Life with ArielMarina Bay Sands is the most iconic landmark of Singapore with a ship-like rooftop platform connecting three hotel towers. The big platform on the top boasts the world’s biggest infinity pool, which is probably the most attractive selling point of this resort. The crazy nightly rate of $500-1,000 USD doesn’t scare away tourists because the famous infinity pool is accessible only to hotel guests. In addition to the pool, you will also get a wide range of luxurious experience from hotel room views to shopping and dinning. I splurged and spent one day there during my stay in Singapore – I figured it would be a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience.
Hotel Room at Marina Bay Sands
Just like other hotels, Marina Bay Sands has different tiers of rooms: deluxe, premier, suite, etc. On top of that, you can choose your views: city view, garden view which overlooks the Gardens by the Bay, or ocean / harbor view. I got a room with the garden view which is located in the middle section of the 55-floor hotel tower. The view was stunning. I not only overlooked Gardens by the Bay, was able to watch the light show in my hotel room, but also had the harbor and ocean view in the distance. If the weather was not that hot and humid, I could sit on the balcony all day long.
The room itself was well-equipped and very spacious given how valuable land is in Singapore. But I won’t say it’s luxurious. The building itself is aged and the technology is not the most up-to-date. It’s the experience, service, and view that justify the price. I loved that the room was very well soundproofed which is crucial to me. The room service was also friendly, fast and efficient.
World’s Biggest Infinity Pool
The Infinity Pool is located on the rooftop platform on the 57th floor, open from 6am to 11pm exclusively to hotel guests. Even though it is technically a fitness amenity, it’s not practical to swim in it. It has become an attraction site and is always crowded. There’s no good time to visit. I tried to be there late at night or 6am in the morning. There were still people. So I suggest you just go and enjoy it whenever you can.
The pool is well maintained with free towel service. You need to tab your room card to get in. It definitely lives up to its reputation. As I walked to the edge of the water, the skyline of Singapore expanded under my gaze. I was constantly wowing the views underneath. The night scene was even better. The underwater lighting turnt the pool turquoise. City lights sparked on the canvas of the dark sky. I was not sure whether it was the late night braze or the feeling of being on the top of world that gave the chill. But I felt alive after a month of stressful work.
The other side of the pool has hot massaging Jacuzzis, which face the beautiful Gardens by the Bay, perfect spots for more private conversations. On both sides, there are many lounge chairs for you to relax on and enjoy some sunbathing. If you are hungry, there is no need to go back to your hotel room and change. The poolside bar offers dining and beverage options all day long.
Skypark Observation Deck
The observation deck is one level below the Infinity Pool. It is free for hotel guests and open to the public for a fee. It offers 360-degree view of Singapore. If you don’t have the pool access, it’s definitely worth the price. I casually walked down there after a soak in the Infinity Pool. Well, it was a bit awkward when I passed through the tourist crowds waiting at the gate in my bathrobe and wet hair. But I couldn’t care less because no one knew me there.
Gym
When I’m paying over 600 bucks a night for a hotel, I might as well make full use of my privileges, am I right? Gym is located on Floor 55, right below the Skypark Observation Deck. Through the windows, I could see the bottom of the platform. The gym is not big and not that special either. But it has a million dollar view through the window walls, as the Singapore city line expands beneath you while you are working out.
Shopping and Dining
Marina Bay Sands’ shopping center is underground and on the first floor. It is conveniently connected with a subway station and open to the public. It is decorated luxuriously. Walking in it is already a nice experience. This shopping center has the most exhaustive selection of luxury brands than any other malls that I have been to. It of course also has more affordable options like adidas and Zara. You will find everything you need here. You will also have a wide range of dining options, from the fast and affordable food court in the shopping mall to fine dining in the hotel section.
Marina Bay Sands Casino
The casino at Marina Bay Sands is equally luxurious and open to the public. Unlike the stuffy casino floors in Las Vegas, it looks open, orderly, golden, and shining. The four levels of gaming space with over 2K slot machines are paradise to anyone who is interested in gambling. Although I didn’t go in, I heard the gaming chips are cheaper for tourists than Singapore residents.
Nightlife
Hotel lounges and restaurants all offer great views of city lights at night (and of course great drinks and service too). Moreover, the famous Marquee is right next to the Infinity Pool on the top floor. It is the largest nightclub in Singapore. This location is also Marquee’s first and only venue in Asia.
Other Activities
In addition to everything above, there are still more to do at Marina Bay Sands and you don’t have to be a hotel guest for them! Spectra will be my first recommendation. It is a 15-minute long outdoor light and water show at the event plaza every night. It’s free and open to the public. You will be awed by the spectacular drawing of colorful laser lights on the misty canvas created by the foundation jets.
You can also get a paid Sampan ride along the canal amidst the shops at the mall. The ride will take you up close to the Rain Oculus, a bowl-shaped equipment used to collect rainfall and release water into the canal.
If you are with kids, the Digital Light Canvas is a great place to keep the little ones entertained. For the adults, it’s hard to say no to a good massage at Banyan Tree Spa after a long flight.
Marina Bay Sands Surroundings
In addition to Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, the Marina Bay area has a lot more to offer. It’s super clean, stylish, and modern with lots of restaurants, cafes, and attractions. The first floors of all buildings are open 24/7, making the city extremely walkable and saving people lots of time to get around. This idea is genius. Why can’t all cities do the same? Furthermore, many builds have gardens inside themselves. Instead of in dull concrete or glass, those building walls are green and vibrant. Garden City indeed!
The Merlion statue in the Merlion Park is a must-see because it’s the mascot of Singapore. The lower half of the statue is a fish tail representing Singapore’s origin as a fishing village. The upper half is a lion head representing the meaning of “lion” in Singapore’s original name. Merlion Park is also a great natural spot for biking, walking and picnics.
[…] Marina Bay Sands is the most iconic building in Singapore. It is a luxurious hotel with unparalleled views but also a one-stop travel destination that combines shopping malls, casinos, waterfront, spa, swimming pool, and various fun activities. Even if you don’t live there, it’s a must-see in Singapore. I stayed there for one night and shared my exploration and experience in another blog. […]