Cititel Express Ipoh

This hotel is celebrated for its strategic location in the historical heart of Ipoh, offering unparalleled access to the city's vibrant attractions and culinary scene. Its newly renovated look and commitment to cleanliness are consistently highlighted, providing a fresh and inviting atmosphere for guests. The hotel is an excellent fit for sightseers and tourists eager to explore the Old Town, Concubine Lane, and various eateries on foot. Families also find it suitable due to comfortable accommodations and convenient amenities. The stunning panoramic views from the 12th-floor reception and dining area add a memorable touch to the stay. To ensure a smoother experience, guests should be mindful of the often limited parking availability and consider requesting a renovated room for the best comfort. Be prepared for a potentially unique check-in process on the 12th floor, which can sometimes involve queues.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's facilities receive mixed feedback, primarily concerning parking. Guests frequently note the limited parking space in the basement, which is often full and can be tight, sometimes requiring the use of a stacking system or off-site parking a short walk away. This can be inconvenient, especially during peak times or in bad weather. On a positive note, the presence of a 7-Eleven on the ground floor is highly appreciated for its convenience, providing easy access to snacks and essentials. Guests also value the water dispensers located on each floor, offering hot, warm, and cold water. However, a recurring point of dissatisfaction is the absence of a refrigerator in most rooms and the lack of bottled water, which many guests expect. Rooms are equipped with ironing facilities and offer a good selection of movies on the television, while Wi-Fi is generally reliable.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel's cleanliness, describing rooms and common areas as neat, spotless, and well-maintained. The newly renovated rooms are particularly praised for their modern design and comfort, though some guests note that not all rooms have been updated. Beds are generally found to be comfortable with good support, and linens are crisp and fresh, contributing to a restful sleep. However, some reviews mention issues with old or stained towels and pillows, and a policy of only one pillow per person. While noise levels are typically low, a few guests report occasional disturbances from the 12th floor or street. The bathroom often receives mixed comments; while water pressure is generally good and hot water is available, a persistent sewer smell from drains is a frequent complaint. Other minor issues include slippery shower tiles and a lack of hand towels.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on the hotel's dining experience, particularly breakfast, is generally positive, though with some caveats. Many guests describe the breakfast as delicious and good, appreciating the quality of the food. The breakfast area on the 12th floor is a significant highlight, offering an astonishing view of the city and mountains, creating a pleasant ambiance for the meal. However, some guests note that the variety of food options is limited, and a few experienced issues with food not being refilled promptly or being served cold. While the hotel's own dining options are somewhat constrained, its strategic location means numerous eateries and cafes are within easy walking distance, providing ample alternatives for guests seeking diverse culinary experiences outside the hotel.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is overwhelmingly cited as its strongest asset, placing guests directly in the heart of Ipoh's historical and cultural attractions. It offers easy walking access to popular sites such as Concubine Lane, the Old Town, Padang Ipoh, various museums, and a plethora of eateries and cafes. The train station is also conveniently within walking distance, making it accessible for those arriving by rail, and ride-sharing services are readily available. While the hotel's position is ideal for exploration, some guests highlight challenges with accessibility for vehicles. The drop-off and pick-up area at the main entrance is described as narrow and located at a blind corner, which can be dangerous due to heavy traffic. Additionally, pedestrian safety is a concern, as crossing busy streets near the hotel can be hazardous due to a lack of proper crossings or traffic lights.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently commend the positive attitudes of the security guards, doormen, and reception staff, noting their willingness to assist with luggage and provide guidance. The check-in process garners mixed reviews; while many guests experience a quick and smooth arrival, others report long queues and slow processing times, particularly when only one counter is open. Some guests also find the 12th-floor reception inconvenient. There are isolated instances of staff being perceived as uncooperative or not addressing issues promptly, such as a clogged toilet or room cleaning requests. However, the overall sentiment points to a dedicated team committed to providing good customer service, including accommodating early check-ins and assisting with specific room requests, though some policies like charging for extra pillows are noted.

Additional Information
A unique aspect of the hotel's operation is the reception counter located on the 12th floor, which, while offering impressive views, can lead to a somewhat unconventional and occasionally time-consuming check-in and check-out experience. Guests should be aware of the deposit policy, as some reviews mention unexpected deductions for tourist and service taxes, or even for minor stains on towels, leading to frustration. Another specific policy noted by guests is the charge for requesting an extra pillow, which some find surprising given typical hotel amenities. While the hotel has undergone renovations, it is important to note that not all rooms have been updated, so guests may wish to inquire about a renovated room. For those considering repeat stays, the hotel offers membership benefits, including complimentary coffee, which is appreciated by loyal guests.