Looking for a staycation in the heart of Kuala Lumpur that offers a killer view without breaking the bank? Sure, homestay properties are a dime a dozen, but there is nothing better than sinking into a heavenly bed after a tiring day, with room service just a call away.
Enter Element Kuala Lumpur. Strategically located in the heart of the city, its central location 275m above street level belies its close proximity to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Suria KLCC, and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
This is a Green Building Index-certified hotel, offering eco-friendly lodging with cutting-edge design.
Do your part for the environment and reduce your carbon footprint by taking the LRT and alighting from the Ampang Park station. From there, it is just a stone’s throw away from Ilham Tower.
The ground floor features an eclectic mix of furniture and artwork to reflect the hotel’s avant-garde philosophy before you are whisked to the lobby on the 40th floor.
The lobby shares floor space with TRACE, the only eatery at the establishment. You will be greeted by an airy, open area with acutely angled marble features and unique artwork dotting the entire expanse.
The rooms here boast an unobstructed view of the city skyline, since you would be heads and shoulders above many other buildings in the vicinity. Depending on the direction you face, this might be a suitable spot to enjoy a show of fireworks during special celebrations.
All floors feature different artwork to deliver a unique experience. The maze of corridors will lead you from one piece to another, providing food for thought as you wait for the elevator to arrive.
In line with the hotel’s eco-friendly philosophy, all rooms are equipped with a 3M water filter so you can refill your own bottle without burdening the landfills.
Apart from the usual creature comforts, there is a semblance of a serviced apartment in the rooms with the inclusion of a full range of cutlery, a microwave oven, and a nifty kitchen sink. Should you prefer to “tapau” food from outside, you can always reheat it and wash up later.
Being a Westin property, you are assured of a good night’s rest with the signature Heavenly bed in each room. Natural toiletries adorn the bathroom that is spacious enough to get yourself ready for any event.
Want to sweat it out after a particularly stressful business meeting? Take a dip at Ombak, the all-natural indoor heated saline pool – truly a rare gem in the city, successfully marrying both form and function.
Lounge chairs surround the pool, should you want to curl up with a good book for some much-needed “me time”.
If swimming makes you feel at sea, then the 24-hour gym that also offers a commanding view of the city is another option for burning those calories in your home away from home.
While compact in size, there are enough exercise machines and weights here to keep you in shape.
Alternatively, the lobby offers bicycles on a first-come, first-serve basis for free to those who would like to explore the city on two wheels. Perhaps your stay might coincide with KL’s car-free mornings that are held every first and third Sunday of the month from 7am to 9am.
Long-term residents will find the laundry room to be a useful addition, as you can wash and dry your clothes here. You will first need to purchase tokens from the lobby before doing so.
When you experience the munchies, TRACE is well worth your time. Depending on the situation and day, you can choose from the à la carte menu, buffet spread, or afternoon high tea.
The view is to die for regardless of the time of the day (or night) – let the 360° panorama of the KLCC skyline sink in while you enjoy your cuppa.
The breakfast buffet carries your standard fare of pastries, bread, cheese, cold cuts, a salad bar, and fruits. Those who cannot live without hot food will find the omelette station to be heaven-sent, while the noodle station is well stocked with all the necessary condiments.
There is even murtabak with red-coloured pickled onions – an uncommon combination usually enjoyed up north. Staples like nasi lemak – with sambal that provides quite the kick! – and teh tarik are available, accompanied by a coffee machine for those who need their latte fix.
All in all, spending a night here provides a refreshing departure from your standard business hotel experience. If you are itching to “cuti-cuti Malaysia” without going too far, Element Kuala Lumpur would be right up your alley.
Element Kuala Lumpur
Ilham Tower, 8 Jalan Binjai
50450 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. Check out his blog at manatau.com.