Hotel Ali Imran

The setting in Bangi, Selangor feels peaceful, with easy access to major roads and attractions. The rooms at Hotel Ali Imran are comfortable and roomy, kept clean and well maintained, and have modern amenities. There are two restaurants in the same building, plus a self-service laundry. I'd rate it 4.1/5.0.

We booked two connecting rooms, one twin and one double, at RM110 each. They were spacious, clean suites, and the sheets even smelled lovely, with the self-service laundry downstairs providing free detergent and softener. This is an easy-to-find budget stay by the main road, good for families and large groups. Room service is available if you ask, and the friendly front desk gave us excellent restaurant recommendations. The location worked really well for us. There's a free bus stop right outside with service to IOI Shopping Mall and the hospital, though check the SPG app for schedules. It's near a mosque, and parking is free. Keropok Lekor is downstairs and within walking distance, along with grocery stores. Try the keropok lekor and nasi lemak there. Konaleper is recommended for an early breakfast or lunch, Warung Bunian is known for nasi lemak, and Daging Salai Mashtar is another suggested spot. Breakfast at the hotel costs RM20 and is available at 8 AM. It was one of the best budget hotel breakfasts we've had. Vendors outside start serving cheaper food earlier, around 6:30 or 7:00 AM. In the rooms, the AC was superb, the modern bathroom had a great hot shower, and the TV had plenty of channels. They also provide free coffee and tea sachets and a kettle. A few things to know: they only provide one access card, which is needed for the main entrance. That can be a minor hassle, though it's good for safety. First-floor rooms don't have lift access, but there are ground-floor 'homestay' options. Not every room has a mini-fridge, and the iron and board are kept outside the room. Parking can be limited, and staff aren't at the counter around the clock, so you need to call if they're away. We didn't mind, given the fee.

They told my dad he'd get a discount through the app and pay around 110 or so. When I checked out, the bill was 136 or 138, something like that. I asked them about it again that night, and they blamed my father for hearing it wrong. They'd told him to use the app because walk-in was RM140, but in the end it was about the same. He might as well have walked in.

The rooms are excellent, very clean and tidy, but they're not soundproof. Noise could be a problem if you need a good rest.