It was my solo trip to Penang and it wasn’t my first time there. Had a 3 nights stay at Cititel Penang on 02 August 2012, Room 0616 – a standard room.
I was greated by Mr. Fonas (I think it’s his name, printed in the Payment Receipt) during my arrival. It was a typical check-in experience. I think Mr. Fonas should show some enthusiasm when it comes to serving/entertaining guests, not just being a “prototype” reception staff. There are some instances where I couldn’t quite catch what he said because it wasn’t clear. Reception staff should speak in a clear tone with a moderate speed. I would feel embarrassed for saying “Pardon me/excuse me” too often.
The first thing I did after I settled down in the room was to look under the bed. I had 2 single bed for myself but I only looked at the one I wanted to sleep on, which was the one closest to the window. There was a paper napkin under the bed which I suppose housekeeping overlooked. Kind of disappoints me as the room isn’t that big and it means that the housekeeping doesn’t make it a routine/duty to clean under the bed. Even though most guests would not look under the bed like I do, but it doesn’t mean housekeeping can ignore the cleanliness at places which guests couldn’t see. I threw the napkin away as I couldn’t ignore the fact...It was my solo trip to Penang and it wasn’t my first time there. Had a 3 nights stay at Cititel Penang on 02 August 2012, Room 0616 – a standard room.
I was greated by Mr. Fonas (I think it’s his name, printed in the Payment Receipt) during my arrival. It was a typical check-in experience. I think Mr. Fonas should show some enthusiasm when it comes to serving/entertaining guests, not just being a “prototype” reception staff. There are some instances where I couldn’t quite catch what he said because it wasn’t clear. Reception staff should speak in a clear tone with a moderate speed. I would feel embarrassed for saying “Pardon me/excuse me” too often.
The first thing I did after I settled down in the room was to look under the bed. I had 2 single bed for myself but I only looked at the one I wanted to sleep on, which was the one closest to the window. There was a paper napkin under the bed which I suppose housekeeping overlooked. Kind of disappoints me as the room isn’t that big and it means that the housekeeping doesn’t make it a routine/duty to clean under the bed. Even though most guests would not look under the bed like I do, but it doesn’t mean housekeeping can ignore the cleanliness at places which guests couldn’t see. I threw the napkin away as I couldn’t ignore the fact that there is rubbish under the bed.
Other comments on the bathroom :-
i) Stains on the door facing the inside of the bathroom and under the basin;
ii) To scrub not only the bathtub, but also the handle on the side of the wall;
iii) Shower head handle (bottom) that is mounted on the wall is loose and detachable;
iv) Toilet doesn’t flush well. Toilet paper always floats up. (Not sure whether it’s my method of flushing is in correct);
v) Shower curtain smells like sweat that has gone sour. It’s because it’s not water proof. I suppose it’s not often replaced because the odour is strong on my first night staying in 616. I think if the shower curtain can’t often be replaced with a fresh one, then change it to a waterproof type. Then would safe all the hassle and would indeed not smell.
Furniture in the room is still in good condition. However, they are kinda worn out on the surface. I personally think the hotel should do a makeover. Modern furniture in dark tone would look good in a bright room. Maybe the hotel should come up with themed room. That should be interesting.
I have the privilege to visit the Health Centre at Level 3. Went to the Jacuzzi pool, but I only enjoyed the pool, not the Jacuzzi. Not sure if I should get someone to turn on the Jacuzzi (?) There are debris like sand/concrete in the pool. Sauna – please get someone to clean the small window glass on the door, it’s dirty.
I had a pleasant time during check-out. It was 5am and was greated by Ms. Sooi Kee. She is friendly, with a smile that would brighten up your day and make me feel at ease. I had a chit-chat with her and told her I walked from Gurney Plaza to Cititel and took me 1hr10mins to reach the hotel. (Would’ve arrive in less than an hour if I wore sneakers instead of slippers) She told me guests would ask how far is Cititel to Gurney and no one knows the exact amount of time to get there. She also helped me to check whether my airport transfer is ready. I hope other front desk has her spirit and enthusiasm.
I’m not sure whether any hotels in Malaysia practise this kind of gesture, I know Japan does. It’s just a suggestion from me that maybe there should be a small gesture for those guests who has an early flight in the morning. It’s doesn’t have to be a fancy meal, just a bottle of water and sandwich would warm the hearts of those who have stayed at Cititel Penang. And also it’s difficult to find hotels in Malaysia that provide FREE BREAKFAST. This is an important point for travellers who has a budget to keep track to. I hope the hotel has this type of promotion in the future.
I would return to stay with Cititel Penang again if my travel plans bring my back to Georgetown with hopes by that time, better promotions, better room/bathroom and better everything ;p
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