Something intimate and personal – this is what most travellers want in terms of hotel services. When we arrived in Hotel 1929, we instantly felt the warm welcome. As we waited check-in we enjoyed the complementary snacks across the front desk. The old-fashioned tins held different varieties of biscuits reminiscent of Singapore’s olden days. We took a couple of iced gem biscuits. These treats were so nostalgic. The last time I had iced gem biscuits was when I was a kid, I couldn’t believe they are popular in Singapore as well. Just like the sweet biscuits that brought back wonderful childhood memories, Hotel 1929 rekindles the rich history of Singapore’s Chinatown.
Hotel 1929: A Heritage Hotel
Situated in the newly hip neighbourhood of Keong Saik Road in Chinatown, Hotel 1929 is a row of five traditional shophouses converted into a 32-room boutique hotel. Hotel 1929 is the brain-child of successful entrepreneur, Loh Lik Peng, and was the first of many stylish boutique hotels in different cities around the world under the Unlisted Collection.
Hotel Room
Hotel 1929 holds 32 rooms in 5 room categories. With a heritage-listed building, it’s hard to expect big rooms but the rooms were designed well to optimize the limitations in space.
We stayed in a Superior Double Room. Although the room is compact (the room measures an average of 14 square meters), the space was sufficient for the two of us. The room features a queen size bed, a study, flat screen TV (with cable) and a rain shower in the bathroom (I love the colourful tiles). Signature stylish furniture from the owner’s private collection is also in the room. Rooms with private balconies over-looking Keong Saik Road are also available for this room type.
For a fancy staycation or a special holiday, we recommend booking one of Hotel 1929‘s Terrace Suites which features a rooftop veranda with a vintage clawfoot bathtub. If you’re a solo traveler, the Superior Single rooms are perfect!
Hotel Amenities
Hotel 1929 stands out in Keong Saik Road with its classic ivory colour. From the first step inside its doors, we were instantly captivated by the unique collection of chairs by the lounge area. How can we not notice the old barber chairs?
At the second level is an open-air patio, perfect for chilling out after a long day of sightseeing.
Handy! A Handphone for Getting around Singapore
Singapore is one of the most convenient places to travel. With a data-enabled smartphone, it’s so easy to roam around. Not everyone will prioritize a data simcard for a few days’ holiday but you don’t have to. At Hotel 1929 you are provided a multi-function smartphone that you can use on-the-go. “Handy” has unlimited data and calls so it was very useful. From transport directions to the best rooftop restaurants, from nightlife to discounts on tourist attractions, “Handy” is a great tool.
Breakfast
Breakfast is served at Restaurant Ember (which is known for its European and fusion cuisine). A delicious set of bacon, sausage, roasted potatoes and eggs were prepared to the guest’s liking. There is also buffet spread of sweet pastries, cereal and fruits. Coffee, tea, juice and yogurt are also available.
Location: Keong Saik Road, Singapore
Formerly a shady red-light district, Keong Saik Road has transformed into one of Singapore’s most vibrant areas with great restaurants, boutique hotels, offices and bars.
Conveniently located at the heart of Chinatown, it is within walking distance to the Maxwell Food Centre and other hawker centres and hangout out spots like Duxton Hill, Club Street and Ann Siang Road.
Read More: Photographing Singapore’s Historic Shophouses
Disclaimer: We were hosted by Hotel 1929 during a part of our stay in Singapore. Thoughts and opinions in this post are our own.
Hotel 1929
Address: 50 Keong Saik Road Singapore 089154
Tel. No.: +65 6579 2024
Website: www.hotel1929.com
Email: H1929-Res@unlistedcollection.com
What do you think of Hotel 1929? Did this review inspire you to stay there? Do you have plans to visit Singapore? Let us know.
