Unbelievable Abell Residence Kuching: Luxury You Won't Believe!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the… well, the Unbelievable Abell Residence Kuching: Luxury You Won't Believe! Let's get brutally honest, shall we? This isn't going to be your dry, bullet-point hotel review. This is going to be me grappling with the reality of high-end Kuching living, and you are welcome to ride shotgun.
First Impressions, or, "My Wallet Just Spontaneously Wept"
Okay, the entrance. The entrance is… impressive. Think sleek, modern, hints of Sarawakian wood that make you feel like you might be in a James Bond movie (minus the, y'know, espionage). And the staff? Impeccable. Smiling, helpful, and they probably know my name before I do. Which is slightly unnerving, but also… kinda… nice? Honestly, the whole place screams “luxury.” My first thought? "Oh dear lord, I hope this wasn't a mistake for my budget."
Accessibility - Because Everyone Deserves a Slice of Fancy
Right, let's get practical. Accessibility? Good news! They've got facilities for disabled guests, which is seriously important. An elevator is a must, obviously, and I'd wager they’ve got it. I didn't specifically check, but I saw a front desk [24-hour]. This should provide additional support to guests. I didn't see any ramp to the entrance - it is something the hotel must improve. Also, it's crucial that they make sure the entrance and restaurant are completely wheelchair accessible. More details needed and must be confirmed.
Rooms - Did I Accidentally Wander into a Dream?
We're talking non-smoking rooms (smokers, you've been warned!), and the basic amenities are there: air conditioning, air-conditioning in public area (a godsend in Kuching!), and a desk that is conducive to me working on my laptop (laptop workspace included!). Now, the good stuff. The bed? Heaven. Extra long bed? YES PLEASE. Blackout curtains? SOLD! Seriously, I could have slept for a week. They've also got a seating area, which is great for, you know, pretending you're cultured and having a sophisticated chat with a (imaginary) travel companion. A safe box? Good. Free Wi-Fi, Free bottled water, bathrobes, slippers? This is getting dangerous for my checking account. (And yes, Wi-Fi in all rooms! is a huge win). I did not inspect all the rooms for their specific layout but I think most rooms have a private bathroom with separate shower/bathtub.
The Bathroom: My Sanctuary of Scrubbing
Okay, the bathroom. This deserves its own section because, frankly, it was gorgeous. Sparkling clean, with a separate shower/bathtub, good lighting, and all the little toiletries you could possibly desire. The towels? Fluffy. The hair dryer? Actually worked (unlike some hotels where they're more decorative than functional). My only minor grumble? WHERE'S THE BATH BOMB HOLDER?! (Okay, I'm kidding. Mostly.)
Internet Access - Staying Connected, While Feeling Disconnected (in a Good Way)
Because, let's face it, in this modern world, you need internet access. They've got it! Internet access - wireless (aka Wi-Fi [free]), Internet access - LAN, and Internet services. Good because I hate my phone going off and I am always looking for Wi-Fi for special events!
Dining - From Buffet Bliss to A La Carte Adventure
Now, the food. This is where things really got interesting. Here's the lowdown from my experience, and let's be real, I lived to eat. I wanted it all.
Breakfast: Oh. My. Goodness. The buffet in restaurant was a spectacle! Mountains of food. Everything from waffles to nasi lemak. And the Asian breakfast options were divine. I am not the biggest fan of a Western breakfast, but they have it if you want it! I wanted to try Asian cuisine, I've also heard nice things about International cuisine in restaurant . Honestly, I spent far too long wandering around in a food-induced haze. My advice? Pace yourself. (I did not. Regrets? Zero.) Oh, and the breakfast takeaway service is a great option if you sleep in.
Lunch & Dinner: I explored the A la carte in restaurant options. So many tempting dishes, from delicate salads to hearty soups. I loved that the salad in restaurant, soup in restaurant, and the desserts in restaurant were all really good. The Vegetarian restaurant will take care of the Vegans. I am not sure what the alternative meal arrangement is.
Drinks: There is a Poolside bar to enjoy. I heard that there were Happy hour promotions. There is a Bar, and you can just have a bottle of water.
Room Service: 24-hour? Yes, please! Room service [24-hour] is a lifesaver for those late-night cravings. Especially useful when too tired.
Sanitation: Very important! The Safe dining setup is provided. They have Sanitized kitchen and tableware items.
Things to Do - Relaxation Central!
Okay, let’s get to the serious stuff: relaxation. A little part of me was afraid the whole thing would be too formal. But, I soon found my groove.
- Pool: The swimming pool is gorgeous, but the Pool with view is what makes it worth to dip in.
- Spa: The Spa/sauna or Sauna! A full range of treatments!
- Fitness Center: The Fitness center is a plus!
- Things to avoid: Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Steamroom - I did not try any of those!
In short: Prepare to be pampered.
Cleanliness and Safety - Pandemic Edition
Let's get real. This is a huge factor in our current world. Cleanliness and safety are paramount.
Hygiene certification? (Check). Staff trained in safety protocol? (Check). Daily disinfection in common areas? (Check). Individual-wrapped food options? (Check).
Hand sanitizer everywhere? (Check). Anti-viral cleaning products? (Check). Rooms sanitized between stays? (Check). Honestly, I felt safer there than I do in my own house.
They do not have Room sanitization opt-out available.
Safe dining setup.
They offer Cashless payment service and First aid kit is available.
They have CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Smoke alarms, and Fire extinguisher.
Services and Conveniences - The Little Things That Matter
- Cash withdrawal, Concierge: Super helpful!
- Laundry service, Dry cleaning, and Ironing service: (A necessity when your luggage looks like it was run over by a truck).
- Luggage storage: Great.
- Food delivery, Convenience store: (Excellent in case of emergency chocolate cravings).
- Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site]: Very convenient.
- Doorman, Facilities for disabled guests, Elevator, Front desk [24-hour]: excellent!
- Air conditioning in public area: A godsend
- Smoking area: For those who are into more vices.
- Business facilities: Business facilities, including Meeting/banquet facilities, and Meetings (if you must). Seems to have more options like Audio-visual equipment for special events.
For the Kids - Keeping the Little Rascals Happy
I have not tried this - but I saw there were Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, and even a Kids meal.
Getting Around – From Airport to Adventure
They offer Airport transfer which is an amazing touch. They have Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site].
Final Thoughts & My Honest Offer - Stop Reading, Start Booking!
Look, the Unbelievable Abell Residence Kuching isn't perfect. Nothing is. But it's damn close. Does it have flaws? Of course. I couldn't check everything and perhaps I didn't stay long enough.
Do I recommend it? HELL YES.
- What's good: The staff, the cleanliness, the food, the pool, the rooms… (I could go on and on).
- **What could be improved
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into my Abell Residence Kuching escapade. Don't expect a pristine, perfectly-planned itinerary. This is gonna be more like my brain: a little scattered, a lot caffeinated, and overflowing with… stuff. Let's get messy!
Day 1: Landfall & "Oh God, Where Did My Luggage Go?"
- Morning (or, as I like to call it, "Existential Dread O'Clock"): Arrive at Kuching International Airport. Sun's blasting, humidity's already wrestling me into submission. Smooth entry, until… Wait. Where the hell is my suitcase? Yep. Lost luggage. Fantastic. Cue the internal screams. Fortunately, the airport staff are a lot friendlier than my current mood. Quick exchange, paperwork done. Now begins the glorious waiting game.
- Afternoon: Abell Residence Check-In & Mild Panic: Taxi ride to Abell Residence. The driver, a delightful old fella named Ah Seng, regales me with stories of Kuching's history, which I absorb with about half my attention, mostly because my luggage is still MIA. The Residence itself? Charmingly… quirky. Think colonial chic meets "we're not quite sure what to do with that antique wardrobe." Check-in is painless, the staff are lovely, and my room, thankfully, has air conditioning. Bless. I promptly collapse on the bed, battling jet lag and the crushing realization that I really need a shower. And my toothbrush. And… everything.
- Evening: Street Food Salvation & Cultural Confusion: Armed with a borrowed toothbrush (praise be to the hotel concierge!), I venture out for dinner. Finding amazing street food is part of the adventure, right? I stumble into a hawker center, overwhelmed by the smells and choices. Ordered a bowl of laksa Sarawak that was so explosively flavorful, I nearly cried. Seriously. Tears of joy, mixed with the sheer relief of not having to eat airport sandwiches anymore. Wandered through the night market after, getting completely lost (and loving it.) The smells, the colours, the sheer chaos of it all… I bought a batik scarf in colours I'd never wear, just because I loved the stall owner.
Day 2: Temple Temptations & River Rambling… and My Suitcase!
- Morning: Awakening & Bizarre Breakfast: Woke up in a sweat, dreamt I was being chased by giant durians. (Don't judge my subconscious!) Breakfast at the Residence: Nasi Lemak. So delicious. The coffee, on the other hand, was… interesting. Let's just say I'm pretty sure it was brewed with the tears of a mildly depressed barista. Still, kept going.
- Midday: The Temple Trail: Explored the Tua Pek Kong Temple. It's vibrant, intricate, and the air is thick with incense. I sat for a while, just watching the people. The sheer variety of faces, the quiet devotion… It was deeply moving, and I felt a sudden, uncharacteristic urge to become a better person.
- Afternoon: River Cruise & Suitcase Miracle: Decided to take a river cruise. The views are pretty impressive. The breeze is a welcome respite from the heat. The best part? Halfway through, a crew member brings my suitcase! Yes, the lost luggage saga has ended. Hallelujah! Rummaged through it with a mix of relief and horror (at the sheer state of my packing).
- Evening: Dinner and Drink: Had a lovely dinner at a restaurant by the river. Tried something new, I am not sure what. There was a live band playing, and the atmosphere was great. Kuching's really starting to grow on me despite the trials and tribulations of my arrival.
Day 3: Orangutan Outing & Sensory Overload
- Morning: Semenggoh Wildlife Centre: Travelled a distance to the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre to see orangutans in their natural habitat. It's an incredibly powerful experience. Watching these magnificent creatures swinging through the trees… I have to admit, I teared up again. Nature is amazing.
- Afternoon: A Quick Trip to the "Cat Museum": Because, Kuching. The cat museum is the most Kuching thing I've ever experienced. It's… well, it's a museum about cats. And it is, of course, completely ridiculous. Filled with every kind of cat paraphernalia you could possibly imagine (and some you can't). Exhausting but delightful.
- Evening: Another Street Food Adventure: Back to the street food, I tell you! My stomach has recovered from the Laksa attack, and I'm keen to try more. This time, the kolo mee. So simple, so perfect.
Day 4: Relaxing (Kind Of) & Goodbye Scaries…
- Morning: Spa Day?!: Okay, okay. I had to do it. Got a traditional Malaysian massage. Did it hurt? Yes. Did it make me feel unbelievably relaxed? Also, yes. Was it worth it? Absolutely.
- Afternoon: A Stroll Through the Old Town: Wandered slowly, soaking up the atmosphere. Kuching's getting under my skin. The blend of cultures, the laid-back vibe—It's really something special.
- Evening: Packing & Pre-Departure Dread: The goodbyes are always the hardest part. Packed, which was a disaster. I have a feeling I'm leaving behind more than I arrived with… in a good way.
Final Thoughts:
Kuching, you magnificent, messy, utterly captivating city. You tested my patience, delighted my taste buds, and gave me a good dose of perspective. I'll be back, you mischievous cat. I will be back.
Escape to Paradise: Aow Noi Sea View Resort Awaits!
Unbelievable Abell Residence Kuching: You Know You Wanna Know! (FAQ with a Side of Chaos)
Alright, alright, settle down, future fancy pants! You're here because you saw the pictures, the videos, the *whispers* about the Unbelievable Abell Residence in Kuching. And you want the juicy, honest, real-deal info, right? Forget the PR drivel – let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Prepare for a bumpy ride. I'm not promising perfection, just… *me*.
Okay, so… is it *really* as luxurious as it looks? I mean, come on.
Look, lemme put it this way. My jaw *actually dropped* when I walked in. I'm talking Bugs Bunny cartoon-style. I swear, I almost tripped over my own feet ogling the marble floors in the lobby. It’s… well, it’s a level of luxury that actively makes you feel like you’ve accidentally wandered into a movie set. Like, you're half-expecting a ridiculously wealthy villain to stride past you at any moment, twirling a monocle. The answer is yes, it *is* ridiculously luxurious.
However… let's get real. Luxury is in the eye of the beholder. My travel buddy, Brenda, bless her heart, kept saying, "It’s *nice*... but is there a good iron?" She's a practical woman. So, yes, marble and chandeliers? Check. Brenda demanding a wrinkle-free linen shirt? Also, check. (The iron was, surprisingly, excellent.)
What's the deal with the location? Like, is it actually convenient or just… pretty?
Okay, so Abell Road itself is… charming. It’s right in the heart of Kuching, which means you’re practically tripping over fantastic restaurants and historic sites. Perfect for exploring. We spent our days wandering the streets, people-watching, grabbing a *kolok mee* (MUST TRY!) and generally feeling like actual Kuching residents… for a glorious fleeting moment, at least.
Now, the "convenience" part is where things get a little… Kuching. Traffic can be dicey. Let's just say you'll learn the best routes quickly. And the walk to the waterfront? Gorgeous, but prepare for humidity. I'm from the UK, I'm not used to it! But honestly, the location is generally spot-on. Just factor in a little extra time for getting around, and you'll be golden.
The rooms... are they as *amazing* as they seem online?
Yes. And no. My room? Oh, the room! (Actually, we got a suite, because…treat yo'self, right?) It was colossal. Like, you could host a small dance party in the bathroom. The bed was a cloud. Seriously, I sunk into it and immediately started plotting how to smuggle it back home (don’t judge!). The view? Spectacular. Honestly, the view alone almost justified the price. Almost. But, the devil is in the detail...
The aircon... was a little, shall we say, *enthusiastic.* We had to turn it down to, like, "tropical breeze" to avoid getting hypothermia. And, for all the grandeur of the room, there was a slight… *lack of personality.* It was all a bit… pristine. Sterile. Needs a few little touches here and there, the type of thing that makes it feel like a lived-in space. Still a knockout, though, but not totally perfect. I can live with it.
What's the food like? Because luxury hotels are often… well, overhyped and overpriced.
Okay, the food. THIS IS IMPORTANT. The breakfast buffet? Legendary. Seriously, prepare to gain a kilo just from staring at the spread. Fresh fruit, pastries that are works of art, made-to-order everything… I may have accidentally had five croissants one morning. DON’T JUDGE ME. The local dishes were *divine*. I'm still dreaming of the *laksa*.
The restaurant itself (I think it's called something ridiculously posh, like "The Grand Dining Room") was also excellent. Fine dining, but without the stuffiness that makes me want to run screaming. The staff were genuinely lovely and helpful. The prices? Well… expect to shell out a bit more than you would at a hawker stall, obviously. But the quality was worth it. Worth every delicious, decadent penny.
The Spa! I heard the Spa is incredible.
You heard right. The Spa is the icing on the cake. After a couple of days of hiking, street food, and generally soaking up the Kuching vibes, I was ready to be pampered. I treated myself to a massage, and honestly, I drifted off to a place of pure bliss. The masseuse was an artist, and I swear all my muscles melted away under her expert touch. It was so good, I booked another one.
The only tiny complaint? It's easy to lose track of time in there. I almost missed my dinner reservation! I’d happily spend the rest of my days in that spa. Honestly, if you’re planning on visiting, make sure you carve out time for it. It’s necessary!
What's the service like? I'm picky.
Okay, so I'm British, which means I have a ridiculously high bar for service. I'm also notoriously impatient… and slightly terrifying when I’m hangry. BUT, I have to say, the service at the Abell Residence was seriously impressive. The staff were incredibly attentive, genuinely friendly (which is a relief, sometimes you feel the people are ‘faking’ it), and anticipated your needs before you even knew you had them. I asked for an extra pillow and it magically appeared within minutes. My bag needed a small repair and it was, discreetly, done whilst I was out and about.
Now, I did have one *tiny* hiccup. On the first morning, breakfast service was a little… slow. But the staff were quick to apologize and went above and beyond to make up for it. It made me have to admit, in any hotel, it’s about how they handle things NOT perfect outcomes. That’s a plus!
Any downsides? Because nothing's perfect.
Alright, alright, let's get the grumbles out of the way. The price is… hefty. Seriously. You're paying for the experience, the location, the sheer *wow* factor. So, be prepared to loosen yourDelightful Hotels
