December 19, 2007

Asia | Singapore

Singapore Soaring

By Nicole Cotroneo

Shopping concierges? Chauffeured Bentley shuttles? Get spoiled in the city-state.

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Millionaires are sprouting like dandelions in Singapore: their number rose faster in the city-state than anywhere else in Asia last year. Fortunately for their entourages, luxury hotels are sprouting just as swiftly. Last week Fairmont made its Asia debut with a sprawling complex in the heart of Singapore city featuring one of the largest spas on the continent (think 35 treatment rooms, just for starters). Right on Fairmont’s heels, the St. Regis opens Saturday with its own signature touches, including chauffeured Bentleys and a custom Remède Spa. Plus, the hotel is located near designer fashion district Orchard Road, where Stella McCartney just opened her first Southeast Asia boutique.

But it’s the Fullerton Hotel who’s really got you covered on the fashion front: During the Christmas season a “shopping concierge” will stand post on Orchard to guard your bags as you go. And speaking of brands, Fullerton’s stylish Post Bar has become one itself: visit the first outpost in Changi Airport’s new Terminal 3, which comes on line January 9. The $1.4 billion wing connects to a Crowne Plaza (opening March) and features upscale retail galore (plus, the first airport Apple Store). Too bad there’s no kitchen gadgetry shop: you’ll have to arrive already prepared for the newly refurbished culinary academy inside the iconic Raffles Hotel. The grand dame also hosts a food and wine extravaganza, January 30 through February 3, starring the crème de la crème of the culinary world. You know, a few small names like Thomas Keller and Alain Passard.