A Stay at Peninsula Excelsior Singapore: Skyscraper Views and City Buzz
Arrival: First Impressions and a Lobby That Keeps It Simple
Singapore is a city that never seems to slow down. It’s a place where the contrast between futuristic architecture and old-world charm exists on every corner. One moment, you might find yourself slurping a steaming bowl of hawker-style laksa, the spicy coconut-based noodle soup that’s a local favorite, and the next, you’re sipping a cocktail from a rooftop bar with a million-dollar view of the glittering skyline. The pace of life here is exhilarating, and the diversity of experiences makes it a city that offers something for everyone. With such a dynamic landscape, finding the perfect hotel can be a challenge. Travelers need a place that combines comfort, convenience, and a bit of that elusive “wow” factor. In a city of ultra-modern luxury hotels and cultural havens, the Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel manages to strike a perfect balance. This high-rise hotel offers a combination of practicality, great service, and jaw-dropping views of the iconic Singapore skyline, making it a strong contender for travelers seeking a comprehensive Singapore experience.
As a travel writer, my job is to explore destinations and accommodations that capture the essence of a place. I thrive on finding the balance between adventure and indulgence, so when I checked into the Peninsula Excelsior, I had high hopes. A city like Singapore deserves a hotel that doesn’t just serve as a convenient base but enhances the overall experience, making it a part of the journey.
If there’s one thing I love about arriving at a hotel, it’s that brief moment where you step out of the taxi, stretch your legs, and take in your surroundings. With Peninsula Excelsior, the first thing that caught my attention was its skyscraper stature, standing tall like a modern sentinel in the heart of the city.
The exterior is sleek and businesslike—nothing overly extravagant, but with an understated elegance that tells you, “Yes, you’re in a city of money and power.” The revolving doors swung open, and I entered the lobby, which instantly set the tone for the minimalist aesthetic that would define my stay. There were no grand chandeliers or opulent water features, just a calm, functional space with clean lines, neutral colors, and an air of quiet efficiency.
The check-in process was smooth, with the staff moving like clockwork—efficient, polite, and professional. It was clear that they knew their clientele well. This is a hotel that welcomes a steady stream of business travelers, tourists, and conference-goers, so speed and functionality seemed to be their priority. Within minutes, I had my key card and was heading to the elevator, suitcase in tow.
The Grounds: A City Escape Amidst the Skyline
One of the most intriguing things about staying in a high-rise hotel is that its “grounds” are not sprawling gardens or vast courtyards but rather vertical spaces that make the most of their urban environment. The Peninsula Excelsior takes advantage of its prime real estate, offering two outdoor swimming pools that act as urban oases amidst the glass-and-steel jungle of Singapore.
I took a quick tour before heading up to my room. The pools, though not massive, were refreshing and surprisingly serene, with a sundeck offering loungers for those who wanted to bask in the tropical heat. The views from this level were already impressive, with the Marina Bay Sands silhouette towering in the distance like a futuristic movie set.
There was also a 24-hour fitness center, which I made a mental note to visit (though, in true travel writer fashion, I later skipped in favor of more city exploration). Nearby, a hot tub and sauna provided a dose of relaxation, ideal for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing or meetings.
The business center was also worth noting—sleek, professional, and well-equipped. It reinforced the idea that this hotel attracts a balanced mix of tourists and business travelers, catering to both with seamless efficiency.
The Rooms: Where Comfort Meets an Incredible View
If there’s one thing you absolutely must do when staying at the Peninsula Excelsior, it’s request a room with a view. Trust me on this.
I swiped my key card, pushed open the door, and was instantly greeted by floor-to-ceiling windows that framed one of the best cityscapes I’ve ever seen. Marina Bay Sands, the ArtScience Museum, the iconic Singapore Flyer—all laid out before me like a postcard come to life. The room itself? Simple, functional, and quietly stylish.
The color palette was a mix of tan, light wood, and gray, punctuated with subtle orange accents—a look that felt modern without being sterile. The bed was plush, the pillows inviting, and there was just enough space to move around comfortably without feeling cramped.
The bathroom was a highlight, featuring a waterfall shower that made me want to linger longer than necessary. It also had a bathtub, which I appreciated—because sometimes, after a long day of exploring, nothing beats a soak with city lights twinkling outside.
Small details like the coffee and tea-making facilities and a well-stocked minibar made the space feel inviting, and the soundproofing was excellent, a crucial factor in a buzzing metropolis like Singapore.
Dining: From Buffet Breakfasts to Skyline Sips
Let’s talk food. Because no travel experience is complete without indulging in some local and international flavors.
Breakfast was an international buffet spread, offering everything from classic eggs and bacon to Asian staples like congee. As someone who believes that breakfast is the most important meal of the day (especially when there’s sightseeing ahead), I appreciated the variety. The fresh fruit selection was impressive, and the coffee was strong—an essential for any traveler running on jet lag.
For an all-day dining option, Coleman’s Café was the go-to spot, offering a menu that covered both local Singaporean dishes and international favorites. I sampled a delicious Hainanese chicken rice, a dish that any visitor to Singapore must try at least once.
But the real star? The Sky Lounge on the 22nd floor. This is where the magic happens. As the sun set and the city lights flickered on, I found myself sipping on a cocktail, watching Singapore transform into a sea of twinkling lights. The ambiance was laid-back yet sophisticated, a perfect setting to toast to a fantastic trip.
Wellness & Activities: A Blend of Business and Leisure
While the Peninsula Excelsior doesn’t position itself as a dedicated wellness retreat, it certainly provides a variety of amenities designed to help guests unwind and recharge during their stay. After a full day of exploring Singapore’s lively streets, I found the hot tub and sauna to be an incredibly welcome respite. The heat from the sauna, combined with the soothing jets of the hot tub, helped me relax and recover from the day’s adventures. Though the pools weren’t expansive, they provided the perfect opportunity for a quick dip to cool off in the sweltering Singapore heat. A few laps in the outdoor pool, with the skyline as a backdrop, offered a brief but refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
For those looking to stay active, the hotel’s 24-hour gym is a solid option. Equipped with a variety of cardio machines, weights, and resistance training equipment, it’s designed to accommodate a range of fitness routines. I found it convenient to pop in whenever I had the time and energy, though I must admit that my preferred form of cardio was exploring the city on foot. The beauty of Singapore’s walkable streets is that each neighborhood offers something new to discover—whether it’s the street art of Kampong Glam or the serene Fort Canning Park, there’s always something to see as you walk through the city.
Special: A Touch of History and a Prime Location
One fascinating aspect of the Peninsula Excelsior is that it sits on a site of historical significance. This was once where George Coleman, a key figure in Singapore’s early architecture, had his residence. While the hotel itself is modern, its location carries a piece of Singapore’s colonial past—a little tidbit that history buffs might appreciate.
Another major selling point? The location. Nestled in the heart of Singapore, it provides easy access to both cultural landmarks and shopping hubs, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Stay Here?
The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel strikes a great balance between practicality, comfort, and luxury. It offers everything you need for a convenient and enjoyable stay in the heart of Singapore without the hefty price tag of some of the more extravagant properties in the city. If you’re the type of traveler who values being close to the action while still enjoying comfortable accommodations with stunning city views, this is a great option. The hotel is perfectly suited for those who want to be in the center of it all—whether you’re visiting for business, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the city’s dynamic energy.
While it may not boast the extreme opulence of some of Singapore’s luxury hotels, the Peninsula Excelsior makes up for it with its stellar location, attentive service, and efficient amenities. The rooms, though not excessively lavish, are well-appointed, offering a clean, comfortable space to retreat to after a day of exploring the bustling streets of Singapore. The views, particularly from higher floors, are a definite highlight—waking up to panoramic vistas of the city is a great way to start the day.
Would I stay here again? Without hesitation. My stay was thoroughly enjoyable, and if I could get another room with that unbeatable skyline view, I’d be back in a heartbeat. The central location makes it a top choice for those who want to experience the very best of Singapore without venturing too far from their hotel. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to the city, Peninsula Excelsior offers a perfect base to explore all that Singapore has to offer.
At the end of the day, Singapore is a city that dazzles with its eclectic blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. And at Peninsula Excelsior, you get to experience the city’s pulse firsthand. You can wake up and fall asleep right in the heart of the action, with everything you need for an enjoyable stay just steps away. It’s not the most extravagant option in town, but it’s certainly one of the most practical, offering comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury that is hard to beat.
