BURO’s Staycation Guide: Find the perfect weekend escape to match your personality
Fit for you
Itching for a break from your desktop? Craving a beachfront recharge? Or do you just need a change of scenery? Lucky for you, we live in Malaysia, one of the world’s most scenic and diverse nations. Whether you’re craving another cityscape to immerse yourself in or are looking for your dose of the beach, the country’s landscapes have got you and your staycations covered.
If you think you’re spoiled for choice, you may be right. But don’t fret! We’ve put together the ultimate guide to ensure you’re making the best decision when choosing your next staycay destination. It doesn’t matter if you’re a digital nomad, a young family, or a solo traveller looking for a new adventure, we’re here to help. Ahead, you’ll find the ideal stops around Malaysia for you, based on your personality!
Note: This article will continue to be updated
FOR THE CITY LOVER: CHOW KIT, KUALA LUMPUR
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Looking for a quick urban getaway? Hilton Garden Inn North and Hilton Garden Inn South offers the perfect KL city escape. Whether you choose to stay at North or South, you’ll be treated to top-notch amenities including the fitness centre, rooftop pool, and three on-site restaurants. Conveniently located just steps away from the Chow Kit monorail station, these twin hotels place you right in the middle of the city centre, with endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options at your fingertips.
The rooms here are contemporary and elegantly furnished, designed with comfort in mind. Picture this: waking up in a comfy king size bed, grabbing your morning coffee, and taking in the stunning views of iconic landmarks like KLCC and KL Tower—it’s the ideal backdrop for a staycation. When evening rolls around, there’s no better place to unwind than at Rooftop 25. You can lounge around, have a cocktail or two, munch on delicious bites, and soak in the city lights.
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FOR THE SLOW TRAVELLERS: KOTA KINABALU
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As the capital of Sabah on the northern island of Borneo, Kota Kinabalu is a popular tourist destination teeming with culture and awe-inspiring beauty. From the lush greenery of thick rainforests to the idyllic beaches and bustling markets, there are plenty of activities for travellers looking to soak themselves in the local culture. Start your trip at Hilton Kota Kinabalu, where its plush rooms, swanky amenities and central location make it the perfect place to get acquainted with the coastal city.
Take your time to explore the winding rows of the Filipino Market, where you can peruse handmade crafts or the Sinsuran Market for delicious local street food. You can also take a picturesque walk to the waterfront Kota Kinabalu City Mosque or visit the Sabah State Museum. End your nights on a high at Hilton Kota Kinabalu’s Rooftop Bar & Grill for a mouthwatering dinner before heading to The Club for creative tipples and head-bobbing live music from local performers. The hotel’s lush and comfortable rooms are perfect for recharging before waking up to tackle another day full of sights and adventures.
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FOR THE DIGITAL NOMAD: PETALING JAYA
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We know, we know. You’re probably thinking, “How did Petaling Jaya (PJ) even make the list?” Well, for those of you used to the non-stop bustle of Kuala Lumpur’s city centre, a swift switch to PJ’s more laid-back way of life might do you some good. Especially ideal for those who simply don’t have the time to cross major state lines, PJ can be quite the gem to explore. The area is home to some of the best neighbourhood cafés, cocktail bars, and restaurants, so your appetite will be well taken care of.
Get started by booking a room at the recently refurbished Hilton Petaling Jaya, a classic choice for a cheeky city staycay. Complete with an Executive Lounge and private meeting rooms, its stylish interiors will make a great backdrop for all your remote working needs. In between your tasks, stop by Genji, the hotel’s Japanese restaurant, or the all-day dining spot Paya Serai. Its plush beds are also perfect for the nights where your head needs a good rest after a long day of presentations and discussions. Plus, you don’t have to worry about running out of plug points to juice up all of your devices.
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FOR THE BEACH-LOVING FAMILY: DAMAI LAUT
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Want a beach holiday without having to think about long flights or taking a speed boat over to an island? Damai Laut is the answer to your sandy prayers. Just a hop and skip away from Pulau Pangkor and Sitiawan, this secluded destination will provide you with some tranquillity. Great for a quick dose of sun and relaxation, it is also the perfect getaway for families and golfers alike. If you’re not teeing off at the nearby Damai Laut Golf & Country Club, park yourself at the beach for some well-deserved rest and Vitamin D.
Prepare for a carefree escape from the city while you’re here as everything you’ll need can be found at the DoubleTree by Hilton Damai Laut Resort. There’s something for every family member here. The children will be kept occupied with the on-site Kids’ Club, where video games, toys, and movies are aplenty. Young ones who prefer staying active in the water can spend their days at the mini water park and pool. Meanwhile, the adults can get in a round of golf at the neighbouring course. In the evenings, they can enjoy a glass of vino in the Executive Lounge or high tea at the Axis Lounge. Then, the whole family can gather for bites at Hotpot or Makan Kitchen.
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FOR THE WORKAHOLIC: KUALA LUMPUR CITY CENTRE
No matter how hectic work gets, it’s crucial to carve out some me-time for yourself. Sometimes, that means plonking yourself in the middle of the city to help you get the best of both work and play. Located right next to Intermark Mall, DoubleTree by Hilton KL is the perfect staycation spot to get some work done while also giving yourself some much-needed R&R. With clear views of the Petronas Twin Towers and the City Centre, the hotel is walking distance from some of the best shopping centres in KL as well as some of the hottest culture and nightlife spots in town, so you can log off and head out on a whim.
Start your stay off with the iconic DoubleTree cookie before checking into one of the well appointed suites. Then, treat yourself to lunch at Makan Kitchen, which serves up the best of Malay, Indian, and Chinese cuisine. When work calls, head to the Executive Lounge to tie up any loose ends and then reward yourself for a hard day’s work with a dip in the pool. For dinner, you can either keep it simple with some Italian grub at Tosca, step out to explore Intermark Mall, or explore the city centre’s many dining spots. After some nosh and maybe a boogie at one of the nearby clubs, settle in for the night in your cosy bed for some shuteye before tackling the next day.
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FOR THE SOLO TRAVELLER: KUCHING
A quick two-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur brings you to Kuching, the capital of Sarawak. Nicknamed the ‘Cat City’, Kuching is a great destination for solo travellers, with many attractions just within walking distance from each other. You can explore landmarks like The Old Court House, the Chinese Heritage Museum, and India Street. When night falls, the Kuching Waterfront transforms into a vibrant hotspot, where you can savour the famous Gula Apong ice cream while taking in the enchanting Darul Hana Musical Fountain show.
Other than that, don’t miss the opportunity to stay at the centrally-located Hilton Kuching. We love its recently refurbished deluxe room, which overlooks the Sarawak River and the grand Sarawak State Legislative Assembly building that graces its banks. If you’re on the hunt for authentic local dishes, head to the Waterfront Café to savour specialities like Pansoh Manuk, Kolo Mee, and Sarawak Laksa. For a noteworthy Chinese meal, Toh Yuen Restaurant will deliver with dishes for every palate around the table.
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FOR THE WEEKEND EXPLORER: JOHOR BAHRU
Those looking to get in a road trip to the south from the capital should stop by Johor Bahru. This bustling city offers everything from thrilling adventures at Legoland to great retail deals at Johor Premium Outlets. Anyone who appreciates culture should also wander through Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street to uncover its charming antique shops. Plus, Grand Palace Park provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich history of the state.
To make your visit even more enjoyable, stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Johor Bahru. Its suites promise a comfortable night’s sleep, while the facilities will make you feel right at home. You can lounge by the spacious swimming pool when the sun is out or hit the gym for a quick workout. Not to mention, the city’s attractions—including the aforementioned Tan Hiok Nee Heritage Street—are just steps away from the hotel’s grounds. As for dining, the hotel’s signature Tosca restaurant or Makan Kitchen will make sure your appetite is sorted during your stay.
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FOR THE CULTURE LOVER: KL SENTRAL
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Believe it or not, there’s more to Kuala Lumpur than just the Petronas Twin Towers. Indeed, KL is a city rich in culture—you just have to leave Bukit Bintang to see more of it. So, if you’re planning a trip to Malaysia and you want to stay near some of KL’s most iconic cultural landmarks, we know just the place: Hilton Kuala Lumpur.
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Located right next to the KL Sentral transport hub, the hotel is just a 10-minute drive from must-see destinations like Central Market, KL Bird Park, and Chinatown. Plus, if you want to do the tourist route while you’re here, you can—the Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower are also a 10- to 15-minute drive away. And, when you’re not exploring the city, you can chill by the pool (complete with a waterslide), hit the spa, or nosh at any of the hotel’s nine fabulous restaurants. We particularly love its Chinese eatery Chynna and refreshed Japanese spot Iketeru.
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FOR THE LEISURE TRAVELLER: PUCHONG
Nestled between the bustling districts of Subang Jaya and Seri Kembangan, Puchong has plenty to offer. You can dive into a vibrant food scene, sampling everything from local street vendors to trendy cafés. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area boasts scenic parks, while shopping fiends can venture into popular malls that add to the local charm. If you’re looking for a place to stay to unwind but still want to be connected to major districts for seamless connections, here lies Hilton Garden Inn Puchong.
Hilton Garden Inn Puchong offers a seamless blend of comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms with modern amenities that ensure a relaxing retreat after a busy day. The hotel’s strategic location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions and vibrant dining options. Meanwhile, on-site facilities, including the fitness centre and restaurant, will complete your experience. The friendly staff also add a little personal touch to your stay, making it as memorable as possible.
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FOR FUN-SEEKING FAMILIES: PUTRAJAYA
Known for its stunning architecture and lush green spaces, Putrajaya is the perfect destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. Spend your nights at DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside. Its spacious accommodations include family rooms and suites, ensuring enough space for everyone in the family to unwind. Children are especially welcome here with amenities like a kids’ club and dedicated children’s pool.
The hotel’s location is also ideal for exploring nearby attractions, including beautiful parks and cultural sites such as the Putrajaya Botanical Garden. After a day of exploring, head to one of the hotel’s handful of dining options. Whether you’re at Makan Kitchen or Tasek, rest assured the young ones will be eating well too with their dedicated kids menus. Combining comfort, convenience, and play, the DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside is the perfect setting for family-friendly vacay.
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FOR THE GOURMAND TRAVELLER: MELAKA
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Melaka is renowned for its rich history and culture. This charming city is a melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Portuguese influences, evident in its diverse architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Historic landmarks are scattered throughout the city, including the A Famosa fortress, St. Paul’s Hill, and the vibrant Jonker Street. Perfectly situated along the Melaka River and close to popular attractions, the DoubleTree by Hilton Melaka serves as an ideal base for exploring the city.
The hotel boasts stylish rooms with contemporary amenities, many of which provide stunning views of the river or the bustling cityscape. Guests can indulge in various dining options, while enjoying an extensive range of facilities, including a fitness centre, swimming pool, sauna, and steam room. The combination of convenience, comfort, and hospitality makes it an ideal choice for culinary travellers to immerse themselves in the culture and flavours of Melaka!
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FOR BEACH LOVERS: PENANG
From its crystalline waters and sandy beaches to delectable food offerings, Penang is the tropical paradise of Malaysia that truly has it all. If you think you’ve experienced the island enough, think again! For a rejuvenating and healing stay, we recommend DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Penang, where fun and ocean views await. At this family-friendly Peranakan-themed hotel, you’ll never find yourself lacking things to do.
Enjoy a tantalising feast of global cuisines overlooking the pool at Makan Kitchen; gather for a nightcap at the lively Axis Lounge; go for a relaxing massage at the tranquil Eforea Spa; or explore the Teddy Bear Museum for a fun history lesson with a twist. You can’t leave the beach out when in Penang and the hotel makes it really easy to access the adjacent Miami Beach via a connecting bridge—perfect for a picnic! Furthermore, popular tourist spots such as Batu Ferringhi and George Town are only 10 and 20 minutes away respectively. So what are you waiting for? The beach calls for you in Penang!
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