KSL Hotel & Resort is highly praised for its strategic location in the heart of Johor Bahru with direct access to the KSL Mall. This prime spot offers guests easy access to a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options. The seamless integration with the shopping mall is particularly beneficial for shopping enthusiasts and food lovers.
The breakfast at the hotel generally receives positive feedback. Guests enjoy the diverse selection that includes both local Malaysian dishes and Western options. However, there are suggestions for increasing the variety as some find the offerings repetitive. The cleanliness and service during breakfast are mostly commendable, though occasional overcrowding and slow replenishment during peak times are noted.
Dinner experiences are largely favorable with the buffet being recognized for its decent variety and value for money. The fresh fruit offerings and nearby dining options add to its appeal. However, there are some reports of limited selection and slow replenishment close to closing time, as well as improvements needed for in-room dining services.
Rooms at the resort are generally appreciated for their spaciousness and cleanliness. Comfortable beds and family-friendly setups, including connecting rooms and large apartments, are highlighted. Despite some signs of aging in the furniture and occasional maintenance issues, many guests find the amenities functional and the views from some rooms impressive. There are mixed reviews about cleanliness with some reports of dusty surfaces and outdated fixtures detracting from the overall experience.
Specific feedback on the staff is mostly positive, emphasizing their helpfulness, responsiveness and friendliness. Guests have had pleasant interactions with the front desk and housekeeping teams, although there are occasional mentions of slow service during busy periods and some communication barriers.
The free WiFi at KSL Hotel & Resort is generally considered unreliable and slow, particularly at higher floors and during peak times, requiring significant improvement to meet guest expectations.
The gym receives mixed feedback. While it is relatively large and well-equipped, it suffers from outdated signs, poor ventilation and non-functional air conditioning. These factors contribute to an overall impression that the facility requires better maintenance.
The pool area is a major highlight for families with a dinosaur-themed pool and water slides that are particularly popular among children. However, cleanliness and maintenance issues, along with occasional overcrowding, are noted areas for improvement.
Parking is free and appreciated by many guests, though it shares space with the adjacent shopping center, leading to limited availability and some confusion due to poor signage and layout.
Overall, KSL Hotel & Resort is well-regarded for its central location and family-friendly amenities, including spacious rooms and the engaging pool area. While there are areas needing improvement, particularly regarding cleanliness, WiFi and gym maintenance, the hotel offers a comfortable and convenient stay for both leisure and business travelers.
Sand & Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa earns high praise for its prime beachfront location, providing easy access to serene sandy shores and stunning ocean views. The peaceful ambiance and strategic proximity to dining, shopping and entertainment make it an ideal retreat for both relaxation and exploration. Guests enjoy the expansive and clean beach, beautiful scenery and peaceful environment, although some noted it could be rocky and less suitable for swimming during high tides.
The resort features a commendable breakfast variety with delicious options like made-to-order omelets and local specialties, although improvements in food supply, replenishment speed and seating arrangement are needed. Dinner experiences are highlighted by exceptional Malaysian cuisine, particularly at Spice & Herbs restaurant and the Teppanyaki grill. However, the Western food options received mixed feedback regarding taste and service speed with reports of slow service affecting some dining experiences.
Rooms are spacious and comfortable, many offering lovely views and modern designs. Guests appreciated the large beds, nice balconies and additional amenities such as swings for kids and bathtubs. Despite these positives, some guests reported issues with cleanliness and maintenance, including musty smells, dusty floors and occasional maintenance problems.
Cleanliness overall receives mixed reviews with guests praising some well-maintained areas while others highlight neglected rooms and public spaces, slow housekeeping and general maintenance needs.
Staff performance is similarly mixed. Many guests found the staff friendly, helpful and attentive, particularly the front desk and housekeeping teams. However, understaffing issues, instances of rudeness and delayed service were reported, indicating room for improvement in management oversight and staff training.
The WiFi service at the resort elicits varied responses. Some guests noted strong connectivity and good room signals, while others experienced slow speeds and unavailability in certain areas.
The spa, though appreciated for its facilities, faces operational inconsistencies with availability affected by staffing and closures. Positive feedback on treatments contrasts with comments on limited options and higher prices.
The gym receives mixed reviews. Its location within the resort is appreciated, but guests have concerns about its size, upkeep and occasional closures.
The pool is a popular feature, praised for its size and family-friendly amenities, including mini slides and comfortable lounging options. However, issues with cleanliness and maintenance were noted, suggesting the need for better safety measures and routine cleaning.
In summary, Sand & Sandals Desaru Beach Resort & Spa excels in location, offers spacious and comfortable accommodations and has a beautiful beach. Improvements in service efficiency, maintenance, cleanliness and overall dining experience could enhance guest satisfaction.