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Regalodge Hotel Ipoh Malaysia : A quick review and Introduction of the BASIC factor
During our recent visit to Ipoh Malaysia, we stayed at the Regalodge Hotel Ipoh and this post will give a quick review / overview of our stay.
But first, we want to reveal for the first time – the BASIC Factor. An assessment criteria that Kate and I have devised for hotels that we’ll be staying in, in the future.
So you must be wondering, what exactly is the BASIC factor?
BASIC Factor for 2bearbear.com Hotel Reviews
The BASIC factor refers to different aspects of the hotel which we think (note : “we” refers to the opinions of the 2bearbears) are important during our stay. It may be a little quirky, but these are things that we feel are what makes a good stay, GREAT!
Do note also that for all factors, there will either be a score of 0, 0.5 or 1. Hence, the maximum point a hotel can get based on the BASIC factor, would be 5.
B – Bathroom. To make a stay excellent, a good bathroom and thus a bathtub is necessary. 0.5 will be granted to a room with a clean bathroom and 1 to a room with bathtub (and has to be clean and working!).
A – Ambience. This factor is relatively subjective in nature. In general, if there are no negative vibes, the hotel receives 0.5. If the vibe is good (i.e. it can be quaint, boutique, sporty, trendy, classy, luxurious, opulence etc.), the hotel receives a score of 1.
S – Service. For us, friendly service with an eye for detail will make your stay that much more wonderful. Hotels with good service receives 0.5 while excellent and impeccable service receives a score of 1.
I – Infinity Pool. To clarify, it need not be “infinity pool” per se. As long as there’s a swimming pool, the hotel receives 0.5. An excellent pool (pool with a view, sky pool, infinity pool, huge pools) receives a score of 1.
C – Comfort. It is important for guests to feel rested after their stay and this is attributed very much to the comfort of their stay. A clean and decent room affords 0.5 while an extremely comfortable stay (beds that makes you want to lie in it after check-out timing) affords a score of 1.
And with the introduction of the BASIC factor for hotel assessments, we’re gonna introduce the Regalodge Hotel in Ipoh Malaysia!
Regalodge Hotel Ipoh Malaysia Review
We chose Regalodge because of its close proximity to the historic buildings of Ipoh, walking distance to great food joints as well as the relatively good reviews of the hotel at Agoda.com
Regalodge Ipoh Superior Room
Our overall stay at the Regalodge Ipoh was pleasant though we found the room to be a little small. Hence, the overall BASIC factor score for Regalodge Hotel Ipoh is…2.5
B – 1. Bathroom comes equipped with a bathtub.
A – 0.5. Inviting room and general atmosphere at the hotel. No “wow” factor though.
S – 0.5. Service was normal. Met with a little delay at the reception while checking in but was met with smiles at that.
I – 0. No swimming pool at the hotel though there’s a spa pool if you visit Regal Spa.
C – 0.5. Room is small but comfortable.
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Eastern & Oriental Hotel : Penang’s Grand Old Dame
Eastern & Oriental Hotel (also known affectionately as the E&O Hotel) is Penang’s most iconic hotel. Founded by the Sarkies brothers (who also founded Raffles Hotel in Singapore and the Strand in Yangon) in 1885, it was also known as “the Premier Hotel East of the Suez” due to its sea-front lawn spanning in excess of 800 feet and the hot and cold running water (yup, it was a symbol of luxury in those days). Thanks to the great folks of E&O Hotel (a huge shout-out to Eileen!), we were hosted to 2 nights stay at the Victory Annexe Studio Suite right here at the iconic Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang!
As we were heading towards E&O from Rasa Sayang, we popped by Lone Pine Hotel (also under the management of E&O) for a complimentary transfer.
We alighted at the heritage wing of the E&O and sure enough, the colonial and classy feel of the hotel dawned upon us as we entered the lobby…
After a prompt check-in at the Victory Annexe (too prompt in a sense that we were not formally introduced to the facilities of the hotel), we were shown to our lift. Walking along a hugely spacious corridor at level 8, we arrived at our suite…
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) Victory Annexe Studio Suite
As we entered the suite, the decoration and layout exuberated the classy vibe as we’ve had experienced at the Raffles Hotel Singapore. Our first gasp came as we laid eyes upon the bath tub…as the centre-piece of the entire suite, it is both functional and yet can be seen as a piece of art. The clawfoot bath tub, accompanied by a huge full length mirror, is certainly a lavish touch to the overall decoration of the suite.
There are also 2 wash basins for the lady and gentleman. How do we know that? The toiletries supplied at each basin was different. One has the shaver while the other has the shower cap. A cute little touch there 😉
As with all 5 stars / luxury class hotels, the beds are always inviting. At the Victory Annexe Studio Suite, you’ll get a writer’s desk as well as pool and sea view at your own private balcony…
Video Tour of Victory Annexe Studio Suite, E&O Hotel
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) Facilities
Swimming Pool
Both the Victory Annexe as well as the Heritage Wing have swimming pools of their own and guests are allowed to visit either of the swimming pools. We loved the Victory Annexe swimming pool (not only because of its proximity – ie walk less) but also because of the splendid views that it offers of the sea and the Malaysia Peninsula.
Gym
The E&O Hotel is currently in the midst of adding a spa to its premise (yay!). However, it’s business as usual at the gym and yes, it also has sea views as you work out on one of these treadmills.
Planter’s Lounge
Guests staying at the Victory Annexe also have complimentary access to the Planter’s Lounge. Coffee and Tea are available throughout the day while cocktail hours are from 6pm to 7pm daily. Do note that the Planter’s Lounge is NOT A CLUB. This means that it is essentially an area for guests to relax or have meetings. Hence, depending on the crowd, you may or may not be served when you visit the lounge. The other strange thing that we noticed was that there’s no signature cocktails served during cocktail hours (we ordered the E&O Sling at the pool). You would have to concoct your own cocktails with the given liquor and drinks 😉
Marvelous Views in and around E&O Hotel Penang
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) Breakfast at Sarkies
Breakfast at Sarkies starts from 6:30am to 10:30am while breakfast at Planter’s Lounge ends slightly later at 11am. There’s a good spread and variety of breakfast at Sarkies that ranges from asian (indian, japanese and malaysian) to western (patries, toasts and eggs). But for us, it was the overall experience of dining outdoors at the verandah, overlooking peninsula Malaysia and sipping over a nice cuppa while browsing the day’s news. Heavenly!
How to get to Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel)
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang (E&O Hotel) is located at 10 Farquhar Street, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia. From Penang International Airport it takes about 20 minutes (15 USD) by taxi and about 10 minutes (15RM) by trishaw from Komtar. If you’re taking a bus from Penang International Airport to Komtar, it takes about 30 minutes (3RM) by taking buses 102 and 401.
To sum up, we take a look at our BASIC FACTOR and the score for Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang, is a 4.5!
B – 1. Clawfoot bath tub. Need we say more?
A – 1. Classy, lavish, luxurious and colonial. All the factors of a heritage hotel.
S – 0.5. Like we said, checking-in was a little too “prompt”. More information could have been given at the reception.
I – 1. Splendid views from the infinity pool. Great place to chillax.
C – 1. Comfortable bed and pillows for a good night’s rest 🙂
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**Special thanks to Eileen for making our staycation at Eastern and Oriental Hotel possible!
Click here for the best rates at Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang!
Hard Rock Hotel Penang : Have a rocking good time!
Hard Rock Hotel Penang was our hotel of choice when we visited the Batu Ferringhi area of Penang. Thanks to the great folks at Hard Rock Penang, we were hosted to a one night stay at the Seaview Studio Suite with access to the Kings Club Lounge!
Hard Rock Hotel and Hard Rock Cafe Penang
Hard Rock Hotel Penang from the swimming pool
Receptionists welcoming us to a rocking good time at Hard Rock Penang
Hard Rock Hotel Penang Seaview Studio Suite
As members of the Kings Club Lounge, we had an exclusive check in there while we enjoyed some light refreshments. After getting our key card, we were eager to explore our Seaview Studio Suite!
Checking in at Kings Club Lounge Hard Rock Penang
As we entered into our room, “Oohs” and “Wows” started to sound from the both of us! We were particularly impressed with the size of the room, the huge bath tub as well as the awesome views from the balcony! From the balcony, you’ll be able to enjoy views of the swimming pool as well as the beach right next to the hotel…
Unbelievable views from Hard Rock Hotel Penang Seaview Studio Suite
Seaview Studio Suite Hard Rock Penang
Another view of the Seaview Studio Suite at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Inviting sofa that affords sea views in comfort
2bearbears comfortably in king-sized bed of Hard Rock Penang Hotel
A little pantry area complete with a sink, oven and fridge
Toiletries at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Luxurious bath tub in Seaview Studio Suite Hard Rock Hotel
Lyrics to Wonderful Tonight. Or is it? Read the lyrics carefully! It’s actually a message to conserve water!
There’s another thing which we enjoyed in-room…COMPLIMENTARY MOVIES! We caught 2 movies while we’re here; It’s Complicated starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and Steve Martin and Up in the Air starring George Clooney. Catching up on movies that we’ve not seen? Awesome!
Video tour of Hard Rock Hotel Penang’s Seaview Studio Suite
Hard Rock Hotel Penang Facilities
After checking out our stay at the Seaview Studio Suite, we decided to see what facilities Hard Rock Hotel Penang has to offer…
1. Rock Spa Penang
Our therapists at Rock Spa Penang
Outdoor treatment villas at Rock Spa Penang
Outdoor shower and tub for private villa spa
Indoor treatment rooms at Rock Spa Penang
The Rock Spa in Penang has won several accolades including the 5 stars rating by the Ministry of Culture Malaysia & Tourism – one of only two spas with this award in Penang. Kate enjoyed a Hard Rock massage at the Rock Spa (1 hour for 170RM) and indeed it lived up to its name as one of the most relaxing experiences in Penang.
2. Hard Rock Hotel Penang Swimming Pool
Kate at “beach” part of the pool with a sandy bottom
Fun water slides for the kids
Swimming pool at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
The swimming pool at Hard Rock Hotel Penang is one of the largest hotel swimming pools we’ve been to (second to only MGM in Las Vegas). There are 2 lap pools right in front of the lagoon deluxe rooms. A water slide , fun play area for the kids as well as the center stage pool. It was actually quite fun to swim from one end of the pool to the other. But you would have to get out and re-enter at certain parts of the pool in order to do so.
3. Kings Club Lounge
Kings Club Lounge Hard Rock Penang
View of the swimming pool from Kings Club Lounge
Savoury dishes during cocktail hours at Kings Club Lounge
Mini Tortilla Handroll
Rice paper roll with mango salsa
Mini crab cakes
Carrot cake , butter cakes and strawberry tart from Kings Club Lounge
2bearbear enjoying cocktail hour at Kings Club Lounge Hard Rock Penang
Kings Club Lounge privileges are only extended to guests stay at the Kings Club Seaview, Seaview Studio Suite, Rock Star Suite and Kings Suite. Guests may also enjoy these privileges at an additional RM150++ per room per night and RM75++ for the third guest.
Guests can enjoy the afternoon tea as well as daily cocktail hour (1 hour only) from 6pm to 7pm while enjoying the sun setting over the horizon…ah…
4. Hard Rock Cafe Penang
Live performance at Hard Rock Cafe Penang
Close up shot of Band Deviate
Nachos with grilled chicken (RM48) with a jug of draft beer (RM68) at Hard Rock Cafe Penang
As the sun sets over the horizon, the Hard Rock Cafe Penang comes to life with its nightly live performances! We enjoyed the performance by the band Deviate who were able to play songs upon request. In addition, the singers NEVER referred to any books, showing that they memorised ALL the lyrics by heart! These guys are really professional! Remember to request for “Smooth” by Carlos Santana!
5. Other facilities and things to do at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Pool facing Body Rock Gym at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Lil’ Rock Kids Club
Teens can also hang out at the Tabu Teens Club while ladies can spot a new hair-do at the Glamour Hair Salon. For the die hard rock fans, there are memorabilia located throughout the hotel. You can also choose to go home with a city-tee with a visit to any of the THREE Rock shops located at the premise.
As a guest, you are also given the a code to download songs from the online music store. You can also choose to play on any of the 12 fender guitars for free – well a deposit of 5000RM is required before you can lay your hands one of those beauties 😉
Last but not least, there are many beach activities such as banana boat ride, para-sailing, jet skiing and even horse-back riding available right at the beach front. Strangely, the sand in front of the Hard Rock Penang is really fine and comparable to that in Surfer’s Paradise Gold Coast. Hence, a walk along the beach should be in place 😉
Hard Rock Hotel Penang Breakfast
Breakfast at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
More options for breakfast at Hard Rock Penang
Yummy lamb curry with prata and murtabak
Healthy selection of fruits and vegetables
2bearbears with rice and noodles which were not bad
How to get to Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Rapid Penang Bus 102 from Penang International Airport to Hard Rock Hotel Penang
From the Penang international airport, we took bus 102 to Hard Rock Penang. The ride costs 4RM per person and takes between 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic.
Hard Rock Hotel Penang is located at Batu Ferringhi Beach, 11100 Penang, Malaysia
To sum up, we take a look at our BASIC FACTOR and the score for Hard Rock Hotel Penang, is a 5!
B – 1. Bath tub in the Seaview Studio Suite was HUGE!
A – 1. Hard Rock Hotel Penang certainly lives up to the HR vibe right from the start of our stay
S – 1. Service was good at Kings Club Lounge and at breakfast.
I – 1. One of the largest pools we’ve been to. Had fun exploring it!
C – 1. Bed was firm and the pillow was comfortable yet thick enough. One of our best nights rest at a hotel!
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**Special thanks to Sheryn and Karen for making our staycation at Hard Rock Hotel Penang possible!