In central Singapore’s burgeoning Balestier district, near public transit
An affordable choice that’s a hotel, not a hostel
Interior completely renovated in 2015
Contemporary accommodations are clean and comfy
In-room perks include air-conditioning and LCD TVs
Free Wi-Fi throughout
No major attractions within walking distance
Spartan rooms are small and not all have windows
Teensy bathrooms have wet room-style showers
Very short on common areas and hotel services
Fragrance -- an unapologetic budget brand with more than 20 Singapore locations -- built its reputation on offering “value-for-money accommodations,” and this 68-room outpost in the rejuvenated Balestier neighborhood is no exception. Overhauled in 2015, the interiors feature Lilliputian rooms with a contemporary look plus perks you wouldn’t necessarily expect in a two-pearl hotel (including air-conditioning, LCD TVs with cable channels and free Wi-FI); on the other hand, they don’t always come with standard-issue items such as windows or shower enclosures. Hotel services are also noticeably absent, and the dearth of common areas leaves guests with few places to gather. Young travelers on the lookout for budget spots with a convivial, communal atmosphere should consider spots like The Hive Singapore Hostel instead.
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Scene
A no-frills alternative to hostels for frugal vacationers
The Art Deco-meets-Asian exterior of this six-story building has more character than the little bare-bones lobby that lies just inside the front door. Although its bright red ceiling adds a cheery note, the laminated surfaces, spartan furnishings and lack of art or accessories underscore The Rose’s budget status. The only other common area here is a patch of sidewalk outfitted with a few tall tables and bar stools; however, this isn't an ideal place for lounging because there's little buffer between it and the busy street. As a result, the hotel lacks a communal ambiance; guests simply retreat to their rooms at the end of the day. The upside for budget travelers is that rooms are private ones (designed for no more than two guests) rather than dorm-style digs. After all, The Rose distinguishes itself from many other budget options here by being a proper hotel _not _a hostel.
Location
A centrally located budget hotel in the re-energized Balestier neighborhood
Situated on a busy road in the city's buzzy Balestier neighborhood, this hotel is just one example of an ongoing area-wide rejuvenation that has seen new buildings erected and rows of Art Deco shophouses restored. You won’t find Singapore’s signature high-rises here. Rather it's known for unpretentious commercial operations and a growing number of affordable eateries, all of which are well-served by a famously efficient public transit system. Proximity to bus stops and the Novena MRT Station means that popular tourist districts -- like Chinatown and Marina Bay (home to Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Flyer) -- can be reached in under 30 minutes. Top shopping areas are even closer. The luxe retailers of Orchard Road are less than 20 minutes away; however, budget conscious travelers may be more interested in the unique shops and market stalls of nearby Little India. - Nine minutes to the Novena MRT Station by public transport (18 on foot)
Rooms
Austere but attractive accommodations with free Wi-Fi and wet room-style bathrooms
There is no getting around the fact that these contemporary guest rooms in all categories are very small. Their functional furnishings are pared down as far as possible, and their neutral color palette is only occasionally enlivened by a splash of bright wall paint. Taking minimalism to the max, they have no closets and, in some cases, no windows -- even shower curtains are considered an upgrade (Deluxe Doubles have them). That said, the accommodations are clean, comfortable and, thanks to a 2015 makeover, comparatively well-equipped. All are air-conditioned and come with free bottled water, coffee/tea-making equipment, hairdryers, LCD TVs with cable channels, plus free Wi-Fi. Tiny en-suite bathrooms are standard too; however, these are designed as wet rooms with un-enclosed showers, so it probably won’t just be your body that gets soaked when you turn on the water. Note that light sleepers should request a room at the back of the hotel to avoid potential street noise.
Features
A low nightly rate translates into a shortage of features
Accommodations can be very pricey in Singapore, and you typically get what you pay for -- so guests should keep their expectations low when it comes to hotel features at this two-pearl property. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, and the little, sparsely-furnished lobby has a 24-hour reception desk with friendly staffers who can help arrange tours, tickets, dry-cleaning, and and other tasks. But, with the exception of an equally small sidewalk space that includes a vending machine and some bar-style seating, The Rose has no other common areas or on-site amenities.
