Urban Suite Penang

The night view from the 38th floor was breathtaking, with the city lights below. I also really appreciated the RO drinking water system, which offered hot, cold, and room-temperature water. The pool area looked great, and the underwater gym was a fun, unusual feature. The place felt family-friendly and not restrictive. The flat was compact, simple, and well maintained, with two bedrooms, one attached washroom, and one shared one, which suited us as a family. Essentials like the microwave, washing machine, iron, and reliable Wi-Fi all worked perfectly. The location was good too. Check-in was smooth and easy to follow, even though we were a little unsure since it was our first Airbnb-style apartment stay. For three people it was a little expensive. It would probably feel like better value for four or five. Even so, we had a very pleasant stay and I’d recommend it to families or small groups.

The lift was exhausting to deal with. Even outside peak hours, we waited 15-30 minutes because it was always full. Once, we went up to the highest parking level just to get into one, then rode down to G before heading to our floor. We were on level 31, and there was also a lot of furniture-moving noise from above, though that level seemed vacant when we checked. Maybe, who knows 😅👻. The toilet wall was covered in grime and black mold. We stayed through Airbnb, and those were the things that bothered me most. I wouldn’t recommend it in peak season, or for families with babies, older people, or anyone who gets impatient easily kekeke.

The building may be new, but the lifts are tiny and there aren’t enough of them for how many people live or stay here. It can take around 30 minutes to get picked up, and several trips may be needed before everyone can fit. The stairs aren’t convenient either. Avoid this place unless you’re prepared for the possibility of walking up to the 41st floor.

There’s a great selection of food at Jelutong market, about a 10-minute walk away, including plenty of choices at the morning market kopitiam. Our room was spacious and clean, with a spectacular view. A good place to stay, and I’ll drop by again.