Raise a Glass to Tradition with a Singapore Sling at Raffles – Where History Meets Hospitality

The Singapore Sling has always been synonymous with Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The historic Long Bar is where the Singapore Sling, widely regarded as the national drink, was first mixed in 1915.  When I first reached the hotel, I couldn’t believe the grandeur.  After walking through the white archways of Raffles Hotel and strolling through the courtyard, I made my way to the bar to specifically tick the simple act of drinking a Singapore Sling at Raffles off my bucket list.   

The Long Bar has stayed true to its heritage and so you can transport yourself in time. The best way to describe it is as a romanticized 1920s Malaysian plantation, adorned with intricately woven rattan furniture. On the ceiling, rows of 19th century fans oscillate in unison, but all of this is not to be outdone by the loud crunch coming from the floor. In stark contrast to the spotless streets of Singapore, the tiled floor in this room is littered with emptied out peanut shells. It is the only place in Singapore that allows littering! 

The drink was refreshing, so much so that it vanished all too quickly and I was halfway through before I realised, I had not taken a photo of this long awaited bucket list experience. The crisis was averted by ordering a second one! It was a nice blend of flavours that was light, quenching, and a perfect respite from the humidity outside.   

I learnt there is an interesting story that comes with the Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel.   It was created in 1915 by Ngiam Tong Boon who saw that the gentlemen of the colonial era were sipping on whiskey and gin, but the ladies were without a drink in hand as it was not deemed appropriate.  Gentlewomen were only allowed to drink tea or fruit juices.  Therefore, he decided to create an alcoholic cocktail that looked like fruit juice with a pretty rose hue and called it a fruit punch.  It became an overnight success and the rest is history; the Singapore Sling was born!   

Raffles Hotel is a huge complex which you can explore at your leisure. You can wander around the courtyards, go designer shopping in their boutiques, eat at one of the many Raffles Hotel restaurants and have a look inside their amazing Raffles Hotel gift shop. 

It is almost a sin to visit Singapore and not try a Singapore Sling.  If you can afford it, I would highly recommend you experience the original home of Raffles Hotel. You will be transported to a world of imperial luxury.   

Singapore has so much to offer and to read more about our time in this diverse, modern and culturally rich city click here, but be sure to add dring a Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel to your bucket list. 

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