The Ritz-Carlton Staycation

While I’m having a ‘travel break’, The Ritz-Carlton at Millenia extended an invitation for a staycation last weekend. It was pure luxury and indulgence. No stress to wake up early to rush through the itinerary like a tourist but a relaxing getaway to pamper ourselves at the world-class hotel in the heart of Singapore.

And we just discovered that The Ritz-Carlton has the best views to offer. At the premier suite on the 17th floor, we were awestruck by the panoramic view of the iconic city skyline and extremely trigger-happy taking photos.

Stunning view from ATAS! From the bedroom, the Integrated Resorts and the Helix Bridge form the picturesque backdrop. This shot was taken with Casio ZR1000, set in HDR mode and it turned out pretty well-balanced instead of overexposed in the background.

The spacious living room and bedroom overlook the postcard-esque scene of the cityscape comprising of Marina Bay Sands, the lotus-shaped ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge, The Float@Marina Bay, Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay, Singapore River and the financial district. On the other side, the bathroom shows the world’s largest observation wheel, Singapore Flyer and Gardens by the Bay.

The iconic skyline of the city.

A zoom-in of the ‘housefly’s eyes’ or durians, whatever you like to call the pair. It’s Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay.

The Ritz-Carlton Premier Suite, 646 Square Feet.

The study area comes with an oversized work desk equipped with built-in power points, multiple power adapter sockets and iPod docking station. Every guest room at the hotel has complimentary wired and wireless internet access.

And you wake up with a striking view of river, boats and modern buildings from the bedroom! ATAS!

The mattress is so soft and snuggly, you won’t mind taking the day in bed! I heard that some guests bought the bed ensemble from the hotel.

The spacious marble bathroom captures a magnificent view of the giant Ferris wheel looming over the horizon. Besides the bathtub and marble double-sinks, a separate shower features a rainshower system.

Soaking in the bathtub, soaking up the sea view.

The Singapore Flyer and Gardens by the Bay. Where else can you get such a breathtaking scenery while having a nice soak?

The hotel swimming pool.

‘Kaya Tapas’!

Sunset over the financial district. Taken with Casio ZR1000, set in sunset mode.

I was trying out the sunset mode on Casio ZR1000, the HDR photo turned out pretty natural, yeah? Save time on photo-editing.

Another shot of the night scene in sunset mode in HDR by Casio ZR1000. No tripod is used.

OK, here is a similar HDR shot taken in auto mode by Casio ZR1000.

The Singapore Flyer at night. All light up! Taken with Casio Exilim ZR1000 in HDR mode.

Greenhouse

For seafood lovers, succulent crustaceans and bivalves await you at the Greenhouse, which spreads out a smorgasbord of international and local delights on buffet selections or an a la carte menu including chilli or pepper crabs, Japanese sushi and sashimi.

A gorgeous presentation of slipper lobsters, scallops, prawns, crabs and mussels. The slipper lobster was so meaty and sweet, every bite packed a punch.

You can also find a lip-smacking selection of roasted meats, spicy Indian dishes, fish and an assortment of cakes and pastries. I wish I was there earlier for a longer lunch to try a bit of everything.

Grilled Seabass laden with flavourful broth.

A tasty variety of charcuterie at Green House.

Chihuly Lounge

As a dessert lover myself, sometimes, indulgence means nibbling cakes and pastries, and sipping cappuccino while sinking into a plush, comfy chair. A popular afternoon tea venue surrounded by verdant green, Chihuly Lounge, named after the illustrious American glass artist Dale Chihuly, serves afternoon tea daily from 2:30 pm to 5 pm.

The bar top showcases a mix of Asian and Western delights, from steamed vegetarian soon kueh, chicken char siew bao to baked Cajun spiced prawn with piccadilly sauce, maple glazed prosciutto wrap scallop and sesame pork, parmesan roll and mini croissant.

You can choose a pot of gourmet tea from the beverage list with a selection of over 30 tea flavours. Tea is refillable and you can change the tea to another flavour. I had both tea and cappuccino!

To whet your sweet tooth, head over to the dessert counter for your choice of dessert. That day, I almost tried all on display – caramel macaroon, caramelized chocolate mousse with passion fruit, chocolate fudge cake, almond cake with caramel, pistachio and nougat creme.

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore

Recently renovated, the hotel boasts 608 rooms and suites with award-winning hospitality as well as some of the best dining options in the city. Major shopping malls and attractions such as the Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands are just a stone’s throw away.

‘Time to Getaway’ Staycation Package

From 1 to 31 January and 1 to 31 March 2013, the ‘Time to Getaway” staycation package offers flexible check-in time. Guests get S$20 off their package rate every hour after 2pm that they opt to check-in, up to a limit of S$80 off and $50 hotel credit which can be used for dining, at the retail shop and spa. What’s more, the package includes an in-room breakfast for two. Enjoy breakfast while soaking in the view!

Special thanks to The Ritz-Carlton for  the wonderful staycation.

Call to make reservation: (65) 6434 5118 / Email: rc.sinrz.reservations@ritzcarlton.com

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
Add:7 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039799
Web: www.ritzcarlton.com