Strand Hotel

Set in a slightly dreary coffee-colored tower, the Strand Hotel lacks character in its exteriors and its interiors are equally generic. The  lobby is fairly unremarkable apart from marble floors and square ceiling molding, but it is quite large for Singapore, as are the guest rooms. Still, people don't seem to linger on the premises as the space isn't exactly inviting, and even the on-site cafe can sit empty as guests prefer to dine in all the surrounding restaurants.

A good location is this property’s biggest selling point, with numerous shops, restaurants, and museums accessible by foot. Walkable MRT stops provide quick access to more far-flung areas of the city. But tidy rooms and low rates are also attractive features for budget-minded travelers looking for a clean, central base for sightseeing. Although there aren’t any kid-friendly features on-site, the Family Rooms, which can accommodate up to five adults, offer competitive value for families and groups.

Strand Hotel is set in the southern section of Singapore’s downtown core, close to the Bugis arts district. There are ample shopping and dining options within walking distance, and guest can also reach Little India in a 15-minute stroll. The National Museum of Singapore is a three-minute walk away, and the iconic Raffles Hotel can be reached in 10 minutes on foot, too. 

There are multiple metro stations and bus stops within a five-minute walk, which can connect guests to major sightseeing spots like Clarke Quay and Chinatown in less than 15 minutes. Changi Airport is 20 minutes away by car or around an hour away by public transit.

Guest rooms at Strand Hotel are streamlined to the point of feeling bare. Some rooms have mismatched decor and older wooden furniture in a dark finish, while others have a minimalist gray color palette, which looks more modern and put-together. All unit have dark carpeting and bare walls, aside from a tiny print here and there in older rooms. Flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi come standard, although some guests complain that there aren’t enough outlets. Rooms also feature basic work desks with high-back chairs, along with compact armchairs and side tables. Windows offer bland views of neighboring high-rises. Electric kettles, instant coffee, and tea are provided, and mini-fridges are another handy feature. Some bathrooms have shower/tub combos and dated fixtures, while others have a fresher look with glass-walled showers and chic rectangular sinks. Pump dispensers of soap are mounted by the sink and in the showers. Family Rooms, which can sleep five, offer a good option for larger groups.

Strand Hotel has limited on-site features, which isn't surprising given its pearl rating and price. There’s a basic cafe located off the lobby is open throughout the day, and provides 24-hour room service. Breakfast, which is included in most room rates, is an unexceptional buffet spread of cold cuts, pastries, and eggs. The cafe serves a mix of local and Western dishes throughout the rest of the day. There are a pair of coin-operated computers in the lobby available for guests, and Wi-Fi throughout the property is free. The front desk is open 24 hours, with some concierge services and laundry service offered. On-site parking is free.