Staying in the suburbs, out of the glare of city lights, I’ve sometimes wondered what it’s like to live right in the centre of a metropolis like Kuala Lumpur. Well, recently I had an opportunity to experience a 2-night stay in the heart of Kuala Lumpur – in the luxurious urban haven of E&O Residences managed by Eastern & Oriental Berhad (E&O).
Located along a quiet stretch known as Jalan Tengah, which is just a stonethrow from uber-busy Jalan Sultan Ismail, the E&O Residences is a sanctuary. Although it’s smack in the middle of the CBD (Central Business District), the E&O Residences is an oasis of calm, greenery and wide spaces. The 200 exclusive and stylishly appointed suites are housed in two towers fringed by lots of tall palm trees.
The stylish Reception area
Guests can chill-out in this casual lounge area just next to the reception
A charming corner with laptops available for guests to use
Our experience checking in to our 2-room suite was quick and seamless. Within minutes we got our access cards and were immediately whisked up to the 25th floor. The 134 sq m (1,442sq ft) suite is certainly spacious with 2 bedrooms, an open living area, a well-equipped kitchenette and a private study. The little study is intentionally kept spartan so as not to disrupt attention when work is needed to be done.
The master bedroom and guest room are furnished with comfortable king-sized beds with premium bedlinen, wardrobes and spacious bathrooms – complete with glass-walled showers, free standing baths, as well as ‘His’ and ‘Hers’ vanities. We really love the simple chic furniture accentuated by plenty of natural light pouring in from the angled glass walls of the balcony.
For a hassle-free stay, the amenities provided are complete; from the fully-equipped kitchenette to washing machine & dryer, steam iron with ironing board, hairdryer, electronic safe and home entertainment system with iPod docking station. For guests who wish to cook their own meals, we’re told rice cooker and blender are also available on request. And oh, fast wifi internet connectivity is of course available too!
The large swimming pool on the grounds is a welcome spot to chill out, whether it’s just to laze around or for that much-needed round of aqua exercise. Gym bunnies would be pleased to know that there’s also a gym on the premises. Walking around the expansive grounds, we noted there are swings and children’s play area to keep the young ones happy and occupied.
Guests staying at the E&O Residences can choose to have breakfast included and this is served at Delicious Cafe which is just a few steps away, at St Mary Place. Breakfast is served from 7am to 10am daily. The buffet spread is simple but ample enough. Local favourites like nasi lemak and fried noodles together with western-style items are all available at the buffet stations.
One of the plus factors of staying in the E&O Residences is that guests don’t need to venture far for a spot of retail therapy. Right at the doorstep, there’s a 2-storey retail annexe called St Mary Place, an intimate enclave of hip bistros, delis, and restaurants like Glass Tartines & Tipples, Black Market pub and Sushi Hinata.
Whether for long or short term stays, the luxurious and ample-sized city suite is perfect for business guests, small families and young couples. Even though there are skyscrapers surrounding the area, staying at the E&O Residences, with its lush greenery and plenty of tall matured trees around, there’s a sense of calm and unruffled tranquility. If you are looking for a relaxing getaway in the city, give these Residences a try.
E&O RESIDENCES
No.1 Jalan Tengah
Off Jalan Sultan Ismail
50250 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603-2023-2188
Website here