Singaore

Singapore is a medley of Chinese, Indian, and Malaysian influences in a modern, tropical environment. Its luxurious shopping malls, variety of mouthwatering cuisines, exciting nightlife and unique attractions make it one of the most visited cities in Southeast Asia. And it’s worth it – you can enjoy this city’s rich offerings with such ease, it’s a real pleasure. Dine al fresco on the harbor or explore the island city’s beautiful jungle reserves by bus. Ferry across to Sentosa island or party out at Zouk nightclub. This vibrant, visitor-friendly city has it all. 

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Raffles Hotel


Raffles Hotel
Originally uploaded by HarryBo73

Declared a National Monument in 1987, the hotel has grown from strength to strength. With its restoration and reopening in 1991, Raffles Hotel today stands as a jewel in the crown of Singapore's hospitality industry, renowned and loved for its inimitable style and unsurpassed excellence in service and facilities.

In multicultural Singapore it is not surprising that the visionary founders of Raffles Hotel were a quartet of enterprising Armenian brothers: Martin, Tigran, Aviet and Arshak Sarkies.

Raffles Hotel opened in 1887 in a rather sombre-looking old bungalow known as the Beach House. It was named after Sir Stamford Raffles, the founder of modern Singapore. Tropical suites and sola topis were as much a part of Raffles Hotel's early style as bentwood tables and rattan chairs. Over the years the hotel has evolved into one of the world's most beloved grand hotels and welcomed innumerable celebrities, writers and royalty.