Le Apple Boutique Hotel — KL
[Last updated on 23 August 2022: Le Apple Boutique Hotel has seized operations at this location]
Traveling to a vibrant city like Kuala Lumpur can be an exhilarating experience, but finding the perfect accommodation that ticks all the boxes can sometimes be a daunting task. Especially when you're on a budget and seeking both convenience and comfort, the choices may seem overwhelming.
As I prepared for a memorable trip to Kuala Lumpur with my beloved mum, I knew that I had to look for a place that would not only offer us a central location for easy exploration but also provide a comfortable space for relaxation after a day of shopping. We were determined to make the most of our time in this captivating city without breaking the bank.
Location:
The location of Le Apple Boutique Hotel KLCC is an absolute game-changer! I owe my friend Karem a big thank you for recommending this hidden gem when he heard about my travel plans with my mum. While Karem himself hadn't experienced the hotel, I soon realized that his suggestion was spot-on for what I was seeking – a place that puts us close to everything Kuala Lumpur has to offer.
160, Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Malaysia
Duration of stay: 3 days and 2 Nights
Room booked: Superior Twin
Price per night: SGD77 per night with breakfast
One of the biggest draws of this hotel is its unbeatable proximity to a plethora of attractions, making exploration a breeze. Picture this: Avenue K, located just a minute's walk from the hotel entrance, greeted us with its shopping delights and dining options, setting the tone for an exciting stay. And for those moments when we craved the vibrant atmosphere of street food, Tapak Urban Street Dining was a mere 3-minute walk away, tempting our taste buds with an array of local flavors.
But wait, it gets better. A quick 5-minute stroll led us to the iconic Suria KLCC, a shopper's paradise and a gateway to the magnificent Petronas Twin Towers – a must-visit sight that left us in awe. And if we ever wished to venture further, the MRT / LRT station was just around the corner, providing seamless access to Kuala Lumpur's extensive public transportation network.
Hotel Common Areas:
The hotel's common areas had nice decorations. I especially liked the pretty fairy lights at the entrance and lift lobby. But when I checked their online photos later, I realized these lights aren't always there. I think they put them up for the holiday season when we visited. Apart from the lobby, the rest of the common areas in the hotel were a bit dark and gloomy, to be honest.
I'm not sure what their theme is, but the hallways had this dark, industrial look with gray walls and dark red accents. Personally, I care more about cleanliness and comfort, so the decor didn't bother me much. But my mum didn't like the dark vibe – you know how moms are.
Superior Twin Room
My mum and I booked the Superior Twin room for around SGD77 per night before the discount. When I first walked in, I really liked it. The wifi worked fine, the beds were clean and comfortable, and the basic amenities were in good condition. The room had a lovely natural light thanks to the large windows, and the combination of wooden accents against white walls gave it a fresh and earthy feel.
However, my initial excitement faded away when I opened the curtains. To put it bluntly, it was pretty gross. It seemed like the windows hadn't been cleaned in a long time, which was a shame because the view from the room was actually quite nice, considering the prime location. You can judge for yourself by looking at the pictures below:
The hotel room windows were very dirty, and that was a big disappointment. I believe that hygiene and cleanliness should be a top priority for hotels, especially considering the amount we pay for cleaning and service charges. It was a major turn-off for us.
Breakfast:
I'm not a fan of early mornings, but the thought of hotel breakfast always gets me out of bed with a bit more motivation. Hehe. The hotel's restaurant had a Japanese theme. Interestingly, after breakfast hours, it becomes a halal Japanese restaurant called Rokko KL Japanese Grill Dining.
While the breakfast options weren't super extensive, they were enough, and the best part was that it was already included in our hotel booking. However, my mum and I only had breakfast here once during our three-day stay. The other two days, we woke up late and had brunch at a different place instead.
What We Liked
During our stay at Le Apple Boutique Hotel KLCC, there were several aspects that we truly enjoyed. First and foremost, the guest service stood out as a shining example of genuine hospitality. The staff members were friendly, accommodating, and always ready to assist with a warm smile. Their understanding and flexibility, especially when I misplaced the hotel deposit receipt, left a positive and lasting impression on us.
Additionally, the hotel's Japanese-themed breakfast restaurant, Rokko KL Japanese Grill Dining, was a delightful surprise. The morning spread may not have been extensive, but the food offered was tasty and satisfying. The unique Japanese decor created a pleasant ambiance, making each breakfast a pleasant and refreshing start to our day. For those who appreciate the fusion of cultural experiences, this themed restaurant was a definite hit.
What We Didn't Like
Despite the positive aspects, there were a few areas that left us feeling less satisfied. One notable disappointment was the cleanliness of our room's windows. The otherwise charming natural lighting and view were marred by the extensive grime on the windows. This oversight gave us the impression that the hotel might need to improve its attention to detail and maintenance.
Another aspect that left something to be desired was the limited variety in the breakfast menu. While the available options were sufficient, we hoped for a more diverse selection. Additionally, we only partook in breakfast once during our stay since it was not available during our preferred brunch hours. A more extended breakfast timeframe or alternative brunch options could have made our mornings more convenient.
The Final Verdict
All in all, Le Apple Boutique Hotel KLCC provided a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The genuine and friendly guest service left us with fond memories of our interactions with the staff. The Japanese-themed breakfast restaurant was a unique touch that added to the overall experience. While the room's window cleanliness and the limited breakfast hours were minor drawbacks, they did not overshadow the positive aspects of our stay.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a convenient location in Kuala Lumpur, Le Apple Boutique Hotel KLCC is worth considering. The hotel's warm hospitality and quirky Japanese restaurant create a distinctive and pleasant stay. Just be prepared to overlook a few minor imperfections for an overall enjoyable experience in the heart of this bustling city.
