Hotel Hangtuah

It feels like stepping back into the 60s. The bed feels like iron, the room smelled of cigarettes, and the blankets were torn. No toiletries were provided, and there was no internet signal at all on the third floor. Staff weren’t friendly either, and there was no breakfast. Late at night people hung around noisily in the hotel corridor, even on the third floor. Behind the bathroom mirror, there was a girl’s pink underwear. Not worth the price.

The room had cold AC, and shops were within walking distance, though they were quite pricey, so I’d buy in Malaysia or Thailand instead. That doesn’t make up for the rest: the reception staff seemed unwelcoming, and on the second day a male receptionist spoke to us rudely, with an angry face. They also wanted a 100k IDR deposit. There was no water heater or bathroom mat, and I nearly slipped stepping out after a shower. The TV was still an old aquarium style. I booked through Agoda for RM49 a night, but I wouldn’t stay again. For Padang, I’d only transit through before going to Bukit Tinggi. I can’t recommend this hotel or Padang.

I stayed one night, and the room looked much better in the app photos. The place felt old and a little creepy, with worn walls, lighting, and doors. The bed was poor, there was no Wi-Fi, towel, or hot water, and the TV was an old tube model, though its programs were okay. The toilet bowl was the strangest part for me: it was positioned at the front rather than the back like a regular one, and I couldn’t figure out how to use it. It’s cheap and conveniently near Andalas Plaza and the beaches, but when I arrived there was no receptionist at the charge desk. I wouldn’t stay there again, even for free. I’d pay more for better service elsewhere. They need to upgrade.

The staff were quick to respond and could help arrange airport transport or get first aid if needed. Breakfast was included, just fried rice or noodles with bread, jam, coffee, and tea. The building is old and parking is limited, but it works for a budget stay that still feels like a hotel. Toiletries were limited to soap. I wasn’t worried about the sheets and towels being clean since they do laundry, though there were a few stains on the sheets or bed covers. For the price, it was okay.