Shangri-La Singapore's Garden Wing.[Photo provided to Shanghai Star]

Asisn hospitality personified:Shangri-la Singapore

This is the very first Shangri-La Hotel, the prototype for a successful Asian brand that, in just 30 years, has successfully challenged much older international brands. Although Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts shifted its headquarters to Hong Kong, many Singaporeans still claim this brand as their own.

State banquets were traditionally held here, and the Shangri-La Dialogues are still significant on many political calendars. Shangri-La Singapore set the tome for many of its sister properties – especially in the choice of location. It is probably the only hotel in the heart of Singapore's busy shopping and consulate district to have its own spectacular, mature garden.

The hotel's iconic Garden Wing is a tourist destination on its own, with brilliant bushes of bougainvillea spilling over every balcony like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.

As a dining destination, its Chinese restaurant, the very first Shang Palace, showcases the talents of many exceptional chefs, all of whom catered for both local and visiting political bigwigs.

The hotel has a wide range of rooms to offer, all of which comes with the brand's legendary service. If you are looking for comfort and elegance, and convenient access to the best shopping malls in Asia, this is the hotel to go to.

Shangri-La Singapore

22 Orange Grove Road.

Walking distance to the Tanglin consulate districts, and the Orchard Road malls.

Average cost: 1,300 yuan to 2,000 yuan per night, breakfast included. Ask for the Valley Wing rooms, and breakfast at the quieter executive lounge in the lobby.