HOW MAY I BE OF SERVICE?

A hotel’s concierge team is often the first and last you’ll see when staying at one, but the hospitality that it provides go way beyond just helping you to check in and out. Here’s some insights from the industry’s best.

The Westin

As we are primarily a business hotel, many of our guests are here for a short duration and have very little time to explore the city. I often direct guests to Lau Pa Sat, which is a fiveminute walk away as it’s the best way to sample our food culture, but we can also provide restaurant recommendations for any cuisine and price point. I highly recommend guests to take our walking route from The Westin to the Marina Bay Area; it’s an immersive way to experience the city and features lots of Instagrammable spots.

Dinesh V, front office manager

Grand Park Orchard

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the luxury shops and dining establishments around Orchard Road, there actually exists lesser known but enriching activities in the heart of the shopping district. The Library@orchard is one of the most beautiful libraries in the city. Alternatively, view art pieces from acclaimed artists like Andy Warhol and Jean-michel Basquiat at ION’S Opera Gallery, or visit the city’s first commercial rooftop farm at Comcrop.

Shahari Monsen, chief concierge

One Farrer Hotel

We have many Indian guests at our hotel, so over time we have collated a list of Indian and ethnic restaurants to recommend our guests in the area, including those that cater to Jain vegetarians. Some of our favourite spots include Laagna Barefoot Dining, Usman Restaurant and Banana Leaf Apollo. Our best hidden gem though? Nox. I tell guests that it’s best to go in blind (no pun intended), and I’ve found that many of those who take up our offer have an eye-opening experience. For the lovebirds, don’t be afraid to approach us for help. I’ve helped many guests with proposals and celebrations, and I’m still in contact with one such couple who have been married for seven years now.

Eugene Lok, concierge manager

Park Hotel Clarke Quay

Being in such a prime city centre location means that most of our guests are tourists; we have all the information they could ever need like public transport routes, nearby money changers and attractions like Singapore Hop-on Hop-off and Singapore River Cruises. I’m also always ready to help couples celebrate special occasions. Beyond just setting up a room or sending surprise deliveries, I always recommend Ce La Vie for a fine dining experience. I have a special arrangement with the team there, and I ensure my guests get tables with the best view of the Marina Bay Area.

Muniyandy A/L Subramanian, concierge

Grand Park City Hall

When it comes to going the extra mile for our guests, it begins with being a good listener. I always try to start conversations with them to get to know them better, and this often gives me insights on how I can make their stay with us more memorable. Celebrations are my specialty. I’ve catered limousines, booked premium tables at top restaurants (especially with National Kitchen by Violet Onn, of which I am close friends with the maitre’d) and arranged for heartwarming family surprises for our guests. It’s all about adding that personal touch.

Yacob Surip, chief concierge

Park Hotel Alexandra

We are right in the heart of what some might call Singapore’s green corridor, so I always direct guests to take a hike at Hortpark and Southern Ridges. It’s a 10km trail, which sounds pretty intimidating, but that distance makes it for a perfect afternoon family expedition to enjoy the serene outdoor environment. Pack a picnic basket and you’ve got yourself a quaint afternoon out. I think many Singaporeans also discredit the touristy spots here, but I think they should give Sky Dining at the cable car a chance. It’s a private dining “room” with an exquisite view to boot.

Hafiz Samat, chief concierge

Hotel Jen Tanglin

In a modern day and age where everything is increasingly interconnected by public transport, guests are really missing out if they don’t capitalise on the bicycles that we provide here. For an active day out with the family, I would suggest that guests ride out to the Botanic Gardens and pay a visit to the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden, and stop for a meal at Halia. If guests are looking to go out for a celebratory meal, I’d recommend Dempsey Hill’s myriad options (and I’ll call them in advance to arrange a surprise) – some of my favourites include P.S. Café, Margarita’s and Open Farm Community.

Kanna, baggage assistant

Park Hotel Farrer Park

I feel that most Singaporean’s experience with Little India and the Farrer Park area doesn’t extend beyond quick visits or meals to more branded establishments like Mustafa Centre and Muthu’s Curry. If you are really looking for the full experience, head to the Little India Arcade. The cluster of shophouses has been around since the 1920’s, and much of its heritage and charm has been preserved. Better yet, start your day by stopping by Sky Lab Cooked Food at the nearby Tekka Market for crispy vadai before browsing the stores at the Arcade.

Samm Mak, front office manager

Novotel/mercure on Stevens

My favourite part of the job is the excitement that every day brings, especially so when adventurous guests have nothing planned and come to me for suggestions. I usually base my recommendations on their likes and preferences, from gin tastings at Atlas Bar to guided bicycle tours with Bicycle Hut. Guests shouldn’t shy away from asking for requests from the concierge. I’ve gone out of my way multiple times to make my guests’ day, from private cinema bookings, private tours of Universal Studios and fulfilling shopping lists. I’ve also developed close relationships with establishments like SKY at Swissôtel Stamford and the Long Bar at Raffles Singapore, and if our guests dine there we often offer them something with compliments from us.

Yusoff Abdullah, chief concierge