Malaysian Hotels' Promotions

Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu

2008-01-22T12:26:00.001+08:00

Le Méridien group of hotels is synonymous with class, unique service and personality which is so out of the ordinary. Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu is no different. Located in downtown Kota Kinabalu and within close walking proximity to local attractions, the commercial district, and retail and entertainment facilities, Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu provides immediate access to some of Malaysia’s finest beaches and golf courses.

The hotel features four distinct restaurants: Circle Restaurant offers an array of international dishes in a casual setting; the Lounge is an oasis for a refreshment or a quiet drink; Rumba Latin Grill & Bar offers Latin cuisine; and the Pool Bar, located beside the swimming pool, is a place to relax with a drink and take in the breathtaking sunset every evening.

This 5 star hotel provides 306 well-furnished guest rooms to pamper the needs of the discerning guest. The Deluxe rooms are spacious with magnificent full sea views of the South China Sea. The Le Royal Club on the 11th and 12th floors offer guests access to the Le Royal Club lounge and associated benefits. 31 Suites offer separate bedroom and lounge with dining table and entertaining area. There is currently an internet booking promotion at RM320.00 nett with breakfast for 2 adults thrown in.

Century Pines Resort, Cameron Highlands

2007-12-11T17:19:00.001+08:00

Stay at the Century Pines Resort in Cameron Highlands from as low as RM178 nett with complimentary breakfast for 2 persons and complimentary use of sporting and recreational activities. This promotion is ongoing at this point of writing.

The Century Pines Resort is located at Tanah Rata, which is where most of the activities in Cameron Highlands are centred. With its strategic location in Tanah Rata, visitors can visit the nearby tea plantations, fruit and vegetable farms (get your freshly plucked strawberries here!), flower nurseries (most Malaysian flowers for the commercial market are grown here) or even head for a jungle trekking exercise. Don't forget to savour the famous steamboat meal at the nearby eateries.

With a height of approximately 2,000 meters at its highest point, Cameron Highlands offers a pleasant climate with daytime temperatures averaging around 25°C and 18°C at night. This is a resort which is indeed suitable for families and couples.

Bayview Hotel, Melaka

2007-11-15T14:27:00.001+08:00

Bayview Hotel, Melaka is strategically located along Jalan Bendahara in Melaka and is within walking distance of the famed Hang Li Po well and Bukit Cina (the oldest and biggest chinese graveyard outside of China). Having recently been refurbished, this 4-star hotel which belongs to the Bayview International Hotels & Resorts Chain now evokes a fresh modern atmosphere with clean looks.

Boasting 192 guestrooms, from superior to deluxe rooms as well as junior, deluxe, studio and presidential suites, Bayview Hotel Melaka pampers its guests with a wide array of room amenities which are deemed necessary for most discerning travellers. These include minibar, individually controlled air-conditioning unit, hair dryer, television with selected ASTRO Channels in all rooms (CNBC, Star Movies, Star Sports, NHK and Phoenix), multi channel radio, coffee / tea making facilities, direct local STD and IDD, iron & ironing Board, in-room electronic safe, shaver outlet with 240V/110V adaptors and bathroom essentials. Bathrobe and bedroom slippers are also provided on selected floors.

Bayview Hotel Melaka runs a couple of ongoing promotions which include the Stopover Package and Chillout Stopover Package. Both are going at RM220++ per room per night with breakfast thrown in and you can view the promotion details here.

Hotel CaPITOL, Kuala Lumpur

2007-09-06T16:07:00.001+08:00

Yet another good hotel along the Bukit Bintang shopping stretch in Kuala Lumpur is the Hotel CaPITOL, which is located next to the BB Shopping Plaza. This award winning hotel under the Federal Hotels International group evokes a smart and contemporary feel and is suitable for both holiday makers and the savvy businessman.

Hotel CaPITOL provides 225 modern and comfortable rooms including the spacious corner rooms and loft suites which gives guests some spectacular views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline.

"All rooms are fully air conditioned with individual temperature control, complete with colour TV and in-house movies, satellite TV, IDD telephones with bathroom extension, high speed internet access progressively being installed, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, in-room safe, hair dryer, wake-up call service, electronic keycard lock, 24-hour room service, ironing facilities, laundry and valet services and ONESTOP - all you can need at the touch of a button - Capitol convenience."

Amenities are aplenty around Hotel CaPITOL as there are no less than 7 shopping centres all within walking distance, good food ranging from side walk hawker stalls to posh fine dining restaurants and good connection to the other parts of the city through the monorail system in which the Bukit Bintang station is just less than 5 minutes walk away.

Berjaya Redang Beach Resort, Terengganu

2007-08-22T12:22:00.001+08:00

Redang Island which is located on the east coast of West Malaysia is surrounded by clear blue waters, milk-powder-like sands and one of the most stunning beaches in Malaysia. Blessed with these qualities, Berjaya Redang Beach Resort promises a holiday of a lifetime for beach lovers and dive-enthusiasts.

Operated by the Berjaya Hotels and Resorts Group, direct flights to the island is made possible through its subsidiary, Berjaya Air from Kuala Lumpur as well as Singapore. Daily flights of 1 hour 15 minutes from Kuala Lumpur (Subang Airport) to Redang and from Singapore (Seletar Airport) to Redang on 48-seat Dash 7 aircraft for 1 hour 25 minutes make travelling much easier and comfortable for the holiday-makers.

Berjaya Redang Beach Resort provides "273 tastefully furnished rooms and suites with ensuite bathrooms in typical Malaysian-style chalets. All rooms are comfortably furnished and fully equipped with modern amenities. The Superior Room are double storey Malaysian styled timber framed long house with garden views. The Deluxe Chalets are also double storey Malaysian styled timber framed with total of 4 rooms in one chalet, and the Sea facing category overlooks the beautiful panoramic ocean. The Suites categories are sea facing and they consist of 2 bedrooms; one Master bedroom with king-size bed with attached bathroom and bathtub and 1 twin bedroom with attached bathroom and shower. The Royal Suite unit is an exclusive one-bedroom suite with Jacuzzi, separate shower room, living and dining room with one mini kitchen with refrigerator and microwave oven".

The Berjaya Redang Beach Resort is also well known for its certified 5-star PADI Gold Palm Resort Dive Centre offers a wide array of dive courses for amateur and advanced divers around the world famous coral reefs in its vicinity.

Berjaya Redang Beach Resort is currently having a host of promotions with rates starting from RM240.00 nett per room.

Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort, Kota Kinabalu

2007-08-17T14:41:00.001+08:00

Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah is one of the best known beach resorts in Malaysia. Located just 10 minutes drive from the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, the recently renovated Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort is a heavenly retreat offering 495 tastefully furnished rooms and suites, seven restaurants and bars, and ample recreational opportunities for families and leisure travellers.

This 5-star beach resort offers the following amenities for its guests in the rooms:- 24 hour room service, bathrobe and slippers, hairdryer, high speed internet access, IDD phone lines, tea and coffee making facilities, iron and ironing board and television with selected cable channels. Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort is currently building their signature spa, CHI, which will be the largest and most luxuriously appointed spa in Sabah. According to the resort "Each treatment takes place in a personal spa villa on our private isle of Pulau Bayu, allowing you to indulge your senses in spacious and private surroundings." The CHI spa is expected to be operational in November 2007.

One of the current promotions by the Resort (which is valid till 31.12.2007) is the Borneo Escapade which starts from RM2,210.00 for 2 adults for 3 nights. This 3 Nights / 4 days package includes:- 3 nights stay in a Kinabalu Superior room, Complimentary buffet breakfast at the Cafe TATU for two adults, round trip airport transfer, Choices of two recreational activities from each category:

Activity No. 1: One hour body massage for two adults or 50 minutes body scrub for two adults

Activity No. 2: Jetski or parasailing or island transfer with picnic lunch or sightseeing tours – Monsopiad Culture Village, City Tour or Sabah State Museum and Heritage Village

When I was between the ages of 8 to 10, I was staying in Kota Kinabalu and Tanjung Aru beach (the public side) was one of our favourites places for picnics. Back then (1982-1984), the Shangri-La's Tanjung Aru Resort was already the premier resort. I didn't get a chance to stay there then but would really love to take a holiday there one day.

Check out the hotel's site for more breathtaking photographs of the beach and promotions.

Tekam Plantation Resort, Jerantut

2007-08-16T09:38:00.001+08:00

Tekam Plantation Resort is located in Jerantut, Pahang on hectares of plantation land harvesting rubber, cocoa, palm oil and various local fruits. This eco-resort is managed by Plantation Resorts Sdn Bhd (PRSB), a resort management agent for FELDA Agricultural Services Sdn Bhd (FASSB).

Located approximately 220 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur and fringing the world’s oldest rainforest (Taman Negara), this site is also well known for its adventure tours. There is the Kota Gelanggi Caves which will allow one to experience cave exploration and be mesmerized by the astounding rock formations. As always, flora and fauna surrounding the areas of Mount Senyum Caves and the National Park are not to be missed!

There are plenty of recreational activities available including a 9-hole Golf Course & Golf Driving Range for the golf enthusiast, badminton, tennis, table tennis, volleyball, sepak takraw, soccer, canoeing, boating and fishing at a recreational lake.

According to Tekam Plantation Resort, "all appointed guestrooms are equipped with split air-conditioning units, television and water heater. Chalets come in double/twin bedded accomodation style and are fully air-conditioned, with television as well as hot/cold shower facilities. Clean and well-managed, the accommodation offered will suit your needs. Be it for leisure or business, you will find that we do our best to facilitate your stay and make it a most memorable and enjoyable stay every time."

Check out their fantastic packages here.

Holiday Villa Hotel & Suites Subang

2007-08-10T16:03:00.000+08:00

Back in 1991, my family and I stayed in the Holiday Villa Hotel & Suites Subang for about 1 month whilst my parents were looking for a house to rent. We had then just transferred over from Kuching and had to put up somewhere. At that time, Holiday Villa Hotel & Suites Subang had an ideal package for us - two big adjoining rooms with a mini kitchenette in an apartment like setting.

In fact, the room looks exactly like the one on the left. I am rather surprised that the room still looks the same as this is what I see in their current website. Anyway, the Hotel is quite big and located on a 6.8 acres beautifully landscaped land overlooking a lake in the popular suburb of Subang.

There are 383 guestrooms which are equipped with standard modern amenities, 10 food and beverage outlets offering guests a choice of global cuisine, 18 convention and meeting facilities including three ballrooms and a comprehensive range of sports and recreational facilities including an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Wedding receptions are quite commonly held here though I must say, I was not too impressed with the food served.

The hotel is a bit dated and urgently in need of refurbishment. It is a shame that being part of the Holiday Villa chain of hotels and resorts, it has been slightly neglected. It is, however, located in a strategic place and is within walking distance to Subang Jaya Medical Centre and may appeal to certain guests. Please check with the hotel's website for the latest deals.

Swiss Garden Resort & Spa Kuantan

2007-08-09T14:13:00.001+08:00

Swiss Garden Resort & Spa Kuantan is one of the most popular beach hotel resort in Kuantan, Pahang. Fronting the South China Sea and located at the Balok Beach, this resort is only 3 hours away by road from Kuala Lumpur.

Swiss Garden Resort & Spa Kuantan is part of Swiss-Garden International (M) Sdn. Bhd which manages 8 resorts around Malaysia and Australia and this resort is one of their more popular resort in their stable.

Swiss- Garden Resort & Spa, Kuantan recently underwent a multi-million ringgit refurbishment exercise and promises to offer more thrills to its guests. The refurbished lobby, Garden Terrace Coffee House, Swiss Deli at the Blue Chip Lounge and Sea- view Rooms have taken on a more refined and contemporary look to cater to the changing tastes of discerning travelers. The international class Resort boasts 304 well-equipped rooms and exceptional service.

Currently, Swiss Garden Resort and Spa Kuantan offers a One (1) Night accommodation with buffet breakfast for 2 persons at RM240++.

Alternatively, you might be interested in the RM220++ deal which comes with One (1) night accommodation in a Deluxe Garden View Room with check in for 24 hours, welcome drinks, 10% discount on Food & Beverage (except alcohol & cigarettes) and 10% discount on the highly acclaimed samsara spa (a-la-carte). The latter deal is valid from 1st March 2007 to 15th September 2007.

A'Famosa Resort

2007-01-25T10:05:00.001+08:00

A'Famosa Resort, is rated by many as the region's foremost leisure and holiday resort. Situated on a 1300-acre site in Alor Gajah, surrounded by rolling hills and a lush countryside, A'Famosa is a dream getaway which will entice your senses, calm your nerves and leave you totally refreshed and rejuvenated.

One of the best things about A'Famosa is its strategic location off the North-South Highway- just half an hour's drive from historic Malacca city, 45 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and about an hour from Kuala Lumpur. The resort is also extremely popular with Singaporeans as it only takes two hours by road to go there from the Lion City. An alternative mode of travel is via rail, alighting at the Tampin Railway Station which is just a 10-minute taxi ride away.

Rightly touted as a one-stop destination for business and pleasure, A'Famosa offers an international championship 27-hole golf course, the highly-acclaimed Animal World Safari,Water World Theme Park, Equestrian Club, Resort Hotel, Villas, Condotel, excellent conference/banquet facilities and much more. It's one of the few resorts in this region that can truthfully claim to have 'something for everyone' regardless of age, whether you're an avid golfer, animal lover, watersports enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a blissful, worry-free escape from the hustle and bustle of modern city living.

Personally, I have never stayed at A'Famosa Resort before but I always see whilst travelling along the North-South Highway. The golf course looks well maintained and golfers are always sighted whilst the water park is usually busy. I may very well try out the place this year.

Currently, A'Famosa is offering the Prosperity Package (I wonder why they all call packages prosperity packages because they don't really mean a thing) at RM98.00 per person for 2 Days 1 Night stay complete with set breakfast, animal world safari and carnival. Click on the photos to transport you to their website!

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Melaka , Travel

The Federal Kuala Lumpur - Prosperity Deal

2007-01-18T11:37:00.000+08:00

Federal Hotel Kuala Lumpur must be one of the oldest hotels in Kuala Lumpur which is still in operation today. It was built in time for the Independance Day in August 1957 and is located along the famed Jalan Bukit Bintang where great shopping deals take place.

This charming hotel which has been refurbished not too long ago is located next to bbpark, an outdoor entertainment and alfresco dining experience with amongst others, Bangkok Jam Thai Restaurant & Bar, Outback Steakhouse, Tea Houses, Open-air Bars and Wine Bars, souvenirs, art and handcrafts, with outdoor performances amidst palm trees and gardens.

bbpark leads you to the doorstep of Plaza Low Yat Shopping Centre comprising an extensive computer, electronics & telecommunications retail and wholesale hub, 3 floors of fashion, beauty and jewellery, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving sushi, health food and home made specialties. Plaza Low Yat Shopping Centre is also known locally as THE I.T. shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur and many locals as well as tourists get the latest gadgets and gizmos here.

Just a short walk is Sungei Wang Plaza Shopping Centre and BB Plaza Shopping Mall and the nearby Batik Malaysia Berhad Retail outlet, where you can get fine Malaysian Batik. Further along is Bintang Walk, Lot 10, KL Plaza with Planet Hollywood and Starhill, with the Louis Vuitton mega store.

Across from the Hotel is the busy and bustling 24-hour Jalan Alor, Hawker & Street food paradise. Lots of food to choose from over here especially if you wish to sample great Malaysian hawker fare in one street.

Imbi Road is famous for a host of speciality restaurants and quaint eateries and Times Square Shopping Centre. Changkat Bukit Bintang is home to brasseries, trattorias, bars, taverns, wine shops and the unpredictable NO BLACK TIE for live music from jazz to classical.

Nearby Banks include RHB Bank, Utama Bank, Maybank Headquarters, Hong Kong Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Bank Bumiputera Commerce, EON Bank. AMODA Office Tower with Bankers' Club and Airlines Offices. The Petronas Twin Tower at KLCC, Menara Kuala Lumpur or KL Tower, Central Market and Chinatown are within easy reach.

All in all, Federal Hotel is an ideal hotel for those wishing to explore the Kuala Lumpur city centre on foot. There are even foot massage parlours along the same street as the hotel to give the weary shoppers are well-needed time of relaxation after the shopping frenzy.

In conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year in February, Federal Hotel Kuala Lumpur is offering rooms from RM198++ per night inclusive of a fruit basket and breakfast.

Technorati Tags: VMY2007, Malaysia, Travel, Hotel, Federal, Kuala Lumpur,
City, Accommodation

Kinabalu Park

2007-01-09T11:29:00.000+08:00

I miss Kinabalu Park. I used to stay in Kota Kinabalu in the years 1982 and 1983 with my last visit in 2003 and I had fond memories of family trips up to Kinabalu Park. Kinabalu Park is located about 1,500 metres above sea level and is the starting point for those intending to climb Mount Kinabalu, one of the highest mountains in South East Asia. At the park, however, visitors get to enjoy cooling temperature of between 13 to 20 degrees whilst feasting their eyes on the flora and fauna. There are trails to follow or just simply take a stroll and breath the fresh mountain air.

There are many types of accomodation available ranging from hostels to chalets to hotels. We used to stay in the chalets in the picture immediately above which come with a fireplace and I fondly remember my excitedness with going to collect some firewood conveniently placed in a basket outside the chalet to be used as fuel for our fireplace. The older men would gather round the table for a round of poker whilst the whilst the womenfolk would cook up a storm in the kitchen. Having a steaming piece of bread dunked in chicken curry at that kind of weather in front of the fireplace is an experience never to be forgotten.

Kinabalu Park is well-connected by a road and approximately 2 hours' ride from Kota Kinabalu. For those interested in climbing up Mount Kinabalu (for which a certificate of achievement will be given by the authorities), a permit will be required from Sabah Parks.

Visit Sutera Sanctuary Lodges for more details on accomodation rates which start from RM46 nett per person.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Sabah , Travel

Vistana Hotel, Kuantan - From RM145++

2007-01-08T16:28:00.000+08:00

Hotel Vistana is a 4-star hotel located in Kuantan belong to the YTL Group. This is my review which was published in my personal blog on 17.08.2006.

I reached Kuantan at 6.15pm. That's 3 hours' drive with a short 10 minutes stop at the Temerloh R&R. I quickly found myself at Vistana Hotel located along Jalan Teluk Sisek. Jalan Teluk Sisek takes you to Teluk Cempedak, the famed beach in Kuantan where Hyatt Regency is located.

Anyway, check-in was quite a breeze but the receptionist kept calling me by my middle name rather than my surname. Not once but 3 times. The keycard system was not working at that time and one supervisor brought me to the room with a special card to open the door.

Hotel room corridor. I like the lamps.

The hotel looks really spick and span. Room corridors exude a nice boutique hotel look and I quite like the carpet design.

The room decor is minimalist and zen-styled. In other words, clean lines everywhere. Not a single picture frame in sight. Which is fine with me considering some ugly looking pictures I have seen in some hotel rooms. The decor is mainly light beech coloured and the colour scheme is pleasing to the eye.

The room comes with one king-sized bed and one day bed. The day bed is useful for reading, as I found out that night when I was reading my files. Why was I using it? Well, the table lamp was not working, that's why. I could not be bothered to get the housekeeping to sort it out.

The reading desk is actually a long piece of table which also double up as a television cabinet. You get your usual selected Astro channels with terrestrial channels here. The only stationery you get is a note pad (probably 5 sheets) and a ball pen. No envelopes and such.

You do get a box of matches with ash-tray though. But I wonder....I requested for a non-smoking room and yet, they give this smoking facility???

There is the usual complimentary coffee and tea and yes, the electric kettle is working well. No unsightly calcium deposits on the heating element. The minibar is only stocked with a couple of cans of soft drinks.

An electronic mini-safe is available for guests in case they decide to bring their family heirloom with them on their travels. Clothes hangers are ample and sufficient and you are also provided with a shoe mitt to polish your shoes before that important meeting or before attending Court. Ha!

Oh yes, I must not forget the bathroom. Now, the bathroom has always been one of the places a guest checks out upon checking in. First impression matters. It is always nice to be using a pleasantly looking, functional and luxuriously stocked bathroom. Vistana did reasonably well.

Simple and elegant

You get to use a modern styled wash basin and the taps are working fine...including the shower. I've been to hotels where the shower is nothing but a bigger version of the household tap. Gives you a headache or head massage, whichever way it suits you. Anyway, a hairdryer comes in handy here.

How about the view? No, since this is a hotel located in town, you don't get the view of the beach. I was staying on the second floor and what I had was this.

Rooftop view with sunset

The morning buffet breakfast is unfortunately, disappointing. Lack of variety considering that this is a 4-star hotel in comparison with some other hotels of similar ranking.

Would I come back to stay at Vistana Hotel, Kuantan? Definitely. The room is much better in cleanliness and comfort compared to M.S. Garden Hotel. It could do with some improvements such as using feathered pillows (instead of fibrefill pillows) and having face towels available. Oh yes, the buffet breakfast needs a real revamp.

Currently, Vistana Hotel's rates start from RM145++ for superior room without breakfast and without the day bed shown above.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Kuantan , Travel

Pangkor Island Beach Resort - From RM160.00 Nett

2007-01-05T09:41:00.000+08:00

Pangkor Island Beach Resort located on an unspoilt tropical island of Pangkor, on the west of Peninsular Malaysia, is surrounded by 73 acres of lush tropical Jungle, exotic land and marine life. On this private enclave, it offers 1.2 kilometres of white sandy beach with inviting emerald green sea.

In attractive low rise Malay-style architecture, this recently refurbished 258 rooms resort inclusive of suites spans across a cluster of private villas, the premier Ocean Wing, Pacific Wing and Garden Wing The newly renovated villas is an epitome of a traditional Malay village, sited on one end of the bay along the undulating slope covered with tropical jungle, with the sea front right on its doorstep. Each of the villas offer commanding vista of the sea and is luxuriously furnished with a large day bed fringing the bay windows, deep sunken bath and an oversized outdoor shower, surrounded by tropical jungle.

You will appreciate the harmony of nature, displayed throughout the 73 acres of lush tropical jungle and its 1.2km of sun-soaked beach. The sandy coves are perfect for sunbathing, the crystal clear sea is a joy for snorkelling, whilst the nearby islands with an abundance of exotic fish are great for the fishing enthusiasts. The expansive beachfront is excellent for sunset cocktails or an outdoor barbecue. Whether it is an early morning walk, a sunset stroll or a mid-night swim, its sheer beauty will enchant you.

Now, Pangkor Island Beach Resort offers you a deal which you cannot miss from RM160 nett per night. A client of mine was raving about how much she enjoyed the resort together with her family and told me she would definitely want to revisit this resort again. My last trip to Pangkor was 7 years ago wherein I stayed at Teluk Nipah. With such a good deal being offered by Pangkor Island Beach Resort, I might just go there again.

Click on any of the pictures above or the link to take you to the resort's homepage or to see other packages being offered.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Pangkor , Travel

Westin Kuala Lumpur - Special Offer

2007-01-04T15:05:00.000+08:00

The Westin Kuala Lumpur is the epitome of personal renewal, and a contemporary five-star hotel in Kuala Lumpur’s bustling Jalan Bukit Bintang. All 384 rooms, including 23 suites and 68 1- bedroom and 2-bedroom Executive Residences, feature the plush, all-white signature Heavenly Bed®. Whilst unwinding in your room, enjoy the views of either the spectacular KLCC Twin Towers or the historical city of Kuala Lumpur.

Retreat to the Executive Residences for fully equipped apartments tailored toward longer stays. With a separate entrance from the main lobby for that element of added privacy, each apartment features contemporary furnishings, a well-equipped kitchen, exquisite home entertainment system, separate study and workstation with High Speed Internet Access.

The signature Heavenly Bed® and Heavenly Shower(SM) have been reviewed by many and touted to be amongst the best in the hotel industry. Just imagine having shopped to your heart's content at the shopping centres in Bintang Walk - Starhill, Lot 10, KL Plaza, Sg Wang Plaza and BB Plaza and coming back to the room for a powerful invigorating shower and then sinking yourself to plush bedding on the Heavenly Bed®!

Currently, Westin Kuala Lumpur offers the Discovery Package where for just RM350++, you get to try your hands at creating your own pewter dish just like the pewtersmiths of old. The package includes:

Complimentary daily shuttle service, at 10am or 1pm, to the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre. Pick-up and drop-off at The Westin KL's doorstep.
A 40 % discount on the School of Hard Knocks pewtersmithing workshop* at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre. Pay just RM 30 (normal price RM 50).
Complimentary Breakfast Adventure for two at The Living Room.
Complimentary daily newspaper.
Late check-out from Westin KL till 4pm, subject to availability.

* At the end of the School of Hard Knocks workshop, you get to keep your masterpiece along with your ‘apprentice’ apron and you will also receive a certificate to attest to your new found skills.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Kuala Lumpur , Travel

Hilton Kuching

2007-01-03T09:52:00.000+08:00

If you are looking for a good city hotel to stay whilst in Kuching, Sarawak, you should consider the Hilton Kuching. It is probably the best hotel in Kuching right now with 4-star rating. Though it is 4-starred, I think it is not far off from a 5-starred hotel. This hotel fronts the riverside promenade and offers a great view of the Sarawak River with its "tambang" - river sampan ride.

The Hilton Kuching is within walking distance of Tua Pek Kong Temple, and approximately seven miles from Kuching International Airport. This location is less than half a mile from the Chinese History Museum, Fort Margherita, and the Sarawak Museum.

Hotel amenities include the gym, rooftop pool, floodlit tennis courts, sauna and steam bath, massage treatments, tropical gardens, kids' pool and mini-playground, Toh Yuen (traditional Chinese restaurant), Waterfront Cafe (informal restaurant with views of Sarawak River and Fort Margherita), Matang Terrace, Steakhouse, and Mizube (sushi and oyster bar).

The hotel also offers room service, concierge assistance, babysitting, valet laundry service, a business center, banquet facilities, express checkout, on-site shopping, and 24-hour front desk service. All rooms feature satellite TV, Internet connections, minibars, tea and coffee making facilities, bathrooms telephones, hairdryers, desks, and safes. {source}

As I was saying, this hotel gives you a good starting point to explore the city due to its excellent location. Just take a stroll along the Main Bazaar which is just to the left of the hotel and you will see some pre-war buildings which are still maintained to good condition till today. These buildings / shops sell some of the best handicrafts available in Kuching - wood-carvings, pua kumbus, rattan mats, etc. The well known art gallery of Ramsay Ong is also situated around the corner.

Currently, rates start from USD43.00 to USD51.28 per night.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Hilton , Travel

The Regent Kuala Lumpur - Super Saver Rates

2006-12-28T16:22:00.000+08:00

The Regent Kuala Lumpur is ideally located opposite KL Plaza and Starhill Shopping Centre on Jalan Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur. If you stay here, you can shop to your hearts content because Lot 10 Shopping Centre, Sg. Wang Plaza and BB Plaza are also just a stone's throw away.

Boasting 468 rooms over 19 floors, the rooms are well-furnished and luxuriant. Every room features individually controlled centralized air-conditioning, hands-free telephone with two IDD lines and a bathroom extension with voice mail, in-room safe, television with in-house movies, CNN, ASTRO and multi-channel music and radio selections, mini bar units, computer ports, and in-room facsimile facilities. All guestrooms and meeting rooms are equipped with Broadband High Speed Internet Access.

The Regent Kuala Lumpur also boasts an award winning Chinese Restaurant - Lai Ching Yuen. However, if you are not much of a "hotel food" kind of person, there are ample restaurants and hawker stalls nearby giving you the full gastronomic adventure of Malaysia.

The hotel would not have been surviving for so many years in the competitive hotel business in Malaysia, particularly Kuala Lumpur, if not for its service and comfort to its guests. Testimony to this is the hotel winning the 2005/2006 Hospitality Asia Platinum Award for Service Excellence.

Currently, based on my internet search, rates are available from as low as RM225++ or USD79 onwards. For a 5-star rated hotel in the best of locations at the Bukit Bintang Triangle, that's a very good deal, I would say.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Kuala Lumpur , Travel

Berjaya Langkawi Beach and Spa Resorts

2006-12-27T10:12:00.000+08:00

I've always wanted to visit Langkawi. My sister used to study there at a college in Pantai Cenang and she did have a good time there. I must go to Langkawi and perhaps, next year being Visit Malaysia Year 2007 would be a good time. It would be great to get there, rent a car and drive around the island to visit the famous spots always mentioned in history books.

Situated in the state of Kedah, the Langkawi Archipelago is actually made up of 104 islands, the largest being Langkawi Island. A perfect hide-away for those seeking the rejuvenating experience of relaxing amidst tropical greenery and sun-soaked beaches, the island has been promoted as a holiday paradise and a duty-free port since 1987.

The charming island of Langkawi, rich with legends and folklore, historical landmarks, luscious greenery, scenic lakes and many others, form the ideal backdrop for Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort.

The spectacular Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort is located in Burau Bay on the island of Langkawi, approximately 15 minutes drive from the airport. Traditional Malaysian-style chalets and suites spanned over 70 acres of land set in a 5-million rainforest fronting the ocean with sun-kissed beaches. All 502 rooms and suites are beautifully decorated and furnished with modern amenities. Enjoy a scrumptious variety of local and International cuisine and endless fun with exciting indoor, outdoor as well as water-sports activities. [source]

Apparently, the Berjaya Langkawi Beach & Spa Resort is one of the best and popular amongst the numerous hotels under the Berjaya group. Current promotional rates start from RM320 nett per night for 2 persons with breakfast. Click on the pictures above to take you direct to the hotel's website.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Langkawi , Travel

Holiday Inn Resort Damai Beach, Sarawak

2006-12-26T12:07:00.000+08:00

Nestled away in Teluk Bandung, Santubong which is a 40 minutes drive from Kuching, Sarawak is the famed Damai Beach. There are three international-class resort hotels here, one of which is the Holiday Inn Resort Damai Beach, which belongs to the InterContinental Hotels Group. Amongst the three, the Holiday Inn Resort Damai Beach is also the oldest and I think, the best.

Holiday Inn Resort Damai Beach sprawls over 90 acres of prime sea-front land, framed by lush tropical forests with a view of the legendary and majestic Mount Santubong in the foreground which lends an air of mystery to this place.

Apart from the usual beach hotel facilities like swimming pool and water sports, there is also an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course nearby - The Damai Golf and Country Club for those who can't leave their golf clubs behind.

Sarawak is rich in its culture and diversity in the many native tribes living harmoniously in this Land of the Hornbills. Just adjacent to this resort is the award winning Sarawak Cultural Village where visitors can experience the culture and lifestyle of the main races and tribes living in this state. This living museum conveniently potrays the respective lifestyle of the major racial groups amidst 14 acres of equatorial vegetation. I personally have visited the Sarawak Cultural Village 4 times already! So, there is much to see and do over here in Damai.

There are many types of rooms available at Holiday Inn Resort Damai Beach. Pick your choice of pool side rooms, family rooms, balcony type rooms, Bidayuh-Baruk suites (where the rooms are styled after traditional Bidayuh / Baruk houses) and garden view rooms. I onced stayed at their garden chalets (beach front) and really enjoyed my stay there. It has all the luxuries of a 4 star rated hotel but retaining a natural kampung style decor which brings you back to nature.

For food, you might want to check out the nearby fishing village of Kampung Buntal for some great tasting seafood. There are many seafood restaurants there and some of them are built on stilts to enable you to have a good view of the South China Sea.

A search on the internet revealed that rooms are available from RM175 nett per night. Click on the pictures above to take you to the hotel's international website.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Sarawak , Travel

Equatorial Cameron Highlands Giveaway Deals

2006-12-26T08:23:00.001+08:00

I have always liked travelling to Cameron Highlands...the famed vegetable and flower farm of Malaysia. It is also where the famous Boh Tea plantation is located. Yet, despite my trips there so far, I have not stayed overnight. I haven't figured out why but I guess it is because those trips were more of a "tagging with parents" trip rather than my individual trip up there.

I have heard much about the Equatorial Cameron Highlands, which is touted by many as the best hotel up there on the highlands. Perched at 1,628 meters above sea level, surrounded by majestic mountains and gentle undulating valleys, Equatorial Cameron Highlands is the only resort situated at the highest accessible point of highlands.

Spread over 13 acres, the Tudor styled resort offers 240 attractive, self-contained low rise apartment suites and 270 superior rooms and suites in the hotel tower that offer breathtaking views of the highland landscapes.

The Resort is famously known for its capability in hosting events from company incentive trips to conventions and seminars. Besides the Resort's extensive recreational facilities and vast grounds, where telematches and scavenger hunts can be carried out; the Resort will also arrange trips to the "Orang Asli" settlement.

Currently, the hotel is running its Giveaway Deals from RM188++ wherein you will be given a Food & Beverage Credit worth RM88 for you to spend at the hotel's food and beverage outlets. That's a good deal considering that Equatorial Hotel's food and beverage outlets have always been known to dish out good food (or at least, that's what I experienced in Equatorial Hotel Kuala Lumpur as well as Equatorial Hotel Bangi).

Click on the hotel facade to take you to the hotel's main web site or click on the hotel room to take you directly to the rates in detail.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Pahang , Travel

Sunway Hotel Georgetown

2006-12-21T16:49:00.000+08:00

I stayed at the Sunway Hotel, Georgetown last December and was quite impressed with the hotel. The hotel is situated at New Lane in Georgetown, Penang and is a 5 minute walk away from KOMTAR. Whilst KOMTAR is in quite a pathetic state considering that it used to be THE shopping centre, there is still one supermarket there in case you need to grab something.

The room was clean and spacious and check-in was done quite fast. We were given a room facing the Penang Bridge...and a Hindu temple. The ringing bells from the Hindu temple was a bit of a bother in the wee hours of the morning though. Unfortunately, I think the windows were not double-glazed for sound-proofing. I won't blame the temple devotees but I thought the hotel could have been more thoughtful.

Anyway, just two doors away from Sunway Hotel are 2 restaurants / coffee shops selling great Penang hawker fare - Rojak, Char Kuey Teow, Prawn Mee, Fried Oyster (O chien) and such. We were there for one night only and could not find enough room to accommodate all the great food available.

Presently, Sunway Hotel is offering rooms from RM180 nett with breakfast for 2. That was what we paid for the last time we went. Breakfast was not too bad either and we had the luxury of using the club floor cafe (which was on the same floor as our room) with personalised service.

Click on the above picture to take you to Sunway Hotel's website.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Penang , Travel

Novotel Hydro Majestic Kuala Lumpur

2006-12-21T12:54:00.000+08:00

Novotel Hydro Majestic Kuala Lumpur is a new hotel situated in the vicinity of KLCC and comes under the acclaimed Accor group - the world's largest hotel and tourism group with more than 3,500 hotels and resorts in 90 countries. Located at No. 2, Jalan Kia Peng, this 28 storey hotel features 291 rooms, an executive floor, 5 Food and Beverage outlets, a fitness centre, spa and swimming pool. Situated in the popular Bukit Bintang shopping district and only 500 metres from KLCC, this hotel will be ideal for those in favour of shopping in Kuala Lumpur.

For the business traveller, this hotel will also be ideal as it is smack in the centre of Kuala Lumpur with the Putra LRT and KL Monorail within a close walking distance.

I haven't actually been into this 4-star rated hotel but being from the Accor group, I can expect good service and well-furnished rooms from them. The location will be a plus point as elaborated above.

Based on the latest internet search by me, rooms are available from a low RM178++ per night. Do click on the photo to take you to the hotel's site for more information.

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Selesa Resort at RM165 Nett for 2

2006-12-19T10:23:00.000+08:00

Selesa Resort is located in the gentle hills of Bukit Tinggi, Pahang amidst lush greenary and only a 35 minutes scenic mountain drive from Kuala Lumpur and 20 minutes drive to Genting Highlands. The quiet and serene location not to mention the cooling breeze is an ideal place for family retreats, business meetings and church camps. For the golf enthusiasts, there is an 18-hole golf course set on 150 acres of gently undulating hills, lush green plains and ponds.

Our church had its camp at Selesa Resort in 2003 and many spoke about their enjoying the cool mountain air and abundant greenary. Room facilities are basic but adequate. It is an ideal place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Selesa Resort is currently promoting its RM165 nett package for 2 in a superior room with breakfast. For more information, click on the picture above.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Pahang , Travel

Swiss Garden Resort & Spa Damai Laut

2006-12-19T09:49:00.001+08:00

School holidays are almost over. How about visiting Swiss-Garden Resort & Spa Damai Laut, a 4 star resort, overlooking the Straits of Malacca and Pangkor Island? Swiss-Garden Resort & Spa Damai Laut is a very private hotel with 300 well appointed guestrooms located on a 425 acres of natural rainforest and surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, wetlands and offers beautifully landscaped gardens and large open spaces with breathtaking sea view for guests who want to relax and enjoy a wonderful retreat to nature.

All rooms are equipped with amenities including High Speed Internet Access, IDD telephone, individually controlled air-conditioning, colour television with CNN International news service, Astro channels and in-house videos and an electronic safe in every room for personal documents and valuables. This resort is perfect for business or holidays complete with recreational fun. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with its own private balcony.

Swiss-Garden Resort & Spa Damai Laut offers a wealth of recreational options. Relax by the swimming pool, be pampered with a soothing Spa treatment, enjoy a game of tennis or squash or work out at the Fitness Centre. The centre comes complete with a fully-equipped gymnasium, male and female saunas, Jacuzzi, a steam room and Spa. Recreational and leisure facilities includes a free-form swimming pools, wading pool, board and computer games, children’s playroom, watersports centre and teambuilding facilities are available and a Convenience store.

Swiss-Garden Resort & Spa Damai Laut also comes with an 18-hole (Par 72) championship golf course and a driving range.

The options for dining and entertainment at Swiss-Garden Resort & Spa Damai Laut range from casual to cosmopolitan. All-day dining at the Garden Terrace offers local and international spreads. The Blossom Courtyard offers exotic cuisine from the Mediterranean & European, providing a perfectly cosy ambience. The Gayam, an open restaurant on the sea that faces the sunset offers selections of Seafood BBQ dishes and wide array of concoctions. The Nineteenth Karaoke Lounge offers a wide selection of songs. The Blue Chip Lounge is the perfect place to sit back and relax after a day long tours or a sightseeing trips with our coolest beers in town whilst being entertained by the hotel’s resident pianist or band.

I will be checking out the Swiss-Garden Resort & Spa Damai Laut at the end of this year as part of a trip to survey the facilities for purposes of our Church Camp next year. We have heard much about this resort and frankly, are all very excited about it. We expect to have 500 participants for the Church Camp next year and we are told by the resort that they can even accomodate up to 1000 pax!

Anyway, Swiss Garden Resort & Spa Damai Laut is currently offering its Damai Go-Holiday Extravaganza at RM598++ for 2 night's accomodation in deluxe garden view room with breakfast, 1 x set/buffet dinner for 2 adults (2 children eat for free; below 12 years old) at either the Garden Terrace, Noodle House or the Blossom Courtyard and free unlimited usage of non-motorized sports.

For reservations or more information, click on the pictures above.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Perak , Travel

Cyberview Lodge Resort & Spa Getaway Package from RM298 per night

2006-12-18T10:12:00.000+08:00

Cyberview Lodge Resort & Spa is an award winning resort and spa and is located in Cyberjaya (the I.T. centre of Malaysia). Now, it is definitely interesting to find an exclusive 5-star garden resort only half-way between the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the city.

The resort's highlight is the Sembunyi Spa which features 10,000 square feet of sheer relaxation! Indulge in a myriad of traditional Asean style body treatments, facials and massages or work out in the gym, swim in the lap pool, unwind in the hot jacuzzi, steam room and sauna or rejuvenate in the cold dip – it’s all here waiting for you! Truly a hideaway for mind, body & soul!

I've been to this resort twice for wedding banquets (one of which preceded with a garden party) and was amazed with the greenary, flora and fauna in this place. The resort uses timber extensively and is very pleasing on the eyes. Once you get to this place, you immediately go into a sense of relaxation. I am told that the rooms are great.

From now till 31st December 2006, Cyberview Lodge Resort & Spa is promoting its Tropika Room Package from RM298++ per night which includes chalet accomodation for one night (upgrade to deluxe chalet upon availability), breakfast for two, welcome drinks, complimentary entrance to Sembunyi Spa Wet Area (entrance to lap pool, hot jacuzzi, cold plunge, steam and sauna) and complimentary fishing and mountain bike usage.

Technorati Tags : Malaysia , Hotels , Accomodation , Holiday , Cyberjaya , Travel