The Shangri-La (SL) has always been up there with the best but this time I was sorely disappointed with the buffet at The Lemon Garden restaurant... after being ushered to a table that was as too close for comfort with the thoroughfare of people I finally managed to move myself to a table that was a bit quieter (no help from the waitress who really could not disappear quickly enough before I had any chance to tell her I preferred to sit elsewhere, I got the feeling that perhaps she already knew it was a terribly situated table and did not want to deal with any fall-out). I am sure the SL F & B Mgmt could consider doing with a few tables less rather than packing 'em in like sardines in a can, what if someone mishandled their plates leading to crockery and food landing on some poor unfortunate persons head, what SL experience would that be ?!?! In any event, I've had better food at SL before, standards have gone down noticeably.
SL KL needs to pay more attention to maintenance in the common areas: the carpets are stained, dirty and worn, the lounge chairs looking atrocious, the wall papers are starting to need attention, some touch up paint here and there would be a good thing as well, windows not very clean at all (mildew or something causing green stains around the edges, especially outside the windows - time to get the gondola out and give all the room windows a proper cleaning) etc. etc... In room entertainment is lacking and out of date.
The crowds using the SL toilets should know where they are, the bidets are not showers or water fountains so I fail to see why some people insist on using them like they are...!!! Wet toilet floors and wet toilets are a turn-off and a health and safety hazard. So sad to say even the installation of non-hand held bidets has not done the trick here... honestly, I just don't know how some KL'ites use them and spray water everywhere from off their bums and soiled left-hand ... eeeewhhh what else do they touch with that left hand on the way to the sink before washing properly with soap !!! Suffice to say a 5-star hotel should have 5-star toilets 😕 Quite frankly, to cure the problem once and for all Malaysia you could remove all the bidets and replace them with eco-friendly toilet proof moisturising wet wipes (like baby wipes) and alcohol based toilet seat sanitizer's as well - there's an idea !!! A hell of a lot more hygienic than cleaning your rear end the traditional way, think about it.
I wonder why the SL Bellhops are so weak or unfit for purpose, I literally had to tell them to stand back and I did the loading and unloading of the baggages myself so that my bags and my car did not get further damaged...Please hire bellhops that have some muscle for heavens sake !!!
"Shangri La" is supposed to be synonymous with "utopia" or "paradise" even - I want to feel like I'm in paradise when I check in or visit so please restore that status...
Read moreAs a frequenter of the IHG and Accor group 5* hotels, I decided to give Shangri-La a go in part as I was attending an event at the hotel. This led to probably one of my top 5* hotel experiences in Kuala Lumpur. The other top experience that can rival this experience would be MO KL. So, what was so special? Exceptional staff whom were noticeably well-trained across all levels. This reflects on organisational planning and adds to reputation. Communication at time of room reservation to pre-arrival and during our stay was fabulous. Requests were met with clear communication.
The food offerings were also very, very good at the event and at the Horizon Club. This leads to a nice transition to the topic of the Horizon Club, the brand's executive lounge. The club lounge was well appointed in a classical theme with splashes of modern nick. Breakfast at the Horizon Club comprised of a buffet offering plus an a la carte menu. High tea was also available and this ran back-to-back with evening cocktails. In my view, that was the slight oddity that may be better off staggered in terms of timing. Evening cocktails were also accompanied by sufficient quality food that can be considered as dinner.
In terms of gym, the hotel has a well-equiped, modern gym that meets the needs of most individuals. A steam room, sauna and swirl pool as well as swimming pool are also available though I only used the gym during my stay. The area around the changing rooms and corridors that lead to it probably yields to a damp / moisture concern which may be a challenge to deal with due to design and ventilation, however the actual facilities are clean and well maintained.
Conference and meeting facilities are located in the basement; B1 and B2 levels. These are again appropriate and telling of a 5* establishment - I was very impressed by the chandeliers and majestic crystal lights.
Lastly and perhaps most importantly, the rooms! The room we patronised was very comfortable with top quality bedding as reflected by the high thread count. A pillow menu was available and the hotel delivered to our expectations! The room was equipped with a Nespresso machine, kettle, ironing board, safe, fridge/ mini-bar, slippers and bathrobes. The universal plug points, USB charging points (incl USB and USB-C support) were little touches that demonstrated the hotel is keeping abreast with technology-orientated travellers. Bathrooms comprised of a bathtub, walk-in shower, toilet and sink. The latter were spotless as were the towels and glassware. Quality Le Occitaine toiletries were noted and added a touch of class as they are still made in France (unlike many other manufacturers who have cut costs and moved onto China).
Parking is available on-site and complimentary for hotel guests. A free shuttle service is also available for hotel guests to travel around the CBD. The stops also...
Read moreAbsolutely outstanding! My recent stay at the Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur was nothing short of exceptional, and it exceeded all my expectations in every possible way. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm smiles and impeccable service that set the tone for an unforgettable experience.
The location of the Shangri-La is ideal, nestled in the heart of the city yet offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. The lush, beautifully landscaped gardens provide a tranquil oasis that makes you feel like you're in a paradise within a city. The grandeur of the lobby, with its elegant decor and sophisticated ambiance, immediately captivates you and hints at the luxury that awaits.
The rooms are spacious, impeccably clean, and furnished with a perfect blend of modern amenities and classic elegance. My room offered breathtaking views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline, which was particularly mesmerizing at night. The bed was incredibly comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, and the bathroom was a haven of luxury with its marble finishes and high-end toiletries.
Dining at the Shangri-La is a gastronomic delight. The variety of restaurants and the quality of the food are simply outstanding. From the sumptuous breakfast buffet at Lemon Garden, featuring an extensive array of international and local delicacies, to the exquisite Japanese cuisine at Zipangu and the fine dining experience at Lafite, every meal was a culinary adventure. The attention to detail, the presentation of the dishes, and the flavors were impeccable.
The hotel's facilities are equally impressive. The fitness center is well-equipped with state-of-the-art machines, and the pool area is a perfect spot to relax and unwind. The spa deserves special mention; the treatments were incredibly rejuvenating, and the therapists were skilled and attentive, ensuring a truly relaxing experience.
What truly sets the Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur apart is the exceptional service. Every staff member, from the concierge to the housekeeping team, went above and beyond to make my stay memorable. Their genuine warmth, attentiveness, and willingness to assist with any request made me feel like a valued guest throughout my stay.
In addition to the superb accommodations and service, the Shangri-La also boasts excellent event and conference facilities. The meeting rooms are well-appointed and equipped with the latest technology, making it an ideal choice for business travelers and corporate events.
Overall, the Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and exceptional service. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, this hotel offers an unparalleled experience that will leave you longing to return. I cannot recommend it highly enough and am already looking forward to my next visit.
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