The term staycation is a portmanteau of “stay” and “vacation” and is used as an excuse by every teenager to stay out for a night of covert drinking with friends at a chalet. However, the word takes on a new meaning for working adults – something worth looking into if everyday life is about hustling and bustling. So take that jacket off, slip into a comfy pair of PJs and dawdle around either with your loved one, family or just by yourself (#selflove). Men’s Folio explores local hotels that are built on heritage, culture, and neighbourhoods to offer you the ideal home (not so far) away from home.

ANDAZ SINGAPORE

Andaz Singapore, a concept hotel by Hyatt, is located at the intersection of cultural and shopping districts like Kampong Glam, Little India, Bras Basah, and Marina Bay. That would mean even if one decides to get out of the hotel for some fresh air, he will be presented with the options of two contrasting types of spaces – alleys littered with shophouses splashed in vibrant colours and textures and concrete architectural feat with luxury shopping.

Within the hotel, there are many features to keep one indoors. To begin with, there are internationally acclaimed artworks at every turn, pieces by Brazilian sculptor André Mendes, New York-based Filipina artist Monica Delgado, Malaysian artist Fauzulyusri Mohd Yusof, and Singaporean artist Ahmad Abu Bakar will make sure there is something to welcome and entice everyone. The interior spaces were designed by Andre Fu with the urban spirit in mind. Floor-to-ceiling windows are used to showcase the remarkable view around Andaz Singapore and to allow the body and soul to bath in natural light (also provides perfect lighting for #selfie). He was inspired by the lively neighbourhood and created a dreamscape of passageways in the hotel to stimulate a journey of modern cultural discovery.

Fu makes sure one feel at ease in a new home as if embraced by refreshed familiarities.

Dining options are varied and aplenty at Andaz Singapore. Alley on 25^th recreates street dining reminiscent of local hawker stalls found around the island country. Presented in “shophouses” and high above the streets, the taste of local food is not compromised but elevated. For those yearning for Western cuisine, head over to 665°F where premium steak and sustainable seafood are served with a skyline view. If the complimentary wines and local beers from the Andaz Lounge do not satiate, check out Mr Stork, a rooftop bar on the 39^th floor. Have a drink while admiring the 360-degree view of downtown Singapore. Make the sojourn extra special by booking a stay on August 9 to celebrate Singapore’s birthday. For that night, Mr Stork will offer free flow alcohol, snacks, and live music from 6pm to 1am. It promises to be unforgettable with fireworks going off in the horizon while one lounges in one of the ten teepee huts with a cocktail in hand.

Andaz (“personal style” in Hindi) wants “you to arrive as visitors but depart feeling like locals”. Isn’t this how anyone desires to be treated at every hotel?

This article was written by Akashdeep Bal. Read the full story at www.mens-folio.com here.