I’m often asked by relatives, friends, and readers on affordable accommodation recommendations in Singapore. But to be honest, when they do, I am stumped because the hotels I usually review range from midscale to luxury—and being Singapore, those come quite at a steep price, at least by Filipino standards. Luckily, I was invited to try out the new ibis Styles Singapore On Macpherson, which I’ve since added to my list of recommended hotels.
Although the hotel sits on top of the soon-to-be-completed Macpherson Mall, I have to be blunt and say that the location isn’t exactly central, but the hotel compensates by providing free shuttle services all day to Tai Seng MRT station, Orchard Road, and Nex in Serangoon, “the largest mall in North-East Singapore.”
Within the vicinity of the hotel are bus stops, and Uber, GrabCar, and taxis are also easy to come by in the area.
Coming in from Bugis, I chose to hire an Uber to get to the hotel. What welcomed me was totally what I expected of an ibis Styles hotel—a youthful and inviting lobby with lots of color. And since I arrived mid-afternoon, the reception wasn’t busy. Two young, friendly staff members assisted me, and in no time, they had my keys ready.
Although I was staying alone, I was booked a Standard Family Room, which can accommodate up to three adults and a child. It followed the vibe of the lobby—trendy, modern, and colorful. And the room had plenty of room, which is uncharacteristic for hotels of the same class and price range in Singapore.
The room featured the super comfortable Sweet Bed by ibis Styles, a sofa that converts into a bed, a mini fridge, an in-room safe, an LED TV, and tea/coffee making facilities. The toilet and bath was a bit on the small side, but it was spotless, nonetheless.
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The morning I was due to check out, I went to see two of its facilities: its fitness center and its sizeable outdoor pool—great additions to what’s supposed to be an “economic hotel.” In addition to these is a token laundry area, which is great for those staying for a number of nights.
Afterwards, I tried out the buffet breakfast at Chat & Chow, which is always part of the hotel’s all-inclusive rates. By way of variety, it wasn’t much, but the selection of hot and cold dishes were tasty, however.
In the same restaurant was I hosted for lunch, and as it turned out, they serve set lunches, including a soup or salad, an entrée, and a drink, for only 10 SGD (~360 PHP). I went for the beef stroganoff with rice, and I found the beef to be tender and the gravy to be delicious.
IN A NUTSHELL: WHY STAY THERE
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Its rates are affordable, and they’re always all-inclusive, meaning breakfast is always part of a stay.
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Its location may be not-so-central, but the hotel compensates by providing free shuttle services.
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Its modern rooms definitely exceed expectations for a hotel of its class and price.
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Honestly, the hotel gives great value for money.
IBIS STYLES SINGAPORE ON MACPHERSON
Macpherson Road corner Aljunied Road, Singapore
Telephone: +65 6622 6000
Email: H9411@accor.com
Website: www.ibis.com/gb/hotel-9411-ibis-styles-singapore-on-macpherson/index.shtml
Social Media: Facebook
