Hotel in Singapore's Little India

Q: My sister and I are looking for accommodation in Singapore for 5-6 nights. We would prefer a three-star hotel, bed and breakfast or a self-catering apartment. We want something clean, comfortable and close to little India. - Pamela Naidoo

A: One of the most cost-effective hotels is the Hotel 81 Dickson, which is a two-star hotel among the charming shops and restaurants of the Little India area. It is a 10-minute walk from an MRT Station. Rooms are airconditioned, private bathrooms and coffee and tea-making facilities. Double rooms are available for R421 plus 10.70% service charge and 7% tax on www.booking.com. Another hotel on this website that offers good value in the Broadway Hotel, located directly opposite the 24-hour Mustafa Shopping Centre. En-suite bedrooms have airconditioning, satellite TV, safety boxes and tea/coffee maker. A double room costs from R612 plus 17.7% in taxes. If you want cheaper accommodation you could opt for the Fern Loft Hostel, which offers a range of accommodation from dormitories to private double rooms. A double-bed room will cost you R380 (R190 per person), while a bed in a six-bed female dorm will cost you R146 person. Nestled in Little India, it is flanked by two MRT stations. There is airconditioning (essential in the Singapore heat) and money-saving services like a breakfast pantry and a laundry and ironing room. You can get further information about this innovative, fun hostel on www.fernloft.com, which has a link to their booking service. (3/7/11)