Initially, I wanted to have a short getaway to Phuket for 3D2N. However, the air tickets (budget airline) for three of us cost about SGD 500. I just wanted to spend around SGD 300 plus minus, that is all. I settled for Orchard Parade Hotel http://www.orchardparade.com.sg since there was a GSS promotion whereby you get two tickets of City Hop On Bus tour for free when you booked a room with them.
In fact, all hotels under Far East Groups have City Hop On tour. Our room costs about SGD 350 a night inclusive of breakfast. I kind of regretted my decision though as room was pretty small (so squeezy at the end of bed), and without bathtub. Parking is free for all hotel guests. I like its location which was at the other far end of Orchard Road with lesser crowds unlike ION, Wisma Atria, and Takashimaya. The same for its swimming pool, not many guests using it. We had the pool all to ourselves. There is no lifeguard on duty at all times, do take note.
As the hop on bus tour's main starting point was at The Flyer, Marina Bay, we had a van picking us up at hotel lobby to Flyer. http://citytours.sg/funvee-city-tour-hop-on-hop-off.html Thanks to the hot weather, we stayed indoor under air-conditioning throughout our journey. We did not get a chance to sit on upper deck, it was unbearable even with shelter. I chose the green city route since one of the stops was at Singapore Botanic Gardens. Finally, I get a chance to visit the park. Do check out my other stay-cations below:
- Swissotel the Stamford
- One 15 Marina Club
- Goodwood Park Hotel
Do drop by Food For Thought http://www.foodforthought.com.sg, their all day breakfast is appetizing with great combination of mini hash browns balls, stir fried mushrooms, and bacons.