ROADTRIPS can be tiring, and after a long five-hour journey bound for the east-coast from Johor Baru via Federal Route 3 (FT3), a scenic coastal route that runs along the east coast of Peninsula Malaysia, we arrive at our first stop — Kuantan, the capital of Pahang.
While many would prefer to stay in the city centre which can be hectic especially on weekends, my family and I choose a hotel by the beach to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
After browsing through the Expedia app on my phone, we found the perfect hotel for our one night stay in Kuantan.
Nestled on the pristine Balok beach, Swiss Garden Beach Resort Kuantan is perfectly located along the coastal route, making it convenient for us to continue our journey up north the next morning.
SPACIOUS STAY
It is a weekend, and the resort lobby is teeming with visitors checking in for the day. However, the queue at the reception moves rather quickly and with a smile, the lady behind the counter welcomes me.
After handing her my identification card, she continues to search the booking in the system. The check-in process ends in less then five minutes, partly because I have booked and paid online through Expedia. Easy!
“Here’s your key card, our staff will gladly help you with the luggage. Have a nice stay with your family,” she says before we follow one of the staff heading to our room.
Our deluxe rooms are very clean and orderly, but it feels like the interior lacks freshness. Perhaps, it’s high time the management gave it a facelift to brighten up the space.
Despite that, I still appreciate that the room has ample space to move around in with a comfy king-size bed!
Plus, the rooms are also fitted with modern facilities such as LCD TV, safe electronic deposit boxes, individually controlled air-conditioning, minibar cofffee and tea making facilities, and more.
FAMILY TIME
I slept so soundly last night and this morning, I feel like going for a nice walk by the beach before we continue our journey at noon.
After breakfast I head down to the beach and to my surprise, it is crowded with families although it is not yet 10am.
Kids are running by the seashore, and some are making sand castles while their mum and dad are relaxing, while keeping a close eye on the kids.
The outdoor swimming pool area is also a hit with families with young kids. It’s a huge free form pool complete with slides!
It also has an outdoor jacuzzi for adults to have a good time too.
FAST FACTS
SWISS GARDEN BEACH RESORT KUANTAN
2656-2657, Mukim Balok Beach, Beserah, Kuantan, Pahang
TEL 09-548 8288
EMAIL reservation@sbkn.swissgarden.com
WEBSITE www.swissgarden.com/beach-resort-kuantan
STAY The hotel offers 300 rooms and suites ranging from the Deluxe to the Family Rooms.
EAT There are five F&B outlets — Garden Terrace House, The Blossom Chinese Restaurant, Swiss-Deli, Parrot Bar and Malibu Pub
DO Pamper yourself at the Samsara Spa or work up a sweat at the Fitness Centre. There are also Games Room and Tupai Kid’s Club for your kids.
GO Take the complimentary Shuttle Services to Kuantan Town
HIGHS Short walk to the beach
LOWS Dislike the old ambience. Perhaps a refurbish should be done to brighten up the look
BOOK A HOLIDAY WITH EXPEDIA
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