LOCATION A hard-to-miss neo-classical landmark straddling the mouth of the Singapore River and Marina Bay, The Fullerton Hotel is in the heart of the financial district, just a 20-minute cab drive from Changi Airport. For views, it is untouchable: a 25m outdoor infinity pool overlooks the buzzing waterfront, and the rooftop is a prime spot to watch the F1 night Grand Prix in September.

AMBIENCE Built in 1928, The Fullerton has long been part of Singapore’s fabric, housing both the General Post Office and the Inland Revenue’s HQ. A $300m renovation in 2000 kept the exterior Doric colonnades, but the only internal vestiges of its postal past are some original mailroom features within the bar. Everything else suggests modern luxury: from the atrium with its koi pond, to the Chinese and Italian restaurants, both rated among the best in the country.

GUESTROOMS Supremely comfortable rather than dazzlingly hip, the 400 rooms include flat-screen TVs, mini-Stairmasters, marble bathrooms with rain showers and just enough Asian flourishes to remind jet-lagged visitors of the time zone. Among the 298 suites are duplex lofts with button-operated drapes, an upstairs bedroom and a column-flanked, harbour-view balcony.

SERVICE In a country famed for its service culture, the staff are as attentive and courteous as might be expected. Champagne breakfasts and individually prepared hot dishes are among the privileges of The Straits Club, membership of which comes with suites but is also available for one-off fee of around €45.

CAN I WORK HERE? With three phone lines, high-speed broadband, large desks and espresso machines, rooms are geared for work. Internet access and local calls are free to Straits Club members. For those needing more than their laptop there is a small, basement-level business centre, or computer equipment can be ferried to your room by an IT concierge. Wi-fi throughout.

CAN I LIVE HERE? Once regarded as just a soulless stop-over, Singapore has refashioned itself as a vibrant destination worthy of more than a cursory visit. The Fullerton is one of the good reasons why; especially after sampling its eight signature Singapore Slings.

+65 6733 8388; fullertonhotel.com