Bigger rooms? Play pools? Babysitting services? Yes please.
TEXT: MORGAN AWYONG
PHOTOS: HOMETEAMNS, SHUTTERSTOCK
Planning a staycation for the family requires that a few extra boxes be checked. With a larger group that prefers to stay together — and lots of energy waiting to be expended — parents are looking out for features that ensure kids will be comfortable, safe and engaged. Most hotels cater more to solo and couple guests, but with the prolonged pandemic and staycations now the new norm, many are including more family-friendly features and itineraries.
Here are a few noteworthy options to start.
SUN, SAND, SEA
For an island-hopping escape, look no further than the swanky Shangri-La Rasa Sentosa, equipped with the balmy beach vibes. Singapore’s only beachfront resort offers views of the sea, pools, hills or gardens.
The establishment also boasts dedicated pools for adults and children for a splashing good time. Kids even get three water slides and a splash pad for some safe fun. Children can even visit nearby Nestopia – an outdoor space with 17 sections of play. Younger ones can also opt for the hotel’s own Cool Zone kids club. Pack in that Sentosa adventure with their many packages or start with a choice of rooms from S$425.
FAMILY BUSINESS
When we think of staycations, serviced apartments may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but there are a lot of reasons why they make sense for a family. The larger square footage of these units with compartmentalised areas are superb for offering enough privacy even in the same space. Plus, the in-room amenities such as kitchenettes and washers mean even long stays are welcome.
Oakwood Premier AMTD, located in the heart of the CBD, boasts all of the above as well as spectacular views of the port and neighbouring islands when you stay in their Premier rooms. The Family Together package allows you to customise meals, so you needn’t worry about dining separately when out. Whether it’s to cook up a storm or to enjoy some laps in the infinity pool, it’s a luxurious home away from home, with the bonus of attentive staff on-premises 24/7. Rates from S$260.
BAYFRONT BONANZA
The only thing better than a pool, is a bigger pool. And the Mandarin Oriental has a massive one, with stone fountains, swaying palms, private cabanas and a view of the Marina Bay. This also means that safe-distancing limits are more generous, giving your family a chance to spend more time in the water.
It’s also located near family attractions like the ArtScience Museum, Kidztopia and Nerf Action Xperience to help fill up that itinerary. The hotel is offering a package that includes tickets to the first two with daily breakfast for four, rollaway beds and a late checkout too. Rates for rooms looking at the bay area start from S$359, and suites are going at a steal with their one-for-one offers.
A WALK IN THE PARK
A stay at Goodwood Park Hotel, a heritage property, transports you back in time. Built in 1900 as an elite club, the estate features Dutch, French and English influences in its different wings.
The Deluxe Poolside room and newly-refurbished Pool Suites are delightful as they lead directly to the Balinese-inspired Mayfair pool – perfect for water babies. If not, try out their variant of Squid Game with the quirky Sotong Game package. If you’re looking for an escape, check out this exclusive package for HomeTeamNS members that includes a complimentary upgrade, free breakfast for two, and a 1-for-1 Spa Rael voucher for that completes the holiday vibe.
CROWN JEWEL
You may feel that you’re missing out on a legitimate holiday experience because you’re not heading to the airport with packed bags. YotelAir begs to differ. Located in the iconic Changi Jewel, an overnighter at this easterly destination gives you the privilege of staying late past the crowds to enjoy a different side of the mall.
With over 280 shops, the premises is an all-inclusive venue, with attractions such the Walking and Bouncing Nets and enough retail shops to occupy your day. Adults can even drop off the kids (from seven to twelve years of age) at the exclusive Wilderness Explorer programme. Let them make ecological discoveries as you claim some time at a spa or watch a movie. Pick the family room for four, including a bunk bed for the kids from only S$220.
YOUR SECOND HOME
Some of us have fond memories of holiday chalets. The HomeTeamNS Villas at HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok offer plenty of space in each two-storey unit – enough for large families to engage in their favourite activities, like binging on their favourite shows or playing a few rounds on the X-box game console that’s in each chalet. Set in a lush private environment, you’ll also want to strike up the chance to have a barbecue with your own allocated pits. Rates start from S$210.
If tiring out little ones is the name of the game, staycationers can hit the clubhouse’s futsal courts, “shoot” their loved ones in a game of laser tag at the Laser Quest arena and have a ball of a time at the T-Play playground, to name just a few activities.
ONE-STOP URBAN HANGOUT SPOT
If you prefer a “daycation”, HomeTeamNS Khatib’s ManCaves are another option to celebrate that special occasion – or enjoy a quick escape – subject to the prevailing safe-distancing guidelines. Play console and board games, blast your favourite tunes over the high-quality sound system, relax in air-conditioned comfort, and enjoy the private BBQ patio with every Mancave booking.
Need a comfortable and spacious location to get some work done? Stay productive with the Work-from-Mancave promotion for only $60 per day. Make your bookings for weekday slots till 31 March 2022 here.
Hang out with HomeTeamNS today! Find out more about HomeTeamNS members’ deals and treats.
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