Review: Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
Sunset is the best time to be in the sky lobby of the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. With its 360-degree view of the capital's skyline, Malaysia's newest hotel offers an enviable panorama of the gleaming steel and glass Petronas Twin Towers bathed in a soft golden glow.
Sunset is the best time to be in the sky lobby of the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. With its 360-degree view of the capital's skyline, Malaysia's newest hotel offers an enviable panorama of the gleaming steel and glass Petronas Twin Towers bathed in a soft golden glow.
A sleek column of gold-tinted glass and metallic-coated white glazing, the 40-storey mixed development towers over its neighbours. Designed by WATG Architects it is a fine example of modern achitecture meeting Malaysian hospitality.
The interior of the five-star hotel is the work of Bilkey Llinas Design. Neutral earth tones form a backdrop for a collection of commissioned artwork.
This is Malaysia's first Grand Hyatt built to qualify for certification by the Green Building Index, and it may take some getting used to. Its minimalist approach may be seen as a tad uninviting, but the friendly staff more than make up for any lack of ostentation. They are always keen to chat, even run across the street to get you a copy of the or fill up a takeaway cup of your favourite chocolate chip cookies from the Grand Club Lounge.
The generous rooms provide privacy and an accommodating workstation for the business traveller. Spacious bathrooms, rain showers and a large island tub in the suites are highlights (although it does feel a little awkward stripping in front of the Twin Towers).
In a city known as a foodie's paradise, the hotel's three restaurants don't disappoint. While the Poolside Cafe sticks to staples, the top-floor THIRTY8 not only offers outstanding views but also comprises a restaurant with four kitchens, a wine bar and a lounge. It has open kitchens and chefs who interact with diners. The fried crab cakes with roasted bell pepper relish and rocket and the sushi and sashimi platters were some of the best I've tasted in the city.
JP Teres on the ground floor houses another open kitchen serving Malaysian cuisine. The popiah - spring roll filled with braised turnip, prawn, boiled egg and peanut - proved delightfully authentic. The Malaysian delicacy (wok-fried marinated beef in soy sauce, coriander, red chilli, lime juice and shallots) was equally delicious. Desserts covered the gastronomical gamut of Malaysia's simple sweets. No twists here.
The outdoor pool and cabanas offer a reprieve from KL's heat. And the 24-hour fitness centre has the latest equipment, personalised LCD screens, internet access and personal trainers.
The hotel's Essa Spa specialises in traditional Malay wellness therapies with healing ingredients from the Malaysian rainforests. My massage therapist was also a physiotherapist, which was definitely a plus.
The hotel's location in the heart of the city is its biggest draw. Connected by air-conditioned walkways, the city centre is minutes away on foot: Twin Towers, Convention Centre, KLCC Park, Suria KLCC and the bustling Bukit Bintang shopping district. Time may be your only obstacle.
High up on the 38th floor, Malaysian warmth goes global and eco-friendly, making your stay exceptionally pleasant. This is Kuala Lumpur's high life, redefined.
