The Cottage Hotel

Thank you for your understanding and service. When I had an emergency, you refunded me even though you asked many questions first. I'm really satisfied and very thankful.

There’s no elevator, and the family room felt cramped for three adults, though it did have space for solat. There’s only a fan, no air-conditioning, but it was cold enough that we didn’t need one. A water heater was provided. A hypermarket, Batagas, is right across from the hotel and easy to walk to.

The room views were nice, but cigarette smoke stank through the place the whole time. You can't open the windows fully, only partway. The bathrooms have no curtains or doors, and there's no fridge. We tried the breakfast buffet for convenience, but the eggs had run out after only one other tour group came in. The selection was chow fun, fried rice, eggs, watermelon, porridge, and toast. This is supposed to be a cheap place, not a four-star hotel. I was visiting Kota Kinbalu with my parents, aunts, and uncles, and my aunt had chosen this hotel. We were split between floors, with my room on the second floor and theirs on the first. They said it was noisy being so close to reception. I wouldn't come back, even if we make it to KK again.

The meals were the one bright spot. The kitchen staff deserve credit for delicious, well-prepared food, and their care stood out against everything else. The hotel itself felt tired and neglected, with little sign anyone was trying to make guests comfortable. Even basic things like replacing toilet soap and rolls were overlooked, and the staff seemed nonchalant, as if just providing a roof was enough. There is no lift, and it was heartbreaking to watch elderly guests and people with mobility challenges struggle on the stairs. It felt as if accessibility hadn't been considered. The place could be warm and welcoming with proper care, but as it is, I find it hard to recommend anything apart from the food.