses that go to all parts of Singapore, the MRT station is a 5-minute walk away, and the major shopping malls are all within walking distance too.

Rates start from S$198++ per night.

25 Scotts Road
Tel: +65 6737 7966
Nearest Station: Orchard

#20 THE SCARLET SINGAPORE HOTEL

Very sexy, and very elusive. The Scarlet Singapore Hotel is one boutique hotel that we really like for many reasons. It is not the fanciest, but it has a mardi gras touch that makes the whole place so regal and somewhat mystical. There are no facilities in the hotel to speak of, rest for a rooftop bar that overlooks the Southern part of Singapore.

But a night’s stay at The Scarlet is ideal for couples who want to spend some quality time together while being away from the world. The room is not too spacious but it covers your basics, and the bed is surprisingly comfortable and had us snoozing our alarms for more than an hour! Best part of The Scarlet? Maxwell Food Centre is just a stone’s throw away, so you never have to worry about going hungry.

Rates start from S$191++ per night.

33 Erskine Road
Tel: +65 6511 3333
Nearest Station: Outram Park/Chinatown

Read our hotel guides for more recommendations on the best places to stay at.

In our line of work, we meet people from the hotel industry a lot – Marketing Managers, Rooms Managers, Housekeeping staff, F&B staff… and while people in this industry are generally more exuberant, it is actually by no surprise that more often than not, they speak of their lethargy, unhappiness and lack of motivation too. And why is that so? Because only they are unsung heroes working hard behind the scenes. Their working hours are longer than usual, weekends and public holidays are always sacrificed; on the corporate side, promotions can be slow and remuneration is not very much better.

So what it takes to stay on is the sheer passion and love for the industry. But everyone gets worn out someday, somewhere. And can employers improve the situation for these staff, and up their happiness level to improve the overall productivity and sense of satisfaction?

Yes. They can. They sure can. Today, we look at five simple ways Hoteliers can refer to and reflect upon, to be better employers and to create a better workplace so as to keep your employees happy at work, and to attract more talents in to your property:

1. LISTEN TO YOUR EMPLOYEES

The first and most important point – listen. Always take the effort to interact with and listen to your staff. Human resource is your vital asset, and they are not just mere employees. They are the ones who front your property, who serve your guests, who host your medias, who feel and work your daily functions – both back end and frontline. And they are the ones who can tell you exactly just how your property is faring; guests would share their experiences with the operations staff, and media would respond to your marketing efforts.

Four Seasons Resorts Jimbaran Bali did just that, by speaking to their porters to find out peak periods where porters need extra hands on deck to fetch guests to different locations within their large compound. The hotel arranged for additional porters on duty during these peak periods so that each porter would not be pressurized to rush through their work and compromise on safety during chauffeuring guests, which made both employee and guest experiences much more pleasant.

Take time out to sit down with your staff, for it is a rewarding journey that you should embark on to suss out avenues to improve on and to better the property on a holistic level.

2. ALWAYS GIVE DUE RECOGNITION AND REWARDS

On top of being heard, your staff needs to feel belonged and recognised – Esteem and Self-actualisation, Maslow would call it. You do not want to have your staff feel like they are simply here on a job; you want them to know that they have careers with your property, you want them to understand that all of you are there to cross-pollinate and to grow together as one, because when the company prospers, the staff reaps benefits too.

Do not be stingy with praises. If a staff has done well, acknowledge his/her hard work and give them the due credits. If possible, a little monetary reward would be ideal. Remember that a smile and a praise can greatly touch lives and work wonders. When staff morale goes up, so does their productivity.

For example, the spa at Kayumanis Villa, Ubud implemented a Progressive Wage Model to map out a clear career ladder with fair wages for their staff based on productivity, skills and job responsibilities, ensuring staff feel duly recognised and rewarded at work.

3. ORGANISE REGULAR TEAM-BUILDING ACTIVITIES

To boost morale, to improve communications, to instil motivation and confidence, to learn about each other’s strengths and weaknesses and to strategise how to work together better… these are but a few to speak of. As long as they are fun and challenging, it will benefit one and all.

Channel a budget for team-building activities, for this investment goes a long way. Plan for day outs and retreats, or simple tea parties. Inculcate games and exercises in accordance to the objective. They can be done once a month, or once every quarter – whichever you are comfortable with.

4. IMPLEMENT A JOB ROTATION SYSTEM

We may love ice-cream, but eating it every day can be quite a bore too. Similarly, doing the same task five days a week can result in a lack of motivation and ultimate stifling of creativity.

Job rotation is a management technique that vastly boosts staffs’ morale and staff efficacy. So it is always good to allow your staff to maximise their potential by assigning them different roles or to change their designations once in a while.

Offering opportunities for job rotation can even attract talented workers to your organisation, just like how The Spa Artisan at the Fullerton Hotel attracted one of their spa consultants to work for them.

5. PROVIDE EMPLOYEES WITH MORE TRAININGS AND UPGRADING OPPORTUNITIES

Similarly, with opportunities to grow and to develop, the staff feels valued and important.

Sheraton Towers not only trained their staff to use 3 new technologies to increase productivity, which helped guests check in faster and receive their ironed clothes sooner, but this hotel was even able to give their staff a pay raise and let them go off earlier if they finished their jobs for the day.

Pairing training/upgrading with innovative tools and systems helps to make employees’ work become easier, smarter and safer. In turn you will win your staff over and make them more productive, loyal and engaged in their work – which translates to better profits numbers for you, of course.

Being a better employer is simply about learning to bring out the best in every worker and treating them better.

This message is part of a ladyironchef x Labour Movement project where we seek to share with you insights on the different initiatives by the Labour Movement to give workers in Singapore better jobs, better pay and better work-life balance.