By What can one do in less than 24 hours at the Marina Bay Sands hotel? Surprisingly a lot. Did I leave feeling relaxed and rested in spite of the short stay? Yes, definitely.
Day 1
Afternoon: Check-in (MBS)
Evening: Spago – KOMA
Day 2
Morning: Infinity Pool – Spago (Breakfast)
With all good intentions, I had planned to check-in at the allocated time of 3 pm to maximise my 1-day stay at the Marina Bay Sands hotel (check out was at 11 am). I was however delayed and only checked in at 5 pm. The check-in process was smooth and though I had booked for a Premium Room – City View, I was upgraded to the Orchid Suite – City View.
The Room
71 square metres in size, I was able to have a nice “swim” in my room. There was a dining table, sofa and work desk and a separate bedroom. There was just 1 bathroom (versus some suites that include a powder room) that was very spacious with 2 sinks. A dresser was also available.
Electrical Points – There were sufficient USB cables and electrical sockets for me and my gadgets. These were well laid out at the bedside, work desk and sideboard. If you are a large party, there are sufficient power points for everyone. Wifi connection was good.
The Facilities
The Pool
My guess is one of the key draws to a staycation at the Marina Bay Sands would be to experience the infinity pool.
SG Butler Tip:A day before your arrival, you will receive an SMS with a link to ask you to book: 1. your preferred check-in time and 2. the various facilities you wish to use during your stay (which also includes the gym and spa.)
From the link, you will be able to see the available slots for the use of the pool (set in 1.5-hour blocks). The 3 pools are limited to 50 persons at any one time. I signed up for the 6 to 7:30 am slot.
The lifeguard on duty directed me to Pool 2 (the centre tower). There were a total of 6 of us at the pool at that hour. The water was warm and swimming there at the break of dawn was a lovely experience. At 7:15 am, the lifeguard will call out to remind everyone to leave the pool and pool area by 7:30 am. I guess 1.5 hours may be short for some but I didn’t feel too rushed and enjoyed my pool experience.
A word of thanks to the lifeguard on duty and the staff. Everyone was warm and friendly and took the time to explain to me the social distancing rules. For those who want to enjoy the jacuzzi (facing the Singapore Straits), usage works in 15-minute blocks and it is on a first come first serve basis. Staff is on hand for any assistance.
Marina Bay Sands
10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956
Food & Beverage
You really are spoilt for choice when staying at the Marina Bay Sands. Head to their website to select a restaurant of your preference. For drinks and breakfast, I focused on Spago (on the 57th floor of MBS). The restaurant is managed by American Celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck. Reservations are necessary.
Spago has 2 sections: the Bar & Lounge and the Dining Room. Both are located on the 57th floor. Breakfast is located at the Bar & Lounge.
Breakfast at Spago is a great way to start the day. If the weather is right, the breeze flows right through the bar & lounge. Start early to enjoy the view. I headed here for breakfast after my swim. Local and international choices are available.
Spago
10 Bayfront Avenue L57, Sands SkyPark, Hotel, Tower 2, 018956
12–2:30 pm, 6–10 pm
KOMA – located at B1 – 67, this modern Japanese restaurant serves up great Japanese eats in a fun ambience. Do not expect a traditional sushiya or izakaya experience. KOMA presents a modern interpretation of Japanese cuisine.
The 20-metre entranceway is possibly one of the most Instagram-ed locations in Singapore.
Insta-worthy. Launched in 2019, this modern Japanese restaurant was designed by the Rockwell Group.
With a menu that includes sushi, kushiyaki, carbonara udon and tempura there should be a dish for everyone.
KOMA Singapore
2 Bayfront Ave, # B1 – 67, Singapore 018972
11:30am–3pm, 5pm–12am
Conclusion
My programme was rather tight. After my check-in at 5 pm, I dashed up to Spago for evening drinks before heading to dinner at KOMA. The next morning, I hit the infinity pool at 6 am before breakfast back at Spago at 8 am. There was time to enjoy the room before check-out which was at 11 am.
Would I do this again, yes I would – with a focus on perhaps another 2 food & beverage outlets and to explore the Art & Science Museum.
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If you would like to experience this hotel, feel free to visit their website here: marinabaysands.com
Otherwise, feel free to contact us for any questions or recommendations.
