Luxury and Sensibility

Else is a new luxury hotel in KL that offers a cosy and relaxing stay

- ALISON LOH

THERE’S A CERTAIN APPEAL TO STAYCATIONS. The destinations are close to home and they offer a relaxing, luxurious experience. For those wanting a quick and easy getaway, staycations make for the perfect choice, especially in Kuala Lumpur.

I was invited to a 2D1N stay at the capital’s newest hotel destination – Else. Located in the middle of Chinatown, the newly opened hotel is nestled inside the Lee Rubber Building. In the 1930s, it was even the tallest and most prestigious building in the city.

Else was a four-year project brought to life by its founders, Justin Chen and Javier Perez. And through its grand façade lies its beautiful interior. Designed by architects Studio Bikin and Faizah Architect, Else embodies Malaysian aesthetics and brings sensibility to the fore.

Among the 49 rooms available in the building, I was treated to their Mantra room. The space is a quaint 25 sqm sanctuary with a king-sized bed and luxurious bathroom. With its neutral-toned walls, simple décor and textured accents, the ambiance of the room easily soothes the eyes and mind.

While the room is perfectly equipped with all the necessary amenities, guests can also request for additional services via the room’s tablet that’s placed on the nightstand.

DINNER AT YELLOW HORSE FIN 

Even though Else is close to many food and cultural hubs, the hotel has its own restaurant for those who want to skip the outdoors. Located at level four, Yellow Horse Fin (YHF) is a newly opened restaurant led by celebrated local chef Jun Wong. Under her supervision, YHF explores fine dining with the concept of elemental cooking.