While city hotels have traditionally catered to business travellers, ever since the pandemic, there has been a pivot towards the family demographic. These days, it’s not unusual to see children running around under the watchful eye of their parents, who are equally at home wearing shorts and flip-flops as they are wearing a bespoke two-piece suit.
The Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur is one such establishment. Positioning itself as one of the city’s premiere hotels, this five-star destination caters to briefcase-carrying travellers ready to close the next big deal, as well as families looking for a bit of a reprieve without being far removed from the centre of town.
As you arrive, head to the lobby on the 40th floor, which gives you a panoramic view of the KL skyline that takes your breath away regardless of the time of day. Check-in is a quick and painless affair, and the staff are quick to address any queries you might have.
Each room is luxuriously appointed with a pillow menu to help the pickiest guest sleep more soundly. Otherwise there are the usual amenities: plush bathrobes with thick bedroom slippers that make you feel like you were walking on clouds; a Nespresso machine; and a walk-in closet so you can look your best before heading out.
Balmain bath amenities add to the ritz. There is a separate bathtub and shower area, and the glass window oversees the room without any physical blinds to protect your privacy.
This setup works well for couples, but those with family and friends need not fret since the glass can be electronically dimmed, creating an “electric blind” that provides instant seclusion at the press of a button.
The use of marble harks back to an era of opulence, even if design choice might not sit well with everyone. There is no denying that each room is stately enough to provide a good night’s rest after a long day at work or an excursion to the city’s numerous attractions.
No stress
Grand Hyatt KL provides different avenues for guests to let the day’s cares melt away. ESSA Spa, situated on the same level as the pool and gym, offers 11 treatment suites and a variety of massage packages to soothe the world-weary mind and body.
The well-appointed gym is also available for those who want to sweat it out using the latest cardiovascular and strength machines. Fitness enthusiasts need not skip their daily regiment when they’re away from home, since all the cardiovascular machines are internet-connected, letting you watch video tutorials or TV during your workout.
As a bonus, personal trainers are even available upon request.
The outdoor swimming pool’s resort-like environment is only betrayed by the surrounding skyscrapers. Set against the view of the Petronas Twin Towers, it features a wading pool for children and complimentary kid’s pool amenities for them to have a splashing good time.
Do note that there is no lifeguard on duty, so parents would do well to keep a keen eye out on their young ones.
Like Superman, you can opt to retreat into your very own fortress of solitude after a particularly gruelling gym session. The sauna, steam bath, and jacuzzi area offers a quiet area to free up your headspace.
Indeed, a refreshing jacuzzi session after spending some time in the sauna and steam bath will have you emerge fully recharged and relaxed!
Food, glorious food
There are two F&B establishments at Grand Hyatt KL – JP teres and THIRTY8. Located on the ground floor, JP teres offers authentic Malaysian dishes in a cosy and nostalgic ambiance.
This indoor casual-dining establishment is also connected to an outdoor sports bar area, and is the perfect spot to catch up with friends over a cuppa or cheer your favourite football team on during match day.
THIRTY8, however, is where all the culinary action takes place. Located on the 38th floor, you will have a commanding view of the city no matter where you are seated.
The vibe is different during the day and at night, and it is highly recommended you arrive at dusk to see the skyline come to life at night as different buildings light up.
The breakfast spread is definitely one of the more unique breakfast buffets out there. Where else can you find two different types of kombucha on tap to kickstart your day? There are also freshly squeezed juices for those who are on the journey of eating healthily.
A dedicated noodle station, salad bar, egg station that serves up eggs benedict upon request, and a well-stocked pastry bar with gluten-free options accompany myriad dishes that are guaranteed to tantalise your palate.
In fact, chances are you will not be able to sample every single item because of the variety!
From time to time, servers offer freshly baked croissants and Danish pastries from table to table. You can also enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea with your friends at THIRTY8. The intimate setting of each table ensures your privacy remains guarded away from prying ears.
When evening falls, THIRTY8 becomes a hotspot for special occasions. Weekends tend to see the entire floor fully booked; it wouldn’t be surprising to see birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, and engagement parties being held simultaneously!
In fact, a celebratory ambience permeates the air, and you will often see different tables break out in “happy birthday” throughout the evening, while the girl seated nearby might gasp excitedly as her boyfriend gets on one knee and proposes.
I’m a Barbie Girl…
The narrative of all girls being princesses is lived out at Grand Hyatt KL with the Barbie Ultimate Staycation experience. The pool area sees the titular doll’s name propped up to make sure you are aware that there is an adjacent event space that caters to all things Barbie.
Decked in pink and accompanied by creeping plants, it is the perfect space to throw a Barbie-themed party for your little one. Once they are worn out from the excitement of their day, retire to one of the 14 Barbie-themed rooms.
There is even a Barbie afternoon tea set for those who want to add a magical touch to their masak-masak adventures!
All in all, numerous five-star luxury hotels in KL are competing to draw in families as well as business travellers by offering compelling packages. While it all really boils down to the individual’s preference and taste, Grand Hyatt KL will certainly not disappoint.
For more information, visit the Grand Hyatt Hotel KL website.
This independent review is not sponsored by Grand Hyatt Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.
Edwin Kee dreamt of being a pro-gamer only to have circumstances mould him into a programmer in a past life. He has since moved on to write about consumer electronics and other topics.