A Home in the Clouds: My Stay at Citadines Raffles Place Singapore
Arrival
There’s something undeniably magical about waking up in a city like Singapore. The sun peeks through the curtains, casting a soft, golden light across the skyline, and you get that distinct feeling that you’re living in the future—well, at least the future as imagined by the architects and innovators who shaped this vibrant metropolis. It’s a city that hums with energy, creativity, and a unique blend of cultural influences that make it endlessly fascinating.
I arrived in Singapore on a humid, slightly overwhelming afternoon—typical for this tropical island. After an incredibly efficient MRT ride, I found myself standing at the base of CapitaSpring, a striking skyscraper in Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD). As I gazed up at the shimmering facade, I realized I was about to experience something special at Citadines Raffles Place Singapore, a serviced residence that promises modern comforts, urban convenience, and sustainability all rolled into one.
I couldn’t wait to settle into the property—though I had heard a lot about its high-tech touches, stunning city views, and strategic location, I was curious to see whether it lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: It did, and then some.
The Grounds
Let’s talk about first impressions—the ones that can either create an instant connection or make you second-guess your choice. Walking into Citadines Raffles Place felt like stepping into a sleek, modern oasis designed for both relaxation and efficiency. The moment I entered the lobby, I was struck by its clean, minimalist design, where cool tones of blue and white dominated the space, immediately calming me. It wasn’t sterile or cold—quite the opposite. The neutral palette was complemented by soft lighting and carefully curated modern art on the walls, which made me feel like I was in a chic urban retreat rather than a transient hotel. The space had a very understated yet elegant vibe that immediately set the tone for my stay.
The check-in process, though swift, didn’t feel rushed. As I approached the reception desk, I was greeted warmly by the staff, who effortlessly made me feel at ease. In no time at all, they had handed me my key card and ensured I was fully informed about the hotel’s amenities. But what stood out even more was their thoughtful advice on the surrounding area. They offered tailored recommendations on nearby eateries—perfect for someone like me who loves a good local meal—and tips on how to best explore Singapore’s bustling Central Business District (CBD). I appreciated how they took the time to not only get me settled in but also give me a glimpse of the local experience, something that felt far more personal than a generic, transactional check-in process.
It was clear from the get-go that Citadines Raffles Place wasn’t just another place to stay—it was designed to enhance your experience. From the seamless check-in to the friendly, knowledgeable staff, everything was geared toward making sure I felt comfortable and well-cared for right from the moment I arrived. Whether you’re in Singapore for a night or planning to stay for several weeks, this level of attention to detail and personalized service makes it clear that Citadines is not just a hotel, but a space that values your experience and aims to make you feel like part of the city rather than just a visitor passing through.
Accommodations
Now, let’s get to the heart of the experience: the apartment. As I opened the door to my studio, I couldn’t help but feel impressed by the design. Everything from the color palette to the furnishings had been thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious, calming atmosphere. The apartment was compact but comfortable, with an open layout that maximized the use of space. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-organized room—everything had its place, and even the smallest details had been considered.
The interior design was a blend of light blues, whites, and muted greens, with minimalist, modern furniture that felt effortless in its elegance. The space was inspired by Japanese aesthetics, which became clear the moment I noticed the simple yet stunning modular furniture. I could easily imagine myself living here long-term—whether I was working or unwinding, the space adapted to whatever I needed it to be.
Let’s be honest: when you’re traveling, the bathroom is an area that can either elevate your stay or leave you feeling underwhelmed. Thankfully, Citadines Raffles Place delivered on all fronts here. The bathroom was like something out of a design magazine, with clean, white tiles, shiny stainless steel fixtures, and gold-trimmed accents that added a touch of luxury. The waterfall shower was an indulgence after a day of sightseeing, and I have to admit, I took full advantage of the Vitamin Spa toiletries (which, by the way, smelled amazing). It was the perfect space to unwind, lather up, and just let the stress of the day wash away.
But my absolute favorite part of the apartment? The views. From my floor-to-ceiling windows, I could look out onto the sprawling CBD skyline, including landmarks like the Park Royal Collection building. As the city lights began to twinkle in the distance, I found myself utterly captivated by the view. There’s something incredibly peaceful about gazing out at a city that never sleeps, knowing that you’re part of the vibrant pulse but also removed from it—like being in the best seat at the theater, watching a world-class performance unfold.
Dining
During my stay at Citadines Raffles Place Singapore, I quickly realized that while the property offers a shared kitchen for those who like to cook, it’s the surrounding culinary scene that truly shines. Situated in the heart of Singapore’s bustling business district, the hotel is just steps away from a fantastic variety of dining options, making it an ideal base for any food lover. Whether I was in the mood for something quick and local or craving international flavors, I never had to go far to satisfy my appetite.
On-Site Dining:
Though the hotel doesn’t feature a full-service restaurant, the Sol & Luna dining area offers a range of delicious options. I was pleasantly surprised by how fresh and flavorful the dishes were—perfect for a casual meal before heading out to explore the city. There’s also the Kaarla Restaurant & Bar, offering a more elevated dining experience with a fantastic selection of wood-fired dishes. If you’re in the mood for something light or just a snack, Hitokuchi Onigiri provides a delightful array of Japanese rice balls that are perfect for a quick bite.
Exploring Nearby Eateries:
What really made the dining experience stand out was the hotel’s location. Within walking distance, I found some of the best restaurants in Singapore. One of my favorite spots nearby was Kaarla Wood-fire Grill, where the wood-fired dishes were absolutely delicious. The smoky flavors of their signature meats and seafood made every bite feel like an experience. Just a few steps away, I stumbled upon Oumi, which quickly became a go-to for their innovative takes on classic dishes.
If you’re craving something sweet, Hai Yan Cold & Hot Dessert is an absolute must-try. Their traditional desserts hit the spot after a long day of exploring. For a taste of local flavor, Hock Gooi Hainanese Curry Rice served up a comforting, hearty meal that felt like a taste of home. Of course, no visit to Singapore is complete without trying Golden Shoe Nasi Lemak—the coconut rice with spicy sambal was the perfect morning pick-me-up.
Exploring Further:
For a real dive into Singapore’s food scene, I ventured over to Lau Pa Sat and Maxwell Food Centre, both within a short distance from the hotel. These iconic food courts are a haven for Singaporean street food, and I couldn’t resist sampling dishes like satay, laksa, and chili crab. It’s the kind of authentic, local experience that adds another layer to the enjoyment of your stay.
Overall, dining around Citadines Raffles Place was nothing short of a culinary adventure. From quick bites to full meals, the neighborhood offers something for every taste, and the hotel’s central location makes it incredibly easy to explore all the flavors Singapore has to offer. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just looking for a satisfying meal, you won’t be disappointed by the dining options here.
Wellness & Activities
Let’s be real for a second: when you’re traveling, sometimes you need to burn off all those extra calories from too many hawker center visits. Or maybe you just want to de-stress after a busy day of meetings or sightseeing. Either way, Citadines Raffles Place has you covered with its excellent recreational facilities.
The 25-meter lap pool was a personal highlight—perfect for morning swims when I wanted to start the day with a burst of energy. The 24/7 gym was also a lifesaver for those who like to keep their fitness routine intact while traveling. And if running is more your speed, the 400-meter jogging track and 50-meter sprint track were there to accommodate even the most ambitious athletes (though I stuck to a gentle jog and admired the view as I went).
What really impressed me, though, was the BBQ pits—a quirky but wonderful touch that I didn’t expect. Imagine grilling skewers of chicken and fish while enjoying a cold drink on the rooftop, surrounded by lush greenery and the city skyline.
Special Features
At this point, you may be thinking, This place sounds too perfect—what’s the catch? Well, here’s where it gets even cooler. Citadines Raffles Place has ARIA, the Escort Robotic Intelligent Assistant. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a friendly, autonomous delivery robot that can bring you all the essentials you need, straight to your door.
I’ll admit, I didn’t need anything—certainly not a toothbrush or a snack at 2 a.m. But there’s something oddly delightful about having a robot come to your door and deliver something as mundane as, say, a bottle of water. ARIA glides smoothly down the hall, announces its arrival with a polite tone, and poof—you have your item in minutes.
It’s the kind of thing that will make you feel like you’re living in a sci-fi movie, and I can’t deny that it made my stay feel just a bit more futuristic and fun.
Another feature that blew me away was the access to CapitaSpring’s Sky Garden and Green Oasis. These green spaces are unlike any I’ve seen in a serviced residence before. The Sky Garden, located on Level 51, offers stunning panoramic views of the city, but it’s also a true oasis with over 38,000 plants, yoga enclaves, and work pods. Whether I was enjoying a peaceful moment alone or getting some work done in the fresh air, it felt like a refreshing alternative to the usual indoor hotel settings.
Final Thoughts
Would I stay at Citadines Raffles Place Singapore again? Absolutely. Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, this serviced residence offers everything you could want: a prime location, thoughtful facilities, stylish accommodations, and a few high-tech surprises along the way.
In short, Citadines Raffles Place delivers on all fronts. From its impeccable service to its modern, spacious apartments and commitment to sustainability, it strikes the perfect balance between luxury and functionality. The experience felt like staying in a stylishly furnished apartment in the heart of a city that thrives on innovation, and I loved every moment of it.
Would I recommend it? Without a doubt. Whether you’re visiting Singapore for a few days or a few weeks, Citadines Raffles Place is your perfect home away from home.
