88 Armenian

We loved how easy it was to get around from 88 Armenian, with shops, hawker stalls, restaurants and street art all within walking distance in the heart of Georgetown. The thoughtful turndown and bath butler service were lovely, and breakfast had delicious local and Peranakan dishes. Our room was modern, clean and spacious, and KC was especially helpful with local tips. The Aesop bath products were a nice touch too. It was our favorite hotel of a three-week trip, and we’d happily recommend it.

What made our stay at 88 Armenian in Penang so memorable was KC and his team. KC showed us around the room when we arrived, left handwritten notes and Malaysian snacks tailored for us each day, and even walked us to nearby cafés and restaurants when we asked for suggestions. After checkout, they found the bracelet my daughter had left behind and offered to courier it back. We really appreciated that honesty and care. The room felt both personal and luxurious, with comfortable bedding, premium toiletries, snacks and drinks, and a handy set of charging cables. The hotel is beautiful, especially the elevator, and breakfast was delicious every morning. We had a fantastic stay, one of our best hospitality experiences, and would love to come back.

The little things made this second stay at 88 Armenian just as good as our first, two years ago. The team remembered what we liked and didn’t like at breakfast, and had the room turned down and the salt bath ready for when we got back from a day out. Breakfast was amazing, too. It’s the guest experience that really makes this hotel stand out. We’ll definitely return if we’re back in Penang.

Only six rooms, and ours was quiet despite being in the tourist area. It was small at 323 sq ft, but the bathroom felt spacious, which I especially appreciated in the wet season. The building is a 19th century guesthouse on Armenian Street, once used by Armenian merchants, and the street was also known as coppersmith street. Farm, a Singapore design firm, gave the interior a modern look. It’s a great base for exploring George Town’s colonial port history, pastel shophouses, street food, murals and sculptures. Amber and the team gave superb service, even before we arrived. There’s a bar and restaurant, Tong, downstairs, though I didn’t eat there. There are plenty of good restaurants nearby, and Tong has good reviews. My one gripe was the slow wifi, at 7.7 mbps. I paid US$ 387 for two nights. Adorable boutique hotel, 5/5, I’ll be back.