Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and after two years of celebrating indoors, it’s time to go big this year, but nothing too crazy. We’re talking about a staycation in the city — a lover’s weekend, if you will. There’s a lot of pressure that often surrounds Valentine’s Day, but it shouldn’t be that way. Sometimes keeping it simple is the best way to celebrate this day that is all about love and all its glory.
While jumping on a flight to some paradise island sounds like THE Valentine’s Day to have, why not go low-key and book a city staycation instead? It doesn’t matter if you’re celebrating love with your other half, a family member, gal pal, or colleague — these five hotels will play the perfect hosts as your Valentine’s Day stay.
For an island escape in the city: Villa Samadhi
Let’s kick off our list with one of Kuala Lumpur’s (KL) staycation gems. Located in the heart of our bustling city, Villa Samadhi is one of the most romantic spots you’ll find in town. Surrounded by villas enveloped with lush tropical greenery and a swimming pool that takes centre stage, this screams romance. And if you’re a big fan of Bali, Villa Samadhi will definitely cure that wanderlust without you having to book a flight ticket.
If you’re up for one-of-a-kind activities, sign up for a day trip to the Elephant Sanctuary in Kuala Gandah, Pahang, where you can get up close and personal with the majestic animals. Another fun option is to sign up for the ‘Travels with Samadhi’ experience, where a curated tour of KL is designed to complement your stay. Are you and your plus-one a foodie? If so, join the Heritage Food Tour — a gastronomic journey that takes you through some of Malaysia’s fin-est street foods.
But if none of that sounds appealing to you, there’s always the choice of not leaving the property itself. Spend the day soaking up the sun in the company of a loved one and once you’re done, check yourselves in at the spa for some serious deep-tissue relaxation. End the day with dinner at The Dining Room, where both local and western cuisine are available.
Address: 8 Jalan Madge, Taman U-Thant, 55000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2771 2743
For lovers of the spa: The RuMa Hotel and Residences
No stranger to all things romantic (many proposals and ‘I dos’ have happened here), The RuMa Hotel and Residences is a logical choice for city dwellers looking for a quick break. It’s got all the right things: great location (a stone’s throw away from Bukit Bintang), 5-star service, chic interior, and most importantly, a spa that is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
Whether you’re one-half of a couple, with your bestie or family member, or even by yourself, this hotel is perfect to have all the boxes ticked for Valentine’s getaway in the heart of the city. But whatever you do, be sure to book yourself in at the UR Spa. Located on the hotel’s sixth floor, tailor-made treatments await. Suppose you’re treating yourself to a much-needed solo Valentine’s staycation. In that case, we highly recommend ‘UR A GODDESS’ – 90 minutes of focusing on stress-prone areas, full body scrub, foot therapy, and an express facial. But if you’re with a plus-one, there are other treatments to explore, and there’s even a couple’s room!
If spas aren’t your jam, that’s totally fine. Catch up on that book you’ve been meaning to read and just tune out at the SANTAI Pool Bar, where you can sip on delicious cocktails and indulge in some snacks. For dinner, why not check out ATAS, where Chef Mandy Goh offers Asian and European delicacies cooked with locally sourced ingredients? Not one to stay indoors for too long? Check out the shopping and food district of Bukit Bintang during your stay.
Address: 7 Jalan Kia Peng, Kuala Lumpur, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2778 0888
For the die-hard romantics: The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur
Ah, The Majestic… What’s not to love with its all-white interior and colonial glory, and of course, that stunning orchid conservatory? Famed for its history and vintage charm, The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur is a popular choice, not just for Valentine’s Day, but any special occasion. Set within a prime location between KL’s city centre and the busting Bangsar neighbourhood, everything’s within reach. But not leaving the hotel is also an option, especially during a staycation, as everything is available here at the hotel.
Located in the Tower Wing of the hotel is Contango, a contemporary restaurant that boasts an open dining concept and the cuisine options here are endless; take your pick from local mains, Italian favourites, Japanese, and even Thai. While a la carte options are available, their buffet is highly recommended. Want to take it up a notch and go all out? The Smoke House offers private dining with your own personal chef, perfect for at least groups of 10. Of course, let’s not forget The Orchid Conservatory, where you can delight in an intimate lunch or tea with stunning orchids on display.
For some luxe pampering, head over to The Majestic Spa, where restorative rituals abound. From a la carte offerings like the Malaya massage (where traditional techniques are applied) to signature rituals like the Malaya Golden Chersonese — a three-hour treatment including a hair masque, body scrub, bath, and massage.
Address: 5 Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin, Tasik Perdana, 50000 Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2785 8000
For the chic city-dwellers: Else Retreats
Located in the cultural landscape of Downtown KL, Else Retreats is a brand new kid on the block that all the cool people are raving about. Tucked inside the former Lee Rubber building, the 49-room, 50,000-square foot property is perfect for city dwellers looking for a mindful respite. Choose one of four room categories: Mantra, a standard room for those wanting something simple; Urban Room, which comes with a seating area; Sanctuary, located on the upper floor with a private balcony to boot; and Sutera, a suite with a private living area. There’s also Else Suite for those who want to splurge on a bigger staycation space.
Calling Downtown KL its home means that Else Retreats is surrounded by food, culture, and the arts. But if exploring the neighbourhood isn’t on your agenda (though it should be), satiating your hunger won’t be a problem, thanks to the establishment’s two dining offerings: Raw Kitchen Hall, all-day dining helmed by Malaysian Chefs Leong Chee Mun and Wah Yin Xing; and The Yellow Fin Horse, an open-fire eatery that boasts a marriage between Malaysian and international seafood flavours.
For some serious downtime, check out the hotel’s generous wellness facilities offerings, including two floatation pods in the hotel gym. And those who want to catch up on their tan or read can park themselves by the sunbeds dotted along the infinity pool. Not one to skip out on your workouts, even during a staycation? Enjoy free-weight training and callisthenics facilities.
Address: 145, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Contact: +603 2300 3700
For a peaceful escape in the suburbs: Sekeping Tenggiri
While it’s not a hotel per se, the contemporary guesthouse known as Sekeping Tenggiri has become a popular getaway choice in the city for KL-ites. Tucked at the end of a road in a quiet residential nook of Bangsar, this property comes with seven bedrooms, a dining area, a fully-equipped kitchen, a common lounge, 24-hour housekeeping service, and a pretty darn inviting pool. So, if you’re celebrating Valentine’s weekend with a group of friends or family, this is the perfect place.
A stay here is all about disconnecting from the busyness of life and connecting with yourself and your loved ones. While this guesthouse may not have facilities like a gym or spa, the pool is more than plenty to keep anyone occupied, and what better way to switch off than by doing absolutely nothing? Thanks to its prime location, plenty of restaurants await your choosing. And if you feel like heading to a mall, Bangsar Shopping Centre, Bangsar Village, and Mid Valley Megamall are pretty close.
Address: No 48, Jalan Tenggiri, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur.
Contact: +6017-207 5977
However you choose to celebrate, whether it’s a staycation on your own, with a partner or a bestie, or even a festive weekend with a group of friends — any one of our top picks will make a great setting!
