Mandarin Oriental, Singapore: A Family Luxury Oasis Infused with Singapore’s Soul

True icons need only initials. When a place earns acronym status, it’s a certified cultural echelon. The Mandarin Oriental, affectionately known as “MO”, is one such destination. A grand fixture in the tiny city-state of Singapore since 1987, MO is nestled near Marina Bay, where skyline, sea, and serenity entwine.

Mandarin Oriental balances urban proximity, resort-style tranquility, and an indoor-outdoor vibe—a blend as timeless and vibrant as a Singapore Sling, brimming with storied elegance and tropical sophistication.

Having undergone a dramatic renovation in 2023 from its former glorious—if a little dated—design, the “Exceptionally Singapore” reinvention expertly captures the city’s unique personality—warm, welcoming, and cutting-edge.

Make no mistake: to consider MO a mere business stopover is to vastly underestimate its allure. In fact, it’s a stylish escape for all kinds of travelers—families included. Sure, chic and child-friendly don’t often go hand in hand, but the Family Suites here prove otherwise. As a family of four who called Singapore home for eight years, we’re au fait with the city’s hotel scene—and let’s say, we were highly impressed.

Upon checking in, we knew we’d found a gem. Beyond chic style and comfort, we discovered something rare: a five-star sanctuary where parents unwind effortlessly, and children receive the same VIP treatment as adults. Welcome to MO: where the art of luxury meets the joy of family, and modern skylines embrace tropical charm.

The neighbourhood: Worth getting out of bed for

Overlooking Marina Bay’s iconic waterfront, MO anchors your journey with a gilded key to Singapore’s wonders.

Steps away, Singapore’s arts and culture scene unfolds with ease. Head to Gardens by the Bay and its Avatar-like supertrees and future-meets-flora experience; engage your senses at the Flower Dome and the ethereal mist of Cloud Forest. Daily nature quota? Tick.

Ride the Singapore Flyer for a bird’s-eye view of the city. Or take a 10-minute stroll around the Marina Basin, leading through a cultural mosaic of iconic landmarks and venues. Gaze at the Merlion statue, brain-train at the Lotus-inspired ArtScience Museum, or dip in for a matinee at the Esplanade Theatres, known as the ‘durian’ buildings for their resemblance to the infamous Southeast Asian fruit. You’ll end up at Boat Quay—electric after dark, but calm during the day.

For a spot of retail therapy, you’re just a 12-minute stroll across the Helix Bridge to The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

If you fancy exploring further afield, simply jump onto the city’s metro—predictably spotless, and a welcome respite from the tropical heat. There are two stations right by the Mandarin Oriental, offering connections to districts like Chinatown or the Singapore Botanic Gardens—the only tropical gardens to be granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Jetlagged from a long flight? The last thing you want is a mammoth expedition to your hotel. Thankfully, Changi Airport is just a 20-minute drive from Mandarin Oriental, meaning you can shake off that long-haul fatigue and immerse yourself in luxury (almost) immediately.

The Singapore Soul: Design and vibe

First impressions matter. And evidently, MO got the memo. It’s love at first sight in the light-bathed lobby, where verdant greenery and artistry converge. The Floating Orchid greets you as you enter, a floral tribute to Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim. Look up, and watch crystal orchid spheres dance with sunlight.

True to its “Exceptionally Singapore” ethos, the design weaves local stories: Peranakan-style architecture, Angsana trees, and black and white accents nod to the city-state’s colonial past and distinct character.

A tropical mural behind the check-in desk holds your gaze, its colors whispering of the island’s vibrant soul. Tucked within this vibrant space, The Mandarin Cake Shop beckons with a playful pastel palette, its hues mirroring the delicate local confections on offer.

However, the lobby’s signature feature is the atrium. Soaring overhead, you’ll see elegant glass lifts floating like weightless orbs. As the atrium rises, pink clay tones, inspired by Singapore’s iconic shophouse roofs, fade to a gradient effect, creating a sense of upward movement—mirroring Singapore’s ever-evolving culture. Plush lily carpets coat the floors, which you’ll spot from the internal balconies and lifts, adding to the botanical feel of the space.

Despite its 510 luxury rooms and suites and resplendent grandeur, MO retains a sense of intimacy. It’s easy to visit a city and feel like a stranger. But Mandarin Oriental invites you into Singapore with open arms. Here, you’re part of the island’s living story, not just a passerby.

A family “suite” spot: The stay

Considering space (or lack thereof) is crucial when you’re traveling with a young family. MO understood the assignment with their family suites, offering a sprawling retreat for little explorers with a plush living area that effortlessly transforms into their very own kingdom.

For adults, they’re five-star luxury retreats, with subtle Oriental accents, sleek design, and contemporary home-from-home comforts.

Of course, unless your children are budding Jeffrey Wilkes, those details will go straight over their heads. Aesthetics aside—for kids, these suites are a whole new world to play and rest.

The stylish kitchenette stands ready for quick snacks, and the in-suite laundry facilities are nothing short of a blessing for tackling the never-ending chore of washing kids’ clothes.

Head to the marble-clad bathroom and indulge in an hour-long bath—you’re on vacation, after all. Or, let the rain shower steam away your troubles, with Diptyque toiletries on hand to ensure you emerge smelling like a tropical dream. And the Japanese toilet? Hello, future. PS. There’s an extra toilet room in the living area to alleviate any potential bathroom queues. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a week, you’ll be set with the comforts of home—and then some.

At MO, children aren’t “add-ons”—they’re valued guests. Think bespoke kids’ toiletries, cute-as-a-button kid-size bathrobes and slippers, a Raja lion plushie—great if Teddy had to stay at home—a jungle-print tent for a spot of indoor glamping, and hotel keycards just for them.

Unfortunately, there’s no kids’ club, but you can take advantage of the hotel’s guest-only cooking and baking classes. Held daily from 3 to 5 PM at embu’s kids’ corner, these complimentary hands-on activities—ranging from cupcake decorating to naan bread making—are open to children aged 11 and under. Quality time with your kids, creativity, and new skills? Yes, yes, and yes.

The environment’s not forgotten either: Mandarin Oriental champions eco-friendliness with its in-house filtered water in glass bottles, wall-mounted amenity dispensers, and eco-friendly dental kits with bamboo toothbrushes and paper toothpaste tubes. Small but mindful touches, these efforts showcase the hotel’s up to speed with eco practices.

Poolside: An urban oasis

City hotel pools. You know the drill. Shaded by concrete towers and hardly the epitome of relaxation. But not here. Mandarin Oriental’s pool blows your typical urban hotel swim spot out of the water (pun intended).

In a word? View. No matter which room you’ve booked—though the Presidential Suite’s private terrace is on our bucket list—every guest can enjoy spectacular views from the poolside. Kids can splash around in the 25-meter pool while adults sip cocktails under swaying palm trees.

Choose a sunbed for solo serenity or a private cabana—perfect for families to lounge in style, with green-and-white striped canopies, coral-pink cushions, and the gentle breeze of a fan.

Oh, and the Panama hat-donning men and women meandering about? Not ultra-chic guests. These style icons are pool attendants, adding a chic resort-like vibe.

For the ultimate in relaxation, indulge in a treatment at the award-winning Spa. Surrender to the Heritage of the Orient massage, enhanced with soothing jade stones, or experience the Essence of the Garden City—a signature wellness ritual that blends traditional Malay massage techniques with locally crafted jamu oil.

Diverse dining, Singapore-style: The world on a lush plate

Even in a city renowned for its world-class dining, Mandarin Oriental, Singapore stands out with ten distinctive restaurants, bars, and cafés to satisfy every palate. From Zuicho, a refined Japanese omakase led by Michelin-awarded Chef Kenji Takahashi, to Morton’s The Steakhouse, which delivers a slice of New York sophistication.

Below are our take on the venues we personally tried—and truly loved.

embu

Swathed in greenery reminiscent of a rainforest canopy, embu—named for Singapore’s native Tembusu tree—keeps the local theme on the menu. We were regulars at the breakfast buffet, with an array of local and international dishes.

Craving fresh scrambled eggs? You’ll get them. Eager to stray from Continental classics? Kaya toast, fragrant noodle soups, or even gelato-crowned waffles await. There’s something for every palate, and that’s just breakfast.

The restaurant staff are busy bees, but they have a helping hand from charming robot busboys that glide through the scene. And when it comes to lunch and dinner, embu serves the world on a platter.

Head to the buffet for a choose-your-own-adventure, culinary style featuring Singaporean dishes like the signature Laksa or Chili Black Pepper Crab, or select exquisite dishes from the à la carte menu.

Seafood lover? Dive into a sea of delights—fresh lobster, oysters, prawns, and fish.

Sushi aficionado? High-tail to the Japanese counter, where neatly sliced sushi and sashimi await. Dining with kids? The kid-friendly corner is ideal for families, with petite sandwiches and snacks available to fill those little tummies. Whatever cuisine you’re craving—Chinese, European, Indian—embu has it all.

Dolce Vita

Wait, are we on the Amalfi Coast? No, but you may as well be. This poolside eaterie right in the heart of the Lion City serves up authentic Italian delights. A must-try: the Casarecce Alla Norcina—a gastronomic indulgence of short twisted pasta, sausage, porcini cream, and black truffle.

Bathed in sunset glow, Dolce Vita elevates classic Italian to an art form, perfect for lingering family dinners or picture-perfect romantic escapes.

MO BAR

The kids are sound asleep, and you’ve got a carefree evening ahead. MO BAR is open until 1 am on weekends, perfect for late-night cocktails.

Expert mixologists shake up a storm behind the stylish bar, and you’ll sip with expansive views of the city’s glittering skyline. Ambiance as cozy as the chairs make this the ultimate spot for a child-free evening, where Singapore’s pulse feels thrillingly close.

BAY@5

Watch the sun set over Marina Bay at BAY@5. Named for the “Wish you were here” texts you’ll send, this alfresco lounge overlooking Marina Bay is the go-to spot to unwind with a champagne or two.

Toast the day’s adventures as you witness the fading sun, transforming the cityscape into a festival of sparkling lights.

Our verdict

Luxury without ostentation, business-savvy yet warmly family-friendly, Mandarin Oriental, Singapore is more than a stay—it’s a gilded invitation to experience the Little Red Dot in full, vibrant color. A journey that is, truly, Exceptionally Singapore.

Address: 5 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039797
Telephone: +65 6338 0066
Website: mandarinoriental.com/singapore
Instagram: @mo_singapore
Facebook: @MandarinOrientalSingapore