Bert Templeton
Authors’ note: I first became aware of the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore in the mid-1980s when it was featured on the television show “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous,” hosted by Robin Leach. In that episode, it was named the best hotel in the world, and it became an aspirational destination for me. Little did I know that my work would take me to Singapore a few years later.
On my first trip to Singapore, Susan Lim, the Executive Assistant at our facility in Toa Payoh, apologized for not getting me a room at the Shangri-La, as it had been fully booked. Instead, she booked me into the excellent Pan Pacific Hotel in the marina area. However, weeks later, I returned to Singapore, and Susan had indeed booked me a room in the Tower Wing of the Shangri-La. The experience there was indeed sublime. I was fortunate to stay there again on several more occasions and dine there many times while living in Singapore. It remains a superb choice for anyone looking for a top-class hotel in the Lion City.
Nestled amidst the bustling city-state of Singapore, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore stands as a beacon of elegance, tranquility, and timeless hospitality. Since its opening in 1971, this iconic property has not only redefined luxury accommodation in Southeast Asia but also set a benchmark for the global Shangri-La brand, which now spans over 100 hotels and resorts worldwide. Located at 22 Orange Grove Road, just minutes from the vibrant Orchard Road shopping district, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore seamlessly blends urban sophistication with a resort-like serenity, offering guests an escape that feels both indulgent and authentic. This article delves into the rich history, architectural brilliance, world-class amenities, culinary excellence, and enduring appeal of the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore, exploring why it remains a cherished destination for travelers over five decades after its debut.
A Storied Beginning: The Birth of a Legend at Shangri-La Hotel Singapore
The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore holds the distinction of being the first property in the Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts portfolio, a brand founded by Malaysian-Chinese tycoon Robert Kuok. Its inception in 1971 marked a bold vision to create a sanctuary inspired by the mythical paradise of Shangri-La, a fictional utopia described in James Hilton’s 1933 novel Lost Horizon. Kuok’s ambition was to craft a hotel that embodied harmony, luxury, and a deep connection to nature—a lofty goal in a rapidly modernizing Singapore.
At the time of its opening, Singapore was emerging as a global hub, transitioning from a colonial port city to a thriving metropolis. The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore arrived as part of this transformation, offering a new standard of hospitality that catered to an influx of international travelers and business elites. Set on 15 acres of lush, landscaped gardens—an anomaly in land-scarce Singapore—the hotel’s debut was a statement of intent: to provide an oasis where guests could retreat from the urban grind without leaving the city.
The original structure, now known as the Tower Wing, was designed with 547 rooms and quickly gained a reputation for its spaciousness and attention to detail. Over the years, the property expanded with the addition of the Garden Wing in 1978 and the Valley Wing in 1985, each enhancing the hotel’s appeal while staying true to its foundational ethos. Today, with 792 rooms across three distinct wings, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore remains a testament to its pioneering spirit, blending its storied past with contemporary refinements.
Architectural Marvel: A Harmony of Design and Nature
One of the most striking features of the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is its architecture, which masterfully integrates urban sophistication with natural beauty. The Tower Wing, the hotel’s original structure, reflects a modernist aesthetic with clean lines and a functional layout, designed to cater to business travelers and tourists alike. Its towering presence offers panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline, a reminder of the city’s relentless progress.
In contrast, the Garden Wing, added in 1978 and revamped in 2012, is a low-rise masterpiece that feels more like a tropical retreat than a city hotel. Its cascading design, with balconies adorned with greenery, evokes the image of a hanging garden, drawing inspiration from the mythical Shangri-La itself. The wing’s centerpiece is a stunning atrium filled with natural light, koi ponds, and over 130 species of plants, creating an ambiance of serenity that is rare in urban settings. This commitment to nature is no accident—landscape architects were brought in to ensure the grounds mirrored the lushness of a botanical paradise, a nod to Singapore’s moniker as the “Garden City.”
The Valley Wing, introduced in 1985 and renovated in 2017, caters to an exclusive clientele with its understated opulence. Designed as a boutique hotel-within-a-hotel, it exudes a residential feel with its muted tones, marble finishes, and personalized service. The Valley Wing’s private entrance and dedicated concierge team underscore its appeal to dignitaries, celebrities, and high-profile guests who value discretion and luxury in equal measure.
Together, these three wings create a harmonious trinity, each offering a distinct experience while sharing a common thread of excellence. The 15-acre estate, dotted with towering palm trees, manicured lawns, and a freeform swimming pool, reinforces the hotel’s reputation as a sanctuary where nature and nurture coexist.
Rooms and Suites: A Study in Comfort and Elegance
The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore boasts 792 rooms and suites that are a showcase of refined design and thoughtful functionality. Across the three wings, accommodations range from the spacious Deluxe Rooms in the Tower Wing to the palatial Shangri-La Suite in the Valley Wing, ensuring options for every type of traveler.
In the Tower Wing, rooms start at 38 square meters, generous by Singapore standards, and feature floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. Neutral tones, accented by warm wood furnishings and plush carpets, create a calming atmosphere, while modern amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and Nespresso machines cater to contemporary needs. The wing’s recent renovations have introduced subtle Asian-inspired touches—think silk cushions and ink-wash artwork—that pay homage to the hotel’s heritage.
The Garden Wing takes indulgence a step further with its Balcony Rooms, where private terraces overlook the tropical gardens and pool. These rooms, averaging 49 square meters, blur the line between indoors and out, inviting guests to unwind amidst birdsong and rustling leaves. The bathrooms, clad in marble and equipped with deep soaking tubs, elevate the experience to spa-like levels.
For the ultimate in luxury, the Valley Wing offers suites that redefine extravagance. The Shangri-La Suite, spanning 350 square meters, is a residential-style haven with a living room, dining area, private pantry, and a master bedroom with a king-sized bed swathed in Egyptian cotton. Guests in the Valley Wing also enjoy complimentary Champagne breakfasts, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails at the Summit Room, a perk that underscores the wing’s exclusivity.
Across all wings, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore’s commitment to guest comfort is evident in the details: hypoallergenic bedding, 24-hour room service, and a staff trained to anticipate needs before they’re voiced. It’s this meticulous care that has earned the hotel a loyal following among discerning travelers.
Culinary Excellence: A Journey of Flavors at Shangri-La Hotel Singapore
No discussion of the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore would be complete without exploring its dining offerings, which rival the city’s best restaurants. With a portfolio of acclaimed venues, the hotel caters to every palate, from casual diners to epicurean connoisseurs.
At the forefront is Shang Palace, a Michelin-recognized Cantonese restaurant that has been a culinary cornerstone since 1971. Helmed by Executive Chef Daniel Cheung, Shang Palace serves dishes that balance tradition and innovation—think succulent Peking duck with crispy skin, delicate dim sum, and abalone braised to perfection. The restaurant’s opulent décor, with red lacquer panels and gold accents, complements the richness of the cuisine, making it a favorite for family celebrations and business banquets alike.
For a taste of Japan, NAMI offers an intimate setting with sweeping views of the city skyline. Specializing in kaiseki and teppanyaki, NAMI’s menu showcases premium ingredients like Wagyu beef and seasonal seafood, prepared with precision by skilled chefs. The restaurant’s minimalist design, inspired by Zen aesthetics, creates a serene backdrop for an unforgettable meal.
The Line, the hotel’s all-day dining venue, is a buffet lover’s paradise. Spanning 16 live cooking stations, it offers an international spread that includes everything from sushi and sashimi to Indian curries and Western roasts. The Sunday brunch, complete with free-flowing Champagne, is a local institution, drawing crowds for its sheer variety and quality.
For a more casual experience, Waterfall Ristorante Italiano serves Southern Italian fare with a focus on fresh, Mediterranean flavors. Dishes like handmade burrata and wood-fired pizzas pair beautifully with the restaurant’s alfresco setting, where diners can enjoy their meals beside a cascading waterfall—an unexpected delight in the heart of the city.
Rounding out the lineup is the Lobby Lounge, a sophisticated spot for afternoon tea or evening cocktails. Its signature high tea, served on a three-tiered stand with scones, sandwiches, and pastries, is a nod to colonial traditions, while the live piano music adds a touch of old-world charm.
Amenities and Experiences: Beyond the Room
The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore goes beyond accommodation to offer a wealth of experiences that cater to body, mind, and soul. The centerpiece of its leisure facilities is the outdoor swimming pool, a sprawling freeform oasis surrounded by cabanas and tropical foliage. It’s a rare luxury in Singapore, where space constraints often limit such features, and a magnet for families and sun-seekers alike.
For wellness enthusiasts, CHI, The Spa is a sanctuary of its own. Inspired by traditional Chinese and Himalayan healing philosophies, the spa offers treatments like the Signature Jade Massage, which uses warm jade stones to ease tension, and the Oriental Harmony ritual, a four-handed massage that promises total relaxation. The spa’s six private suites, each with a soaking tub and steam shower, elevate the experience to a level of pure decadence.
Fitness buffs will appreciate the 24-hour gym, equipped with state-of-the-art cardio machines, free weights, and a yoga studio. Personal trainers are on hand for tailored sessions, while outdoor tennis courts offer a chance to enjoy Singapore’s year-round sunshine.
For families, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore excels with its buds by Shangri-La program, a dedicated kids’ club that opened in 2017. The indoor-outdoor space features a treehouse, music room, and splash pad, ensuring younger guests are entertained while parents unwind. Complimentary activities like cooking classes and garden tours add an educational twist to the fun.
Business travelers, meanwhile, benefit from the hotel’s extensive meeting facilities. With over 20 function rooms, including the grand Island Ballroom that can host up to 1,200 guests, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is a top choice for conferences, weddings, and galas. High-speed Wi-Fi, cutting-edge AV equipment, and a dedicated events team ensure seamless execution, whether it’s a corporate summit or a fairy-tale reception.
Cultural Significance and Sustainability
The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore’s influence extends beyond its walls, reflecting Singapore’s evolution as a global city. Over the decades, it has hosted world leaders, royalty, and celebrities—everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to Barack Obama—cementing its status as a diplomatic and cultural hub. Its Valley Wing, in particular, has long been a discreet retreat for VIPs, its guestbook a who’s-who of international luminaries.
The hotel also mirrors Singapore’s multicultural fabric, blending Eastern and Western influences in its design, cuisine, and service. This fusion resonates with the city-state’s identity as a crossroads of Asia, making the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore a microcosm of its host nation.
In recent years, the hotel has embraced sustainability, aligning with Singapore’s push to become a greener metropolis. Initiatives include energy-efficient lighting, water conservation systems, and a farm-to-table program that sources herbs and vegetables from an on-site garden. Waste reduction efforts, such as composting and eliminating single-use plastics, further underscore its commitment to the planet.
The Shangri-La Legacy: Why It Endures
As the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore approaches its 54th year, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. It’s a place where history meets modernity, where guests can sip Champagne in a skyscraper suite or meditate beside a koi pond. This duality—urban sophistication paired with natural serenity—sets it apart in a city known for its relentless pace.
The hotel’s success is also a credit to its people. The Shangri-La brand is synonymous with heartfelt hospitality, and the Singapore property exemplifies this through its staff’s warmth and professionalism. From the doorman’s greeting to the concierge’s insider tips, every interaction feels personal, a hallmark of the brand’s “hospitality from the heart” philosophy.
For travelers, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore offers more than a stay—it’s an experience that lingers long after checkout. Whether you’re a first-time visitor marveling at the gardens or a returning guest savoring a familiar suite, the hotel delivers a sense of belonging that’s rare in the transient world of travel.
The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore is more than a luxury destination; it’s a living legacy of vision, resilience, and excellence. From its pioneering debut in 1971 to its status as a modern icon, it has shaped the hospitality landscape of Singapore and beyond. With its stunning design, world-class amenities, and unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction, it remains a paradise found—not lost—in the heart of one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. As Singapore continues to evolve, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore stands as a timeless reminder of the power of dreams, proving that even in a concrete jungle, a Shangri-La can thrive.
Shangri-La Hotel Singapore: Spotlight on Robin Leach’s Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous
As mentioned at the top of this article, The Shangri-La Hotel Singapore was one of my first and most memorable experiences in Singapore. But I first heard about it on Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous TV show. That show, which named the Shangri-La the best hotel in the world, significantly impacted me, the hotel, and indeed, Singapore. Here is a bit of that story.
In the glittering heyday of the 1980s, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore earned a coveted spotlight when it was crowned the “best hotel in the world” on Robin Leach’s iconic television series, Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. Airing from 1984 to 1995, this syndicated show was a cultural phenomenon, offering viewers a voyeuristic peek into the opulent lives of the world’s wealthiest individuals and the extravagant destinations they frequented. Hosted by the charismatic Robin Leach, whose British accent and exuberant catchphrase—“Champagne wishes and caviar dreams!”—became synonymous with luxury, the program showcased the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore as the epitome of hospitality excellence. This title reverberated across continents and cemented its place in the annals of global travel.
The episode featuring the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore aired in the mid-1980s, and it arrived at a pivotal moment for the hotel and the city-state. Singapore was rapidly ascending as a global financial powerhouse, and the hotel, already a decade into its legacy since opening in 1971, was poised to represent the nation’s burgeoning sophistication. Leach’s narration painted a vivid picture of the property’s 15-acre tropical estate, a rare expanse of greenery in an urbanizing landscape, describing it as a “paradise within a paradise.” Viewers were treated to sweeping shots of the Tower Wing’s sleek architecture, its spacious rooms adorned with luxurious furnishings, and the serene koi ponds that dotted the grounds. This oasis stood in stark contrast to the concrete sprawl beyond its gates. The segment emphasized the hotel’s proximity to Orchard Road, framing it as a retreat where the elite could shop by day and unwind in unparalleled comfort by night.
What set the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore apart on Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous was its physical grandeur and its embodiment of aspirational luxury. Leach, with his flair for the dramatic, highlighted the personalized service that catered to every whim—stories of staff arranging private dinners under the stars or securing rare vintages for discerning guests underscored the hotel’s reputation for going beyond the expected. The show’s cameras lingered on the Garden Wing’s cascading balconies and the Valley Wing’s discreet elegance, presenting them as sanctuaries for the rich and famous, from Hollywood stars to international tycoons. This exposure introduced the hotel to a global audience of millions, many of whom had never set foot in Southeast Asia. It sparked a wave of curiosity and bookings that elevated its status as a must-visit destination.
The impact of this feature was profound. At a time when travel television was shaping perceptions of luxury, being dubbed the “best hotel in the world” by Leach—a tastemaker for the affluent—positioned the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore as a benchmark for the industry. It wasn’t just a marketing coup but a cultural milestone aligned with the Shangri-La brand’s ethos of creating mythical escapes rooted in real-world excellence. The episode resonated with the 1980s zeitgeist of excess and ambition, amplifying the hotel’s allure to an audience captivated by wealth and glamour. For Singapore, it was a moment of pride, showcasing the nation’s ability to compete on the world stage in commerce and hospitality.
Decades later, the legacy of this Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous feature endures as a chapter in the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore’s storied history. It remains a touchstone for longtime staff and loyal guests who recall the buzz it generated, a reminder of when the hotel’s tropical splendor and impeccable service captivated a global audience. This televised accolade continues to underscore its reputation as a trailblazer, proving that even in an era of fleeting trends, the Shangri-La Hotel Singapore offered a timeless allure that transcended the screen.