It might be best-known for bringing Singaporean cuisine and hospitality to the City, but being able to watch the rat race from Pan Pacific London's infinity pool is the highlight of a stay here. There's something about feeling smug in a swimsuit while stock market traders trudge down Bishopsgate below: a 'Freaky Friday'-style power shift that lasts as long as you can afford to play pretend.
The pool area (which is subjected to seasonal makeovers,) has been transformed by luxury children's clothing brand Bonpoint, with pink deckchairs, straw parasols and cherry insignias. Dyson hair dryers and Diptyque toiletries are on hand to help with the post-workout glow-up.
Food and drink options are equally extra, with the hotel being home to two restaurants and three bars. Straits Kitchen, a Singaporean-inspired kitchen, offers authentic lobster laksa for £45 a pop; the Shiitake Sayuran Rosette - a mix of mushrooms, pak choi, beancurd, enoki and soy - being one of the best veggie meals I’ve eaten during my 17-year run as a vegetarian.
The wine list and cocktail menus also have an Asian influence, with red, white and sparkling Chinese wines competing for attention alongside Sussex, Argentina and California vines. Ground-floor bar Ginger Lily is the spot for a nightcap, serving up a Highball, made with green tea, lemon juice, whisky and honey. Just be warned, the hotel’s carb-to-alcohol ratio might leave you a little fragile come morning.
Neighbourhood
Less than a five-minute walk from Liverpool Street station, the hotel is near the buzzy bars of Shoreditch, the handmade crafts at Old Spitalfields Market and finance bro factory, Leadenhall Market. It’s also within easy reach of Brick Lane, where all your bagel and dahl desires can be met.
Nearby
Beigel Bake, the legendary Brick Lane bagel shop that’s been serving hungry Londoners around the clock since 1974.
Axeperience, an axe-throwing activity spot that helps get your feelings out while supporting the company’s charitable partners.
Oranj, a low-key wine bar that hosts food pop-ups and good times.
Time Out tip
Order breakfast to your room. The food trolley and white-cloth experience lets you live out your ‘Home Alone 2’ fantasies. Checkout isn’t until 12, so a post-Royale nap is compulsory.