First World Hotel, Resorts World Genting

Massive and bold, the First World Hotel is a bit of an eyesore against the peaceful mountain landscape that surrounds it -- but have no doubt: This is a destination built for those looking to enjoy anything but natural pleasures. The property -- featuring a whopping 7,351 rooms -- is housed in three huge rainbow-colored towers that are surrounded by a number of similarly conspicuous buildings. Though this look may seem better suited for a mega-resort in Vegas or in some crowded beach destination, it is actually rather fitting for this hotel, known for being the world’s largest. Families and couples are drawn en masse to the First World Hotel not only for the low rates but also for its location, directly adjacent to a massive mall offering hundreds of shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. 

The hotel is so huge that it comes as no surprise that some elements feel impersonal, from the self-check-in machines in the lobby (that many guests seem to struggle with) to the atmosphere and design. Tower Three is the newest and features more contemporary decor, but the other two structures are somewhat past their prime, with many reports of maintenance and cleanliness issues, and generic interiors that combine basic wooden furniture with well-worn carpets in brown hues. Those interested in easy access to all things fun may find this hotel to be a decent value -- but travelers expecting a pleasant base to explore the surrounding mountains are probably better off staying elsewhere. 

The First World Hotel is located at the top of a mountain in the Genting Highlands, a Vegas-style hill station about an hour north of Kuala Lumpur. Though it may sound like the hotel is somewhat secluded, it is actually surrounded by things to do. The cool mountain air is a big draw here, but so are the multiple neon-lit entertainment, shopping, and dining venues directly adjacent to the hotel. In fact, although there are some interesting local attractions nearby -- including the Chin Swee Temple halfway down the mountain -- few guests leave the complex during their stay. The Genting International Convention Center is also just next door to the hotel. The best way to reach the First World Hotel is by taking the Awana or Genting cable cars from the base of the mountain, which allow for panoramic mountain views. The nearest major airport is Kuala Lumpur International Airport, located about two hours away. 

The hotel’s 7,351 rooms are housed in three large towers painted in bright, bold colors. Rooms in Tower Three (labeled Y5 here) are the newest and nicest of all, with simple yet contemporary decor that combines cute patterned wallpaper in yellow or blue, laminate floors, and clean-lined white furniture that stands out against dark accent walls. Rooms in the other two towers, however, are basic and dated, with older blond wood furniture and worn carpets. Guests who have stayed in these two towers have reported maintenance and cleanliness issues. Starting at 180 square feet, rooms are tiny across the board, with little space to move around and limited storage. Big windows -- many of which offer great mountain views -- add some visual space.

Standard Rooms in Towers One and Two are outfitted with just the most basic amenities -- small flat-screen TVs and safes, while units in Tower Three add electric kettles, mini-fridges, and Wi-Fi. Free bottled water is provided only in Superior Deluxe and World Club Rooms. Air-conditioning is not available in any room type, but it is generally not necessary. Bathrooms feature either walk-in showers or shower/tub combos and are stocked with two-in-one shampoo and shower gel. Bathrooms in Tower Three have an open layout that may pose privacy issues to some guests.

Smoking rooms are available on request. 

This Vegas-style mega-hotel offers a stunning array of features that make it a destination unto itself. While the only proper on-site feature is a spacious gym with modern cardio and strength-training machines, the property is connected to a massive mall that offers a huge array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. SkyAvenue Mall is home to not only dozens of boutiques and restaurants but also offers daily entertainment, including light shows and performances. The 400,000-square-foot SkyTropolis is the mall’s indoor theme park, complete with a 20-lane bowling alley, a winter village with life-like snowfalls, igloos, and Toboggan slides, tons of rides, and a virtual reality room. The hotel also offers direct access to the Seni Kome Peng Heng arts and culture center and a 24-hour casino. On-site parking is available for a nightly fee.