Hotel Jen Tanglin Singapore by Shangri-La

A towering 18 stories of symmetry here adjoin the Tanglin Mall, and 2017 renovations have left an off-beat, stylish imprint. Wall-mounted bicycles or swing seating are hip, while comforts are futuristic -- from room service delivered by a robot aptly named Jen, to virtual assistant apps on free loaner smartphones. While mobile charging points throughout are discreet, the edgy design makes a statement. Earth-toned geometric seating is in the marbled lobby, while graffiti, glossy brick, leather, and Singapore-themed decor fill the trendy bar and restaurant spaces. A rarity for Singapore, the large outdoor pool has a kiddy section, adjacent restaurant, and foliage -- there's even a spice garden. Spa and ballroom facilities make the hotel an occasional wedding hotspot, although guests are mostly leisure or business travelers. 

The hotel is on the edge of Singapore's Tanglin district, about a 10-minute walk from the Orchard Road shopping stretch. Packed with affordable and designer-filled malls, the area is a shopaholic heaven, and the hotel is connected to the adjacent Tanglin Mall. Guests are also two blocks from the beautiful Botanic Gardens and its nearby embassies. Free shuttles (hourly during our stay) run to ION and Takashimaya Malls, the Central Business District, and Orchard MRT, which is otherwise a 15-minute walk away. Its trains take about 30 minutes for the downtown core, Chinatown, and Marina Bay. A hop-on, hop-off bus stops opposite, and taxis are plentiful. Changi International Airport is 26 minutes away by car, or 90 minutes by public transport.

Bright rooms are on the small side for Singapore at 269 square feet (25 square meters) for entry-level units, but the boutique finish is fresh. The whites in walls and satin striped bed linens have earthy accents from tawny-leather headboards, pendant or brass lamps, modern wood furniture and flooring, and textured accent wallpaper with motifs such as fish or bicycles. Some rooms add bay window sofas topped by throw pillows with positive quotes, denim-effect lounge chairs give some contrast, and swish white marble nightstands. Excellent technology includes international adaptors, USB ports, and smartphones with free local and international calls and access to over 5000 online publications ensure modern comforts. Also provided are desks, kettles, fridges or minibars, flat-screen TVs, and wardrobes with safes, slippers, robes, and ironing facilities.

Though compact, smart bathrooms have walk-in showers with audio speakers, hairdryers, and toiletries. Upgraded rooms or suites add great views and amenities such as Nespresso machines or pantries with free snacks, plus Club Lounge access. Suites start at 538 square feet (50 square meters) and have living spaces and kitchenettes with fridges and microwaves.

Alongside the tech focus, features are indulgent here, especially in regards to dining. The vibrantly outfitted J65 serves international breakfasts, and buffet-style meals showcase Asian cuisine. The lobby-level Jen's Kitchen On-the-Go offers coffees and light bites. Road-effect floor markings here contrast colorful Singapore murals above salad and sandwich counters for a fun look. There's also the spice-centric Ah Hoi's Kitchen, which has a protected area and outdoor terrace by the pool. Guests with Club Lounge access can use its computers, as well as utilize free breakfasts, drinks, and snacks. The 17th-floor views here are sensational. Rumpole's Bar serves all-day nibbles and drinks in a cafe-meets-pub space.

Alongside the sleek, floral-decorated spa, which houses a whirlpool, sauna, steam facilities, and treatment rooms, guests can relax around the large, outdoor pool. It has a hot tub, shallow section, and bright yellow parasols shading loungers. Greenery here continues in the Spice Garden, which is home to banana trees and peppercorn plants. The 24-hour gym is modern and fully equipped. Likewise around-the-clock are the business center and concierge. The hotel doesn't accept pets. Meeting rooms and a ballroom, free shuttles, mobile charging points, and free parking and WI-Fi throughout complete features.