Tucked away on the lush, green slopes of Mount Faber, the Handwritten Collection promises a serene escape from Singapore’s bustling city life. As a young executive looking for a quick weekend staycation, I was keen to check out this boutique gem, drawn by its reputation for quirky charm and scenic views. But after a night here, my experience was a bit of a mixed bag—some delightful highs, some frustrating lows. Here’s the lowdown for fellow travellers craving a stylish yet practical getaway.
The moment I stepped into the lobby on a Saturday morning, it was buzzing like a weekend market. Groups of tourists, likely drawn by Singapore’s reputation as a travel hub, were checking in and out, their chatter and suitcases filling the space. The energy was lively, but it bordered on chaotic, with staff scrambling to keep up. It felt less like a boutique hotel and more like a busy airport lounge. If you’re after a calm check-in, maybe avoid peak morning hours.
Breakfast, served in the lobby restaurant, was another whirlwind. The spread was decent—think fresh pastries, a small selection of Asian staples like congee, and the usual Western fare of eggs and bacon. But for a four-star hotel in the Asia-Pacific, it didn’t quite hit the mark. Reviews on Tripadvisor echo this sentiment, with some guests noting the limited variety compared to other regional hotels in this class. The fruit selection was fresh but sparse, and the hot dishes cooled quickly in the crowded, understaffed dining area. Navigating the buffet felt like a game of dodgeball, with tourists piling plates high and staff rushing to replenish. If you’re staying, grab a coffee and stake out a table early to avoid the morning rush.
Thankfully, my room was a highlight. As a platinum member, I was upgraded to a deluxe room, and it was a stunner. Spacious, modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Mount Faber’s greenery, it felt like a proper retreat. The bed was plush, the linens crisp, and the quirky, handwritten-style decor gave it a unique vibe—think boutique charm with a nod to local artistry. Tripadvisor reviewers often rave about the rooms here, and I get why. The design is Instagram-worthy, perfect for young execs who love a good aesthetic.
But there was a catch. In the dead of night, my peaceful slumber was interrupted by an odd sound—like water trickling through pipes. At first, I thought it was rain, but no, it was the air-conditioning unit. It sounded like condensation from the entire floor was funnelling through my room for discharge. Not exactly the soothing white noise you’d hope for. I mentioned it to the staff the next morning, who were apologetic and promised to look into it, but it did disrupt my sleep. A quick scan of Tripadvisor suggests this isn’t a widespread issue, but a few guests have mentioned quirky maintenance quirks in certain rooms, so it might be worth checking when you book.
The hotel’s location on Mount Faber is both a pro and a con. The views are gorgeous, and the proximity to attractions like Sentosa and the cable car is a big draw for tourists. But it’s a bit out of the way if you’re planning to zip around downtown Singapore. For young execs, the vibe is perfect for a chill staycation or a romantic weekend, but you’ll need to plan transport if you’re heading to Orchard Road or Marina Bay. Grab or taxis are your best bet, as public transport options are limited up the hill.
Service-wise, the staff were friendly but stretched thin during peak times. My check-in was smooth thanks to my platinum status, but I overheard other guests grumbling about wait times. The team’s warmth and willingness to help shone through, though, which softened the blow of the morning chaos. Tripadvisor reviews often praise the staff’s attentiveness, so I reckon I just hit a busy patch.
Overall, Handwritten Collection at Mount Faber is a stylish spot with heaps of potential. The deluxe rooms are a treat, and the boutique vibe is spot-on for young travellers who want something a bit different. But the breakfast needs a glow-up, and those maintenance niggles—like my noisy air-con—could use some TLC. If you’re planning a stay, book a room with a view, avoid peak check-in times, and maybe pack some earplugs just in case. It’s not perfect, but it’s got enough charm to make your Singapore adventure memorable.
