Taeki Chan In the heart of Singapore, I recently embarked on an exciting adventure – my first stay at a Capsule Hotel. The allure of this innovative accommodation beckoned with promises of efficiency and a unique design, and upon entering the lobby, my expectations were immediately met.
The lobby, adorned with a captivating design, was not just visually appealing; it also exuded a delightful aroma. Adding to the convenience, two self-check-in kiosks stood proudly in front of the reception counter, providing a swift alternative during peak times.
Checking in was a breeze, and I was handed a pod access card, a Wi-Fi password, and a thoughtful amenities bag. The bag held essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, earplugs for noise cancellation, and a cozy pair of hotel slippers. Stepping outside the pod room, designated shoe lockers awaited, encouraging guests to slip into hotel slippers and store their shoes. Additionally, luggage lockers placed conveniently below the pods eased the concern of where to stow belongings.
As I entered my allocated room, a walkway led me to a stack of twelve pods. Mindful of the shared space, I opted for a quiet stay, avoiding unnecessary noise. Locating my pod, I was pleasantly surprised by a single bed accompanied by two pillows – a comfort upgrade from my previous experiences.
Inside the pod, practicality met comfort. A bathing towel and a hanger for clothes were provided, along with switches on the wall for controlling the light and charging electronic devices. A foldable table added versatility, serving as a workspace or dining area.
Venturing into the shared bathroom, I discovered a thoughtfully arranged space. Three basins, equipped with hairdryers and amenities like cotton wool and earbuds, catered to various needs. The five bathrooms, divided into two for toilets and three for bathing, offered privacy and convenience. The segregation alleviated my aversion to wet bathrooms when using the toilet.
The lobby extended its hospitality with a microwave, a coffee machine offering a variety of drinks, a hot and cold water dispenser, and a shared fridge. A drinks vending machine provided additional refreshment options. An open area within the lobby served as a communal workspace or dining spot, while a private room offered solace for those seeking a quieter retreat.
A journey to the 5th floor revealed a self-service laundromat, although its locked status left me curious about future exploration.
Returning to my pod, I arranged my belongings and found the foldable table surprisingly comfortable for replying to emails. Before retiring for the night, I indulged in some digital leisure, checking social media and watching movies on my iPad. The night’s sleep was surprisingly pleasant, setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated exploration of the surroundings on the following day.
My first experience at a Capsule Hotel in Singapore left me intrigued and impressed. The seamless blend of efficiency, design, and thoughtful amenities created a stay that was not just about convenience but an adventure in itself. As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, the Capsule Hotel stands as a testament to innovation and redefines the future of lodging.
