Hotel Review: Novotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Our frequent trips back to Kuala Lumpur hold a special place in our hearts. Each visit is an opportunity to reconnect with relatives, indulge in familiar comforts, and discover new hidden gems around the state.
Recently, during a work trip back to KL, we had the pleasure of staying at Novotel KLCC, an Accor property renowned for its affordability and prime location in Bukit Bintang. What made this stay even more intriguing was the fact that the hotel had just undergone a renovation and complete overhaul, so we knew we had to see it. Given this recent transformation, any reviews you see online from before the pandemic would likely be irrelevant at this point.
Read on as we share a super detailed encounter of our personal experience!
How to get to Novotel KLCC:
Getting to Novotel KLCC was a breeze for us as we drove directly from Singapore. The journey took approximately four hours, with Fazwan doing most of the driving while I enjoyed my passenger princess treatment. It was a smooth journey, with only one stop for coffee and snacks.
However, for those arriving from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), there are various transportation options to consider. While the KLIA Ekspres provides a convenient connection to hotels near Sentral, guests heading to KLCC or Bukit Bintang may find a direct ride from the airport more practical. Services like Grab typically charge around RM 65 (before tolls) each way, ensuring a smooth transition from the airport to the hotel.
Alternatively, if you prefer traveling by train, you can transfer from KLIA Ekspres to the KL Monorail link (MRL) at KL Sentral Station (MR1). There is a direct train from KL Sentral (MR1) to Raja Chulan (MR7), followed by a short walk of approximately 350 meters to reach the hotel.
Novotel KLCC Location
Novotel KLCC's prime location offered easy access to nearby attractions and amenities, making it the ideal choice for travelers seeking convenience and comfort. Situated within the Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur, the hotel served as the perfect base for me, as my company’s HQ in Malaysia was along the Bukit Bintang area as well.
With Pavilion just across the street and Suria KLCC a mere 10-minute walk away, we found ourselves immersed in a world of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Despite the vibrant atmosphere of the area, we felt safe and secure at all times, thanks to the attentive staff and the bustling energy of the surroundings. Whether we were craving a late-night snack from the nearby 7-Eleven or seeking recommendations from the concierge team, we found everything we needed right at our doorstep.
Arrival and Premier Lounge Access
Upon our arrival at Novotel KLCC, we were warmly welcomed by the friendly staff members. It was such a great first impression and I knew that we were set for a delightful stay ahead. The check-in process was efficient, and since we were assigned the Premier Room, we were granted exclusive access to the Premier Lounge situated in the lobby area. Upon entering the Premier Lounge, we were greeted with non-alcoholic welcome drinks and cookies, a thoughtful gesture that immediately made us feel at home.
Guests staying on the premier floors or holding Accor Platinum and Diamond memberships enjoy these complimentary benefits:
Access to the Premier Lounge
Buffet Breakfast at the Premier Lounge
Welcome Drinks
Evening Refreshments
Meeting Room Booking
Printing Services
Novotel KLCC Premier Room Experience
During our 3-day, 2-night stay at Novotel KLCC, we were assigned a Premier King room located on Level 22.
Despite its modest size of 28 square meters on paper, the room was quite intelligently designed to maximize space utilization. The open wardrobe near the entrance provided convenient access to our clothes, while the large windows created an illusion of spaciousness. Surprisingly, the room felt even larger than its dimensions suggested, allowing us to comfortably accommodate two full-sized prayer mats for our daily prayers.
In addition to the spaciousness and comfort of the room, we appreciated the thoughtful amenities and services provided by Novotel KLCC. From the king-size bed to the coffee/tea making facilities, every detail was designed with the utmost comfort and convenience in mind.
The bathroom facilities, including a fixed shower head, bidet, hairdryer, and complimentary bathroom products, added to the overall sense of luxury and relaxation. Room services such as wake-up calls ensured that we never missed a moment of our stay, while accessibility and security features provided peace of mind throughout our visit.
Breakfast & Dining Options at Novotel KLCC
We dare say that Novotel KLCC is pretty self-sufficient when it comes to dining and amenities. From the indulgent offerings at Food Exchange to the refreshing drinks at Gourmet Bar, there was something that catered to every palate and preference.
Guests also have the option to enjoy breakfast at two locations: the Food Exchange at Level 1 and the Premier Lounge on the Ground Floor. Both venues offer a similar array of dishes sourced from the same halal-certified kitchen, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for guests. However, it's worth noting that the Premier Lounge does include a bar.
Guests can look forward to a diverse selection of dishes, going beyond the typical continental breakfast spread expected from a hotel of this caliber. From hot to cold options, there's something to suit every palate. Asian cuisine takes center stage, with a variety of flavorful dishes to choose from.
For those craving a more personalized touch, the egg station offers the opportunity to order eggs cooked to your preference. Whether you prefer them scrambled, fried, or poached, the skilled chefs are on hand to prepare them just the way you like. Alongside the eggs, guests can indulge in a selection of fresh fruits, salads, and cold cuts, providing a balanced start to the day.
While both dining venues offer tempting options for breakfast, we personally prefer dining at the Premier Lounge as it is much quieter and has a lesser crowd. Whether you prefer the relaxed ambiance of the Food Exchange or the added sophistication of the Premier Lounge, rest assured that your morning meal will be a delightful affair. So, whether you're fueling up for a day of exploration or simply enjoying a leisurely start to your morning, Novotel KLCC has you covered with its delicious breakfast offerings.
Citarasa Desa Ramadan Buffet
During our visit, we had the pleasure of experiencing the Citarasa Desa Ramadan Buffet at Novotel KLCC's Food Exchange. The buffet showcased a meticulously curated spread of delectable dishes representing various states across Malaysia. From Chef's signature specialties to traditional favorites, every bite was a celebration of Malaysian cuisine at its finest. The beautifully decorated space of the restaurant provided the perfect backdrop for indulging in a culinary extravaganza, while the welcoming service team ensured a delightful dining experience for all.
Located at Novotel KLCC's Food Exchange on Level 1, the buffet is set in a beautifully decorated space. With ample seating, refreshing air conditioning, and a friendly service team, guests are sure to enjoy both the ambiance and the exceptional food.
The Citarasa Desa Buffet is available from March 16 to April 5, 2024, at Novotel KLCC's Food Exchange. Prices are RM168 nett per adult, RM138 nett per child (7-12 years), and RM138 nett per senior citizen (60 years & above). Accor Plus members can also enjoy a 20% discount on their meal.
If you're someone who enjoys getting into the festive spirit during Eid in Kuala Lumpur, then you'll want to make sure Novotel KLCC is on your list of iftar destinations. For reservations, whether it's for a personal gathering or a company dinner, you can contact the team at +603 2147 0888.
Hotel Amenities
The outdoor swimming pool at Novotel KLCC offers a spacious retreat with a picturesque view of the cityscape, providing guests with ample opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Featuring a main pool, a wading pool, and mini jacuzzis, the pool area caters to both swimmers and those seeking a leisurely dip.
Additionally, the hotel boasts a fitness center, providing guests with the opportunity to maintain their workout routines during their stay. While the gym may appear a bit dated, my husband was pleased to have the chance to get in a workout during our visit. Excitingly, plans are already underway to renew and revamp the gym, promising a new and refreshed fitness center in the near future.
We were also pleasantly surprised to find that there was a musollah located at the same level! This is definitely useful for employees, or anyone who is planning to spend a full day on this floor by going to the gym, spa and lounging by the pool.
Although we didn't have the opportunity to experience the hotel spa firsthand, we've heard glowing reviews from other guests about their positive experiences. Rest assured, this will certainly be on our list of must-try activities when we return to Novotel KLCC in the future. With its array of wellness amenities, Novotel KLCC offers guests the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge during their stay in Kuala Lumpur.
Overall Experience at Novotel KLCC
We feel that our stay at Novotel KLCC exceeded our expectations in every aspect.
From the comfortable accommodations to the diverse dining options and the array of amenities, the hotel provided a memorable experience that left us eager to return. The convenient location, nestled within the vibrant heart of Kuala Lumpur's Golden Triangle, made exploring the city a breeze, with iconic landmarks and shopping destinations just a stone's throw away.
The attentive service from the friendly staff added a personal touch to our stay, making us feel truly welcomed and valued as guests. Additionally, the dinner experience at Citarasa Desa and the promising reviews of the hotel spa have already earned a spot on our itinerary for our next visit. Overall, Novotel KLCC stands as a highly recommended hotel for anyone planning a trip to Kuala Lumpur. Whether for business or leisure, its blend of comfort, convenience, and hospitality ensures a delightful stay that we wholeheartedly endorse.
