Regal weekend NST, September 5, 2013 As befitting its name, a stay at The Majestic is a magnificent experience, writes Intan Maizura Ahmad Kamal OOH, The Majestic... even the name alone is enough to evoke a sense of regal anticipation. It’s a grand dame in KL hotelscape, and an icon of Malaya’s boom years leading to World War 2, so a stay at The Majestic Hotel KL will surely be something special. There’s nothing like stepping into the past and into the folds of all that history. Its colonial heritage hits you as soon as you step out of your modern “carriage” and head for the entrance. A doorman, complete with white colonial uniform, knee high socks and a rather fetching pith helmet perched on his head, opens the door for you and inside the lobby, there are handsomely-attired workers waiting to greet you and attend to your every need. The hotel is divided into two wings — the nostalgic Majestic wing, which has a more classic appeal and the contemporary Tower Wing, the retro alternative. I’m staying in a suite in the latter. Much as I’ve been dreaming of descending the winding wooden staircase of the colonial-inspired wing, a vision in my flowing evening dress and looking refreshed after a languid afternoon cocooned in my luxurious suite, I am secretly happy to be “descending” to the magnificent lobby in the modern lift of the modern annexe wing. While a weekend in the Majestic wing, with its meticulously restored neo-classical details and old world elegance sounded like an absolutely divine proposition, the thought of all that solemn tranquillity niggles me so. A city girl at heart, my imagination can’t help but run riot with thoughts of things that could go bump in the night! The bustle of the Tower Wing, with its modern comforts and design, suddenly became as appealing as a mug of hot cocoa. LUXURIOUS ABODE That’s it. There’s no way you’ll want to leave your room once you see the four-poster bed in the middle of your suite, towering like a throne just waiting to be slept in. Plush bedding and plump pillows... a wonderful proposition for an afternoon of doing nothing but curling up with a book. There’s a wonderful view of the KL skyline that you can enjoy from the sofa-cum-lounger just by the window. The colour palette — a blend of neutral tones and darker hues — offers a relaxing albeit sophisticated feel to the room. I particularly love the huge bathroom that comes complete with a free standing bathtub with wall-mounted TV facing the tub, separate rain shower and dual vanities — no more jostling with anyone for counter space. The bathroom is enclosed within a glass sanctuary — fun if you don’t mind frolicking in the tub with eyes looking in. Now this part takes a little getting used to... especially when sharing a room and you’re trying to do your morning “business” in the toilet. ATTRACTIONS With an “old” wing and a “new” wing to explore, it’s a delight to lose yourself in the hotel’s belly. Of much fascination for me in the Tower Wing is the somewhat hidden Screening Room, a unique venue where you can watch black and white movies from the 1930s in complete privacy, seated in comfortable leather reclining cinema chairs. No one will know you’re here as it’s tucked away in a secluded corner under the Smoke House, the Majestic’s lounge and bar. I love orchids, so it’s not surprising that the orchid conservatory, located between the two wings and housing the stunning local Phalaenopsis, is another of my favourite parts of the hotel. This beautiful floral haven is the ideal place to enjoy elegant English afternoon tea with friends and family. Something else not to be missed is an indulgent session at the Majestic Spa. With its art deco style of Scottish architect and designer Charles Rennie Macintosh’s Willow Tearooms, it really does offer something different, including the intriguingly named Queen Victoria’s Lavender and English Afternoon Tea. FAST FACTS Hotel Getting There Main Attraction First Impression Rooms Dining options Overall Service Places within walking distance |