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Make no mistake, there is always a reason to travel; a need to explore, to indulge, to re-energise.
“Travelling is like a breath of fresh air; it wakes the mind and energises the spirit,” says Neeraj Govil, the Senior Vice President of Operations at Marriott International, Asia Pacific. “My desire to explore has taken me to several unique destinations that have taught me to step out of my comfort zone, embrace the unknown, and build understanding and respect for different points of views and ways of life.” It’s these words that ring true to me following a trip to Singapore to discover two of the upscale hotels that are masterfully – and rather artfully – blending luxury with sustainability.
Leading the way is the global hotel group, Marriott International, who have embarked on a journey to redefine luxury with a commitment to sustainability. With a prestigious portfolio boasting illustrious brands such as The EDITION, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, and W Hotels, the group is not only setting the standard for opulent experiences but doing so while making changes that will ensure a more sustainable future for its properties. But what exactly does this look like?
“As a region, we have set clear actionable goals across ten focus areas to help guide the region in accelerating progress towards net zero by 2050 globally,” explains Govil. “However, there really is no one-size-fits-all solution. Even for hotels within the luxury category, the sustainability approach can differ from property to property, depending on various factors like location, climate, infrastructure and more.
“We recognise that the notion of luxury can often be associated with excess, and this is something that we are actively addressing in our properties,” he continues. “While some sustainable practices are so seamlessly integrated that guests are unlikely to notice – for example, the switch to renewable energy sources and an improved water recycling system – it is the areas pertaining to guest experiences that we must put extra care into”.
With this in mind, ahead I spotlight two must-stay hotels in Singapore that are raising the bar.
Calm curves, warm tones, and lush greenery set the scene at The Singapore EDITION, a property where every corner and spiral staircase exudes sophistication and elegance. The newly opened hotel is the epitome of modern luxury and with sustainability at its core – hello the truly heavenly custom Le Labo scent throughout its hallways, and its zero waste bar in the lobby with a very impressive drinks list – every detail captures the essence of living the high life, albeit an environmentally conscious one. Nestled within the heart of the upper Orchard shopping district and with the most prestigious Maison’s at arm’s length, the hotel seamlessly blends convenience with exclusivity.
FYSH
An avant-garde dining concept by Australian Chef and Restauranteur Joshua Niland can be found inside the hotel. A holistic approach is taken to gastronomy, with eco-conscious hospitality at its core. There’s an impressive AI-powered food waste tracking system, and select dishes are even presented on custom ‘Fish China’ by ceramic artist and potter Sam Gordon.
“We have introduced circular food systems to our guests through FYSH, an innovative fin-to-scale concept where every part of the fish, including bones, eyes, and guts, are utilised in the menu,” explains Govil.
“Data and personalisation also play a huge role,” he continues. “For example, instead of offering an extensive breakfast buffet spread, some of our hotels are already leveraging data and guest feedback to pinpoint the menu items that travellers value the most and offer a curated selection that significantly reduces food waste. By applying this data-driven personalised approach across our guest experiences, we’re able to help guests be more sustainable without compromising their experience. In fact, this highly personalised style of hospitality is what luxury travellers increasingly expect.”
Niland is known for his boundary-pushing, sustainable approach to seafood and dining which offers guests an experience that is as incredibly delicious as it is conscientious and an equally delectable plant-based menu. FYSH reflects Niland’s focus on creating a circular economy for the hotel, mitigating food waste (95 percent of the fish is used) while heightening the guest experience through unexpected creations that respect the full potential of individually sourced sustainable produce.
THE LOBBY BAR
When the clock strikes 5pm (or anytime, really) venturing to the Lobby Bar inside The Singapore EDITION is a must – a place where art and science collide to create boundary-pushing drinks and garnishes that utilise the entire fruit and vegetable. From intricate garnishes made from fruit peels, to creative uses of leftover pulp juice, every element of the drink is thoughtfully crafted to minimise waste and maximise flavour. I absolutely loved it.
Another resort for your consideration: W Singapore. The quintessential ‘luxury lifestyle icon’ is located on a tropical island paradise, and with stunning marina views and surroundings, it boasts 240 guest rooms and a 24-hour signature concierge. The exclusive sanctuary is not merely a hotel; it’s a lavish retreat, a playground for the discerning, and an oasis of indulgence.
For established hotels such as the W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, sustainable changes do not happen overnight, and it takes research, trial, and a constant commitment to achieve greater sustainable practices. With this said, the hotel is making good ground. From water-efficient fittings saving over 8,000 m³ annually to a sophisticated rainwater harvesting system, every detail reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship. LED lighting and abundant natural sunlight illuminate the resort, reducing energy consumption without compromising on opulence.
Guests can indulge in eco-conscious amenity products sourced from Davines, a certified B Corporation and a carbon-neutral entity. The brand prioritises sustainability by backing reforestation efforts to counterbalance its carbon footprint. Whether it’s pampering spa sessions or in-room self-care rituals, guests can enjoy a premium selection of beauty essentials infused with a deeply ingrained commitment to looking after the environment.
Embracing responsible sourcing, the hotel restaurants: SKIRT and WOOBAR, have prioritised locally farmed produce and they have collaborated with Grobrix to cultivate fresh herbs and edible flowers, as well as special partnerships with sustainable suppliers like Weeds & More and Tanamera Coffee.
SKIRT
A restaurant where gastronomy intersects with the mastery of fire and taste. Led by Chef de Cuisine Paul Chong, the skilled team showcase their skills over a fire with a selection of premium meats sourced from top producers in Australia and Japan. It really is the perfect restaurant and place to immerse yourself in a culinary journey – every dish is crafted around the grill and the captivating allure of wood fire which elevates the flavours. The restaurant’s chic interior is adorned in soft plum and cherry tones, with marble accents, and overlooks the docks via floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
Yes, in a world where conscious indulgence is not just a trend but a necessity, consider these upscale hotels in Singapore should you be travelling to the city in the future. Like me, you’ll realise the new five-star standard for luxury hospitality also includes sustainability practises. So, whether it’s a stay at The Singapore EDITION or a retreat to the W Singapore – Sentosa Cove, you can truly enjoy the pleasures that luxury travel has to offer; explore, indulge, re-energise – and that feel good feeling that your mark isn’t being heavily felt by our planet.
