Fraser Residence River Promenade, Singapore

Words by Aude Camus
 
Have you ever stayed in serviced apartments while traveling? I have to admit the idea hadn’t really crossed my mind – until a recent business trip to Singapore, where I was invited to experience Fraser Residence River Promenade. While these kinds of accommodations are popular, I’d always thought of them as being best for extended stays. But this trip proved me wrong: they’re a fantastic option for a short city break, offering all the comforts of home with the amenities of a top-notch hotel.
 
 
 
First impressions
 
Navigating Singapore’s airport is always a seamless experience, so much so that it makes Hong Kong’s world-class airport feel like a hassle by comparison. Less than 20 minutes from touchdown, I’m in a taxi en route to the Singapore River, where historical warehouses (known locally as godowns) are undergoing an exciting revival. My destination is 17, 19, 21 Jiak Kim Street, once a legendary nightlife hotspot as the site of Zouk – an iconic club now relocated to Clarke Quay. Today, the former godowns play host to The Living Room, an industrial-chic lobby lounge at Fraser Residence.

With a soaring 11.6-metre ceiling, The Living Room offers a relaxed, communal space for guests to catch up on work, cozy up on sofas, or enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the day. Breakfast here is a buffet spread, while Happy Hour turns the lounge into a social hub each evening from 5:30 to 7:30, where cocktails and hot bites are served. It’s a space designed for lingering – a true "living room" away from home.
 
 
 
The rooms

The hotel’s 72 studios and one-bedroom apartments, housed in a sleek modern building adjacent to the revitalized warehouses, span four floors. Stepping into the room feels like entering a comfortable, contemporary apartment – one I could easily see myself settling into.

Although I didn’t make much use of the in-room kitchen (with only a few days to indulge in Singapore’s hawker centres and dining gems!), it’s well-equipped with high-quality appliances. Notable touches? The in-room filtered water system – always a win, especially as some hotels still rely on plastic bottles – and the coffee machine by local tech start-up, Morning.
 
Two amenities I did take full advantage of were the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer (a decisive factor for me when choosing between hotels!) and the bath products by Scandinavian brand 19-69. From the thoughtful design to the elegant functionality, it’s clear the rooms are meant to make you feel at home.
I found myself lingering longer in the room than I typically would, savouring the precious quiet and solitude (did I mention I was solo, sans toddler this time?).

 
The facilities

Found within the property is Jiak Kim House Restaurant, where Western techniques meet bold Southeast Asian flavours in a menu of contemporary dishes designed to share. Though I didn’t have a chance to dine there, I took a peek at the space, which elegantly blends the heritage warehouse architecture of the 1920s with colonial-inspired elements and a modern flair.
 
For a refreshing start to my mornings, I indulged in a few laps in the 25-metre pool, a relaxing retreat nestled within the property. I also found the poolside gym impressively well-equipped for a boutique property. It felt remarkably like living there, even if just for a few hours –- taking that seamless stroll from my apartment down to the gym for a quick workout.
 
 
 
Getting around
 
One of my favourite things about this location is its direct access to riverside paths. Simply swipe your room key to unlock the side gate, and you’re free to enjoy a relaxed stroll along the river - or, if you’re in the mood for a faster pace, complimentary bikes and e-scooters are available at reception.
 
When I’m traveling, I like to walk; it’s one of the best ways to truly soak in the atmosphere and catch glimpses of the city’s neighbourhood gems. The riverside walk from this Fraser Residence is a gem in itself: in about 20 minutes, I reached Clarke Quay, perfect for a chilli crab stop at JUMBO Seafood. From there, it was a short 10-minute walk to National Gallery Singapore, where I’d planned some book shopping (museum bookshops are unbeatable for unique finds for my daughter!) though art-viewing, unfortunately, didn’t make the agenda. Another 20 minutes led me to Haji Lane for a meet-up. It’s all easily accessible if you love a good stroll, but for those in a hurry or with little ones in tow, Havelock and Great World MRT stations are just a 10-minute walk away, as are bus stops for added convenience.
 
 
 
The verdict
 
With a competitive price point for Singapore and a location that’s convenient yet removed from the city’s busiest hubs, Fraser Residence River Promenade is a solid option for anyone seeking a spacious, well-equipped stay.
 
While it might not be my top pick for a romantic escape, I can absolutely see a family making great use of its in-room amenities (honestly, an in-room washing machine when traveling with kids? Game-changer) or a business traveler like me who appreciates a space that’s both homely and peaceful, with room to work and unwind.