Sembilan Inn by Soft Loft

Excellent value for money. Even before our stay, the hotel contacted me through the Agoda app to confirm our booking. I requested rooms next to each other, and they kindly accommodated our request. The self check-in instructions sent via WhatsApp were very clear and easy to follow making the whole process smooth and hassle free. The location is excellent. Just a short walk to Esplanade where we attended our event and only a few hundred metres from Little India, making it very convenient to explore the area. The only downside is that the hotel does not have a lift, so guests will need to use the stairs. It wasn’t an issue for us as we had requested for first floor but it’s something to keep in mind if you have heavy luggage or mobility concerns. Our only minor complaint is that the pillows were quite thin and soft. We had to fold them for better support. So it would be great if the hotel could provide thicker or firmer pillows in the future. Overall, we had a pleasant stay and would happily recommend this hotel for its great value, convenient location and excellent communication.

Location is strategic in the heart of Little India, the ferry terminal as well as the esplanade. Search for paid street parking if you’re driving because hotel parking is unavailable. There is no disabled access as you have to climb the stairs to reach your room. In our case it was 3 flights of stairs and we noticed the water dispenser located on the first floor. Reception is non existent so it’s self check in and check out. Communication is via WhatsApp and you need to place a deposit which is refundable upon check out (T&C apply). Room and bath were spacious and we had generous views of town through the multiple windows in our room. Towels and toiletries are provided, however note that other amenities such as hair dryer, iron and mini fridge are unavailable. The spacious room could use a higher hp air conditioner as it took us several hours to cool down the room (it was baking hot due to the afternoon sun). There are plenty of eateries and banks nearby but no shopping centres though.

Pros: easy friendly check in. Communication is quick and lovely by the people running the Whatsapp. Location is excellent. Soft comfy mattress. Clean bedding. Cons: room has the strongest smell of damp as soon as you walk in making it instantly unpleasant. This also came through the air con too. Only one toilet roll left for a 4 night stay.No bedside table (I don’t like putting things like water bottles, phone etc on floors). Also, plug sockets are not near the bed so no access to phone when charging and sat on the bed. Electric supply is very poor - my powerbank (not a powerful one) took 3 hours plugged in just to go from zero battery - 25% charged. Had to leave it too many hours for full strength. No hairdryer. No fridge.

The staff doesn't really speak perfect English so be patient with them. The door is not really soundproof, so we could hear everything from the corridor and the other rooms (water running, people talking, etc.). Really small room, difficult to go around, but still okay for the money paid and a really short stay.