DoubleTree Penang

The main entrance to the Hotel

When we were browsing for places to stay for the Penang trip, Anita wanted to stay at a villa-type accommodation. Unfortunately we were late. Most of the good spots were already taken. What was left were either lower rang or too expensive. Luckily DoubleTree Penang in Batu Feringghi got a few on offer. And even then the choices were limited.

Looking across from the cafe

The Axis Bar

The main eatery located a floor below

It was a hotel originally built in the 80s, with recent acquisition by the Hilton brand, splashing on new interiors. It felt new, well staffed at least during the weekends. The first night was packed, and we struggled to get a seat for breakfast in the Sunday morning. But the later couple of days were a lot more pleasant as the number of guests became less.

The main lobby was large and opened to the elements. Unfortunately during our stay, the weather was balmy with hardly much breeze passing by. It was baking at times. It certainly was better in the evenings. 

The stairs leading down to Makan Kitchen

Nice-looking mural at the entrance of Makan Kitchen

The hotel swimming pool

In terms of choices for food, there was the Axis Bar at the lobby for drinks and big TVs plus live musics during weekend. We had a nice couple of nights just enjoying some drinks there after dinner. For breakfast and other meals, there was Makan Kitchen. Disappointingly, they only offered buffet for breakfast. The rest was a la carte. 

The pool was great, especially for families. My boys were not terribly keen. They had enough with pools both at home and school. There was also a private overbridge to opposite of the main Batu Feringghi, taking us to “Miami Beach”, a small picturesque strip of beach relatively unspoilt near the hotel. 

The car park. And that was where we left our MPV.

Some books to read at the cafe

We spent a total of three nights at the hotel and I must say that it turned out better than expected. The breakfast spread was good and staffs were friendly. We just left our MPV at the carpark all the time and used Grab to travel instead. It took us in and out fo the hotel without the worry of traffic and parking spots later. We also sampled the spa. Not bad.

More details and the booking page here.