On my latest trip to Singapore, I figured it was about time to stay at MBS, and booked a one night stay just to be able to try out the hotel and its famous rooftop infinity pool. I’ve been told by many people that the hotel is overrated, though I certainly disagree.
Booking
I booked a refundable rate directly on the MBS website for the Deluxe Twin City View room at a rate of S$540.24 inclusive of tax (not including breakfast). This room seemed to be the best value for a room facing the city which most people prefer as opposed to the rooms on the opposite side of the hotel which face the Gardens By The Bay. While certainly not cheap, the rate wasn’t completely unreasonable.
Check In
While on our confirmation stated check in from 3pm at earliest, I figured we should try our luck and arrived at around 1:30pm. While I waited in the check in line for about two minutes, I was offered hand wipes, a small ice cream cone, and some cold water by a woman distributing them to guests in the lobby.
Thankfully, I was able to check in early as the room was ready, and was give until 1pm to check out as opposed to the 11am time stated on the reservation. Check in was pleasant and not rushed, as I was given lots of important information about the hotel. And we’re off to a good start!
The Room
Our room was located in tower three on the 32nd floor, facing the city. As we entered the room, automatic blinds opened allowing us to look out at one of the most spectacular city views I’ve ever seen.
Immediately to the left of the entrance was a large bathroom with a toilet to the left, sink in the center and standing shower to the right. I was surprised not to find a rain shower in a hotel like this, and to be honest the shower wasn’t great.
Continuing into the room was a closet which housed the bathrobes, slippers, hangers, as well as an iron and ironing board.
The bedroom itself was stylish, though again not as luxurious as I had expected. The two twin beds were fairly large and comfortable, the desk was large and easy to work on, and there was a nice chair and small table by the window which is nice to sit and enjoy the view.
Of course, the main attraction of this room is the view and that did not disappoint. The floor to ceiling windows and the view it provided was a great sight to fall asleep and wake up to.
While the room overall is comfortable and functional, I expected more from the amenities and design. However, what really makes this hotel worth the money is the view which again was just spectacular!
The Pool
This is the real reason I stayed here. The days in Singapore are so damn hot, and spending a day by the pool with a view over the city was certainly the highlight of this trip as well as several trips I’ve taken to Singapore in the past.
The pool is located on the 57th floor of the hotel and can be accessed from all three towers. Each room is given two card keys which must be used to take the elevator up as well as to access the pool area.
The pool itself is divided into three areas, with the right most section being for adults only (as well as several drunk and loud Aussies spoiling the quiet for the rest of us). There were also two jacuzzis on the opposite end of the pool area which face Gardens By The Bay.
Adults Only Section
Chairs are placed throughout the pool area, but during peak hours it can be really difficult to find even one chair available!
Thankfully I managed to find a chair!
There are a few restaurants as well which have separate seating, reasonable prices and even offer delivery to your seat by the pool. With the pool open from 6am to 11pm, this is really a place you can spend the entire day which is essentially what we did!
This infinity pool is famous for a good reason. The view is spectacular and in my opinion the most enjoyable experience in Singapore!
Location
Staying at MBS puts you in one of the best locations in Singapore. For business travelers, the hotel is located adjacent to the business district. For tourists, the hotel itself is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Singapore, and there is easy access to MTR (metro station), one of the best shopping malls in the city, Gardens By The Bay, and many other places of interest within easy reach.
Bottom Line
I was quite happy with my decision to stay here one night. The rooftop infinity pool is an excellent place to spend the hot hours of the day, and location simply cannot be beat! The staff were all extremely helpful and professional and the experience was simply worth the price tag. While I am generally a Hilton loyalist, I would gladly come back to MBS to enjoy all it has to offer!