Ixora Hotel

We had a pleasant three-night stay at Ixora, and the staff were courteous and helpful. Free parking was a nice bonus. On our second day, during Chinese New Year, our rental car battery went flat because I’d left the headlights on. Another guest helped jump-start it. I didn’t get his name, but I’m sincerely grateful to my Malay friend. The blackout curtains were the best I’ve come across in years of travelling, so I could sleep late. The mattress was firm, which didn’t bother me but made it hard for my wife to sleep. A few things need attention. The fifth-floor corridor often smelled of cigarette smoke, and it drifted into our room when we opened the door. The wooden shower-room door is mouldy and rotting, and there’s no shelf in the bathroom for glasses or toiletries. The small print on the shampoo, bath foam and conditioner bottles is difficult to read, especially without glasses. We also had brunch on the first day. The manager asked if we were hotel guests and reminded us about the 15% discount. Without that prompt, we would have missed it. Thank you, Ixora.

The room was clean and comfortable, and we were satisfied with it. The problem was the toilet setup: there was no bidet spray or handheld shower (paip), which makes things difficult for Muslim guests.

The staff were welcoming and quick to respond, but paying a premium shouldn’t mean having to ask for basic things to be cleaned or put in order. On my second stay, the toilet wouldn’t flush, the phone line didn’t work, the bed frame was extremely dusty, the cups were dirty, and there were insects in the coffee maker. At least the sheets were clean that time. I can’t see how this is presented as a four-star hotel. Three stars at best, with plenty of cheaper places offering the same quality. My first visit was only somewhat okay. The sheets were stained, and I wasn’t sure how clean the room really was. I gave it the benefit of the doubt and kept my mental rating at four stars. The second trip was much more disappointing. Everything should be ready when guests check in.

Good value for money, with a clean room and a comfortable bed, though the pillows weren’t great. The location is very convenient, right next to a mall. Front desk staff were friendly, but check-in was a bit slow. I had to queue for quite a while even though there weren’t many guests. Still, it was a pleasant stay and I’d recommend it if you’re visiting Prai.