Swissotel Merchant Court Singapore

The Swissotel Merchant Court was built in 1997, and its '90s heritage shows through in places, despite the 2016 renovation. Still, the property is undoubtedly upscale, and the lobby has marbled floors, soaring ceilings, decorative glass vases on display, and contemporary furnishings illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows and light reflecting off strategically placed mirrors. The grounds outside the hotel are plush with greenery and even a goldfish pond, which helps create a resort-style atmosphere that offers a quiet retreat from the nearby party scene of the Clarke Quay. 

The Swissotel draws both business and leisure travelers, and stands out for its terrific location and its impressive wellness facilities, which are a step above what is found at the nearby and similarly priced Park Regis Hotel. However, the Park Regis -- built in 2010 -- feels newer, and lacks some of the quirks found here, such as occasional issues with water pressure in the shower. But the frosted glass in its bathrooms make it better suited to couples, while families will likely prefer the Swissotel for its larger pool and waterslides. Also, the Park Regis Hotel is right across the road from the Swissotel, on the side farther from the river -- which means views are better here. 

The Swissotel Merchant Court is just a seven-minute walk from lively Clarke Quay, a hot spot for dining and entertainment; this proximity is one of the main reasons travelers pick this hotel. The hotel sits on the Singapore River and right across the street from the Clark Quay Central shopping mall, housing  retailers, popular eateries, and adventure game, Lockdown. 

The hotel is also a seven-minute walk from the more historic and relaxed setting of Boat Quay, and a 16-minute walk from picturesque Merlion Park. The Swissotel Merchant Court is one minute away from the North-East Line at the Clarke Quay MRT station, which can take guests other popular parts of the city, like the HarbourFront (17 minutes) and Chinatown (eight minutes).

The rooms at the Swissotel Merchant Court are modern and stylish. Color schemes vary between room types; some have a cheery look with blue and yellow accents, while others feature a more muted orange and brown. Rooms start at around 30 square meters (323 square feet) -- larger than those at the Park Regis -- and have a king-size or two twin beds, as well as city, pool, or river views. Each room includes a desk, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, international plug sockets, and an international direct dialing telephone. Guests receive free bottled water daily and can brew their own coffee or tea; there are minibar snacks for a fee. Slippers are provided. The marbled bathroom is equipped with a hairdryer and walk-in shower. Upgraded rooms may include kitchenettes, balconies, and/or Executive Club lounge access. Everyone can take advantage of the 24-hour room service.

The Swissotel Merchant Court has appealing features for both leisure and business travelers. Its large, picturesque pool has two waterslides, a hot tub, kiddy pool, and umbrella lounge chairs and tables. Overlooking the pool is Blue Potato restaurant. Open all day, it serves a Western an a la carte menu with a selection of wine and beverages. Indoors, guests can find a second all-day restaurant, The Ellenborough Market Café, which features an a la carte or buffet menu touting Straits Chinese, local, and international specialties. There is also a lobby bar with late-night snacks and drinks. 

Pürovel Spa & Sport, which bills itself as Singapore’s first luxury Swiss spa, has a number of massages, facials, and body treatments. Here, guests can also break a sweat at the two-level, 24-hour fitness center with cardio and weight-training machines and TVs. For travelers looking to get work done, the Swissotel Merchant Court Singapore provides a business center, one ballroom, and four meeting rooms available for rent (for a fee).