The view was nothing short of spectacular as I rest myself on a pool bench besides the strategically perched infinity pool on level 19 of Hotel Jen OrchardGateway, Singapore. Overseeing the beautiful skyline of the central business district and Marina Bay Sands, it is not hard to understand why Hotel Jen OrchardGateway is fast becoming one of the hottest hotel accommodations for tourists and staycation venues for Singaporeans.

I was at Hotel Jen OrchardGateway for a two-day management meeting. Usually, I dread the thought of having to stay in a local hotel for management meeting, simply because the comfort of home often beats the uninspiring meeting venue. With most financial controllers guarding their costs ferociously, you would be lucky that you’re not thrown into some budget 3-star far away from civilisation.

I was fortunate that I was booked into a deluxe room with club lounge access. To begin with, the check in was hassle free. The Club Lounge, which has a contemporary design, is located in a quiet corner on level 19. It’s great for business travellers who prefer exclusivity and comfort. Guests have the option to have their breakfasts at the lounge or Makan@Jen, the hotel’s main dining hall on level 10. Every evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, club lounge guests are treated to free flow of alcoholic beverages and a wide selection of canapes.

At 32m2, the deluxe room is pretty spacious. Decorated in a warm and smoothing colour palette of chrome yellow, warm gray and beige, the room exudes cheery vibes. Although I wouldn’t say it’s luxurious, it’s definitely comfortable. Due to the room configuration, some deluxe rooms have bathtub and some others come with both shower and bathtub. Although the toiletries are nothing fanciful, they do the job.

There is a mini fridge in the room but it’s empty. It allows guests to purchase their own drinks and food, and store them in the mini fridge. It’s not hard to get groceries since there is a Cold Storage, a well-stocked supermarket, just across the street.

When I was at Hotel Jen OrchardGateway, the small-but-well-equipped gym is always occupied. There is always someone trying to stick to their regular exercise routine although they are away from home. For those who prefer to exercise outdoor, there are two stationary bikes at the Bamboo Sky Terrace. These facilities are all located on level 19 and they both have a beautiful view of the Somerset area and distant financial district.

Also situated on level 19 of the hotel is BayWatch@Jen, an outdoor bar just besides the breathtaking pool. Who say you need to pay top dollar to enjoy the gorgeous daily laser display at Marina Bay Sands? At Hotel Jen OrchardGateway, you get the view and not the crowd. Isn’t it a better value?

Makan@Jen is an all-day dining restaurant which offers both buffet and a-la-carte options. This is the main dining hall in the hotel and is located on level 10 where the main lobby and Lounge@Jen are also located.  The food quality is generally good although the selection is limited.

As for those who enjoy a drink or two, there is Lounge@Jen. I’ve reviewed this adorable bar in my Top 10 Hotel Lounges in Singapore posting (click here for more). Since then, Lounge@Jen has become hugely popular. It is helped by the fact that the bar has lots of different promotions to attract customers. Lounge@Jen is one of the most affordable places to drink in Orchard Road, a definite must-visit bar for tourists and locals.

What I particularly like about Hotel Jen OrchardGateway is its super convenient location. This 6-month-old hotel is situated just above the Somerset MRT station and is surrounded by lots of shopping and food options. For mid-range shopping and food, one can head to 313 Somerset or Orchard Central. For those with a little more budget, Mandarin Gallery is just a stone’s throw away. Frankly, there is nothing to complain about this jem and it’s no surprise that I will probably be heading back soon.

Hotel Jen OrchardGateway
277 Orchard Road,
Singapore 238858
Tel: (65) 6708 8888
www.hoteljen.com/en/singapore/orchardgateway/about