Review of Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur, by Chloe Govan

From hosting Grand Prix-going guests to the filming of Britain's Next Top Model, the Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur is a hotel that rarely sinks into its over-sized pillows and sleeps. Despite that, attentive staff will always treat guests as individuals, showering them with genuine, unforced hospitality.

The hotel's nationally renowned butler service won awards last year, as did its sumptuous spa, which secured the top spot in the country for three years running.
 
Here in the heart of the entertainment district, tradition and modern living meet. Lady Gaga rings out from the speakers of the latest nightspots, while Malay women parade traditional, colourful one of a kind fashions on their way home through the busy streets, Labels like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, the former featuring fashion must-haves inside bird cages, are all within walking distance.

A bridge links the hotel to exclusive mall the Star Gallery, which offers designer fashion, Asian art, multi-ethnic restaurants, and even Armani chocolates. Themed floors include one dedicated to women's health and beauty, making it a pampering fan's paradise. The unique fusion of east and west means that like the women of Kuala Lumpur, no-one shopping here could have a bad hair – or head-scarf – day.
 
From the shameless extravagance of the 5000 sq ft penthouse suite to the understated comfort of the standard rooms with their over-sized marble bathrooms, most budgets are catered to. The main lobby is ice-cold, offering a respite from the tropical heat, although by contrast the staff's smiles are genuinely warm. An additional lobby for suites and apartments produces elegant piano tunes, making any budding pianist feel slightly inadequate, but royally entertained. This area has large-screen PCs with complimentary internet access. Meanwhile the rooms themselves are spacious, elegant and equipped with every modern convenience.
 
The swimming pool and spa village, which maintain peace and quiet by banning mobile phones, are open to all and the sheer breadth of treatments make the hotel an obvious choice for high-maintenance ladies. Husbands might be advised to hide their credit-cards in advance, but it's a guaranteed haven for guests of both genders.