Staycation at the Marina Mandarin

If you are a follower in Instagram or a friend in Facebook, you probably know by now that we have celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary at Marina Mandarin Singapore. It’s “we”, meaning Me&MyGirls so it’s more of a family outing rather than a romantic couple event. Nevertheless, a short staycation gave us a well-deserved vacation feel during the long weekend.


Ashrie's ready to go!

Waiting for Transport

Jane and Ashrie for a swim

Buffet breakfast at the Aquamarine

Living permanently in Singapore, this is just our second time to stay in a Singapore hotel. We stayed in hotels whenever we visit another country or sometimes when we go back to the Philippines. And I would say, their hospitality (although a 5-star hotel) is somewhat different from what we are used to receive, so we are somewhat disappointed or surprised on how they handled us as guests. To rate, I will give our stay 3 stars. Why? Read on.

Jane made a reservation four days in advance only to hear when we arrived at the reception that there is no room available and we need to wait for at least 30 minutes more and come back again to check if there is an available room for us. When we finally got the card keys and went up to our rooms (with Ashrie’s luggage and our bags because they did not offer to bring it up for us), our room door was open and an attendant was still there talking on his phone! How welcoming, right? Inside, there were two “bruised” green apples that looked like it had been there for generations! I hope they replaced it by now.

The hotel in general, especially the interiors are well-kept. The lobby is a feast to the senses, from the imposing atrium which soars through the hotel’s 21 floors, to the rustling fountains, to the chirping of the nightingales and shamas (in cages) and the artworks along the corridor. The room’s bathroom fixtures and fittings are in very good condition. There are more than enough towels for a night stay although toiletries should be doubled for a couple. There is even an ironing board! The buffet breakfast was fine but don’t expect bacon and sausages because they serve Halal breakfasts. Also, the hotel is very accessible to Marina Square, Millenia Walk and Suntec City. However, they need to renovate their swimming pool. And definitely must do a major staff training on excellent customer service. Lastly, being one of the giants in the hotel business, I think Meritus wasn’t able to bring personal touches right down to the guests.


Marina Mandarin Singapore's Atrium

Ashrie at the Reception Lobby

View from the hotel

Happy Ashrie!

We're happy when she's happy!


We enjoyed our relaxing stay. It’s a good getaway from the mundane work for me, the unglamorous motherly duties for Jane, and the monotony of everyday routine for Ashrie. We will do a staycation again soon. Let’s see what other hotels have to offer.