Review: Marina Bay Sands

How did it strike you on arrival?
Cavernous, slightly chaotic, and nearly always crowded—this is not just a hotel, but a destination to cross off the checklist for visitors to Singapore. It can feel almost too busy, but that's just proof that you're in one of the country's most Instagrammed hotspots.

What’s the crowd like?
This is a place with mass appeal - the camps here include everyone from corporates to couples, group tours to families.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
The hotel completed a recent three-year-long refreshment of its rooms and my Deluxe Room, Garden View was spanking new, with furnishings in muted cream and gold and lovely textured gold wallpaper. It had a nice view of Gardens by the Bay and the sea in the distance, but was a bit on the small side for the price point compared with other five-star properties.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Another room, another Simmons Beautyrest mattress. As can be expected sleep was restful. The sheets and pillows (a choice of firm or feather - I preferred the support of the firm) were customized for this Las Vegas Sands Corporation property, as is the company's practice around the world.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?
The mini-bar offerings are pretty standard, but one nice touch: If you don't feel like shaking up a drink yourself, you can order up a handcrafted cocktail via a Private Bar Menu. Options include a classic Singapore Sling and the Sands Dry Martini.

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
My room had a regular glass-enclosed shower and products were the Marina Bay Sands house brand. Nothing to shout about. But the Chairman and Presidential suites come with automated toilets and electronic bidets.

We all need some good Wi-Fi. What’s the word on that?
There's free Wi-Fi but it can be slow. High-speed Internet access is $15 per day.

Anything stand out about other services and features?
The world's largest rooftop infinity pool is on the 57th floor and open only to hotel guests. It's so social media-worthy that non-guests have tried sneaking into the area just to steal a shot. The property also has a bunch of restaurants by celebrity chefs that are among Singapore's best.

What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?
Staying in one of Asia's most iconic buildings is a pretty memorable experience - it is frequently featured in the media. And the view!

Bottom line: worth it?
While rooms are small for the price, forking out for one puts you smack in the action of Singapore's glamorous Marina Bay area and gives you access to the adjoining casino (the country's poshest), not to mention that pool. Totally worth it.