The other day I accompanied a group of Soka University students for tea at the Malacca Straits Hotel and guess what ? While toddling into the hotel restaurant, I met a familiar figure who happens to be the owner of the hotel. I remembered at one time the hotel was known as the Straits Inn. Mr Bharat, being an ex - Malacca High School old boy and I started talking about the good old days. And seizing the opportunity he decided to show the Japanese students the inside of this beautiful boutique hotel. With 40 over rooms, it is better than most bigger hotels that I have seen. service was excellent and the people were courteous. I cannot complain. Upon entering the various rooms, we heard the oohs and aahs coming from the students. All rooms are of batik, songkit motifs, even along the corridors as one stepped out of the lifts( elevators ! ). Another big aahs were heard when told that the internet is free and all rooms had been installed with jacuzzis. And the rates are very competitive , everything boutique is not necessarily expensive ! My verdict : this hotel is an excellent boutique hotel with its unique charm coupled with service oriented people to manja you during your stay in historic Malacca whether you are on business or travelling. By the way, most historical sites and shopping activities are within walking distance from this hotel. Mr Bharat owned 4 other hotels in Malacca, so I was told by one of his staff. Hmm..mm. I just wonder what is his secret.
