Impressive service and facilities

I had always wanted to stay at this property when it was annouced, however never had a chance especially with the pandemic.  Now with countries opening and being able to travel to Asia again, I took the opportunity during my trip to make a short visit down to this historical city south of Kuala Lumpur.  [Tip: To avoid the crowds, it's highly recommended to visit this city outside of the weekends or holiday seasons]

This property is located somewhat south of the city centre in a rather huge development high rise.  There used to be a mall at the first few floors of this what I noticed is a combined hotel and residential tower - however the mall seems to have been a victim of the pandemic as it's closed (or not opened).  It is quite close to again another new development area, Pulau Melaka where there was 2 main attractions - a sort of European inspired building containing shops, eateries and hotel and further afield a unique mosque built on stilts.  Both location I would recommend to visit them after sundown for the better atmosphere.

Close to the hotel, are a few row of shops that's walkable.  Other than that, to get to most of the main attractions/places, a car or shared rides will be needed.  (as most places outside of Kuala Lumpur). 

I arrived mid afternoon at the property - to a rather empty lobby.  I was helped immediately by a friendly font desk associate.  Before arriving, I already noticed on the Hilton app that I was upgraded to a King Suite, which I had to sadly turn down because of circumstances.  I messaged the hotel on this and everything was arranged back to my originally reserved room category.  I was given a room with a view of the Melaka straits and part of the city.  Too bad that opposite this property, was another high rise building which blocked the view of the mosque on Pulau Melaka.  As usual, I was given a run down of the facilities and the afamous DT chocolate cookies. 

The check-in area was located on the 12th floor, with parking seems to start from the 5th floor. 

The room was located on the 25th floor and although decorated in a simple way, was very spacious and filled with natural light.  View was good towards the city and partially the sea.  There was a nice big working desk and a small 1-person chair. 

View from the room

There was a bar area with coffee/tea making facilities - which was well replenished every day.  The hotel also had a nice welcome amenity (nothing too extravagant) but just such a small touch does help to create that welcome and appreciated atmosphere without breaking the bank for the hotel. 

Sleep quality was good - with close to no noise from internal/external sources.  The bed was just right without being too hard/soft.  The climate control unit worked well without being too loud even at mid-level fan speed. 

The bathroom was also spacious with separate walk-in shower (with an option to have the privacy screen down over the frosted glass).  Water pressure was good and temperature control good.  Toiletries were the usual crabtree and Evelyn - with additional amenities like toothbrush, comb etc provided as standard.

The pool was located on the 13th floor which had a view towards the unique residential high rise across the hotel.  The pool temperature was good especially in this humid hot weather.  However the pool size might been too small if the hotel would be full - however during my stay, it was just perfect for a good relaxing time after a days of sightseeing/walking. 

Outside of the pool area, is a nice spacious spa which had also a sauna (separted for men and woman).  There was also a kids club (which was closed when during my stay). The fitness area was on the same floor and from my quick peek, it looked well equipped for both cardio and weights exersize. 

Breakfast during the weekdays seemed to be workable - not being too crowded on both my mornings - and served in the signature Makan kitchen (found in most Doubletrees in Malaysia).  I was quite impressed with the spread - which represented the main cultures of Malaysia.  I felt that the quality of the food was good and spread more than sufficient - especially with some unique traditional food and explanation of the origins.  

Staff working the breakfast room were friendly, especially the hosts at the entrance.  The only one weird observation was on my 2nd morning, the waiting staff all suddenly dissapeared for quite some time, and there was just only 1 of the host manning the whole breakfast area.  Later I found out that they were called in for a briefing - which certainly is a weird action especially in the middle breakfast service.  I have never seen such a situation - pulling all your staff at once to have a meeting - which should normally be done before or at the end of a service session.  

This property seems to be quite good with Elite recognition - which includes very good upgrades when available.  I was impressed that even though the hotel has no Executive Lounge, they do take the effort to provide HHonors elite guests a sort of High tea session between 15-18 hours - I believe it is every day.  (I am not sure as my card was taken away on the first day, and on the 2nd day, I did not have the time).  This is served at the Axis lounge.

All in all, I was very impressed and felt the service here to be much better compared to my previous experience at the DT in Kuala Lumpur.  It was on par with the DT in Johor.  I would certainly return to this property when in Melaka and with no doubt recommend this property for those looking for a good hotel in Melaka.