Raffles Hotel: A Five Star Luxury Time Machine

The Raffles Hotel, an iconic gem of a hotel nestled in the heart of Singapore, is a beautiful symbol of elegance and colonial grandeur of a time long past. Established in 1887, this historic hotel has been a luxurious retreat for international travelers, including authors, statesmen and celebrities. This beloved hotel witnessed the evolution of Singapore from a bustling colonial port city to a glimmering global powerhouse, all while stubborning maintaining its historic charm and character. The hotel’s signature Long Bar, where the world-famous Singapore Sling was invented, remains a beloved wateringhole for guests to soak in the vibrant ambiance while enjoying the Ratan furniture while noshing on peanuts. With its beautifully restored architecture, with stunningly wide verandas and lush tropical gardens, this landmark is more than just a place to relax—it's a journey into the past, filled with stories of sophistication, adventure, and timeless allure.

My dear friend and recent transplant to Singapore, Alicia, told us to meet in Long Bar, to indulge in my first ever Singapore Sling. A truly poetic place for two friends to meet and inbibe in some nostalgia as this colorful cocktail was originally crafted as a clever way to allow women to cheekily enjoy a cocktail in public without the societal scrutiny of the time. Times have certainly changed, though the recipe remains true to its creator’s vision back in 1915!

The original recipe calls for a playful blend of gin, cherry liqueur, Cointreau, Benedictine, grenadine, pineapple juice, lime juice, and a dash of Angostura bitters—all topped with a splash of soda. The result is a refreshing and fruity concoction that beautifully balances sweet, sour, and slightly bitter notes, embodying the tropical essence of Singapore itself.