Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa Penang: Rasa Premier Room (A Hotel by Shangri La)

The name Rasa Sayang is not unfamiliar to most Penangites, as it is one of the most, or rather, the most luxurious and highly rated lavish hotel on the island known as the Pearl of the Orient.

Located along the winding coastal road of Batu Ferringhi, this hotel has indeed stood the test of time with its existence since the early days and continue to strive to uplift its reputation.

Rasa Sayang is dear to the hearts of most tourists who love the island, and even to the locals, this is the pride of the island, with its beautiful landscape and the modest opulence yet maintaining the grandeur of this warm residence landmark which never fails to court many, including the locals themselves into its embrace.

Since undergoing a major facelift over the past few years (or decade), the hotel continues to shine as the local favorite landmark of class and luxury, and has even upgraded its facilities/grounds to invite their guests to indulge in their resort lifestyle and comfortable spa facilities designed to free their guests of the daily stress and bustle of their routines.

Named after one of the local favorite folk song so dear to the Malaysians' hearts, Rasa Sayang means "the feeling of love" and it is exactly this that the resort aims to achieve; to make their guests feel comfortable and loved during their stay.
From hotel to resort, Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa vows to fulfill the expectations of their guests to make them enjoy every moment of their stay, and to make them feel just like they would in the comforts of their home.

I have known this place since I was a kid, and it is definitely also a place dear to my heart. I loved to see that the efforts made by the management to uphold their standards and name, and that they remain as one of the most loved hotels/resorts on the island.

Sometimes it may seem weird that locals would book into a resident hotel; when they reside on the island themselves but it is a thing in the past as people are more experimental these days.
Also, what could be better than experiencing one's loved culture than to start with one's own background to be better spokesperson for one's hometown?

Furthermore, it is good to boost our own economy or tourism at the same time, especially with the rising costs of living these days.
Many may not be able to have the luxury to travel overseas for a vacation; perhaps due to financial, or the more logical is due to the logistics and work where they may not be able to go on a long escape and sometimes a weekend away is all they could come up with.
Local indulgence in a nearby resort could sometimes be the solution.
Also a resort like this, can even make one forget they are in the comforts of their backyard and just so close to home as the feeling is so much like being overseas yet enjoying the warm hospitality of home.

Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa was on my weekend list for getaway recently, having been there for a quiet and simple celebration with my hubby.
This is definitely not a paid review, nor an invited one as it was purely a personal visit and to check in for relaxation.

I was in for a pleasant experience, in fact, I enjoyed my stay so much that I almost forgot to take photos of most of my experiences.
(It shows how much of a vacation I truly need *grins sheepishly*)
At the same time, I was also in between being sick; a major virus which really bugged me for more than a month.

There are two wings in the resort; the Rasa Wing and the Garden Wing.

The Garden Wing has been recently refurbished and offers families a great view of the natural greenery of the gardens, pool and even the sea, as its name suggests.

The Rasa Wing, is a more private and exclusive part of the resort, offering more privacy to the guests on the other side of the resort.



There is another lobby for the Rasa Wing guests to check into, and welcome drinks will be provided upon arrival; a glass of refreshing nutmeg juice (a true symbol of Penang's favorite local produce).

The rooms in the Rasa Wing are more spacious; designed for the guests' comfort in mind and also privacy.
Guests in this wing are entitled to their own swimming pools in the wing too; which is restricted to mostly adults and above young adults above 16 years of age. They can also access the pool in the Garden Wing which is accessible to everyone including children.

The ambience in the Rasa Wing is maintained well; minimizing interruption and disturbances to ensure the comfort of the guests.
Children are required to be under the supervision of their parents/adults at all times for their safety as well.

The rooms in Rasa Wing are categorized into the following:-
Rasa Superior
Rasa Deluxe
Rasa Premier
Rasa Deluxe Suite
Rasa Premier Suite

There are sometimes seasonal promotional offers for these rooms, and there can be upgrades too.

I had the luxury to try out the Rasa Premier room; and I was truly spoilt to the very core, I mean, pampered with the luxuries of the space and the comfortable settings with all the complete amenities and facilities that I might as well have left all my toiletries back home.
(Technically speaking, I could still drive back to get some of my stuffs which I had forgotten, but Rasa Sayang just did not give me any reason to).







The King Size bed set up in the room was definitely welcoming and makes one struggle to get out of bed in the morning, even for someone like me, who is always excited to wake up early in the morning.
There is the turndown service and bedroom slippers will be prepared when guests go out for dinner, all compliments to the hotel staff who will go to make the effort to make sure that one can have a good rest when they are back from their dinner.
Water bottles will also be prepared beside the table; it is such a thoughtful effort from the hotel!

There is also a welcoming Fruits platter on the coffee table for the guests upon check-in, and while I thought this was only the first day, the resort surprised me by refilling it ever single day!
I love that they are taking such care of my well-being by stuffing with fruits, an act of kindness which I definitely appreciate :-)




The bathroom is another captivating factor, especially for me, for I personally adore large spaces for bathrooms. Okay, I can still deal with small bathrooms but the space, oh the space, leaves so much for one to even dance while brushing teeth, washing face or even in shower!



There is an automated sliding blind for the privacy while at the same time, offering that open concept to view the bathroom from the bed. It is truly a bold and romantic insight encapsulated within the premier room.

The spacious shower room; complete with three types, yes, you read that right, Three Types of shower to ensure that enjoyable shower experience.
It makes one reluctant to step away from the shower room, honestly, can they spoil us any further?



Towels are in ample supply, and there are so much space for storage and they were so thoughtful to even put a bench on the other side of the hand shower area.

Rain showers are always welcoming and refreshing if you really want to get one good soaking shower!

Toiletries are all carefully placed with much thought within the reach while one is in the shower room, and strategically located too.
There is still space left for the guests' own toiletries too, if one is not much into the idea of using other types of toiletries and more comfortable with their own.



Toothbrushes, comb, shaver, shower cap, cotton buds and pads, and even hair band is provided.
Is there anything else we need from home?
Of course, ladies definitely need their own bag of skincare products, but they have gotten the basics covered.

Dressing room/area is well-designed and located adjacent, or directly facing the bathroom.
There is again that spacious area and also the area is designed to be within its own privacy, clearly set apart from the rest of the room for one to dress up and get ready.

Lizard-motifs on the handles of the wardrobe and drawers rule the theme of most of the furniture in the room.

Fridge and Kitchen cabinet area

We definitely know the concept or meaning of the Tudung Saji, for its Malaysian roots but this is a good concept to introduce some of our local stuffs/trademarks to the visiting tourists.

A thoughtful idea, again, from the resort to promote the local culture to non-Malaysians.

Complimentary drinks and snacks stocked in the fridge for the guests, but non-refillable.

Still this is rather a rare gesture from our hotels, and I am sure most guests would welcome it especially when they wake up hungry at night.

Another interesting gesture from the resort is the use of glass bottles for the drinking water, an act to conserve the nature by recycling these bottles rather than the throwing away plastic bottles, which could amount to millions in a  year.

I love this idea, and the bottles too!

I applaud the resort for going to such lengths to promote and give back to the nature.

Note: Please do not bring these bottles home, cute and attractive as they are, for that would destroy the purpose of the conservation the resort is trying to promote.

A mini kitchen cabinet to store the mugs, drinking classes, coasters and spoons and again, there is still space for one to store additional stuffs.

There is also a large working desk with a wall-mounted adjustable LCD television, which can be oriented to face the bed and one can snuggle into the bed while enjoying their movies.
For the Rasa Premier room guests, there is also the complimentary request of movie DVDs from the concierge (based on selected titles) for viewing in the room.
The working desk is also equipped with stationery for the working executives, or those who simply have to work during their vacation *winks*



If you are not blown away by the space and the facilities yet, there is still more, for the Rasa Premier room has its own outdoor bathtub and a spa bath can be set up at the guest's request for only a minimal fee.

The private balcony and the bath is the answer to blissful indulgence while on vacation.



The room is not the only one with the space as the balcony is also offering a generous width for one to wander around while enjoying the serene scenery from the comforts of their room.
A comfortable couch is also available for one to relax in, overlooking the gardens.



There is also a dining table set on the balcony, for couples to enjoy dining or just chatting by the balcony.
A romantic dinner setting in the room can also be prepared on the balcony upon request.





Rasa Wing guests are privileged to enjoy multiple meals in a day, just like the Garden wing as well as Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa ensures that none of their guests would be left starving throughout their stay.
There is no time to worry or watch one's waist, though they have the gym for that reason, and the swimming pool and an assortment of physical outdoor activities.

From the welcoming drinks to the fruits platter in the room, Rasa Wing guests are also entitled to the pre-dinner cocktail treats which allows guests to indulge in a free flow of alcoholic cocktails, wines (red, white and sparkling/bubbly) and even juices, coffee and tea, along with an array of canapés or finger bites.

 

 

Available from 5.30pm - 7.00pm, this is bound to attract most of the guests in this wing for it is a nice time to relax in the Rasa Lounge while waiting for dinner.

The Rasa Lounge is only accessible to the Rasa Wing guests; complimentary and a dress code is also required where guests are requested to be in smart casuals while in the lounge.

The Rasa Lounge also offers complimentary non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day; starting from 7am - 11pm.

Afternoon tea is also available; complimentary to Rasa Wing guests from 3pm-4pm, with offerings of mouth watering pastries, cakes and sandwiches to tempt the guests' palates.

This is indeed indulgence at its peak, and the generous assortment of food is bound to stuff anyone to the fullest, leaving little space for dinner or any other meal after that.

I am a fan of afternoon teas, in that English garden setting and Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa just nailed the perfect afternoon tea right on the spot.

I enjoyed my tea, just like a tai tai would :-)

There are also free access to a wide selection of magazines and books for guests to browse through while relaxing in the Rasa Lounge, and one can definitely sit back and just will the time away with the quiet and peaceful settings in the afternoon or throughout the day.

Guests at the resort can enjoy complimentary buffet breakfast (International theme) daily at the Spice Market Cafe, and Rasa Wing guests are offered another option to have their breakfast within the more private and exclusive settings of the fine dining restaurant of Ferringhi Grill; which offers a semi-buffet and also ready to cook breakfast menu (preset) upon request.

Enjoy the serenity and quieter ambience in Ferringhi Grill one day, and also the merry surroundings and wider selection of the buffet at Spice Market Cafe on another.

Breakfast in Ferringhi Grill is a private and exclusive affair.

My personal experience is only based on Rasa Wing, and the Premier Room in which I stayed on my visit and enjoyed tremendously.

It feels so much at home, and yet truly pampering that I almost did not want to leave.

I enjoyed my much-needed rest and Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa definitely went to great lengths to spoil their guests and ensure that peace and relaxing environment.

I am sure this will not be my last time visiting them, and perhaps the next time I could try out the Garden Wing?

I had a memorable experience and am proud of my Malaysian, and also Penang hospitality delivered by this award-winning and luxurious resort.

It made me lose track momentarily that I was actually still in my own country!

It is truly a stay to remember, and I look forward to my next visit here!

**This is NOT a sponsored post, and it is based on my personal experience**

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Hotel Review: Hilton Garden Inn Anaheim

I have always been a fan of Hilton (and Marriott), and I have been a loyal member for years.
Therefore it is no surprise that my first stay upon arrival would be in the Hilton Garden Inn, one of the hotels under the Hilton brand.

The skies were dark although it was barely seven in the evening; and with the cool breeze outside, I was looking forward to the welcoming warmth in the hotel.
Checking in was brisk and it was a very homey ambiance in the hotel lobby.

The hotel still uses the key card system, but nevertheless, it is still pretty much the familiar sight of the cosy rooms in that good old Hilton style.





There is one thing about the beds and pillows in Hilton, they are always made to be comfortable and one can also request for the types of pillows as well in certain Hilton hotels and for their turndown service.

Hilton Garden Inn was a rather modest hotel; yet equipped with the basic amenities in the mini bar counter and also their bathroom which ensured a comfortable stay and staying true to the Hilton style.







Trust good old Hilton to engage reputable brands such as Neutrogena to provide the basic amenities from shower gels to shampoo and soaps.



While most hotels in US do not come with free breakfast, Hilton Garden Inn does in their own little dining area, with orders taken from the guests for pancakes, waffles, or eggs and served hot right from the kitchen.
There is also the counter where one can help oneself to the fresh juices, yoghurt, fresh milk, muffins and fruits, along with pastries.




While the breakfast choices are not as luxurious as the international buffet spread, Hilton Garden Inn still serve the good old American breakfast with the availability of the hearty favorites loved by the locals.








The hospitality and the environment are just Hilton and if that is not the reason enough, how about the fact that it is located on the same street as the Disneyland of Los Angeles, and there is free shuttle provided by the hotel to Disneyland?

Hilton, as always, is home and hospitality at its best!~




Note: This is not a sponsored post and I am not affiliated to the hotel. 
All comments are purely based on personal experiences and opinions and may differ for individuals.

Hotel Review: Park City Hotel at Luzhou

Accommodation is always the most important part, next to transportation when one is on vacation. 

It does boil down to the matter of individual preference when it comes to this subject, as there are always options from simple home stay to hostels, inns or luxury resorts, depending on the travelers and of course, dictated by an assortment of factors, from budget to location, cleanliness, security, comfort, and the list goes on.

I am fine with any option, and typically in our case, it depends a lot on the location, cleanliness and definitely security. When it comes to Asian countries, the location is vital as typically lots of traveling is involved which translates to the easy and quick accessibility to the modes of transportations available.

Park City Hotel is a family of hotels located almost everywhere in Taipei (or around Taiwan), as we could see that there is a Park City Hotel in different districts. We selected the branch in Luzhou, which was recommended by Trip Advisor, as it is located in a quaint neighborhood where the St Ignatius High School is. In fact, along the MRT line that runs along this part of Taipei, there are three other schools which are in this district. (So I am pretty much running along the school's line, literally so, each day as I take the train to and from the hotel).

With the MRT station and the location right above the St Ignatius plaza (the hotel is right inside this shopping complex; though not a huge one), there is no wonder that this is an extremely popular hotel among foreign and local tourists.

St Ignatius Plaza is located in the same building, and the MRT station is just literally underneath the hotel (take the elevator to the Ground Floor or the B2 for direct access to the station).
Located in the district of Luzhou, this area is termed as the new Taipei, as while it is away from the hustle and bustle of the busy metropolis, the area is still lively with the schools and her own local attractions making it a town of her own. Furthermore, the easy access to the main city of Taipei or getting around adds to all the attractions of Luzhou.
It is for this convenience factor that placed the above mentioned hotel in the recommendations of Trip Advisor.



The Hotel Lobby and a view of the outdoor patio of the cafeteria in the background


The hotel is a combination of both homey and business-like ambiance as contemporary art dominates the design of the hotel's interior, seen evident in the pragmatic furniture settings in the lobby's waiting area. In fact, to the left of the hotel, heading to the elevators to the rooms, there is a working area equipped with desks and magazines, and of course, free internet access.

Elevators
There are two elevators;
1)Access to St Ignatius Plaza - Hotel lobby is located at 6th Floor
2)Access to the guest rooms 

Access to Guest Rooms
The access to the guest rooms (from Level 7 onwards) are strictly monitored with the access cards activation at the sensor installed inside the elevators; promising tight security and a privacy to the guests staying in this hotel, not to mention a peace of mind.
I always look forward to the security features provided by the hotel, which adds to that appeal when staying on my vacation. After all, there is no such thing as being too safe, don't you think?

Hotel Rooms


The rooms are fashionably contemporary and gives that mixed feeling of business and leisure together (having stayed for business trips most of the time), but I can't say I am not liking the rooms which were designed with practicality in mind and at the same time, the clean and no-nonsense colors and placement of the furnitures just makes it really comfortable.
I won't say that the room is homey, to be exact, but it is really, orderly and systematic, in its own sense.

I am a fan of simple and fuss free contemporary designs, and I must say the hotel meets my requirements. In fact, I actually liked staying in this hotel, because it just feels like home to me.
While many may find it a little too business-like to a certain extent, at the same time, I find its clean designs is appealing to my tastes.



The open concept of the bathroom, with the glass window overlooking the bathtub where the slides are automated reminds me of the business hotels which I used to stay at frequently.


Basic amenities are provided and neatly placed within a black box on the counter from the entrance into the room.
Body and Hand lotion
Comb
Hand Soap/Bath Soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste kit
Shaving Kit with razor and cream
Shower Cap
Cotton Pads and Cotton Buds


Mini Bar Counter (All complimentary items, as there is nothing in the fridge)
It is interesting to note that the fridge is left vacant for the guests to fully utilize during their stay and it makes perfect sense, as there is a mall below the hotel, and just right beside the hotel is a 7-11.

Two bottles of complimentary mineral/drinking water
Coffee
Long Jing Tea
Green Tea



I loved how the hotel went to the extent of welcoming their guests with a plate of fruits and with knife and fork prepared on the coffee table.
It is this little touch which sets them apart and away from the other hotels, and I love how the hotel pampered the guests (yes, I like being pampered!)


I am glad we picked this hotel, and had no regrets at all; despite it being slightly higher on the price compared to the other options we could have had as the hotel was rated 4-stars.
The hotel compensated with the other facilities they offered at the price:
Gym 
Laundry room (you could utilize the washing machines and dryers available in the laundry room to do free laundry, lightening that need to pack so many clothes while traveling)
Free Internet Access (Wi-Fi)
Television
Hair Dryer
Free Breakfast at the cafeteria


With awesome views from my window, I am more than happy to call this my home for my entire stay in Taiwan~





Overall review:
Hotel Ranking: ☆☆☆☆
Location: Good
Accessibility to Transportation/Other Location: Good
Facilities: Good
Amenities: Good
Cleanliness: Above Average
Service: Above Average (this is no Marriott or Hilton, but the warm touch by the hotel staff who greets and bows when they meet you at hallways just speaks more than hospitality)
Security: Good
Price: MYR300 onwards (On the higher side)
Food: Good
Overall: Good

I would recommend this hotel if you are planning to stay in Taipei, or getting around Taipei as the direct access to the restaurants, convenience stores and of course, the MRT station just makes it the ideal location for travelers.