First published on TripZillaStays, in collaboration with Far East Hospitality.

Staycation Highlights:
● The delicious Nonya-inspired buffet at Katong Kitchen
● In-room bathtub in the Peranakan Club
● Splendid location surrounded by a myriad of shops, restaurants and cafés

The Hotel

We were rather taken aback upon stepping into the hotel; the modernity was a stark juxtaposition to the surrounding area as well as the hotel’s exterior, and had us feeling like we had stepped into a whole new world.

The lobby is flanked by large umbrella-shaped structures that give off a rather elegant flair. The interior is large and airy, decked out in shimmering overtones of bronze and gold. The hotel is a reflection of its culturally rich surroundings, encouraging its guests to #livelikealocalsg and take the chance to explore the surrounding area, even giving out local recipes from a cart stationed in the lobby.

We liked how the hotel was situated along the busy street of Katong, yet remained a bubble of quiet; Village Hotel Katong is the perfect place for an idyllic staycation far removed from the stresses of everyday life. If you’re looking to feel refreshed and recharged, this is the place to be.

Room Choices

Peranakan Club

The Peranakan Club is the crown jewel of Village Hotel Katong, and rightly so. Just look at it! The first thing that caught our eye was the in-room bathtub – the first of its kind that we’ve ever seen. The room is flooded with natural light and the walls are covered in an intricate Peranakan motif. We sank into the bed the minute we stepped in, and found it mighty hard to even drag ourselves off afterwards!

What stood out besides the in-room bathtub, however, were the elaborate details in the room – the carpet was interwoven with ornate blue and black wavy patterns, and hanging on the wall was a painting done by a seven-year-old child. We were really impressed by the painting; no way could we have painted anything that comes anywhere near that standard!

If taking long soaks in the bathtub aren’t your thing, the room comes with a standing shower as well that’s accessible through a sliding glass door.

There are Peranakan elements infused into every part of the room, and the toilet is no exception. 

Besides the Peranakan Club, guests can also choose to stay in the Club Room. The only difference between the two is the absence of the in-room bathtub in the latter, which is slightly smaller as well.

Both rooms grant their guests exclusive access to the Peranakan Club Lounge, which serves free-flow evening cocktails from 6-8pm and light snacks/refreshments throughout the day.

Deluxe Katong

The Deluxe Katong comes without a bathtub, but the aesthetically pleasing bathroom more than made up for it. We absolutely love the Peranakan motifs that dress up the otherwise usual toilet! The room also came with cute little oriental boxes that doubled up as bedside tables. We found this to be a really novel touch! 

The Superior Room is the smaller counterpart of the Deluxe Katong, but otherwise offers exactly the same experience.

Junior Suite

The Junior Suite is ideal for families, and comes with either a king-sized bed or two big double beds. We were amazed to find that there was even a walk-in wardrobe – what a way to make a staycation at Village Hotel Katong feel just like home! The room was decked out in warm yellow overtones, giving off a welcoming and soothing vibe. We didn’t manage to stay here this time round, but we’ll definitely be back with our families in tow! 

However, it was the little details around the room that caught our eye – be it the yellow-rimmed chairs or fluorescent light reminiscent of a bird’s nest, the Junior Suite made us feel right at home.

Suite

The suite consists of an en suite kitchenette, as well as a separate living and dining area. It’s just like staying in your very own private apartment! Stretch out all you want; the suite is incredibly spacious, complete with polished parquet flooring and large plush sofas.

Family Room

For families that prefer a cosier set-up, the Family Room looks much like the Deluxe Katong, only bigger and with one king-sized bed or two queen-sized beds.

Things to Do in the Hotel

The Pool

The hotel is home to an outdoor swimming pool, which offers a tranquil spot to spend an afternoon. Grab the chance to have a languid float, or build up that sun-kissed look. There are towels and bottles of water provided at the poolside as well.

The Gym

The gym is located right next to the pool, and contains a large range of equipment suitable for any kind of workout. The best part is that it’s opened round the clock!

Katong Kitchen

Despite being surrounded by a dazzling variety of food in the Katong area, the hotel has a hidden dining gem all of its own – the halal-certified Katong Kitchen is a nondescript establishment that offers an impressive spread of International and Peranakan cuisine. 

Peranakan Lounge

Exclusively for Club Room and Suite guests, the Club Lounge is a peaceful refuge where Club Guests can enjoy free-flow evening cocktails from 6-8pm daily, as well as all-day light refreshments. The Club Lounge is a zone where guests can enjoy some peace and quiet. Take a browse through the many magazines on offer or bring your laptop to surf the Internet.

Things to Do in the Area

Uncover a dazzling array of colourful shophouses, an eclectic range of cafés and tons of yummy eats.

328 Katong Laksa

Having a steaming bowl of Katong Laksa in Katong is basically one of the most quintessential experiences of a staycation at Village Hotel Katong. Pair your bowl with a tangy Otak-Otak, some steaming Dim Sum or a refreshing cup of lime juice.

Sinpopo

Step into Sinpopo and be transported back to the 80’s; this retro-themed café offers heartwarming comfort food, menus reminiscent of old school books with vintage furniture completing the set-up. The Nasi Lemak for Two has gained much recognition among foodies, and you definitely can’t leave without trying their acclaimed desserts.

Rumah Bebe

Rumah Bebe resides in a striking turquoise shophouse adorned with intricate flower motifs and sparkling paint designs. The Rumah Bebe history dates back to 1995, selling beaded masterpieces and heritage products. The boutique shophouse also sells various Peranakan-inspired foods, including Beef Rendang, Sambal Buah Keluak, Sugee-Almond Cake and Coconut Candy.

Chin Mee Chin Confectionery

If you’re yearning for a late morning snack, head to Chin Mee Chin Confectionery for a traditional breakfast of toasted Kaya sandwiches, soft-boiled eggs and silky egg tarts. Do be warned that due to the morning crowd, the goodies often sell out by late afternoon.

Parkway Parade

Located just across the road from Village Hotel Katong lies Parkway Parade, a shopping mall that contains a truckload of shops.

Shop till you drop and refuel at Chicken Up, a popular Korean outlet that serves an Instagram-worthy Watermelon Soju, as well as chicken wings and Bulgogi Fries.

112 Katong & Katong V

If, however, you’re reluctant to wander too far off from the hotel, journey along a connecting passageway to Katong V.

Stock up on snacks at the NTUC Finest supermarket, or venture a little down the road to I12 Katong, which houses a Golden Village cinema with a Peranakan-inspired interior.

Fun Facts

Arm yourself with the Village Passport

Upon check-in, we were presented with this spiffy little Village Passport. We were astounded to discover the wealth of information within this little booklet – it contained information on what to eat and see in the vicinity of the hotel, as well as a detailed map of the area. This is basically all you need to explore the treasure trove of local experiences that surround the hotel! 

Check yourself in with the Self-Service Kiosk

We came across a self-serve kiosk at the Village Hotel Katong’s lobby, and couldn’t wait to try it! Checking in via this machine was a breeze, and will allow you to skip the queue during peak hours. Should you be stuck, simply ask any staff for help and they’d be more than willing to extend a helping hand.

Try your hand at dumpling making, beading, cooking and Peranakan history

This is a really fun activity to do; get your hands busy with dumpling making, beading and cooking during a workshop held at Kim Choo. The best part? You’re even able to bring back your own dumpling for lunch! Do note that this is an additional activity, and not one that is included in any of Village Hotel Katong’s staycation packages