Designer hotel Sofitel So Singapore, which took over the ex-Ogilvy Centre along Robinson Road, (finally) welcomed its first guests last Saturday on May 31, and we were pretty bowled over during our visit. Here's what to expect:

Stay

There are 134 rooms, including 9 suites, that are conceptualized by renowned designer Isabelle Miaja, with stylish fluorishes from Karl Lagerfeld—he created the hotel's signature lion emblem, which is emblazoned on objects like door knockers and bookends found in every room. The whimsical rooms all boast Parisian-inspired furnishings (like three-meter high ceilings and bespoke light boxes above each bed), complete with local touches (think cushions emblazoned with pictures of Singapore street signs). The balconies, which overlook the busy streets of the CBD, are also flanked by European-style columns. The in-room Apple gadgets are pretty impressive too—traditional room telephones are replaced by iPhones, while iPad minis are used to control all room functions. 

Eat and drink

Guests can design their customized menus based on their desired culinary experiences at Xperience, the hotel's signature restaurant and bar. The restaurant also brings the concept of breakfast in bed to a whole new level—patrons can choose to dine at a special chef's table shaped like a bed. Rooftop bar HI-SO seems set to be the place to see and be seen, what with a golden-tiled infinity pool (the first of its kind in Singapore). 

Price and promotion

Take advantage of the hotel's opening offers. The decadent "Weekends@So" package, which is priced from S$599 upwards for two persons, will get you a champagne brunch on Saturday and an all-day brekkie on Sunday. Alternatively, you can go for the "100 Dollars, 100 Days" package, where you'll receive S$100 F&B credit for a limited 100-day period. Visit www.sofitel.com to book your stay.