Monday, 25 January 2016

Posted: 09 Dec 2015 04:48 AM PST

Now that Malaysia has become a regular destination throughout the year for me, I am making the most of the experience and staying at different hotels where possible. My last trip saw the opportunity to stay at the beautifully traditional Majestic Hotel in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Set on Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin opposite the old railway (KTM) station, the iconic hotel is nestled close by the famous and renowned Golden Triangle and is just about 10 minutes by car from KL Sentral train station. The original hotel was erected way back in 1932 and during that era was home to glamorous events, government gatherings and served as residence for many a prominent British colonial. Sadly the building was eventually abandoned and closed down in 1984 before being eventually renovated by YTL Corporation Berhad as a Luxury Classic Hotel.

Staying at the Majestic is like being transported back in time. There's a distinct contrast between the old and new wings -the former showcasing persian rugs, wood panelling and chinese lamps while the newer wing is sleeker and more modern with gorgeous marble floors and glittering chandeliers. We stayed in a junior suite on the 10th floor and the our room was spacious and luxurious with a separate lounge area. The bathroom at the Majestic is always a highlight for me as it boasts a gorgeous tub area with a TV screen atop the bath! As a 5 star hotel, there is of course a fully equipped gym, beautiful pool and a lovely (though pricey) spa too.

There are quite a few historic sights to be seen all within walking distance from the hotel. It's situated immediately opposite the old Malayan Railway Station and upon further exploration you'll find Dutch villas, clock towers and the National Mosque of Malaysia. I could've kicked myself for not dressing more appropriately as I unfortunately was not allowed to enter without wearing an abaya. The mosque does have abayas on loan for tourists and foreigners but entry is at specific times during the day. The hotel is sligtly far away from KL's more contemporary side but since I visit quite often, I didn't mind seeing another side of the city.

Must do's are definitely the hotel's high tea offering in the Orchid Conservatory filled with hundreds of pink and purple orchids! There was unfortunately a private function in the Orchid Room on the day I was visiting and so I settled for tea in the Colonial Cafe which is equally pretty and decadent. Give the Majestic Hotel a go in you're into tradition and want a taste of old schoolKuala Lumpur! SS

Photographs by Zak Khan & myself taken in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

#Travel: 10 Beautiful Boutique Hotels In Malaysia Worth Staycation ...

Posted: 09 Nov 2015 07:40 PM PST

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Ah, staycations. We love quick getaways, we love staycations, we love anything holiday-related all day errday. Even better when it has got a beautiful accomodation to boot, because it adds to the staycation experience.

If you remember, we've previously highlighted some unique Airbnb stays in Malaysia. Now, let's take a quick look at (what we think are) 10 beautiful boutique hotels in Malaysia worth staycation-ing at!

1. M Boutique Hotel

In 2013, Ipoh welcomed the M Boutique Hotel, an accomodation that prides itself in being a small, whimsical home away from home. Stylized compact is their signature, having taken great pain to infuse both Malaysia's Colonial past and modern urban décor. M Boutique Hotel 93 chic yet urban Straits Eclectic rooms, replicating much of the pre-war shop houses found in the Straits Settlements, with a wicked twist.