The Scarlet, Singapore

Prepare for colour overload at the Scarlet Hotel that is bold, provocative and sensuous – all rolled into one. The 80-room hotel features an eclectic reception area bursting with pops of lush colour including plush seating covered in Sonia Rykiel, Christian Lacroix, JAB and Pierre Frey velvets and a glittering chandelier. Every room is different in this hotel created in former historic shophouses dating back to 1868 and includes an original 1924

Art Deco building. The five individually themed suite categories are ranked as Swank, Opulent, Lavish, Splendour and Passion to reflect degrees of luxury, indulgence and opulence. Rooms are comfortable and well decorated – some have small balconies and will appeal to those looking for a change from cookie cutter chain style hotels. Smart phones loaded with insider details and handy tourist information are handy for local ventures.

You have to love the hotel facility names – Soda for the small open air jacuzzi, Flaunt for the gym catering for fitness fiends, and Bold for the meeting room and reading area just off reception. The vibrant hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels, is nestled in the Erskine Road area that is home to speciality shops, boutique spas, trendy restaurants and cafes, wine bars, antique shops, art galleries and markets and close to the Chinatown. It’s a colourful Moulin Rouge-inspired bolthole with lots of character and history – just follow the red carpet along long hallways to your retreat. thescarlethotels.com/singapore; slh.com