In Singapore, guesthouses encompass a number of meanings. Many times they refer to refurbished shophouses that are used by guests as inexpensive lodgings. This specialised meaning is key to understanding this repurposed use of old places to house people, even if just for tourists.
They are fascinating, not just because of their low prices but also the convenience due to their prime location, allowing you to make the most of your trip.
The Shophouse
Guesthouse
Located right in the center of Arab street and at the crossroads of a lot of Singapore’s top landmarks and historical sights, this is one of the more popular choices to stay in. There’s an intimate little bistro at the ground floor and a bar at the rooftop for a chance to hang out and mingle. It does not matter what kind of stopover you are here for, whatever it is, this place is pretty well-placed for your needs.
The open and flexible environment of this place is one of the perks you enjoy while here, on top of its affordable private rooms making this a particularly top choice for travellers who enjoy their privacy. Stashed right out of Chinatown and just five minutes from the MRT, this is one of the popular choices especially when places to stay are plenty. Also, this is one of the more untouched bits of Chinatown, with its narrow alleys and antiquated shophouses so you get a real sense of the local atmosphere.
With a free breakfast to boot and a stone’s throw away from Little India, you will be able to get the best out of your trip while here. There are a lot of amenities nearby, whether it’s shopping at the famous Mustafa Center or famous food outlets dispersed all around. There’s a common area to hang out too, where you can chit chat or discuss travel hints and plans with fellow globetrotters.
Perfect for a family on a budget due to their large private rooms that can accommodate about five individuals. This is also strategically located in Little India, which punches above its weight in convenience. Their rooms are very well made with all the common luxuries you can hope for while experiencing life in a historical part of Singapore.
This chic little hideout is a cool place to bunk in if you’re in town. This is especially recommended for big groups so they can avail themselves of the private rooms and also the ability to hang out at the rooftop lounge to relax and socialise. If you want to stay out of the tourist traps but still be near enough to explore, this might just be what you’re looking for.
If you’re in a small group of friends coming over to Singapore, you can check this out especially if you’re in party mood. Located near Clarke Quay, this is the prime nightlife district and excellent for those in the mood for after hours exploration with their mates. The rooms are straightforward and comfortable, with all the trappings to live on, but the area itself has a lot of happening so ideally, you’ll be out and about most of the time.
Formerly a hardware warehouse, this is planted in one of the more vivid parts of Little India. The environment is really classic Little India with its modest little shophouses and back alleys, and as always, anything you would want is all around you. Their private rooms are quite well-furnished at the price you’re getting it for, and overall it’s one of the more comfortable experiences you could have during your stay here.
For those who constantly have a big appetite, the popular Tekka Centre is nearby for all your gastronomic needs. Another one focused on the family or large groups, the striking exterior is matched by the pleasant interior with a focus on making this your home away from home. A great place to get well-rested while journeying across the colourful and historical districts of Singapore.
This is located in one of the more hidden parts of central Singapore. Up a hill and outside the din and noise outdoors, this is a serene spot to spend your time in Singapore, and is near both the shopping district and historical areas such as Little India. Also, this is near the Istana (President’s Palace) if you’re interested in viewing it. The location is affordable considering the great perch it’s at, and if you like peace and quiet and yet still want to be near where all the fun is happening, this should be high on your list.
Away from the well-trodden grounds of Little India or Chinatown but tucked snugly in another quaint little historical neighbourhood, this family-friendly joint is both affordable and surrounded by some of Singapore’s best restaurants for you to explore. The location is a little bit off-beat but still within the most desired area for tourists, and this neighbourhood has a lot of mystery for you dig into if you’re in an exploratory mood.
