Hotel Jen Orchardgateway Singapore by Shangri-La

The Hotel Jen is situated in a modern glass and steel building right in the middle of seemingly endless blocks of glass-and-steel buildings in hyper-urban Singapore. Above one of the area's malls, the hotel actually starts on the 10th floor, where the lobby is located -- though some guests complain that the two elevators reaching this area can be slow. The grand lobby is a sleek, bright space, with glossy floors, lots of natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, and contemporary fixtures and lighting. Clusters of seating in the lobby -- all done in retro-futuristic curvilinear shapes -- provide places for guests to gather, and Apple computers are available for use. The hotel's restaurant is also a stylish, modern space illuminated by walls of windows, with a color palette of cool gray tones brightened by pops of chartreuse and pale orange. The equally hip lounge pairs cream and gray shades with vivid turquoise accents, and offers lovely views over the city. The hotel is a lively place, suitable for both leisure and business travelers, especially those who want to be in the thick of the shopping action on Orchard Road.

The hotel is located in the Orchard Road shopping belt, directly on top of a shopping mall and the Somerset Metro station. It is surrounded by other malls and commercial buildings, and the area is lively from morning until late at night. It's easy to reach many of Singapore's tourist attractions as there are many transportation options close by, including bus stations. Both of the city's most vibrant ethnic neighborhoods, Chinatown and Little India, are just 10 minutes away by metro. Other popular attractions include the Singapore Botanic Gardens (seven-minute drive, or 30 minutes by public transport), Sri Mariamman Temple (10-minute drive, or 20 minutes by public transport), the Singapore Flyer (10-minute drive, or 30 minutes by public transport), and the Singapore Zoo (20-minute drive, or an hour by public transport). Business travelers can reach the business district in about 15 minutes by car or 20 minutes via public transit. Changi Airport is about 25 minutes away by car or an hour by public transportation. 

While the public areas of this hotel feel trendy and sharp, most rooms here are on the plain side. Still, things are generally bright, and the modern spaces feature clean-lined, built-in wood furniture, and neutral color schemes of gray and tan. Some higher-category rooms have upscale finishes, like marble tabletops on furniture, while units like the Panorama Club Room that we visited are done in dark, sober hues that feel a little more refined than other rooms. Decorative touches are subtle, left to patterns in carpets and monochrome accent walls across all categories.

Amenities include wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, tea- and coffee-making facilities, mini-fridges, safes, and free Wi-Fi as well as access to online magazines and newspapers. Bathrooms come with showers or shower/tub combos plus generous granite countertops, hairdryers, magnifying mirrors, and the hotel's own toiletries. Modest guests may not be keen on the glass-walled bathroom concept and glass doors on water closets that don't go all the way to the ceiling. 

Upgrading to Club Rooms give guests more space plus gorgeous views of the city -- panoramic vistas from the lounge and Panorama Club Room are especially nice. The Panorama Club Room even has a tub with views out over the city from a large bathroom window. Club Rooms are also entitled to Club Lounge perks detailed below.

The hotel's long rooftop infinity pool is, without a doubt, its crown jewel. It has spectacular views of the city as well as cushy lounge chairs and bright orange umbrellas that are perfectly positioned for taking in the amazing views. Tropical landscaping and interesting architectural details make the area a real highlight. The expansive deck is sometimes used for private events, though, which can pose an issue with regular hotel guests. The fitness center is a sunny space with floor-to-ceiling windows, and is well equipped with modern cardio machines and weight-training equipment. Stationary bikes are also available out on the beautiful Bamboo Sky Terrace. Massage services can also be arranged, though there is no proper spa.

The on-site restaurant, Makan@Jen, serves all meals in a stylish, modern space illuminated by walls of windows overlooking the city. Cuisine is international and local, and buffet and a la carte options are available. Breakfast is available, but not included in standard rates and can be crowded. Guests in a hurry can order from the OnTheGo deli counter located in the lobby, and room service is available around-the-clock. The hotel also has two bars: BayWatch@Jen is situated by the 19th-floor pool, while Lounge@Jen is a hip space on the lobby level. Guests in Club Room have exclusive access to the Club Lounge, which includes free breakfasts, drinks, and snacks.

Various events spaces can accommodate casual or business gatherings for up to 100 people, and all services are available. Space is also available outdoors for up to 200 people. The hotel has a dedicated concierge, parking, and Wi-Fi is free throughout.