Royale Chulan Penang

Georgetown 5.41733900, 100.34361700 , No. 1 & 2, Pengkalan Weld (Show on Map)
8.3
Very Good


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Summary of reviewsThe Royale Chulan Penang, located in the heart of George Town, excels with its strategic location, making it a prime choice for tourists eager to explore the city's historical and cultural gems. Guests appreciate its proximity to key attractions such as Little India, Armenian Street and the UNESCO Heritage area, along with famous local eateries and convenient access to the ferry terminal. The hotel's blend of historical charm and modern amenities in a beautifully maintained heritage building contributes to a cozy and comfortable stay, enhanced by clean, spacious rooms and commendable service.

The breakfast experience at Royale Chulan Penang is widely praised for its extensive variety catering to diverse tastes, featuring both local and international dishes. Highlights include an array of breads, soups and a notable egg station with positive mentions of the nasi lemak and vegetarian options. Despite some comments on needing more space and better replenishment practices, the overall consensus is that the breakfast is delightful and a highlight of the stay.

Dinner at the hotel also receives positive feedback, particularly the quality of banquet and in-house restaurant offerings with the Christmas dinner and festive atmosphere being standout features. While some dishes like overcooked fish and less satisfying mashed potatoes received critiques, guests generally enjoy the variety and quality of dinner options provided.

The rooms are a significant highlight, often described as spacious, clean and well-maintained with luxurious decor and modern amenities such as iron boards and toiletries. The addition of balconies in some rooms provides extra space and lovely views, enhancing the guest experience. Although minor issues such as noise from air conditioning and sporadic encounters with small cockroaches were noted, the overall sentiment remains positive.

Cleanliness at the hotel is generally well-regarded with many guests noting the high standards of housekeeping, particularly clean bathrooms and a pleasant fragrance throughout the property. However, some reviews point out areas for improvement, including mold in bathrooms and occasional dust accumulation.

The staff at Royale Chulan Penang are frequently commended for their efficiency, friendliness and accommodating nature. The reception, housekeeping and security teams, in particular, receive positive mentions for their courteous and professional demeanor, significantly enhancing the overall guest experience.

WiFi services present a mixed experience with many guests appreciating the good and reliable connection. However, there are recurring complaints about spotty reception and slow speeds in various areas, suggesting room for improvement in the hotel's internet services.

The gym, though small, is considered well-equipped and available 24/7, meeting basic workout needs. Reviews indicate it is generally praised but could benefit from better maintenance and updates. The pool areas are well-received, providing a refreshing and clean environment with beautiful views, although some guests note occasional overcrowding.

Parking receives mixed reviews with free covered parking being a definite perk. However, issues with limited spaces, narrow bays and an inconvenient entrance are frequently mentioned. The hotel staff's efforts to manage the parking situation are notable, though improvements are needed.

Lastly, the Royale Chulan Penang is highly recommended for families, offering spacious family rooms and a kid-friendly swimming pool. The staff's attentiveness and willingness to upgrade guests to larger suites when needed are often highlighted, making it an ideal destination for family travelers.
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Categories
Historic Hotel
Royale Chulan Penang is not only located in the very heart of a UNESCO Heritage Site in Georgetown, Malaysia, but also a part of the building that comprises the hotel today is a heritage building initially built in 1892. Carefully restored and renovated, the building still retains its initial historic charm and grandeur, offering guests the most immersive accommodation experience and a taste of Malaysia's colonial history.

Hotel for Honeymoon
Housed in a historical building with modern extensions, this hotel blends heritage and contemporary styles. Its location near the waterfront and city attractions offers a mix of cultural exploration and comfortable stay for couples.

Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel is a family hotel in George Town. It features family-friendly amenities and spacious rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay for families.

Romantic Hotel
This hotel offers a heritage feel with excellent customer service and clean rooms. The great breakfast and overall ambiance contribute to a pleasant and romantic stay.

Hotel with Swimming Pool
Royale Chulan Penang offers great facilities, including a swimming pool, and is located in the heart of Georgetown near the waterfront. The hotel provides good value and friendly service, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

  Children's Pool    Outdoor Pool  


Business Hotel
This hotel offers a business center, meeting rooms, and a spacious ballroom. It also provides amenities like wireless internet, concierge service, and laundry/dry cleaning services.

Hotel with Parking
This hotel has parking facilities for guests. Its location on Weld Quay offers convenient access to the city center.

Accessible Hotel
This hotel has garnered positive feedback for its accessibility features, making it a convenient choice for guests with disabilities. The hotel boasts an accessible entrance and wheelchair-friendly facilities, including ramps and designated handicap parking.

Hotel with Gym
Offers a well-equipped gymnasium, ensuring guests can keep up with their fitness regime. The gym includes both cardio and strength training equipment.

4-Star Hotel
This 4-star historic hotel features tastefully appointed and elegant rooms which combine a colonial aesthetic with modern amenities and historic charm, creating a unique environment for all guests. A rejuvenating spa, a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, luxurious ballrooms and top-notch services are also available for all guests to enjoy.

Hotel with Outdoor Pool
This hotel provides an outdoor swimming pool for guests to use and relax by during their stay in George Town.

Hotel with Children's Pool
The hotel provides an outdoor pool and a children's pool. The children's pool is particularly noted for its warm water, making it suitable for small children.

Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability

Room Types
Superior Twin This air-conditioned superior room opens up to views of the city. It is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV, electric kettle and a desk. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Deluxe Double This larger air-conditioned deluxe room opens up to views of the city. The seating area is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV, sofa and a desk. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Junior Triple This air-conditioned junior suite opens up to views of the city. The seating area is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV, sofa and a desk. There is a dining table. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Studio Room This air-conditioned studio suite opens up to views of the city. It is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV, electric kettle and a desk. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Executive Suite This air-conditioned executive suite opens up to views of the city. The seating area is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV, sofa and a desk. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Deluxe Suite This air-conditioned deluxe suite opens up to views of the city. The separate living room is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV, sofa and a desk. There is a dining table. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Family Suite This air-conditioned family suite opens up to views of the city. The seating area is fitted with a flat-screen satellite TV, sofa and a desk. The en suite bathroom includes shower facilities, a hairdryer and free toiletries.

Family Room Featuring free toiletries, this family room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer and slippers. The spacious air-conditioned family room features a flat-screen TV with cable channels, soundproof walls, a seating area, a wardrobe as well as city views. The unit has 2 beds.

Superior King Providing free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower, a hairdryer and slippers. The spacious double room provides air conditioning, soundproof walls, a wardrobe, a safe deposit box, as well as a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit offers 1 bed.

Guest Reviews
8.3
Very Good
Location
Nestled in the heart of George Town, the Royale Chulan Penang impresses with its strategic location, making it a prime choice for visitors keen on exploring the city's historical and cultural landmarks. The hotel's proximity to key attractions such as Little India, Armenian Street, Chew Jetty and the UNESCO Heritage area ensures that guests are never far from the action. Many reviewers highlight the ease of accessing famous local eateries, from charming street food stalls to notable Michelin-starred restaurants.

Situated within walking distance of the ferry terminal, the hotel offers convenient access to transport links, enhancing its appeal for travelers. Additionally, being centrally located in George Town means that guests can embark on leisurely strolls to various attractions, including Fort Cornwallis and the bustling streets of Chinatown.

The hotel itself, housed in a beautifully maintained heritage building, marries historical charm with modern amenities, providing a cozy and comfortable stay. Clean, spacious rooms and the commendable service further enhance the guest experience. The Royale Chulan Penang stands out as a fantastic base for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry and vibrant culinary scene of Penang.

Breakfast
The breakfast at Royale Chulan Penang receives widespread praise, recognized for its extensive and varied offerings that cater to diverse tastes. Guests frequently highlight the impressive range of local and international dishes, including an array of breads, soups and an egg station. Nasi Lemak with its changing curry selection, also garners positive mentions. Many find the breakfast to be delicious with plentiful options that change daily, keeping the experience fresh and enjoyable.

The quality and taste of the food are often described as exceptional, scrumptious and top-notch. Guests appreciate the substantial and well-composed buffet, which is noted for its high quality and extensive variety. Fresh and tasty food, along with commendable vegetarian options, further adds to the satisfaction.

However, some guests feel there is room for improvement. A few reviews mention the need for a better location and more space to accommodate large crowds. Some guests were disappointed by the limited variety in certain cases, issues with replenishment when arriving late and occasional lapses in the quality of specific food items. There are mentions of the breakfast being too Asian-focused for some Western guests with certain dishes like croissants and real coffee missing.

Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus is that the breakfast at Royale Chulan Penang is a delightful experience with a rich and varied selection that satisfies most palates. The friendly staff and excellent facilities further enhance the breakfast experience, making it a highlight of the hotel stay.

Dinner
Royale Chulan Penang offers a delightful dining experience with many positive commendations for its banquet and in-house restaurant dinners. The interesting and delicious food menu receives high praise with many guests noting the exceptional quality of the banquet dinners and the deliciousness of the food overall. The Christmas dinner, in particular, stood out, complemented by lovely festive decorations that added to the cheerful atmosphere.

Guests appreciated the variety and quality of dinner options with several noting the enjoyable dining experience for families and good food at the café and in-room dining. However, some feedback pointed out limitations, such as overcooked fish dishes and less satisfying mashed potatoes. Additionally, guests mentioned the limited menu and dinner options at times with the restaurant not always open in the evening and a scarcity of nearby dining locations.

Breakfast garnered mixed reviews with highlights including a wide selection and best breakfast facilities. On the downside, some guests found the breakfast substandard, lacking in taste and felt that the variety could be improved. Despite these critiques, the bed and breakfast experience was often praised.

In summary, Royale Chulan Penang's dining experiences are largely positive with exceptional banquet dinners and festive touches, though there is room for improvement in breakfast offerings and the consistency of evening dining options.

Rooms
The rooms at Royale Chulan Penang are a highlight for many guests. The majority of reviews praise the spacious and comfortable accommodations, often noting their clean and well-maintained condition. Several rooms boast luxurious decor and sophisticated design, making for a pleasant stay. The addition of balconies in some rooms provides extra space and lovely views of the pier or ocean liners.

Guests have also appreciated the efforts of housekeeping, mentioning that rooms are cleaned daily and remain tidy throughout their stay. The modern bathrooms and the availability of amenities such as iron boards and toiletries contribute to the overall comfort. Despite some comments about the rooms looking slightly dated or having minor issues such as noise from air conditioning and less effective soundproofing, the prevailing sentiment is positive with comments on the cozy and comfy nature of the rooms.

Some notable complaints did surface, such as occasional encounters with small cockroaches and musty odors, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. On the whole, the spacious rooms, elegant designs and excellent maintenance have left guests largely satisfied, making Royale Chulan Penang a recommended choice for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Beds
Royale Chulan Penang has received numerous commendations for its comfortable beds, which significantly contribute to a good night's rest. The king-size beds are often highlighted for their ample space and coziness with several guests noting that they are super comfortable. Cleanliness is generally well-maintained and many reviewers found the mattresses to be snug and inviting.

However, a few visitors have reported issues regarding bed hygiene, noting instances of dirty bedsheets and a musty smell in some rooms. Despite these occasional concerns, the overall feedback on bed comfort remains positive. Rooms are appreciated for their spaciousness and cleanliness, which further enhances the comfort of the beds.

In summary, guests can expect a restful sleep experience at Royale Chulan Penang with large, comfortable beds being a consistent highlight, although some attention to maximizing bed cleanliness could enhance the experience even further.

Cleanliness
Royale Chulan Penang receives mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness. Guests frequently praise the hotel for its clean, well-maintained rooms and luxurious décor, highlighting exceptionally tidy and comfortable accommodations. Many visitors are pleased with spotless bathrooms, a pleasant fragrance throughout the property and high standards of housekeeping services.

However, some guests did encounter issues, including mold in the bathrooms, dust accumulation, unclean carpets and occasional cockroach sightings. Particular areas of concern are the cleanliness of linens and towels with multiple visitors reporting stains and musty odors. Housekeeping services were described as inconsistent with several instances of rooms not being adequately cleaned or ready on time. The hotel’s overall cleanliness is described as good by many, yet there is a consensus that certain areas, especially the bathrooms, could benefit from more thorough cleaning and maintenance.

Despite these occasional lapses, the majority of reviews indicate that Royale Chulan Penang is a fairly clean hotel with comfortable rooms, making it a generally positive experience for most guests. However, consistent improvement in housekeeping and attention to detail could enhance guest satisfaction considerably.

Staff
The reviews for Royale Chulan Penang show a consistently positive perception of the hotel's staff. The reception and front desk teams stand out for their efficiency, friendliness and accommodating attitude. Guests frequently commend their marvellous service, courteous demeanor and helpful nature. Housekeeping also receives favorable mentions for being prompt, efficient and accommodating with requests. Security and door staff are noted for their friendliness and professionalism, contributing positively to the overall guest experience.

While the majority of the staff are described as polite, professional and attentive, there are occasional remarks about specific areas requiring improvement, such as language skills and the demeanor of a few staff members. Despite these isolated comments, guests generally appreciate the high levels of customer service and the welcoming atmosphere created by the staff at Royale Chulan Penang.

The positive reactions reflect a well-trained and service-oriented team, striving to make each guest's stay enjoyable and comfortable. With excellent communication and a hospitable approach, the staff play a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience for visitors at the hotel.

Wi-Fi
The WiFi experience at Royale Chulan Penang presents a mixed bag for guests. On the positive side, many guests have commented that the WiFi is good, reliable and available for free with some highlighting fast speeds and a strong network throughout the hotel. Seamless connectivity and a decent connection for work purposes have also been noted. However, there are recurring issues with spotty and poor WiFi reception in various areas, including the cafe and some rooms, leading to complaints about slow and unreliable connections. Specific issues such as TV usage problems due to WiFi and connectivity dropping after peak hours have also been mentioned. While some guests have had a comfy WiFi experience, others have faced difficulties that impact their stay, suggesting a need for improvement in the hotel’s internet services. Overall, while the WiFi meets expectations for some, consistency and reliability remain areas for enhancement.

Gym
The Royale Chulan Penang features a gym that, while small, provides guests with the essential equipment for a solid workout. Many reviews commend the gym's adequacy and appreciate its modern facilities, highlighting that it is well-equipped and available 24/7. Guests who prioritize fitness during their travels will find it useful with some describing it as a highlight of their stay.

However, the gym has received mixed feedback regarding its condition and maintenance. While some praise its cleanliness and the quality of its equipment, others note that certain pieces of equipment are outdated and in need of improvement. Additionally, a few guests mentioned that the gym appears not to have been well-maintained and could benefit from some renovations.

The overall sentiment suggests that while the gym meets basic workout needs and is appreciated by many, it may require some updates and better upkeep to fully satisfy all guests.

Pool
Royale Chulan Penang boasts a variety of swimming pool options, including saltwater pools that many guests find refreshing and innovative. With a spacious layout, the pool areas are conveniently located near rooms and are often described as clean, pleasant and well-maintained. Families especially appreciate the children's pool and the overall kid-friendly environment. The pool area provides beautiful views and is a safe space that guests enjoy, even if it can get crowded during weekends.

The facilities include hydromassage areas and a whirlpool, adding a touch of luxury to the swimming experience. The pool and gym combo is frequently highlighted as a positive feature, catering to both relaxation and fitness enthusiasts. Despite occasional mentions of the pool being small or in need of servicing, the general consensus is that the pool is a lovely, enjoyable feature of the hotel, perfect for cooling down and unwinding.

Overall, the Royale Chulan Penang's pools are a significant draw for guests seeking a pleasant and enjoyable swimming experience, complemented by clean and safe surroundings.

Parking
Parking at the Royale Chulan Penang is generally a mixed experience. On the positive side, there is free parking available for hotel guests and there are multiple levels of parking which can be a big plus for those traveling by car. Some guests found the parking to be easy with convenient access and helpful security guards. The availability of covered and secure parking is another highlight with some mentioning dedicated parking spots specifically for hotel patrons.

However, the parking facilities do come with their share of challenges. There are recurring mentions of limited parking spaces, which often results in difficulty finding a spot. The multi-storey car park, while convenient for some, was described as tight and inadequate by others with narrow parking bays and a cumbersome multi-level system. Additionally, the parking entrance is not accessible from the main street, which can be an inconvenience for guests unfamiliar with the area.

Despite these limitations, the hotel staff try to manage the parking situation as best as they can, although some guests feel that improvements are needed in this area. While the free parking and convenient access are definite perks, addressing the limited parking space and enhancing the overall parking management could significantly improve the guest experience.

Family
Royale Chulan Penang has garnered a reputation as a family-friendly destination with numerous guests recommending it for those traveling with children. The spacious family rooms, often equipped with balconies and connecting options, make it ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience. Many reviewers appreciated the staff's attentiveness, frequently upgrading guests to larger suites better suited for managing toddlers and accommodating family needs.

The hotel's swimming pool has been described as a playground for kids, further enhancing the experience for younger visitors, though some guests have noted that the pool deck necessitates caution due to its condition. Breakfast at Royale Chulan Penang impresses with its variety, including options that cater specifically to children's tastes, contributing to the overall family-friendly atmosphere.

Reviews highlight the comfortable beds and the large accommodations as significant advantages, enabling a relaxing stay for the whole family. The hotel also boasts plenty of family-oriented amenities, ensuring that guests with children feel well looked after.

For those planning a family weekend getaway or holiday, Royale Chulan Penang offers a host of features designed to support family enjoyment and relaxation, making it a highly recommended option for family stays.

4 Star
Royale Chulan Penang garners mixed reviews about its status as a four-star hotel. Many guests praise it as deserving of its four-star rating and some even argue it feels like a five-star experience with its stylish boutique ambience and top-notch facilities. The hotel is often described as truly worthy of five stars and up to the mark for a four-star property, offering services and experiences that align with four-star standards.

However, there are critical voices as well. Some guests feel that the hotel falls short of the four-star quality, citing issues with cleanliness and a worn-out charm in certain areas. The service did not always meet the expected four-star level, leading to some disappointment among visitors.

Overall, while there are areas that need improvement, Royale Chulan Penang generally meets the comprehensive standards of a four-star hotel, offering a blend of stylish decor and commendable facilities.

Business
Royale Chulan Penang comes highly recommended for business trips, standing out as an ideal choice for business travelers due to a range of convenient business amenities. The hotel features a well-appointed and well-equipped business center, ensuring that all business needs are addressed efficiently. The availability of business services is commendable with maintained accessibility and abundant resources catering to the requirements of business guests.

Guests have praised the front lobby as being sufficiently spacious for business meetings and there's a well-equipped conference hall and meeting rooms available. The staff, particularly at the front desk, have been noted for their helpfulness and support in business-related matters, further enhancing the overall experience for business travelers.

WiFi connectivity is reliable, which is crucial for any business stay. The hotel also offers good room service that caters well to business requirements, providing an all-rounded comfortable stay conducive to productivity. Additionally, its strategic location is advantageous for business trips.

In summary, Royale Chulan Penang provides great value for business trips, ensuring a perfect blend of essential business amenities, helpful services and an accessible location, making it an appropriate and recommendable choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Accessible
Royale Chulan Penang has garnered positive feedback for its accessibility features, making it a convenient choice for guests with disabilities. The hotel boasts an accessible entrance and wheelchair-friendly facilities, including ramps and designated handicap parking. It's easy to reach and navigate, both within the property and in the surrounding area with accessibility via taxi being straightforward.

Guests have noted the good accessibility of hotel rooms and public areas, including accessible pools and rooms designed to accommodate disabled guests. The helpful staff and responsive front desk further enhance the stay for those needing assistance.

While breakfast options for those with gluten intolerances might be limited, the overall accessibility of the property appears commendable. Its strategic location adds to its appeal, being easy to find and reach for all travelers.

Children's Pool
Royale Chulan Penang caters well to families with young children, featuring a dedicated children's pool. The warm water of the children's pool is particularly appreciated, making it ideal for small children. Reviews highlight that kids thoroughly enjoyed the swimming pool experience with phrases like kids loved the pool and children had fun frequently mentioned. This children-friendly amenity ensures that younger guests have a delightful and safe space for aquatic activities. Overall, the presence of a well-maintained and enjoyable children's pool at Royale Chulan Penang significantly enhances the family-friendly appeal of the hotel.

Outdoor Pool
The outdoor pool at the Royale Chulan Penang receives consistent positive mentions from guests. Described frequently as nice and well-maintained, the pool area includes a clean saltwater pool and a dedicated children's pool, providing a pleasant and safe environment. The presence of a lifeguard enhances the safety of the facility. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and spaciousness of the pool area, noting it is rarely crowded, making it easy to find a relaxing spot. The seating area around the pool also contributes to a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Indoor Pool
Royale Chulan Penang offers a nicely designed indoor pool that guests have consistently described as clean and well-maintained. The heated aspect of the pool provides added comfort, particularly appealing for morning dips. Despite the pool being on the smaller side, its cleanliness and the presence of a children's pool make it a suitable and convenient option for families. Overall, the indoor pool facilities with their aesthetic appeal and cozy warmth, contribute positively to the guest experience.

Historic
Nestled within the UNESCO Penang Heritage Area, Royale Chulan Penang is a beautifully maintained colonial-era hotel that perfectly encapsulates the historical charm of the region. Its location in the historic center allows guests to easily access nearby historical sites and buildings, many of which are iconic landmarks of the past.

The hotel itself is a heritage building with an interesting history, evident in its unique and well-preserved structure and architecture. The colonial heritage facade stands out, giving the hotel a distinctive and elegant appearance that immerses visitors in a historical monument-like environment. Its classic old-school property feel complements the superb design and elegant 4-star services, making it a boutique hotel that combines luxury with a sense of the past.

Guests are treated to a heritage environment and ambiance, where the colonial heritage appearance and significant historical architecture are on full display. This historical setting, paired with its unique exterior, ensures that visitors can enjoy the heritage vibes throughout their stay. The hotel not only offers a glimpse into the colonial-era history of Penang but also provides a comfortable and sophisticated lodging experience, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a blend of history and modernity.

Romantic
Royale Chulan Penang offers a memorable stay with a distinct romantic feel, making it a prime choice for couples. The hotel's setting and atmosphere exude romance, creating a great spot for a couples' getaway. Guests have highlighted it as a perfect location for honeymoons, noting that it provided the ideal environment to reconnect. The hotel is both romantic and affordable and special touches like anniversary room decor have added to the enchanting experience. All these factors contribute to the hotel's reputation as an excellent destination for a romantic escape.


Yes, Royale Chulan Penang has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Children's Pool, Outdoor Pool.

No, a spa isn't available at Royale Chulan Penang.

No, Royale Chulan Penang doesn't allow dogs.

Yes, parking facilities are available at Royale Chulan Penang.

Yes, Royale Chulan Penang has a gym.

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