Intelligence Squared Hotels with History | Raffles Hotel, Singapore, with Richard E. Grant and Jules Perowne
Sep 25, 2025
Discover the fascinating transformation of Raffles Hotel from a 10-room beach bungalow to a luxurious landmark in Singapore. Learn how the Sarkis brothers, with their Armenian roots, pioneered this iconic destination amidst changing global travel dynamics. Explore Raffles' rich literary history, hosting legends like Kipling and Maugham, and uncover quirky hotel folklore like the tiger incident. Plus, enjoy insights into the legendary Singapore Sling's creation and the hotel's unique check-in experience. Raffles continues to be a symbol of hospitality and culture.
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A Timeless Oasis In A Modern City
- Raffles feels like a portal to a slower, ritualised era inside a rapidly changing Singapore.
- The hotel preserves atmosphere through architecture, music and service rituals.
Built By Opportunity And Vision
- The Sarkis brothers seized global travel trends to build a hospitality empire.
- They turned strategic location and timing into Raffles' founding advantage.
From Bungalow To Grand Hotel
- Raffles began as a modest 10-room beach bungalow that opened in 1887.
- The Sarkis brothers advertised confidently: "we are no better than the best, but better than the rest."
