The Majestic Kuala Lumpur: Elegance At Its Finest
9:44 AM
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
You could say that the Majestic Kuala Lumpur is the grand old dame of Malaysia's capital; it was built in 1932 as a 51-room hotel and have witnessed many important milestones in this Southeast Asian country's history. After being restored from its 28 year closure, The Majestic Kuala Lumpur is now better than ever; with the construction of the very modern Tower Wing and a stunning facelift of the old Majestic Wing. It definitely gives you an insight of what this city has to offer: a beautiful mix of the old and the new.
Getting there
The trip from KLIA 1 to the Majestic Kuala Lumpur takes approximately an hour and if you have luggages with you, I suggest arranging a private car transfer as it will give you maximum comfort. If you're staying at the Majestic Wing, the butlers can arrange this for you.
Check-in
We were originally booked at the Colonial Suite but while on our way up to the room, they surprised us with an upgrade to the amazing Governor Suite! (for a person who adores upgrades so much, this was a huge deal, you guys). I would like to point out how fast everything were; all paper works were made inside the suite including room introductions and it was all done in 10-15 minutes. We had a total of 4 luggages and everything were sent to our room in no time.
We also noticed a personalized welcome letter from our butlers that we thought was really sweet of them to do. And I tell you, it made me feel at home at once.
We also noticed a personalized welcome letter from our butlers that we thought was really sweet of them to do. And I tell you, it made me feel at home at once.
Room
I personally adore how they decorated the place to a mix of modern luxury and with hints of neocolonialism; the beautiful glass décor at the living made the room appear bigger than it already is and the smart play of colors looks very unique. I also noticed how they kept the claw foot bathtub and the art-deco tiles; I tell you, it immediately sent me back to colonial Kuala Lumpur (and I think that's what they really wanted to do. huge plus: the retro music playing in the background! Imagine having a bath and hearing "The Temptations-My Girl" playing in the background. How amazingly wonderful is that?!)
I almost forgot to mention about the complimentary bar...Yes! the whole bar was complimentary! Which is an additional plus since I get lazy to go to the nearest 7-11 sometimes.
I almost forgot to mention about the complimentary bar...Yes! the whole bar was complimentary! Which is an additional plus since I get lazy to go to the nearest 7-11 sometimes.
Amenities
If you're staying at the Majestic Wing, the butlers can arrange a private car that would take you anywhere in Kuala Lumpur vicinity provided that you remind them 30 minutes before your desired departure. If you're in the city to go around, this is a smart move considering the very hot weather and if you're here for business (just like me), this private car transfers will give you ease if you're going from one meeting to another.
I have proven ever since my very first stay with YTLHotels 5 months ago that I end up not using my own toiletries because I have developed a deep appreciation for their choice of bathroom products which is a Malaysian social enterprise called "Mangosteen". Not only does their products smell good, but they feel good (I know, you know what I mean)!
Where to Eat
On our first night, we decided to try out the Colonial Café that has a menu that specializes in colonial dishes and because it has a menu that dates back to the good old years. If there's one thing you need to try, that would be the Hainanese Chicken Chop. I've read at the YTL Magazine over at the suite that it is from the chef's secret family recipe and was handed down to many generations.
Even though we can have our breakfast served at our suite, we decided to check out the buffet breakfast over at the Contango in the Tower Wing where the butlers escorted us nicely. The breakfast was okay, with a selection of freshly pressed juices and a wide array of continental food. Personally, it felt a little flat. Not that I want anything lavish for breakfast but I expected something more from the buffet choices.
Service
Before I flew to Malaysia, I knew it was going to be a mix of business and pleasure. I also knew that I would be asking so much from the business center for the duration of my stay and I'm not going to lie, the butlers were a huge life saver for me (and their butler phones, of course.) They took care of my schedule and every time I finish my meeting, there's already a car waiting to pick me up for my next destination. I was very thankful for this because the weather in Kuala Lumpur was a bit bipolar and waiting for a cab on a rainy day isn't really my cup of tea.
But what really stuck with me was their genuine kindness. For every single thing I asked from them (big or small), they went out of their way just to help. It was something that you wouldn't really see in other hotel chains.
Check-out
Just like when we checked-in, all the paper works for check-out was done inside the privacy of our room. In no time, our kind and helpful butlers were already pushing our luggages towards the Tower Wing where we will be taking our private car transfer to the Majestic Malacca. Everything was done under 20 minutes and I can say that's one of the fastest check-outs I have ever encountered.
Final Judgment
This hotel definitely exceeded my expectations; from room décor to their impeccable service. This is, without a doubt, the grand old dame of Kuala Lumpur (you can feel the Colonial presence almost everywhere in the Majestic Wing!) YTLHotels never disappoints, I tell you.
Photos by Passport Out
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