Grand Margherita Hotel

I really liked the hotel’s ambience, and the facilities were still well maintained. It’s easy to get around Kuching city from here, with places nearby still within walking distance, including a mall and places to eat. Thanks to all the staff for the warm service, especially Syahfizal, Alif, and the receptionist. I really appreciate your kindness. I stayed in room 216 from 2-3 June 2026. 😊

The river view from my room made my three days at the Grand Margherita Hotel a highlight of my Kuching trip. I could see the Sarawak River and the Astana, and watching the sunset from the room became a daily ritual. The hotel is right in the city center, a short walk from the Cat Statue and Kuching Waterfront, so exploring on foot was easy. Sarawak Plaza is also nearby for shopping, and there’s an outdoor pool. The rooms have a classic feel, and mine was spacious, clean, and well maintained. The staff were friendly, attentive, and always smiling. Breakfast was only average, with the same menu each morning, but I enjoyed the authentic, flavorful Sarawak Laksa and Kolo Mee, as well as the Roti Jala.

The location made it easy to get around town, including to the museums and waterfront. The front desk staff were really friendly, the air conditioning kept the place cool, and the lobby felt welcoming, chic, and comfortable. Our room on the 7th floor showed plenty of wear. The carpet was stained, some furniture was broken or chipped, the curtains were dirty, and the shower grout was black and broken in several spots. The toilet seal needs redoing, the door frames were worn and chipped throughout, and the towels should be replaced, not just washed again. For the price, around what you’d pay at an upper-tier hotel, the facilities didn’t match. This place has potential, but it needs upgrades and repairs.

I’ve been coming back for 30 years, since the hotel was called Holiday Inn. It brings back lovely memories of work trips as a junior government officer stationed away from home and attending HQ meetings, as well as family holidays with the children. The hotel has kept pace with modernity and still makes me feel satisfied whenever I check in. Seeing the romantic Kuching River flow past the window always leaves me quietly grateful to be back.