Hotels & Resorts: Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown

Go Easy on the Pocket, with Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown

Text by SHAHIDA SAKERI Images by PACIFIC EXPRESS HOTEL CHINATOWN

Accommodation, without doubt, takes up the biggest expense when you travel, besides transportation. However, with careful planning, lowering the budget for places to stay might actually be easier than thought, especially with the ever-growing pocket-friendly hotels around the world. One such property is the Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown.

Owned and operated by the Pacific Regency Hotel Group, this property marks the Group’s second venture into the select service segment following the success of its first branch, the Pacific Express Hotel Central Market. Officially launched in late September 2018, and Gaya Travel had the opportunity to experience the hotel’s hospitality. Read on to find out about our thoughts regarding the hotel...

Location

Pacific Express Hotel Chinatown resides within the historic Fui Chiu Association Building at one of the oldest areas in Kuala Lumpur that pulses with glorious stories. It is conveniently close to plenty of attractions, and in fact, stands opposite to the entrance of Chinatown (Petaling Street), where guests can explore in search of free museums, hidden cafes and pubs, including bargain shopping. The hotel is also a mere walking distance to the Central Market, Merdeka Square, KL City Gallery, Masjid Jamek, Textile Museum and KL City Gallery. There are excellent public transport links nearby too: the bus stop is just outside while train stations connecting to the other areas of Klang Valley are five to ten minutes’ walk away. Unfortunately, there is no parking spaces on site; but in such a location, personal vehicles can be rendered unnecessary.

Rooms

There are four categories to choose from the hotel’s 211 rooms, namely Standard, Superior, Deluxe and Premier. All are modestly furnished, rather large in size and absolutely comfortable to stay in, especially after long hours of exploring the city. The Dreamland beds are also of good quality and the bathrooms are well-appointed with powerful rain showers. The rooms are also sound-proofed so that the bustling area’s night-time noise can be shut out. On top of these, the hotel has a room fit for those who are physically challenged as well, since it is designed with wheelchair accessibility in mind.

Food & beverage

The hotel’s only F&B outlet, Oochid Bistro, opens daily from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and serves substantial à la carte menu comprising Asian delicacies along with fresh fruits, juices, teas and coffees. However, should guests feel like varying their gastronomic options, there is a wealth of choices around the neighbourhood, including open-till-late food stalls and the popular cosy cafe called the Merchant’s Lane (https://www.facebook.com/merchantslane) that offer invigorating East-meets-West light meals.

Service & Facilities

The service at the hotel, be it during check-in or responding to enquiries, is attentive and seamless. In fact, the staff would go out of the way to orientate guests, making them feel warmly welcomed at the property. High-speed Wi-Fi access is provided to all guests, and on every floor there are ironing facilities and water dispenser.

Rates

The rack rates begin from MYR98++ per room, which is remarkably cheap considering the size of the room and location. The hotel is indeed one that has been done well and thoughtfully.

For bookings, please visit www.chinatownkl.com or call +6 03 2332 7713.