Checking in to the Ritz for the first time is a pretty exciting time, and this did not disappoint. We were greeted heartily by the staff and our Ritz journey had begun.
Checking into the Ritz Carlton KL
Check-in was a smooth process- we had requested an early check-in when booking, but had not expected our request to be granted, given the F1 was in town and the hotel was booked out we had also arrived some 4 hours before the official check-in time! But the staff were fantastic and lead us up to the health club, offering for us to sit and relax while our room was made- we also had use of the male/ female only spa facilities, which included a sizable jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. It also had “relaxing rooms’ which were kind of like dressing rooms with lounges in them and rainforest music playing on the tvs… I’m not sure- not my thing, but certainly a nice touch for those coming in after a long flight.
The rooms at Ritz Carlton Malaysia
We barely had a chance to sit down before being ushered up to our room which had been prepared for our arrival.
The staff were constantly going above and beyond- more so than most 5-star hotels. They would greet us no matter what room we walked into and ask how our days was etc… For me this was uncomfortable, but I know a lot of people would expect this level of service and appreciate it.
I was asked by one staff member in the reception area “Excuse me, ma’am, what shall I address you as?” when I gave my first name she was clearly taken aback. I’m just not old fashion enough to understand the “ma’am” and airs and graces- But I must say it was fantastic to be greeted with smiling faces and genuine interest. If you are looking for amazing service, I wouldn’t suggest anywhere else in Kuala Lumper!
The room I booked was a corner deluxe room- which was their lead in room type. The room itself was spacious and full of light- the corner room really gave it something special- the view wasn’t too bad to wake up to in the morning too, with the sun rising slowly. I adored the room and the small touches that made it stand out, from the welcome plate of chocolates to the turndown service with a cookie, the weather for the next day and a complimentary bottle of RC branded water. (it’s as if the staff knew we would be suffering a killer hangover the next day- as they actually gave us a few extra bottles on the counter too!)
The bathroom amenities were of 5-star standard, but I have one small gripe. The containers they have everything in are made of solid plastic and do not allow for squeezing. The morning slapping noise trying to get moisturizer out of the tube is never an attractive one.
The grounds of Ritz Carlton Malaysia
I was able to check out the other parts of the hotel- the Residences were off-limits which was a shame, as was the club lounge and the library lounge (which is for the use of residence guests only) The Ritz also boasts several functions rooms including a designated wedding reception area. All of the common areas I was shown were of the same Ritz Carlton Malaysia standard and decor- creme accents and a touch of gold opulence.
The pool area is open until 10 pm, and was sizable and inviting. It is in the shade for most of the day, but given how muggy and warm the year-round weather is in KL, I wouldn’t let that put you off- it’s a welcome relief! There are sun lounges and the area is staffed as part of the health club area so there is always a helping hand for towels and anything else you might need.
There is a spa on-site offering various treatments, The couples treatment room includes a plunge pool and a private relaxing area outside. I was told this is very popular for honeymooners.
Nearby and around the hotel
The hotel is well connected to the Starhill shopping mall and from there it’s a quick duck outside to the entry to the Pavilion Shopping Mall. The downstairs area of the Starhill mall has a fantastic restaurant area. I can wholeheartedly recommend the Sentidos Tapas bar. For around $40pp they have an all you can eat Tapas menu (and I SWEAR it’s actually good!!!) and all you can drink Sangria (with no scrimping on the booze!) From the Ritz Carlton, you are only a hop skip and a jump to some amazing fine dining options in the mall, or sneak out the back for a bit of Hawker food action with a street of various Malay restaurants complete with plastic chairs and change from $10.
Rachel Cunningham is a Superyacht Chef and World Adventurer.
With over 110 countries visited in the past 15 years, Rachel wants to you to come along for the ride! Bring a bottle of rum, and a bikini, oh yeah, and your passport. You could end up losing all three items by the end of this journey!
Round the world Rachel takes you off the beaten track to beaches, bars and restaurants of the unknown!
