Travelers in search of a fuss-free, modern accommodation in the heart of quaint yet bustling Singapore don’t have to look any further as Jalan Besar finally brings to light its own little gem: the Hotel YAN. Situated in between the neighborhoods of both Little India (MRT station: Farrer Park) and Lavender (MRT station: Lavender), this 69-key property which opened less than a year ago is a welcome addition to Singapore’s growing list of stylish and independent boutique hotels.
Glistening golds, yellows, and oranges contrasted by blacks, sparkling mirrors, and cement-colored unfinished walls warmly welcomed us as we entered the hotel lobby. Upon checking-in, the quote written on the receptionist’s counter struck my fancy the most: ‘This is the day you’ve been waiting for.’ As if they knew I was really waiting for this day (September 24) as it was my birthday after all — the day in the calendar when I turn another year older.
The stark, industrial chic appeal of Hotel YAN is the same hotel look-and-feel that seems to be trending nowadays among many millennial travelers, especially among those who love to experience affordable luxury accommodations with a fun twist.
The six-storey building has a multitude of rooms in different sizes (all averaging within the price range of SG$100 to SG$200 depending on seasonality) — Single Lofts (8 sq. m.); Premium Single with Double Bed (10 sq. m.); Superior with Balcony (12-15 sq. m.); Deluxe (18 sq. m.); Luxury Suite (28 sq. m.).
The Lobby:
The Bedroom:
We got the Premium Single with a Double Bed which proved to be a little bit tiny for us, but it was homey nonetheless. We also had a balcony with great views of the surrounding rows of shophouses and the Jalan Besar Stadium.
The Bathroom:
The toilet is separated from the shower merely by a transparent glass — hence two people can use both areas at the same time sans your privacy. I had a lovely bath time with the built-in rain shower and with their complimentary bottles of shampoo and soap. I remember the shampoo smelled really good on my hair!
The Room View:
Hotel Dining:
Cafe Nido which opened earlier this year is the official food concessionaire of the hotel. Serving various Asian cuisines (such as laksa, tom yum, etc.) with a twist, Cafe Nido promises a delectable dining experience to the public.
Recommendations Nearby:
Also within walking distance from the hotel is the Chye Seng Huat Hardware (CCSH) Cafe, which was packed that weekend with both expats and locals who were enjoying their favorite cappuccinos and their afternoon cakes. CCSH and Hotel YAN have the same owners — no wonder they have the same industrial concept in their overall theme and interiors.
“Yan means a Swallow bird in Chinese,” says the amicable Mrs. Eileen Lim as she explains the philosophy behind the property — the very first boutique hotel she has built together with her husband. “Swallows are migratory birds who travel far and wide to find new homes. Here at Hotel YAN, we consider our guests to be the same — they should be able to find a home away from their own homes,” she adds.
Check our video tour of the hotel and its neighborhood:
Hotel YAN: Address: 162 Tyrwhitt Road, Singapore 207581. Tel: +65 6805 1955. Website: www.hotel-yan.com. Email: reservations@hotel-yan.com.