Since Raffles Singapore Hotel opened in 1887, it has seen the surrounding area grow from a colonial trading center under the rule of the British Empire to a thriving independent modern city-state. The hotel's historian Leslie Danker will happily tell you about the property's many famous guests over the years, including statesmen, entertainers and royalty; even a tiger who once spent a night in the hotel’s grand Bar and Billiard Room. Raffles also holds the oldest bar in the city-state to still be operating in its original location.

In a bustling city like Singapore, the grand colonial style building with its white, neoclassical façade and green lawns really stands out. In fact, the Raffles Hotel is a historical landmark in the city-state and one of a dwindling number of heritage buildings that has not succumbed to the pressures of modernization and progress. The grand lobby is impressive with a sunlit atrium that rises three stories up from the polished marble floors. Through the windows in the bright and cheerful Writers Bar adjacent to the lobby, you can catch a glimpse of the hotel’s lush Palm Court, a serene and secluded outdoor area that seems far away from the city.

There are a number of restaurants to enjoy during your stay and several comfortable and sophisticated cocktail bars including the Long Bar. It was there that the Singapore Sling was created. The hotel is also home to a spa which offers a variety of services from both Asia and Europe and a retail center boasting luxury goods available for purchase.

Rates start at around USD $471 a night.