Melvin Lim has recently been appointed General Manager of Marina Mandarin Hotel after a period working with Far East Hospitality. Born and raised in Singapore, he has worked around the region including stints in Indonesia and Thailand. We caught up with him to find out about his new appointment and what he thinks about being back in Singapore.
Congratulations on your appointment, how are you enjoying working with the team at Marina Mandarin?
I started work in the middle of May and it’s been great! The team is highly experienced, professional, and more importantly shows keenness in embracing my leadership style.
What kind of accommodation experience can guests expect from a stay at Marina Mandarin?
Being a home-grown Singapore brand, we are proud of our 40 years of experience in delivering a unique blend of luxury travel accommodation. Marina Mandarin Singapore has one of the largest open atriums in South East Asia, which rises through 21 storeys and is permeated by streams of natural light. Our 575 rooms, including 22 suites and the exclusive Meritus Club Floors, are blessed with views of the Singapore harbour and the city’s dynamic skyline.
What would be your ideal ‘One day in Singapore’ itinerary?
I’d try to pack in 50 years of Singapore’s heritage, beginning with a food trail from Marina Mandarin Singapore.
This starts in the hotel with local toast served with butter and kaya (sweet coconut egg spread) accompanied with soft-boiled eggs, wash it down with teh (tea) or kopi (coffee) local style.
Then guests should hop onto the Singapore River bum boat by crossing the Jubilee bridge, take a snap of the Merlion on the way and take in the CBD skyscrapers with the Marina Bay backdrop. The cruise takes guests past historic sights like the former Supreme Court, Boat Quay, Clarke Quay and Robertson Quay, offering the best of Singapore’s maritime history.
In the evening, return to the main island and head to Marina Bay to visit Marina Barrage and Satay By The Bay for more delicious street food before catching the daily Musical Rhapsody at the Supertrees Grove.
Finally, end the day with a unique wildlife adventure at Singapore’s Night Safari, one of the city’s best attractions.
What promotions will Marina Mandarin be offering during the months of August and September?
With Singapore celebrating its National Day in August, and the Grand Prix in September, we will certainly be offering various packages for these two busy months. Visitors should check out marinamandarin.com.sg for more details.
