A thoughtfully crafted hotel in the heart of KL’s heritage-rich district, here’s a rundown of my stay at Else Retreats.
Kuala Lumpur is a fast-paced city with plenty to see, eat and discover. In the heart of the bustling Chinatown, Else Retreats stands out as an elegant stay for any traveller. This hotel is housed in the conserved Lee Rubber Building, transforming the iconic heritage building into a luxurious space. Here’s my review of the stay.
A luxe, restorative space
During my time in KL, Else Retreats was my home away from home. Its cosy stay offers an amazing view of the streets of Chinatown and the city (there’s lots to explore, more on that in a bit!). The warm hospitality of the helpful hotel staff really made me feel at home, and the thoughtful interiors and design-led space made for an exceptional experience. Muted colour palettes and funky design-led details are the mainstays of its decor, creating a cool urban vibe and relaxed yet sophisticated space.
Discovering popular gems at Chinatown
Else Retreats sits within the cultural district of Chinatown, and there’s plenty to explore. First off, Rex KL is a unique arts and culture hub you can’t miss. Located in the site of one of the first theatres in Malaysia, the space is now a hotspot for events, exhibitions, screenings and more. There’s also an array of F&B establishments where you can grab a bite or a tipple.
Not here for long? If there’s one area you need to check out before you leave, it’s Kwai Chai Hong, a heritage-rich lane in Chinatown. This area comprises restored shophouses and an alleyway decked out in murals. A stroll through this lane transports you back to KL’s Chinatown of the 60s, with photo ops and glorious food choices.
Fusion food done right
If you’re a foodie, Raw Kitchen Hall and its Latin-Asian eats won’t disappoint. Fun fact: this is a sister concept of Raw Kitchen Bar in Singapore. From tuna tartare to wagyu beef brisket, the dishes here are best shared – I recommend ordering a few different ones for the table!
My standout meal during my time in KL was the French toast on the breakfast menu. As a French toast aficionado, this was hands down the best one I’ve had in my life: not too sweet, with a slight crunch, 100% perfection.
A beautifully crafted hotel, Else Retreats is an ideal pick for a stay in KL. Not only is it a design-led experience, but it’s also located in a culture-rich locale with plenty to explore.
Else Retreats, 45 Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
This post is in partnership with Else Retreats.
