DoubleTree by Hilton Damai Laut Resort

The whole team made our stay memorable, from the reception and breakfast staff to the pool attendants, kids’ room staff, and Executive Lounge associates. The service felt consistently attentive across the hotel, and people checked in often to see if we needed anything. GM Sahara even came over to our table for a friendly chat. Her warmth made us feel at home. Many thanks to Sahara and everyone for the thoughtful hospitality.

The kids were in the waterpark all day, and they liked the kids club too. We had a good 4D3N holiday, honestly. Food was the weak spot. Makan Kitchen meals, including room service and poolside, were pretty subpar and not really Chef quality. Breakfast was standard, and the hot pot wasn't great. The soups could've been tomyam and chicken instead of that tasteless mala and the other bland, watery soup. 😅

We took the kids to Pangkor island from the water sport facility by the hotel. Since there are Jelly fish at the Hilton beach, we didn't want to risk swimming there, and the boat trip also saved us the hour's drive to the jetty. The children had a good swim at Pangkor island. Our family room fit five people comfortably and was close to the kids club, gym, game room, dining area, and pool. The kids loved the slides, and the pool was a big hit. Staff were courteous and accommodating. We stayed four days and three nights, from 30/5-2/6. There are activities for different ages, including volleyball, basketball, tennis/pickleball, beach football, and a playground. Food can be ordered from Grab since restaurants and shops are far away, or you can eat at the hotel. We didn't have any fly issues, perhaps it wasn't fly season yet. I do wish management would consider having a lifeguard at the pool instead of a common guard. I don't know whether the guard has bronze medallion lifesaving training or could respond competently in an accident. Good choice for a short family break with small kids, about a three-hour drive from KL.

The breakfast spread beats what I've had at Shangri-La KL, Le Meridien in KL and KK, and Hilton KL. The teh tarik is a must try if you like strong tea with less sweetness. Their nasi lemak, sambal sotong, rendang tok, roti canai, and French toast with cinnamon sugar were all really good. The roti canai stayed fluffy and crisp even after it cooled. It works well for a family holiday with small children, though it can get crowded. One odd rule: no swimming clothes in the dining room, even if they're dry. I've never run into that rule anywhere else.