Swiss-Garden Hotel Melaka

Situated in a modern high-rise, interiors at this upscale hotel are much like its facade: slick surfaces and lots of windows that fill contemporary spaces with natural light. Guests are greeted in a high-ceilinged lobby, which is bright and airy thanks to walls of windows and features a pared-down modern style bathed in sandstone marble. Seating is clustered here and there, while abstract art on the walls adds a hint of color to all the sandstone hues, as does potted greenery. The restaurant has the same ambience with its high ceilings and walls of windows filling it with light. Sandstone marble is paired with handsome woods, while wooden tables are flanked by gray and lime chairs. It's a pleasant space to dine in, but also feels casual enough to be comfortable. Guests are mainly leisure tourists, with a mix of couples, families, and groups of friends. It's a great choice for families with kids due to the spacious Family Suites and fun kids' pool. 

The hotel is part of a group of buildings that includes neighboring the Shore Shopping Gallery mall (the two buildings are linked). It's right by the Malacca River and is situated in a convenient location for tourists wishing to explore the city, as it's close to many noteworthy attractions. Kampung Morten, Melaka’s sole Malay village, is home to the Villa Sentosa museum and is right across the river from the hotel (a 10-minute walk). The vibrant Jonker Street, home to a popular weekend market, is a 15-minute walk away, and the Stadhuys is 16 minutes away on foot. As a UNESCO World Heritage City, the area is packed with historic landmarks, such as Christ Church (16-minute walk) and Bala and Nyonya Heritage Museum (17-minute walk). Melaka International Airport is about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. 

There are three different options as far as rooms go here: Deluxe, Executive Suite, and Family Suite. The rooms are large; even entry-level Deluxe Rooms, which measure 344 square feet (32 square meters), have sitting areas. Executive Suites are much larger at 592 square feet (55 square meters) and have separate living rooms with sofas and dining tables. Family Suites are the largest option at 1022.6 square feet (95 square meters) and a great choice for families or groups, offering two bedrooms (one with two twin beds), separate living rooms with dining areas, and kitchenettes with microwaves and full fridges.

Rooms and suites, like the rest of the hotel, feature elegant contemporary decor and sleek furnishings. Cloaked in neutral hues, they're illuminated by natural light thanks to large windows/sliding doors which open onto private balconies. Gray walls and carpets are paired with clean-lined wooden furniture and large cream padded headboards that frame beds topped with crisp white bedding. Pops of color come from art on the walls and red accents pillows. 

Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, mini-fridges stocked with free bottled water, coffee- and tea-making facilities, irons and ironing boards, electronic safes, and free Wi-Fi. All rooms have desks with ergonomic chairs. Sleek, modern bathrooms have walk-in rainfall showers. Family Suites have both soaking tubs and separate walk-in showers. Individual toiletries are supplied, as are hairdryers. 

The highlight is the outdoor pools, which are large and attractive. One has great views over the city, while the other features a kids' area with a slide, fountains, and other fun water features. Chic umbrella-shaded loungers offer seating along the pool deck.

The bright and airy gym is cantilevered over the pool and surrounded by windows with views over the water. It offers a great selection of modern Cybex machines, including ellipticals, treadmills, stationary bikes, and strength-training machines, plus there are weights. Bottled water and towels are on hand.

There's a restaurant located on the ground floor that serves a buffet of local and Western fare. Room service is also available. Breakfast is available for an additional charge. Other features include nine meeting rooms available for a variety of functions, as well as a ballroom for events like weddings. Parking is free on-site, as is Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.