Leaving Singapore over the National Day long weekend for a getaway to Bangkok, Bali or Phuket is practically a local reflex. But there are good reasons to stay home during this holiday too.After all, National Day is one of the few times of the year when Singapore unabashedly celebrates its uniqueness and quirks. To get you in the mood, hotels across the little red dot are rolling out staycation packages and dining experiences that spotlight different facets of the city, from heritage neighbourhoods and hawker-inspired menus to family workshops and poolside parade screenings.Here is our guide to some National Day staycations, based on how you would like to celebrate.NATIONAL DAY ATMOSPHERE WITHOUT THE CROWDSIf you like the idea of a front-row view of the NDP fireworks without having to jostle for space or awkwardly wave your flag in unison with the strangers around you, your best bet is to book a room facing the National Stadium.
The Deluxe Twin Kallang View bathroom. (Photo: The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore)
The main dining area at Colony. (Photo: The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore)
For that, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is an obvious choice. The hotel’s Kallang-facing rooms offer views of the fireworks during the Saturday rehearsals and preview shows, as well as on National Day itself on Aug 9.To make the most of the long weekend, its Anchored Moments package includes early check-in from 8am and buffet breakfast at Colony for up to two adults and two children under 12. A thoughtful perk is the nautical-themed welcome amenity, which includes a bath bomb and bath salts for a long soak in the hotel’s Instagram-famous bathtub, framed by its distinctive octagon-shaped bathroom window overlooking the cityscape. Night owls can opt for the Moonlight Stay & Dine package instead, which includes check-in from 6pm, a buffet dinner at Colony and daily breakfast for up to two adults.
