Oasia Hotel Novena: Singapore's Hottest New Hotel? (You HAVE to See This!)
Oasia Hotel Novena: Singapore's Secret Weapon? (Spoiler Alert: I'm Still Recovering)
Okay, people, buckle up. This isn't your usual glossy, corporate hotel review. I’m fresh off the Oasia Hotel Novena experience – Singapore style – and I’m still processing it all. You want the real, messy truth? You’ve come to the right place. (And for Google, here's EVERYTHING you need to know, SEO style – just in case you're looking to book, ya know?)
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First impressions? Whoa. The Oasia Novena looks amazing. Sleek glass, a vertical garden hugging the outside…Instagram gold, basically. But honestly, I was a little intimidated at first. That pristine aesthetic can be daunting, right? You feel like you need to, like, be a certain kind of person to be there. Turns out, nah. Mostly. (More on that later.)
Accessibility: This is CRUCIAL for me. I, alas, am not as nimble as I used to be, so the accessibility options are a make-or-break deal. Good news! This place seemed pretty darn good. Wheelchair accessible throughout the public areas, and I saw plenty of facilities for disabled guests. Elevator access is obviously key. I wish I could give you a more detailed breakdown, but trust me, from what I saw, they’ve made a solid effort. The exterior corridor situation will also be great for those with mobility issues. I didn't get into the specifics of the guest rooms designated for special needs, but I have to give them a thumbs up for making an effort toward the access factor.
Rooms: The Sanctuary (Mostly)
Okay, the rooms. My room, at least, was a haven. Blackout curtains are a godsend for this sleep-deprived traveler. Loved the air conditioning, (essential in Singapore!), the free Wi-Fi (in all rooms!), and a surprisingly comfortable extra long bed. The bathroom was sleek and clean, with a lovely separate shower/bathtub situation. Complimentary tea and coffee were a nice touch, and the mini bar…well, let’s just say I may have sampled a few things. The in-room safe box was a nice security measure. Now, about the carpeting: Look, I prefer a bit of a harder surface. But the air conditioning made it seem really clean.
Cleanliness and Safety: Covid-Era Confidence
This is the era of germophobia, right? Oasia Novena seemed to get it. Hand sanitizer everywhere, staff in masks, and visible daily disinfection in common areas. They clearly prioritized hygiene certification. I appreciated the individually-wrapped food options and the safe dining setup. Seeing the staff trained in safety protocol was reassuring. I'm a little uneasy with how much of a focus there was on sanitizing between stays. I'm not sure if that is a good thing, or a bad thing. I suppose it is nice to see so much work for that sort of thing, even if it does make me a little uneasy.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Adventure
Alright, let’s talk food. The restaurant situation is solid. Asian cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, and the usual breakfast [buffet] scenario. I opted for the breakfast service. The coffee shop downstairs was surprisingly good. The poolside bar was a dream. And, yes, I indulged in a few too many cocktails during happy hour. (Worth it!) I loved the snack bar’s offerings.
My biggest dining revelation? The soup. Honestly, the soup in restaurant was unexpectedly amazing. Like, I'm still craving it amazing. One bowl turned into two, then…well, let’s just say I’ll be dreaming of that soup for weeks.
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Spa, Pool, and All Things Awesome
This is where Oasia really shines. The pool with a view? Stunning. And the swimming pool [outdoor] was so relaxing, I almost forgot I was in a bustling city. The gym/fitness center was well-equipped, though let’s be honest, I mostly stuck to lounging. And then there’s the spa… Oh. My. God. Okay, confession time. I'm a spa newbie. But I decided to go big and try the Body scrub. I'm fairly certain I emerged from the spa a completely different human. The massage? Divine. The sauna and steamroom? All of the heaven, and then some. The steam room was heavenly, actually. I wish I'd also tried out the spa's other offerings.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
They have a plethora of these. Concierge, laundry service, daily housekeeping, luggage storage… all the usual suspects are present and accounted for. Cash withdrawal is available if you happen to run out of cash. I found the doorman service very friendly and attentive. The 24/7 front desk made everything super easy. Also, props for the elevator always being available.
For the Kids: Family Fun (Maybe)
Look, I don't have kids. But from what I gleaned, this place is pretty family/child friendly. I did see babysitting service available and some kids facilities, so looks like you've got options.
Getting Around: Location, Location, Location
The location is a winner. Walking distance to the MRT station (it's a city, so taxi service is, of course, available, and there's a car park [on-site]. Plus, if you want to go for a ride on the bicycle parking, they even have that for you.
Quirks and Imperfections (Because Let's Be Real)
Okay, here’s where the shine slightly fades. The whole "vertical garden" thing is beautiful, but it does make it feel a little…sterile? And while the staff were generally lovely, there were a few moments where I felt a bit rushed. (Maybe it was just me, maybe I needed more soup.)
My Overarching Takeaway?
Oasia Hotel Novena is a seriously good hotel. It's stylish, well-equipped, and genuinely cares about its guests. The spa experience alone is worth the price of admission. Yes, it's a little pricey, but you're paying for a premium experience. I'd absolutely recommend it, especially if you're looking for relaxation, good food, and a touch of luxury.
Final Verdict: Highly recommended, with several enthusiastic thumbs up! But be warned: you might leave slightly…revitalized. And possibly addicted to soup.
Unveiling Laon's Hidden Gem: Hotel de la Banniere de France!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your sanitized, perfectly-planned itinerary. This is me, flailing around Oasia Hotel Novena Singapore, pretending to be a sophisticated traveler. Let's see how this actually goes…
My Oasia Novena "Wellness" Adventure: A Slightly Delusional Diary
Day 1: Arrival (and the Impending Doom of My To-Do List)
1:00 PM - Arrival & Check-In: The "Zen" Begins (Yeah, Right)
Okay, so I envisioned myself floating into the lobby, radiating calmness, ready to embrace my "wellness journey." Reality? I arrived a sweaty, stressed mess after battling Singapore's glorious, yet brutal, humidity. The check-in was blessedly efficient, and I'm greeted by a beautiful, minimalist lobby (which is supposed to be good news, but I'm already wondering where the nearest vending machine with chips and chocolate is). And yes, the red facade got my interest, it's nice enough. I'm given a room with a view and a small welcome packet. I think I should enjoy.
2:00 PM - Room Reconnaissance & Panic Set In
My room! High up, with a view that's supposed to inspire tranquility. I'm more focused on the lack of snacks. Like, seriously, is there even a mini-bar? I tear the room apart, find the amenities (thank you, nice bathroom!), take a peek out the window, but feel it: the weight of all my unfinished work back at home. Breathe, idiot! You're supposed to relax!
3:00 PM - Poolside "Meditation" (Read: Desperate Plea for Inner Peace)
The pool! This is what I came for, right? I'd imagined myself elegantly gliding through the water, a vision of serenity. Instead, I spend 20 minutes doing a pitiful breaststroke, swatting away rogue sun rays, and trying to ignore the very attractive couple making out nearby. "Meditation" consisted of me trying to remember if I had a deadline next week. Spoiler alert: I did.
6:00 PM - Dinner at "The Marmalade Pantry" (A Foodie's Nightmare, My Delight)
Alright, I had high hopes for The Marmalade Pantry. I had read a review, so I thought "I'll treat myself!" It was alright, a bit mediocre- nothing to die for, but tasty enough. The service was good, and the food was okay, but it wasn't the explosion of flavor I was secretly hoping for. I left with a slightly deflated spirit and the lingering feeling that I could have made something better at home.
Day 2: The Wellness Hustle (Or, How I Failed to Find My Center)
8:00 AM - Gym Attempt: A Disaster Before Breakfast
Okay, I'm trying to be a responsible adult! I put on workout clothes, headed up and… the machines were intimidating. I mean, what is a "treadmill incline?" I eventually stumbled onto a treadmill, tried to power-walk, and almost tripped. I gave up after 15 minutes, feeling like I was dying. Back to the room to wallow in defeat, and then on to breakfast.
9:00 AM - Breakfast Buffet: The Glory and the Gluttony
The buffet! This is where Oasia Novena really shines. Fresh fruit, pastries, little breakfast pastries. I went a little overboard. Let's just say, I abandoned my "wellness" goals immediately. My stomach is full!
11:00 AM - Yoga Class: The Humiliation Begins
The hotel offers yoga classes. I thought I'd get my zen on. Oh, boy. I may as well have just tried to stand on one leg. The instructor was lovely, but I'm pretty inflexible. I spent an embarrassing amount of time just trying to get into the simplest of poses. I think I was the only one struggling! The other yogis probably thought I was a comedy act. Needless to say, I crawled out of there feeling less "aligned" and more like a contorted pretzel.
1:00 PM - Lunch: "Healthy" Attempts and Ultimate Give-In
I went to a healthy restaurant this time, I ordered a salad. And for dessert, I grabbed a slice of cake. Because balance.
3:00 PM - The Pool (Again): This Time, With More Wine
I'm officially giving up on the "wellness" thing and embracing the "just relaxing" thing. I brought a glass of wine to the pool. I read my book. I even managed to shut off my brain for a good hour. It was excellent.
7:00 PM - Dinner & Nightcap: Embracing the Night
I ventured out of the hotel for a bite. The hotel has a great bar, but I wanted to see how the city's nightlife was. It was fun, and I ended up getting back at around midnight. I'm happy, I'm happy.
Day 3: The Farewell (and the Sweet Taste of Reality)
9:00 AM - Last Breakfast, One Final Hurrah
I went back to the buffet. It was a good way to finish the trip.
10:00 AM - Packing: A Sad Goodbye
I packed, I sighed. The trip was over, but even though I failed spectacularly and hilariously at achieving perfect wellness, I'd had a good time. I would rate the hotel 9/10, and hope to come back in the future!
11:00 AM - Checkout: Back to the Real World (Sigh)
Checkout was smooth, but I really didn't want to leave. Heading back to the airport, I was tired but content.
Post-Trip Ramblings:
- The Verdict: Oasia Novena is a lovely hotel, the rooms are great, and the staff is super helpful. The pool is a lifesaver. But, let's be real: I'm not built for the "wellness" life. I'm more of a "slightly chaotic traveler who loves a good pastry" kind of person. And that's okay!
- Things I Learned: Being kind to yourself is key. Also, good coffee is worth the effort.
- Would I Go Back? Absolutely! Next time, I'm bringing a friend for moral support and a whole suitcase dedicated to snacks.
Oasia Hotel Novena: Singapore's Hottest New Hotel? (You HAVE to See This!) - Or... Do You? Let's Find Out!
Okay, Okay, So What's the Hype? Why is Everyone Suddenly Talking About Oasia Novena?
Alright, deep breaths. Let's be real. The Instagram feed and the glossy travel mags are screaming "Oasia Novena Must-See!" And honestly? They're throwing a serious curveball. The whole "vertical garden" thing? Yeah, it's a *statement*. It's a green behemoth in the middle of the concrete jungle, and it definitely catches your eye as you're fighting your way through the Novena MRT crowds. I'd be lying if I said it didn't make me stop and stare. My first thought? "Wow, someone's got a serious gardening budget." My *second* thought, after getting stuck in that aforementioned crowd... was how *desperately* I needed a vacation.
Is the "Vertical Garden" Actually Impressive In Person? (Because Let's Be Honest, Instagram Is a Lie...)
Okay, *truth bomb* time. Yes. And no. It *is* impressive. You get this immediate jolt of… well, not *awe*, but definitely a "huh, that's… a lot of plants." It feels like a deliberate attempt to inject some, shall we say… *zen* into the relentless Singaporean hustle. I mean, compared to the generic, beige-on-beige office buildings next door, it's practically a rainforest.
But… and this is a big but… *photographs don't lie.* What you see on Instagram is what you get. It's not some magical, otherworldly experience. It's a really, really tall building covered in greenery. My partner, bless his heart, just said it looked like someone had "accidentally left a giant Chia Pet outside." He’s not wrong. Don't go expecting a *spiritual awakening*. Just a pretty building that *suggests* you might find some peace, which is half the battle, right?
Let's Talk Rooms: Are They Worth the Price? Ouch, My Wallet...
Alright, let's get real. Singapore hotels ain't cheap. Oasia is… *premium*. We’re talking, “should I eat for the next week or stay here?” kind of expensive, depending on *your* definition of “broke.” I splurged on a club room. Regrets? A few. But also… no regrets.
The good: The room was *gorgeous*. Think minimalist chic meets calming spa. The natural light? Amazing. That gigantic window? Even better. I spent a solid hour just staring out, pretending I was incredibly sophisticated and pondering the meaning of life. (It was probably just jet lag.) That Club Lounge access? Worth every penny. Complimentary canapés and cocktails? Yes, please! I might have, *ahem*, accidentally had a few too many glasses of Prosecco. (Don't judge.) The bed?! Cloud-like. Honestly, I’d have happily moved in permanently.
The not-so-good: The view from my specific room? Mostly other buildings filled with people also wishing they were on a tropical beach. And the price! My gosh. It made my bank account weep. But… hey, at least my Instagram feed looked good. Priorities, people, priorities! Plus that Prosecco, remember?
That Pool...Everyone's Raving About the Pools! Tell Me Everything!
The pools are… *chef’s kiss*. Or, if you're me, "holy moly, what a view!" There are two pools, one on the rooftop (more for the iconic photos!), and one on a lower level (which, honestly, I preferred). Both are seriously stunning. Imagine yourself, sipping a cocktail (pricey, but worth it for the view!), lounging on a perfectly placed daybed, and overlooking the cityscape. Pure bliss.
Now, the *unvarnished truth* though? They can get crowded. Especially if you're there on a weekend. Finding a free sun lounger can feel like a competitive sport. I'm not kidding. I witnessed a full-blown "chair-hogging" showdown. Bring your "A" game (and maybe a towel to reserve your spot early). But, you know, even with the slight chaos… the pools are a highlight. Just... be prepared to share the space (and the perfect Instagram shot) with others.
Food: Is the Hotel Grub Worth It? Did You Actually EAT?
Yes, I ate! (Mostly canapés in the club lounge, remember?) The restaurants… well, they're what you expect of a hotel of this caliber. Stylish, with a focus on modern cuisine. I tried the Italian restaurant and… it was good. Very good. But not *mind-blowing*. Think "polished and presentable." The service was impeccable, the presentation flawless. The pasta? Cooked perfectly al dente.
But, and this is a small thing that still bugs me, I could have eaten it anywhere. Nothing truly *wow'd* me. It was an elevated dining experience, no doubt. But given my budget, I might have preferred exploring the local hawker centers. I mean, chicken rice for a fraction of the price and better food? Now *that* would have set my taste buds alight… and saved me some money for the next hotel!
Spa Day! Did You Indulge? Was it Worth the Fuss (and the Price Tag)?
Okay, so, this is where I *really* went all-in. The spa. Oh. My. Goddess. It was the most expensive spa treatment I've *ever* splurged on, I'll admit. A full body massage, aromatherapy, the works. I walked in feeling like a frazzled, stressed-out mess, and I walked *out* feeling like I could take on the world (or at least, deal with the MRT rush hour).
Worth the money? Yes. Absolutely, unequivocally, YES. The ambiance was pure zen. The therapist was unbelievably skilled. For the first time in ages I actually *relaxed.* No, let me rephrase that: I actually *stopped thinking.* For an hour and a half. It was… heavenly. The best part was when I had that incredible feeling of my shoulders *melting.* The worst part? Having to leave it and go back to the real world. (Note to self: win the lottery and book a permanent spa residence). So yeah. If you can afford it, do it. Just… do it!
Anything I Should Know *Before* Booking? Any Tips for Navigating This "Hottest New Hotel" Maze?
Okay, listen up, future Oasia-goers! First, book in advance! Especially if you're going during peak season. Those rooms fill up *fast*. Second, if you’re on a budget (andFind Secret Hotel Deals
