Hotelchain: Mandarin Oriental
Location: Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia
Classification: 5 star hotel
Official website: mandarinoriental.com/kualalumpur
Known as one of the best hotels in Kuala Lumpur, the Mandarin Oriental is right in the middle of it all. It is situated right next to the Petronas Twin Towers and offers stunning views all over the city. This five star luxury hotel offers classical luxury with excellent facilities and professional staff as you would expect from a Mandarin Oriental hotel. As said before, you can’t beat the location. Most of the main sights are nearby.
From the moment I entered, I knew this would be a great hotel experience. Attentive bell boys made me feel welcome. The lobby has a grand and luxurious feeling. They used a lot of marble and subtle lighting making the lobby a stylish one instead of an ostentatious one. I approached the very friendly front desk staff and they immediately guided me to the elevator as I was booked in one of the deluxe club rooms which meant I could check in on a separate floor. The club lounge at the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur (they say KL here ..) is located at the 24th floor. I would actually call this a ‘hotel in a hotel’ as the personal approach and extra facilities making this a unique experience. Staff remembered our names, knew what we liked and disliked and made sure we felt at ease at any moment. Nothing was asked for too much. As a club guest, you can enjoy a more private breakfast instead of the more busy breakfast downstairs. On top of that complimentary soft and hot drinks are available throughout the day and night, as well as an afternoon tea with mini sandwiches and pastries. At night, alcoholic drinks including several cocktails can be consumed at no additional charges and there are pre-dinner snacks… Although I wouldn’t call them ‘snacks’ as this actually is a small buffet with gratin dauphinois, mini pizza, chicken, etc. Definitely one of the best club lounges I have experienced at any hotel!
All the rooms at the Mandarin Oriental are classy and luxuriously appointed. Although I wouldn’t call the décor modern, the rooms do have all the facilities what I expect of a top five star hotel … but yes they can use an update. Our room had a great and iconic view as it was facing towards the Petronas Twin Towers. Bath room was not too large but did offer separate tub and shower.
There are so many things to do in and around the Mandarin Oriental KL. The pool for example is pretty large for a city hotel. The infinity pool offers stunning views over Kuala Lumpur and pool service was great. I forgot my sun creme in the room and they provided me with some straight away. They also offered ice water and some refreshing snacks. Most leisure facilities are located on the 3rd floor such as the fitness center which is located right next to the pool area. It is one of the largest fitness centers I have seen. Equipment is totally up to date. Did you know that they even have an indoor golf facility? How cool is that 🙂 Of course, a full spa/beauty center is available too. Prices are pretty expensive though for Malaysian standards but hey, you’re in a Mandarin Oriental hotel right?
We enjoyed lunch at Mosaic rated as one of the best all dining restaurant in the city and I liked the overall experience. Quality of the food was outstanding! Lots of variety and freshly prepared right in front of you. Great! There were several food station from which you can chose and each represents a different country. The dessert buffet was the best! So many things to choose from… Breakfast is served here as well by the way. The food options are endless and the quality is excellent! As a club guest, we could also enjoy breakfast at the lounge, but we chose to have it downstairs instead because of the variety.
The Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur is a great five star hotel in the middle of the city on a unique location. As always, service was top notch and every request has been handled with care. Highly recommended if you are looking for a five star experience in a great city!