Janiqueel and family enjoy a get-away at one of Singapore’s finest hotels.
Longing for a break from the day-to-day, Mr. C (official child of janiqueel.com), his doting grandmother, and I, Janiqueel, had a staycation at the sparkling new Park Hotel Alexandra recently. A swell time was had by all. Mr C, especially enjoyed a break from the old routine. Read on – for the first time, and not without some trepidation, I’ll give the lad a chance to voice his own reactions.
Highlighting its sleek, shiny architectural style, an aerial view on the website shows a hotel geared for the 21st century. It’s special. Giving new definition to the neighbourhood around it, the Park resides on the corner of Alexandra Road and Queensway. Echoing the vibe of the business community in this part of the city, hawker-like food outlets on street level offer a variety of local eats not just for hotel guests, but also for those who live and work nearby. Developers gave thought to the hotel’s role amid its surroundings. It functions as an integral part of the Alexandra – Queensway axis joining retail outlets like IKEA and Queenstown Shopping Center.
Once ensconced in this modern structure, we glided up to our well-designed room on floor 17. Through floor-to-ceiling windows, our room looked out to the south to the green spaces of Kent Ridge, Hort Park, Pasir Panjang, and Mt. Faber. After a busy business or sightseeing day, one could take a short stroll or a cab to Hort Park and walk the Henderson Wave for more magnificent views of this side of Singapore. Its website emphasises the natural aspect of the hotel’s location. Not up for venturing out? Enjoy the green-tinged view from most rooms and venues at the Park Hotel Alexandra.
Before dinner, we decided to spend some time at Aqua Luna, the pool area on the seventh story. A veteran of Happy Fish, Mr. C was in his element here.
As promised – some thoughts on Aqua Luna from the Official Child:
LOVED IT! I’m just two-years-old, but I’ve done more that my share of splishing and splashing in the pools. Mama mentioned Happy Fish Swim School. I AM a happy fish! I know what makes a successful swim experience. Aqua Luna meets and surpasses my exacting criteria.
Suit on, cozy towel at the ready, I ran into the first pool I saw. OK – full disclosure – Mama and Grandma lifted me in and stood nearby as I showed off my strokes and breath control. Not to boast, but I can swim by myself for 1 meter into waiting arms. The Park Hotel has a large shallow pool just made for swimmers like myself. That conquered, I ventured down several shallow steps into an arm of the big pool. Someday soon, I will be in there by myself – I have a fishy challenge!
In the big pool, guys were swimming laps and other guest were sunbathing in the poolside loungers. Off to the side is a swim-up, walk-up bar with juice for me and soft drinks for my companions.
Whoever designed the Aqua Luna facility has earned the “Mr. C Official Seal of Approval”. The place is made for swimming and lounging in comfort and style. We’re coming back – right, Mama???
After our splishing and splashing adventure with Mr. C, I joined freelance writer, JKJ, for free-flow drinks and unique horderves in the Crystal Club Lounge. Sundowners in hand at a corner table overlooking the green spaces below, we felt pretty darn chuffed to be in that space, in that time. “If it’s not too much trouble, another white wine, please.”
Given its location – close to, but not in the midst of Orchard road and the Central Business District – the Park Alexandra has all the makings to become a go-to accommodation for business travelers and families.
And for a staycation like ours? THE BEST, we all agreed including Mr. C. Who voted with an enthusiastic high five.
With writing help and wine tasting by JKJ