I arrived at the guesthouse around 7 a.m., and fortunately, after ringing the bell a few times, I was able to meet the host couple. I was really grateful when they kindly asked if I’d like to take a shower first. I didn’t hesitate—I accepted the towel they offered, and after a refreshing shower, I felt completely recharged.
The mixed dormitory with bunk beds was apparently quite popular, and they told me there were no empty beds left. Around the same time, a young Italian traveler who had just finished working in Australia also arrived. I could completely understand his desire to take a shower right away.
The guesthouse turned out to be cleaner and more well-managed than I expected. The host, Jake, and his wife Julia were both very friendly and welcoming, which helped me feel at ease.
Just downstairs from the guesthouse was a convenience store—KK, which seems to be everywhere in Malaysia. I bought a drink called “Plus 100,” which tasted like a mix between a sports drink and soda. While sipping it and looking out at the street through the window, a wave of fatigue hit me. I closed the curtain around my bed for privacy and soon drifted off into a deep sleep.
Later, I was able to do a load of laundry, something I’d arranged in advance with Jake. I had a small pile of thicker clothes that were difficult to hand-wash during my trip. Strangely, it felt almost anticlimactic that the entire wash and spin cycle took only about 30 minutes.
Before going to bed, I noticed that many of the guests had changed. It seemed rare for anyone to stay four nights like I did—most either stayed long-term or came and went after just one night. What surprised me even more was that every day, the nationalities of the guests were completely different. Yesterday, it was travelers from Italy and Russia; today, it was people from Germany, Spain, Thailand, and Japan. Not a single overlap.
Most guests were solo travelers like me. Their “energy levels” seemed to reflect their personalities, but you could definitely feel the need to connect with others. Being on their own all day, many seemed to explode with conversation as soon as they returned to the hostel. I was no exception. Outside, I was a quiet, reserved man, only speaking when ordering food or asking for directions. But back at the hostel, I’d get into long chats with people who were just like me. It was a surprising and fun realization.
Up until now, I had only stayed at this guesthouse on quiet weekdays, so I found it hard to believe the area would transform into a literal crazy night scene on Saturdays. Luckily, whether I liked it or not, I was so exhausted that I fell asleep right away.
The night before, I had explained my situation to Jake and Julia and asked if they could accommodate me a little after check-out. Thankfully, they kindly agreed to store my luggage and even let me take a shower before heading to the airport. It may not sound like a big deal, but such consideration for solo travelers is rare. It made me realize what a special guesthouse this was.
I had bought too many apples from a nearby market the day before, so I shared a few with them. They didn’t take it the wrong way—in fact, they were sincerely happy and grateful. I also gave them some instant coffee mix I had brought from Korea. I felt a little shy handing it over, but their warm, thankful reaction gave me a sense of comfort I can’t quite describe.
Looking back, I feel I made a really good choice with this place. I received many kinds of help, both big and small. More than anything, I think I was just...
Read more30 MYR for a night right in downtown in between Chinatown and Indiatown, nothing can beat that, especially for such clean, calm and comfy place. Beds with curtains, well appointed electric plugs, good internet connection, working air conditioned and provided towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and water bottle. Finally the manager is a very nice guy full of good advices. Thank you, you make Kuala...
Read more10 on 10 for nonee guesthouse and the staffs. Jakes and Julia never stop cleaning the hostel. The room is always clean, quiet and cool. There are curtains on all sides of the bed for privacy. I even got a complimentary water bottle and dental kit. Super friendly staffs. You can trust them blindly if you're travelling solo. There are lots of food options in the area. I'll choose this any time am in...
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