InterContinental Kuala Lumpur

Housed in a glass tower, this hotel exudes glitzy luxury -- on par with other outposts in this reliable high-end brand. That being said, there is something about the style that feels just a bit off, especially for those accustomed to more chic luxury properties. The bright, airy lobby has silver and gold columns, metallic panels with geometric designs, and small seating areas that surround a large central staircase. It all makes a somewhat flashy statement, and unintentionally evokes a 1980s vibe. The same look is present throughout the similarly spacious restaurants and bars, with details like the wavy lit ceiling above the bar at the OneSixFive Lounge and Wine Bar. Still, these minor flaws don't deter loyalists and well-heeled travelers -- business guests make up much of the crowd at this busy property. As such, the 26th-floor Club InterContinental is the hotel’s most impressive spot; this high-ceilinged, multi-level space has large floor-to-ceiling windows, white marble-topped tables, and a sophisticated black-and-gray color scheme. It's an undeniably stylish place to kick back for those who are staying in the hotel's highest category rooms -- other guests will have to make do with the hotel's prime city-center location to find their entertainment. 

The InterContinental is convenient for both business travelers and tourists. Located next to the Citibank Tower, it's surrounded by other office and bank buildings, hotels, fast food restaurants, and malls in central Kuala Lumpur. The area is known as KLCC and is one of the more bustling parts of an already hectic city. The landmark Petronas Twin Towers and KLCC Park are both a 10-minute walk away, while the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and Aquaria KLCC -- the city’s aquarium -- are both within a 20-minute walk. Still, this is Kuala Lumpur, and it's hot, making taxis or the public transit system the most popular ways to cover distances. It's a five-minute drive to either the convention center or aquarium. The hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the Ampang Park LRT Station, for access to attractions such as Central Market (an Art Deco building filled with stalls offering merchandise and food) or Chinatown -- expect trips to either destination to take an hour or so by light rail. The trendy Bukit Bintang shopping and entertainment district is a 10-minute drive, and the hotel runs a free shuttle there (as well as to the convention center). Kuala Lumpur International Airport is a 50-minute drive away.

There are 473 rooms and suites ranging from spacious Deluxe and Premier Rooms to sprawling Grand Premier and Club units. Despite the category, all are large, with entry-level Deluxe Rooms coming in with 452 square-foot floor plans (42 square meters). The decor features lots of creams and beiges, with some black and maroon accents. Textiles, wall coverings, and carpeting are inlaid with geometric patterns, giving the otherwise plain rooms a more pleasant character. Dark wood veneer has dark marble tops that add a touch of class, and just a few pieces of restrained abstract art hangs on the walls. 

All rooms have large 42- or 50-inch flat-screen TVs, well-stocked minibars, air-conditioning, free WI-Fi, safes, robes, slippers, irons and ironing boards, and reportedly comfortable beds. Desks have handsome leather office chairs. Higher-category rooms, including Club level rooms, have extras like iPod docks and Nespresso machines. Limited laundry service and butler services are available in higher-category rooms as well. Marble and granite bathrooms have spacious vanities, roomy stall showers, and separate soaking tubs. The travertine and granite combination, though, looks a bit dated. Many rooms do have lovely city views.

Like almost all of its luxury competition in the KLCC area, there are a number of features here. These include three restaurants -- one a brasserie, the others serving Japanese and Chinese cuisine -- and two bars. Bentley’s Pub is an English-style bar and OneSixFive has more of a lounge atmosphere. Food across the board receives solid marks, and those staying in Club Rooms and other higher-category bookings have access to the chic Club InterContinental, where free snacks, drinks, cocktails, and breakfast are available. The space also has plenty of nooks and seating areas for those who want an escape from this otherwise busy hotel and busy city.

The outdoor lagoon pool, located on the fifth level, is surrounded by palm trees and has a view of the surrounding skyscrapers. The on-site Sompoton Spa offers a full menu of massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures, with some services offered in guest rooms. There’s also a gym with a large selection of cardio and weight machines. 

For events, there are eight meeting rooms and two ballrooms, while the business center has three computer work stations, with secretarial services available. The hotel also runs a free shuttle to the convention center and Bukit Bintang. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.