Set the scene
You feel The Clan claiming you as one of its own the moment you step into the lift lobby. The crisp, air-conditioned space clad in cool black volcanic stone works like a shield from the heat and hustle of the busy streets outside. A subtle pledge on the wall promises that the hotel will take care of you like family. When the elevator doors open to the second-floor reception area, beneath a gentle “floating” artwork by local artist Grace Tan, you’re welcomed with a tea ceremony and a traditional snack. You feel taken care of, and—is it too early to say?—even loved.
The backstory
The Clan is the first urban luxury hotel by Far East Organization, one of Singapore’s oldest and largest property developers. Its location along Cross Street, one of the earliest streets in Chinatown, is a nod to the success stories of the many immigrants that arrived here in the early 1800s. Storytelling nooks throughout the hotel offer tangible portals to the past, whether through a display cabinet of antique gentlemen’s umbrellas, or a traditional Wing Chun wooden dummy for martial arts training in the gym.
The rooms
Cozy but well thought-out, the contemporary rooms have stylish location-appropriate touches, like Chinese-inspired lamps and, in some of the higher category rooms, slippers that resemble traditional cheongsam dresses. All rooms get a charming welcome wrapped-cloth parcel of tea and delicious sesame sable cookies by local cafe partner Sinpopo. It’s worth topping up for a Grand Premier or Premier room, which come with extras like butler-like service (the hotel calls them Clan Keepers), complimentary all-day breakfast, and a personalized mini bar.
Food and drink
The gorgeous QIN Restaurant & Bar, operated by a popular local restaurant group, offers a refined experience and elevated Western-Asian cuisine alongside views of the surrounding historic shophouses.
The spa
There isn’t an in-house spa, but the Sky Gym and Sky Pool on level 30 are must-visits for their stunning panoramas across the Chinatown and Boat Quay areas, even if you don’t intend to work out. Also of note in the gym is a floor-to-ceiling in-demand screen, where you can stream one of 150 exercise classes.
The neighborhood/area
Here, you’re at the crossroads of culture, commerce, and convenience—the hotel sits within the Far East Square heritage precinct in the Central Business District, and has direct access to Downtown Line trains. Many of Singapore’s best restaurants, bars, and cultural sites are within walking distance, including the Thian Hock Keng, Buddha Tooth Relic and Sri Mariamman temples, and Maxwell Food Centre, home to the country’s most famous chicken rice. For culture buffs, it’s tough to find a more well-placed stay.
The service
While the staff are friendly all round, it’s the service by the Clan Keepers—the hotel’s butler-like service for its upper-tier rooms—that’s really of note. From personalized shopping experiences to setting up a bath, there’s nothing they can’t pull out their (metaphorical) hats.
For families
Cribs are available on request.
Eco effort
All the rooms come with filtered water systems and reusable glass bottles to help eliminate single-use plastic bottles.
Accessibility
Accessible rooms are available, and there’s wheelchair access to most areas of the hotel, including the car park.
Anything left to mention?
A complimentary Local Precinct Tour takes guests to the key heritage sites and cultural spots within 500 meters of the hotel. There’s also a thoughtful space on the 30th floor with wet and dry areas for guests who have early check-ins or late check-outs to refresh themselves.
10 Cross Street, Singapore , 048417
Singapore
http://theclanhotel.com.sg
6881 8888