At the newly opened all-villa Raffles Sentosa Singapore, the challenge is not to let modernisation get ahead of heritage

“The Raffles name carries immense prestige and history, and being part of a brand with such a legacy is truly a privilege.” For Cavaliere Giovanni, cluster general manager of Raffles Sentosa Singapore and Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, this sentiment guides his work. His career, spanning over 35 years in the hospitality industry, has led him to this moment: the opening of a new Raffles, a reimagining of a Singaporean icon for the 21st century.

Raffles, a name etched in the annals of Singapore’s history, evokes images of colonial elegance and timeless service. Now, Raffles Sentosa Singapore seeks to build upon that legacy, offering a unique experience distinct to the island.

“Being Singapore’s first all-villa resort, its scenic location on Sentosa Island provides a rejuvenating experience that combines natural beauty with Raffles’ renowned luxury service,” Giovanni explains. 

A lifetime in hospitality

Having worked on landmark developments like The Fullerton Heritage Precinct and The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, Giovanni, 60, has spent much of his career bringing together history and modernity.

“I don’t see heritage as a constraint but rather as a strength,” he reflects. “The beauty of heritage brands like Raffles is that they give us a rich foundation upon which to build. The challenge lies in ensuring that the heritage remains meaningful in the context of modern expectations.”

His track record, marked by stints at prestigious hotels across Europe and Asia, has prepared him well for this role. “After these projects, the opportunity to contribute to reshaping Singapore’s hospitality landscape by leading the second Raffles property in Singapore was both an exciting and natural progression for me,” he explains.

Blending tradition with contemporary charm

The challenge lies in preserving the essence of Raffles while ensuring it meets modern travellers’ expectations. Giovanni understands this delicate process. “While we honour the nostalgia and rich history that the Raffles name carries, we’ve ensured that Raffles Sentosa Singapore delivers a contemporary experience that resonates with modern sensibilities,” he says.

The resort’s design, a seamless blend of modern aesthetics and natural surroundings, embodies this philosophy.

The iconic Raffles traditions remain: the Raffles Doorman, a symbol of welcome; the Raffles Butler team, providing bespoke service; and the Wellbeing Butlers, curating mindful experiences. Yet, the resort is not a relic of the past. “The focus on wellness, privacy and a more intimate experience sets us apart from other resorts,” Giovanni emphasises. The 62 spacious villas, each with a private pool, cater to the modern traveller’s desire for seclusion and tranquillity.

Keeping heritage relevant

It’s an enticing proposition for today’s discerning and seasoned explorer, but heritage brands often tread a fine line between maintaining their character and preserving their identity. Some, like Waldorf Astoria and The Plaza, have struggled to modernise without losing their historic allure. Giovanni believes Raffles Sentosa Singapore presents a refined approach.

“We preserve what’s quintessentially Raffles — the gracious hospitality, sense of place, and attention to detail — but we present it through a contemporary lens,” he explains. “Sustainability, wellness and privacy – these are values that today’s travellers prioritise, and Raffles Sentosa Singapore reflects that.”

Regarding concerns about Raffles’ appeal to younger generations, Giovanni addresses them directly. “Like all guests, younger travellers seek authentic experiences that align with their personal values.” He reiterates the resort’s focus on sustainability, wellness and privacy as key factors that resonate with younger demographics.

Sustainability in the future of luxury

Sustainability is fast becoming a defining feature of luxury hospitality, and Raffles Sentosa Singapore is no different. “At Raffles Sentosa Singapore, sustainability is deeply integrated into our operations, starting with the resort’s distinctive location on Sentosa Island, Asia’s first Global Sustainable Tourism Council-certified island destination,” Giovanni states. The resort’s Green Mark Gold certification and initiatives like the “60 Trees for 60 Years” planting ceremony demonstrate this commitment.

“Luxury can be enjoyed in harmony with nature, and we strive to implement green practices in every aspect of our operations,” Giovanni adds. The resort operates with a fleet of electric buggies, solar-powered outdoor lamps, sustainable food sourcing, and community initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible tourism. 

As for the focus on wellness, Sentosa’s unique environment naturally lent itself to that direction. “The decision to position Raffles Sentosa Singapore as a sanctuary of wellness and retreat-style luxury was largely influenced by the unique topography of Sentosa island,” Giovanni reveals. He highlights the resort’s expansive space, private villas and connection to nature as key elements of this approach.

Leading the property into a new era, Giovanni is assured of the brand’s ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. “At Raffles Sentosa Singapore, we believe that luxury is about the overall experience — one that fosters wellness, connection and a deep sense of rejuvenation,” he says.

“The key is ensuring that modernisation enhances the heritage, rather than overshadowing it.”