Capella Singapore
Photograph: Dewi Nurjuwita
Photograph: Dewi Nurjuwita

What is it like to staycation now in Singapore

We check into Capella Singapore to experience what it's like to staycation in this 'new normal'

Dewi Nurjuwita
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With everything going on in the world, you may need to take a breather for a day or two. Singaporeans may not be able to travel yet, but at least hotels in Singapore are increasingly accepting staycation reservations. But it's not exactly business as usual at these hotels, though.

We checked into Capella Singapore for a night to experience what it's like to staycation during these unprecedented times. The stunning six-star resort is spread across 30 acres of verdant greenery on Sentosa overlooking the South China Sea, transporting you to the lush jungles of Ubud or unspoilt beaches of Koh Samui. Guests can easily leisurely spend the day taking a refreshing dip in the resort's pool, admiring the historic architecture, having a Mediterranean feast at The Knolls or simply luxuriating in the in-room bathtub. 

Trying to find out what going on a staycation now entails before making the plunge? Read on to find out our experience at this beautiful resort. 

RECOMMENDED: Live list of Singapore hotels accepting reservations for staycations 

SafeEntry, everywhere

Like anywhere else in Singapore, your trusty QR code scanner is still essential during staycations. Upon arrival at the hotel, you're required to scan the QR code for SafeEntry and fill in a health declaration form to ensure that you're feeling well, haven't travelled outside of Singapore for the past 14 days, and have not been in contact with a confirmed Covid-19 case. 

This rule applies throughout your stay at the hotel, where you'll have to complete your SafeEntry before heading into the hotel's restaurants, bars, common areas, and other facilities. 

An amenity kit for the times

Upon checking in, you'll find that every room is given a handy amenity kit with a disinfection spray, hand sanitiser, alcohol wipes and disposable masks. So even if you forgot to bring your reusable mask with you, there's no excuse not to wear a mask at all times on the resort's grounds – unless you're having a meal at The Knolls, sipping on a cocktail at Bob's Bar, working out at the fitness centre or taking a dip in the resort's beautiful cascading pools. 

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You'll have to book breakfast in advance

The breakfast buffet is probably the highlight of each hotel stay. Unfortunately, buffets are not such a good idea in the midst of a pandemic. Instead of the daily breakfast buffet at The Knolls, its Mediterranean restaurant, Capella's guests order from an ala carte buffet menu and get breakfast served to their table. You still get to feast to your heart's content, though, as you can order as much as you like. 

You can't just roll out of bed and head for breakfast at any time, either. Since breakfast is the busiest time of the day at in-hotel restaurants, guests are also encouraged to book breakfast in advance. The available seatings at The Knolls are 7am to 7.30am, 8.30am to 9am and 10am to 10.30am. 

Flexible check-outs and check-ins

In addition to the various promotions, you can take advantage of, another upside to booking a staycation right now is that many resorts and hotels are offering flexible check-outs and check-ins – depending on availability, that is. This way, you get to truly slow down and take a stroll at the beach, have a lazy morning reading by the pool, or simply enjoy a bath in your in-room bathtub. 

Capella Singapore is offering a complimentary third-night stay if you book two consecutive nights in its One-Bedroom Garden or Palawan Villa – so you can enjoy the overseas experience without leaving Singapore. 

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Take part in complimentary resort activities

Make the most of your stay and take part in the resort's complimentary resort activities. Start your day having breakfast with the resident peacocks, put on your running shoes and enjoy a jog around the scenic hotel grounds, kickstart your Sunday with a revitalising yoga class for the whole family, take part in the BYOB (Build Your Own Boba) activity at Bob's Bar, or enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at the Living Room from 3pm to 5pm daily. However, do note that group activities are limited and will require a prior reservation to facilitate safe distancing between guests.

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