The Singapore establishment once known as the Savoy of the East, whose guests range from royalty to rock stars, and from politicians to poets - plus the occasional tiger. Recently re-opened after a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, the hotel boasts stories from the past that are as exotic as the location itself, with an army of staff who treat their 5-star guests to 5-star service. Here, head butler Grace tells her tales of the boudoir and head doorman Narajan explains how first impressions count.

• Olga Polizzi