WHEN in Penang, I have reservations about staying in hotels located either away from George Town's core zone or Batu Feringghi's pristine beaches.
I always had the opinion that there are no other places on the island that is either equally rich in heritage or can also allow me to take leisurely walks at the crack of dawn while savouring the welcoming embrace of the cool sea breeze.
All these concerns are proven baseless after I spend some time exploring Tanjong Tokong, a quiet residential enclave best known for its multi-million ringgit bungalows and high-end condominiums.
More importantly, I am glad to say that Hompton By The Beach has proven me wrong, at first encounter!
Not only does the earliest settlement in the vicinity predate the arrival of Francis Light, other nearby attractions include a lovely stretch of white sandy beach that leads on to a quaint fishing village.
As for the hotel itself, its set up, amenities and, most important of all, food are at par or even better than those found in Penang's more popular tourist areas.
STAY
Located on the 31st floor, my Family Two-bedroom Suite comes with a separate living and pantry area, making it ideal to gloriously lounge around enjoying the luxurious amenities.
At the same time, the full-length floor to ceiling windows give opportunity to savour the stunning landscape down below from my vantage point.
Apart from unparalleled view of the azure Andaman Sea in the distance, the bird's eye view of Tanjong Tokong's surrounding area quickly reveal the presence of a scenic boulder fringed seafront with an ancient looking temple located just a short distance away.
While savouring complimentary snacks thoughtfully delivered by a polite room service staff member, the cool concept of having an interesting feature wall separating the dining area with its comfortable four-seater dining table from the two bedroom sections gives rise to thought that such ample space is also suitable for those seeking privacy while entertaining guests or hosting business associates.
My favourite part of the suite must surely be the bedrooms with their medium to firm king size beds complete with comfortable pillows that are sure to provide restful nights throughout my stay.
At that moment itself, I can already imagine myself waking up the next day with views of a glorious sunrise through the windows that mirror those in the living area. Completing each bedroom are two flanking side tables, a well-thought-out wardrobe, a television set and a dressing table.
Functional bathroom fixtures feature wall mounted cabinets with mirrors all around and luxurious counter finishes. The icing on the cake is the range of premium toiletries available which ensure that all my pampering needs are taken care of for the next two days.
Hompton By The Beach houses 240 well-appointed seaview rooms and suites comprising of five exciting categories - Deluxe Room (28 sqm), Supreme Room (34 sqm), Premium Suite (65 sqm), Premium Supreme Suite (65 sqm) and Family Two-bedroom Suite (80sqm).
While all come with free unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi, the Supreme Room and Premium Supreme Suit prove to be most appealing to cost conscious family units as they not only come with a king sized bed each but also unique double decker units that will surely make the young ones extremely happy.
EAT
Spice Garden and Elementos Tapas & Lounge are two F&B outlets located in the hotel. Apart from serving a tantalising breakfast spread, Spice Garden is most noted for its dinner buffet spread during the weekends. During my walkabout just hours before the 7pm commencement time, I chance upon plastic containers filled with live mud crabs at the counter.
After quizzing an attending chef about the preparation technique and getting a confident reply that the crustaceans are so fresh that all that needs to be done is just steam them, I make haste in booking a table.
Value for money Seafood Galore Night turns out to be a truly amazing experience and I have never eaten so much crabs and grilled lamb in my life. Well patronised by not only hotel guests but also local Penang residents, reservations are definitely a must.
Elementos is a conceptual bar and lounge that serves up delightful tapas and main courses that harmoniously incorporate all the five basic elements of the universe - wood, fire, ice, water and earth. Savour delectable high tea spread in the afternoons while taking in the sights al fresco style.
DO
Explore the hotel and check out its many hidden nooks and crannies that offer stunning views of Penang and the mainland from various interesting angles.
GO
A short walk away is a nice sandy beach that rivals those in Batu Feringghi. Best of all, meet anglers who take advantage of the high tide to reel in abundant food fish like snapper and croaker.
Venture a little further to the fishing village and Tua Pek Kong Temple which is said to have been established by after a sailor whose Sumatra-bound boat was blown off course at the turn of the 18th century.
After his death, locals built the temple to worship him.
VERDICTS
HIGHS Exciting location and Spice Garden Seafood Galore Night's tasty choices.
LOWS The carpark may prove to be a bit narrow. Practice caution while manoeuvring and all will be well.
FAST FACTS
Hompton By The Beach Penang
No. 533 Jalan C.M. Hashim,
Tanjung Tokong, 11200 Penang
TEL 04-373 3233
FAX 04 373 5533
EMAIL info@homptonhotel.com
WEBSITE www.homptonhotel.com
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