LOCATION:
On Jalan Pinang near KLCC. Right opposite the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. About 10 minutes walk from Bukit Bintang shopping area, or 5 minutes from Suria KLCC. The nearest Putra LRT station is at KLCC.

DESCRIPTION:
When this hotel was introduced a few years ago, it made quite a stir within the hospitality fraternity. The Ascott hotel chain is a well-established brand in the serviced suites and apartment industry, with properties spanning across the Asia-Pacific, the United Kingdom as well as the Middle East.

The Ascott Kuala Lumpur takes into form of a carefully-designed modern structure on Jalan Pinang. There 223 luxurious units in the hotel, ranging from Studio Premiere, 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom Deluxe, Executive and Premiere suites. I stayed in a Studio Premiere room, which I felt was quite nice but somewhat ordinary, as compared to the newer and trendier hotels that had since sprouting all over Kuala Lumpur. The bed was comfortable but rather old in design. The room is also equipped with big-screen colour TV with satellite channels, individually-controlled air conditioner, home entertainment package (DVD player and stereo), IDD phone,  lounging couches, writing desk and a kitchenette which comes with two-door refrigerator and microwave.

To me, the most remarkable feature of this hotel is the swimming pool, located at the Sky Lounge. The pool utilises a somewhat infinity-concept when seen at certain angles, with spectacular views of Kuala Lumpur skylines all around. The view is definitely fantastic at night when the city becomes alive with glittering lights. The Sky Lounge also features a private garden area with well-manicured tropical shrubs and sun-deck chairs (though it rained quite heavily during my stay!).

Other than that, The Ascott features personalised daily maid service, 24-hour room and concierge services, stringent security controls in the form of CCTV, regular patrols and electronic card access throughout the hotel, Aspara Spa, gym and fitness centre, etc.

REVIEWED ON:
November 2005, March 2006

MY VERDICT:
An epitome of luxurious living. Nice swimming pool. The room furnishing can be further improved.

MY RATING: