Hotels & Resorts
Beating the Heat at
Gloria Residences Te x t b y S H A H I DA S A K E R I Images by GLORIA RESIDENCES ION DELEMEN GENTING HIGHLANDS
As the dry and hot weather in the Klang Valley intensifies, so does my hibernation mode. I often find myself cocooned in the comfort of my home, dreaming of a more pleasant weather like spring in a wisteria-draped London. But then I start to feel restless, and since Europe is far away from where I am currently based, I made a quick escape to the closest destination with cooler climate that I could think of: Genting Highlands.
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My abode there is Gloria Residences Ion Delemen Genting Highlands, the slick serviced-apartments approximately 6,000 feet above sea level, surrounded by verdant rainforest. Naturally, serenity is included in the stay experience – one might wake up to the sight of misty highlands, so peaceful that the only noises you hear at the balcony would be the chirping birds and occasional chatters of the guests lounging at the Sky Garden. Even the lobby smells lovely, swaying guests into an absolute calmness. The residences encapsulate 331 unassuming units ranging from Deluxe Studio to Four Bedroom Penthouse. Mine is the former: a contemporary lodging decorated in various shades of grey. A coffee table and sofa make a cosy area for downtime in front of the television, while refreshments can be sourced from the tea and coffee facility. If that’s not enough, a convenient store is also available nearby for guests to stock up their snacks. Safety box, refrigerator, hairdryer, iron and
ironing board come as standard as well; of course, the laundry service is available to compensate the absence of washing machine in each unit. Rosslyn France is the brand of choice for the property’s bath amenities – perhaps a tad too strong-scented for sensitive users. The property boasts all of the perks of a hotel, from concierge service to housekeeping, yet is more spacious than an average hotel. Active guests would enjoy the well-equipped fitness centre, while families will find the Kid’s Club a fun area to let their little ones roam free. To relax and unwind during the stay, head to the sauna or the heated indoor swimming pool lined with plentiful loungers overlooking the First World Plaza. At the outdoor, guests can enjoy the property’s nature walk, flying fox and rock-climbing activities available for booking at the front desk. To cater to their corporate guests, the property also offers 12 meeting rooms suitable for events or functions of various
sizes. Breakfast at the all-day-dining restaurant, HOME, is a traditional spread including Malaysian classics, made-to-order eggs, cereals and plenty other selections that should satisfy most; as for lunch, I enjoyed a chicken sandwich with a cup of handcrafted coffee at the deli-style Hotspot. At night, I dined at The Tavern in the Sky with the beautiful cinematic view of the Titiwangsa Range, framed by its large floorto-ceiling windows. The restaurant specialises in Thai food, and in all honesty, I think the meals served there are some of the best Thai food I’ve ever tasted. The chicken feet skin salad was exceptional, while the chilli lime steam squid (Thai Assam style) explodes with flavours, leaving me intoxicated from each bite. For guests who prefer Western or Chinese offerings, Kembali Kitchen, which is located next door, also does not disappoint and is often packed with satisfied patrons.
