I've always preferred boutique hotels and Fullerton Bay is probably my favorite in its range. Although less quaint than the usual hotel I usually choose, as a Singaporean I appreciate that the decor narrates the history of Singapore beautifully. I was really quite happy to be walking around the grounds. Stayed 4 night and had most of our client drinks at the hotel bar, Lunar.
Location was perfect for business meetings and getting around town. The concierge was very helping in getting taxis for us.
Check in took over an hour, due to some issues with the room. While we were given complimentary drinks at the lobby, it was a bit of a pain as we needed to have a conference call by 4pm and we to check in around 2pm to have time to prep.
It turned out that even after the wait there was still some problems with the plumbing in the room and the shower head fell on me. It was an otherwise lovely room with great space and view of the bay. I liked the furnishing in the room as well and it had perfect amenities. Then again, put me anywhere with a big clean bathtub (and a tv in front of it) and I would generally be happy.
Privacy in the hotel seemed really good. There was a wedding going on one of the evenings and the newlyweds had a room along our corridor, but I heard nothing, apart from seeing a number of guests downstairs and a wedding party trying to access the rooms. The hotel grounds has good space.
Breakfast spread was satisfying with a good mix of continental and local fare without being overly extravagant. Room service was prompt and delicious as well. I especially recommend the chocolate pillows, but remember to order them before 11pm.
Service was inconsistent though. While we generally had very patient and attentive hotel staff members taking care with us, there were a few incidents that surprised me. Lunar mixed up my reservation for 6 guests and gave me a table for 4. We were fine with that, but it took more than 10 minutes for extra chairs to be brought, and my party was left standing around the otherwise seated area. Service was very iffy that night. We called the reception the next day and gave feedback but were instead told "what do you want? free drinks? free lunch?" .... Let me first make clear that we had made no suggestions or indication that we needed anything at all for free, neither did we have further plans to dine at the hotel as it was going to be our last night. I was appalled and insulted. Does one honestly think that people would stay at the Fullerton Bay and be asking for freebies? We asked to be transferred to the manager who offered to come to the room to speak with us. I think that most of the staff at the hotel allow it to live up to its 5 stars but the inconsistency at this level is memorable. For this, I have very mixed feelings about the hotel, but based on location, room, view and general comfort/ease of stay it is likely that I will return for my next business trip. The other boutique hotel I love, the New Majestic Hotel, is less easily accessible.
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