The Chronicle

Children come first in new family suites at Singapore Shangri-La

- Narelle Bouveng

SHANGRI-LA has always been a favourite five-star hotel choice but the new flagship family rooms at the Singapore Shangri-La have taken that to another level.

An entire floor has been dedicated to families, with themed suites decked out with little jet-setters in mind alongside a cosy parents’ retreat, providing proof you can combine the kids’ preference for play with the grown-up need for relaxation.

The submarine-themed suite can be entered from the parents’ room via a tiny children-only door.

Inside is a set of bunk beds whimsicall­y designed for little seafarers, including a wheel to steer the ship and periscope to check out who/what is below. The details are exquisite, with tiny bathrobes and accessorie­s, even a room with a pull-down bed for the nanny if that is how you roll.

Mum and dad are just as comfortabl­e in the room next door, with a king-size bed, decadent dining booth and fullsized Smeg fridge – finally someone listened to the parents of the world who like to pack provisions.

Downstairs the kids’ play zone, named Buds, is a dream space filled with stimulatin­g play and learn spaces sure to have every little guest enthralled. Entry is free for family suite guests and there’s a choice of workshops, including music, dance, art and cooking.

Next door, I watched Tiah unleash her inner Picasso in Muddy, a dedicated art space with every surface designed to take paint – even the walls. When the lights go out, the glow-in-the-dark transforma­tion will blow their minds.

When it came time to cool off (which happens a lot in steamy Singapore), the lagoonstyl­e pool with shallow fountain pool and full lifeguard service was a welcome reprieve.

The grounds of Shangri-La are among some of the biggest and most beautiful in Singapore, at 40,500sq m, so let the kids loose to discover the pirate playground and more.

Happy kids, happy holiday, right?

 ?? Photo: Narelle Bouveng ?? PLAY AND PEACE: Shangri-La is a destinatio­n in itself. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself opting out of a shop to just relax and stay in.
Photo: Narelle Bouveng PLAY AND PEACE: Shangri-La is a destinatio­n in itself. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself opting out of a shop to just relax and stay in.

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