The decentralisation of Singapore’s central business district to the fringes – a government policy to cater for future growth – has given rise to new hotels in interesting neighbourhoods, enabling visitors to explore perhaps previously undiscovered corners of the city, right on their accommodation’s doorstep. Katong, for example – Singapore’s first heritage town – is home to two brand-new hotels managed by the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong and Holiday Inn Express Singapore Katong are ideally placed for travellers wishing to find local cultural landmarks and stroll among the preserved shophouses of yesteryear. Both hotels are located within Katong Square, a new integrated lifestyle development opening at the end of this year. The property responds to a surging demand for serviced apartments in the city, where business and leisure travellers alike recognise the value of a home-like environment Dean Schreiber, Oakwood Asia-Pacific’s managing director With Singapore Changi International Airport about 15 minutes’ drive away, and convenient access to the central business district and convention and exhibition facilities, both properties also target business travellers. Visitors travelling as a family group may prefer self-contained accommodation. Serviced apartments meet that need, and the upcoming Oakwood Studios welcomes short-term stays, from seven nights. The property is slated to open in November just one block from Orchard Road, the city’s prime shopping belt with almost 2.2km of retail, dining and entertainment choices. Guests can choose from studio, one and two-bedroom apartments, each with a fully equipped kitchen. A rooftop pool and barbecue terrace add to the fitness centre, restaurant and bar facilities. Dean Schreiber, Oakwood Asia-Pacific’s managing director, says the property responds to a “surging demand” for serviced apartments in the city, where business and leisure travellers alike “recognise the value of a home-like environment”. The St. Regis Singapore, a grand, established five-star hotel within the popular Orchard Road precinct, is close to Singapore Botanic Gardens, a Unesco World Heritage Site. The hotel’s opulent design is complemented by the brand’s legendary St. Regis Butler Service. Guests are also privy to the St. Regis Aficionado experience, offering a selection of exclusive encounters including a private appointment with Singaporean bespoke tailor, Kevin Seah, and tastings of rare whisky vintages. Welcoming family groups, the hotel also offers Family Traditions at St. Regis, an array of special services designed to create treasured memories of a holiday spent together.