I've stayed at the St Regis for more than a dozen times over the past 4 years since they've opened. I can only say with regrets that the service level at this hotel had dropped dramatically in this time.
The first time I checked in to this hotel, the doorman greeted me politely, asked for my name, discreetly informed his other colleagues via the wireless and everyone was addressing me by my last name throughout my stay. SPG Plat members could order any one drink off the menu at the very chic Astor Bar. The butler service was professional and prompt. Those things, and other attention to fine details, brought me back time and again, on both business and personal account. I believe in good service and willingly pay for it out of my wallet.
Service has dropped steadily over the year as the hotel started to fill out and I presume with staff turnover. To their credit, St Regis has always tried to improve and given time, rectify the situation (seasoned guests: Remember how long the breakfast line at La Brasserie was in the early years).
But this has to be the worse service I have encountered. The reception was cold and scripted. There was no more the warmth and friendliness from the previous year. "The best room" they can offer me, which is an SPG Plat upgrade as I am informed, is on the 4th floor, just above and facing the swimming pool. Nothing else is available for the duration of my stay (2 nights). After pressing a little, a higher floor room was offered, but was made to wait for more than an hour, with no offer of coffee or tea. The SPG Plat drinks are now at the poolside bar and now restricted to house pours.
Look - If you are lucky to get an experienced reception staff to check you in or can stomach the average service of a newbie, the rooms are pretty new and pretty nice. Location is a little off the main thoroughfare on Orchard Road but still within walking distance or bus / cab away. Just don't expect additional SPG Plat service at this hotel anymore. I won't be in future.
- St Regis Singapore
