Hotel Casuarina Kuala Kangsar

It would work well for a group of four or five families, maids included, spending a few weekdays and visiting nearby attractions. In a small town, places like this tend to get busy only on weekends and public holidays.

With few other options, I booked Casuarina through agoda for RM220, without breakfast. There was just one tube of lotion, no shower gel or shampoo, and not even mineral water. Booking directly with the hotel would have been RM280 for two breakfasts, at the weekend rate. For that price, a queen bed and so few amenities leave a lot to be desired.

The rooms were clean, and the view over Sungai Perak was lovely, though the lighting inside could be better. Sham at the front desk was friendly and professional, and managed to book me a room even though they were nearly full.

The location is good, and one of the staff, a middle aged man, was hospitable. Beyond that, there wasn’t much to like. Room supplies were lacking: no tissues or spare toilet roll, too little shower gel, and no slippers. The bathroom ceiling was mossy, and there wasn’t even a hook for a towel. Wi-Fi was available but too weak to use. Despite the high room rate, facilities were limited. The swimming pool entrance was closed, so we had to get permission to swim, and there was no gym.