100 Resorts Malaysia: Places with a Heart Book

Commencing in the capital of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, the obvious jump-off point for any visitor to the country, the book is sectioned into the provinces, each of which is carefully explored, not only selecting a variety of hotels and resorts ranging from five-star to budget, but noting the attractions and area around them. Not only does each double-facing page show a picture of the hotel, but with it is a full description that allows ones mind to not only ?see? it but gain a feel of the place. This is followed by suggestions of the places of interest to visit that are in close proximity. The most important factor to many though, is that the rack rates are clearly indicated by icons in local currency. Although some hotels and resorts are top-of-the range, the budget traveler has not been forgotten as some of those reviewed are in the below 200 Ringgit a night zone, and many are in between. If that was not enough, essential details are thumb-nailed in an easy-to-read format. These include very detailed directions of how to get there, types of accommodation offered, food and beverage outlets and the types of cuisine as well as an honest rating of the quality. Further information includes the services available including sports and activities. There is a bonus, however, when occasionally a hotel or resort wins the accolade of being awarded one or two icons of a pink heart-shaped seashell of the cardium family. As explained in the introduction, these were awarded to those establishments that were attractive in their own right or because they were gateways to places well worth a visit. Some were awarded because they stood out because of a particular charm. The very few hotels that obtained two icons were judged outstanding in all respects. The respect that should be attributed such awards is indicated by the fact that although every establishment that has made it between the covers of this book, only 22 percent obtained the single heart and an even fewer 7 percent obtained the highest accolade even though considered a budget priced hotel. What makes this guide different is in the writing. It is not the soulless advertorial of most, but written with only the warmth that can be expressed by a genuine guest. One gets the feeling that the writers are all family-orientated as many times they pick up areas that would delight children such as animal parks and natural rain forest. Although having visited Malaysia, picking my way through the pages of this book not only awoke in me pleasant memories but more importantly opened my eyes to just how much I had missed. Whether one is an intended visitor, a resident or even an armchair dreamer, this book is packed with information of a wonderful country and its people.Read More