A few of us enjoyed our last night in Singapore by revisiting Raffles and seeing a new side of it from our first visit to dinner. We were fortunate enough to have an appointment with Roslee, the assistant guest relations manager/ concierge. Little did we know we were in for a treat! We are convinced he is one of the best historians of this historic property. Roslee gave us a private tour and delighted us with colorful and detailed stories that brought this landmark hotel alive. We felt a part of the history. Stories included an interesting tale about the silverware that was buried under the pool prior to the Japanese invasion of Singapore.
We visited the prestigious suite that Queen Elizabeth stayed on her visit to Singapore. This is a perfect place to bring your family and allow them to become a part of the history. A priceless and rare gift for those desiring a one of a kind experience. Celebrities include Ava Gardner, Queen Elizabeth, Charlie Chaplin, Heads of State, and many more too numerous to mention.
We finished our evening at the infamous “Long Bar” to enjoy the signature Singapore Sling drink. This beverage was created at Raffles Hotel at the turn-of-the-century by Hainanese-Chinese bartender, Mr. Ngiam Tong Boon.
In the Hotel’s museum, visitors may view the safe in which Mr. Ngiam locked away His precious recipe books, as well as the Sling recipe hastily jotted down on a bar-chit in 1936 by a Hotel visitor who asked the waiter for it. Originally, the Sling was meant as a woman’s drink, hence the attractive pink color. Today, it is enjoyed by all.
Raffles Hotel, the legendary symbol for all “the fables of the Exotic East” was established in 1887. Be sure on your visit to say hello to Jimmy at the Grand Lobby Piano while enjoying his tunes - the best ever!
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