BY RUPALI DEAN

Strategically located in the heart of the central business hub of Singapore, klapsons,the Boutique Hotel, is just the place to sit back after an action-packed itinerary and enjoy the best of Southeast Asian hospitality.the moment I entered the gates of klapsons, I paused, taking in the handcrafted, five metre in diameter, stainless steel ball that functions as the reception and checkin point. Id never seen anything like before.the three-tier ceiling illuminated the lobby with ambient hues and I felt I was in a different world altogether. While I was looking around this unusual lobby, my checkin was done in a jiffy and I was led to theexecutive Room.

ROOMSANDSUITES

Interestingly, a wall of industrial wire mesh used in conveyer belts and air filters discreetly screens the passage to the guest rooms. None of the 17 rooms are the same; each has its own character, so I guess one can never get bored if you visit again. All rooms also have free high speed Wi-fi, cordless phones, espresso coffee machines and a free, mini bar that is replenished everyday. Myexecutive Room was practical yet innovative. What caught my fancy was the rain shower flanked with full-length mirrors and colour-changingleD lights. I slept like a baby on the goose down bedding, a customised pillow from the menu (I like mine hard) and egyptian cotton sheets.

DINING

the Sleeping Rhino, located on the lobby level, doesnt fail to impress with its intriguing mix of traditional and new–age cooking.the ambience is cosy and the warm yellow tone of the interiors, washed by natural light, with its blend of soft furnishings sure is inviting. It is quite bistro in style. Here, the accent is on redefining the classics with a creative twist.tto begin yyoouurrccuulliinnaarryyssoojjoouurrnnggooffoorrtthhee Seared Scallop on Crispy Wanton. Its decadent to the core. Another good option is theCCaaeessaarrSSaallaaddwith crisp lettuce, though the dressing is extra cheesy (but whos complaining)? from the main course a good bet is theAngus Beef Rib Eye Steak.

Good music and conversations pay an ode to lifes simple pleasures atfabrika, the hotels sky terrace bar, open until midnight.the view is superlative. I was mesmerised looking at Sentosa from up there. Id simply say that exotic martinis, an exclusive wine list of hand-picked international and indigenous spirits from across the world, its all there.theres also a finger-licking variety of food to go with your tipple.

the wonderfully warm and gracious staff adds an edge to the utterly delightful hotel and my experience here.