Pantai Inn

The staff were really friendly and helpful, and the location is handy, with lots of restaurants around, a food market in the afternoon and evening, and a 24-hour convenience store downstairs. The room itself was just okay, nothing special, and very small. The toilet was small too, there was no hand soap, and the peeling paint made parts of the room feel dated. Hopefully the owner can give the rooms a bit of a renovation.

Being right in the middle of Gaya street is great, with everything close enough to walk to. The room was small, though, and I had to leave my luggage in front of the bathroom door. The toilet setup was what I disliked most. It’s tiny, and if I were 10kg heavier I probably couldn’t use it. The toilet and bathroom share a door, so closing one opens the other, and the space opens directly onto the room. There’s basically no privacy when using the toilet. Sorry, it just didn’t work for me.

There’s an Orange Convenient store nearby, plus a Malay restaurant downstairs serving soto and mee satay. The hotel’s location is definitely its strong point. For the price, the room is okay and has the usual toiletries. I also liked having a water dispenser, since I bring my own bottle and prefer that to single-use mineral bottles. The shared door between the toilet and shower was the strangest part, along with the peekaboo glass door. It felt pretty awkward when you’re not travelling with a lover.

Getting around is easy from here. Grab cars are available around the clock, shops and the mall are within walking distance, and Gaya street has lots of restaurants in the morning, from Malay to Chinese food. There’s a 24-hour convenience store with an ATM for late-night hunger, and the place is next to the weekend market. This was my second stay, and I recommend it for the easy access. The bed is more comfortable than at other budget hotels. There’s no minibar or closet, but the hot water dispenser in the hallway is handy whenever you need it. Ironing is available on request through reception. The service staff were lovely and helpful, and they’ll guide you if you need assistance.