Stunning central staycations in Singapore

In part two of our Singapore staycation series, we trade wildlife and central escapes for those with a more distant city skyline. Pullman Singapore Hill Street and Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena may sit in the heart of the action, yet each offers a pocket of calm and a stay that feels distinctly different from everyday life. Read on as two ANZA staffers spend a night living it up.

“What really stood out was the genuine hospitality”

Ellie Mills, ANZA’s Finance and Operations Manager, and partner, Jarrad Brownlee, snuck to Pullman Singapore Hill Street for a night of stylish comfort and welcoming vibes.

Located in Singapore’s heritage-rich Hill Street, Pullman Singapore Hill Street channels the spirit of vintage Pullman railcars – think polished brass, plush textures, and porter-style service with a bold, contemporary twist.

Ellie says:
“A staycay on a Monday? Now that’s how you kick off the week in style – and we were surrounded by chic from the outset. Pullman Singapore Hill Street is polished yet playful: think modern design with a cheeky nod to luxury train travel woven throughout.
There are two fabulous pools: the main one on Level 3 is a chilled-out sanctuary, complete with loungers and a jacuzzi. Then there’s El Chido up on the rooftop – a hip Mexican bar with its own pool, where Jarrad and I ate tostadas and nachos, while washing them down with margaritas.

Our room was cosy and sleek, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing a crystal-clear view of Marina Bay Sands. Morning coffee with that vista? Yes, please!

Lunch was at MOGA, Pullman’s modern izakaya, tucked behind a discreet wooden door. Their lunch set is a steal – miso soup and salad with every main. I went for the Wagyu Beef Don, with add-ons like fresh sashimi, and a miso pavlova to finish. Later, from 5–7pm, the Executive Club Lounge became our happy place. A cocktail trolley rolled in, and the friendly staff mixed up a Gingerita (tequila and limoncello) and the gin and vodka-heavy Her Autograph – both absolute crackers.

Breakfast at Madison’s was another highlight: a buffet of Western classics and local favourites, set in a cool New York–style diner.

What really stood out during my stay was the genuine hospitality – everything felt personal and warm. I’d highly recommend a staycay here, especially for couples or a group of girlfriends looking to pack in lunch, pool time, cocktails, and some rooftop chill. It’s a stay that’s fresh and sophisticated, with a wonderfully hospitable feel.”

Staycay Yay!
“If you’re plotting a weekend at Pullman Hill Street Singapore, don’t miss El Chido’s Endless Slushie Fiesta at $38 for two hours of frozen margaritas. I will defo be returning for it!”

1 Hill Street, 179949
pullmansingaporehillstreet.com

“The view from our room gave me a sense of calm, and a pause from daily life”

ANZA’s Designer Christina Lim checked into Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena with son Xavier for a mini escape with charm.

With sweeping views, light-filled rooms, a rooftop pool, and chic dining at Sky22, Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena is a slick city bolthole where comfort and convenience rule.

Christina says:
“Bright, classy and modern from the get-go, this place made an immediate impression. For a start, the hotel lobby isn’t on the ground floor – it’s up on the 22nd – which meant I was greeted not just with a warm welcome but with a huge, sparkling city view.

The vibe is fresh, clean and modern – it’s sleek without the fuss, and I loved that. My room followed suit; it was compact, clean and nicely designed, with everything I needed for a comfy staycation. The full-length windows were fantastic, flooding the space with natural light and giving me a gorgeous view over the Novena estates. It really struck me how we’re often surrounded by skyscrapers in Singapore, but this was a quiet little corner of the city – full of greenery and low-rise homes.

High Tea for Two at Sky22 was a real treat. (This month’s theme was Berries). The caprese with balsamic caviar served in a pie tee was super interesting, and the chicken with Morley cream pie and mash was incredible. If I wasn’t being polite, I would’ve devoured the whole thing solo!

Thankfully, the hotel has a small but decent gym where guests can shake off any food comas – but I fully embraced mine, lounging in a cabana by the pool and soaking up the sun with the cityscape in the distance.

Dinner took things up a notch – literally – at Las Palmas Rooftop Bar. The setting was pure Palm Springs fun, with tropical colours and laid-back vibes. We had the Hottie Prawnstar pasta (customised with bacon instead of prawns) and the Cuban Panini. The fries it came with were completely addictive.

What really shone about my stay, however, was the view from our high-floor room. I actually got up early just to watch the daybreak – it gave me a real sense of calm and a much-needed pause from daily life. For a moment, it didn’t feel like I was in Singapore at all.

Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena is perfect for a girls’ weekend. That poolside cabana is calling your name – and there’s no better spot to catch up, sip tea, and soak up the city.”

Staycay Yay!
“Location-wise, Courtyard by Marriott is super convenient. Being very close to Novena Square you can unplug without feeling stranded”

99 Irrawaddy Road, 329568
marriott.com