The Aru Hotel At Aru Suites

The hotel is highly regarded for its breathtaking rooftop infinity pool, offering unique opportunities for plane spotting and stunning sunset views, making it a truly memorable destination. Guests consistently highlight the spaciousness and cleanliness of the rooms, along with the attentive service provided by the staff, contributing to a very comfortable stay. Its strategic location near the airport makes it ideal for transit travelers seeking convenience, while the large apartments and inviting pool facilities cater exceptionally well to families looking for ample space and entertainment. Sightseers and those desiring a quieter stay away from the city bustle also find it appealing due to its serene environment. To enhance your experience, guests recommend exploring local dining options for breakfast as the hotel's offerings are limited, and be prepared for a deposit process that may take up to two weeks for card refunds.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel boasts an impressive rooftop infinity pool that offers spectacular views, including the airport runway for plane spotting and stunning sunsets, providing a relaxing escape. However, some guests noted the absence of proper poolside chairs or loungers, and that pool towels are not provided, which could enhance the experience. Rooms are well-equipped with free Wi-Fi and Netflix, ensuring entertainment and connectivity. Many units feature full kitchen amenities, making them suitable for longer stays or families. A standout feature is the automated parking system, which guests find unique and convenient, though some mention it can be time-consuming during peak hours or noisy for rooms located near the system. The gym is available, but some guests were disappointed by the lack of weights and air conditioning.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently praise the hotel's cleanliness, describing rooms as tidy and well-maintained, though a few isolated comments mentioned minor issues like dust or hairs upon arrival, which were promptly addressed by staff. The spacious rooms and apartments are a significant highlight, offering ample living space, often including a balcony with pleasant views. While many guests found the beds comfortable, some noted they were a bit hard or shorter than preferred, and pillows could be too thick. The bathrooms are generally large and well-appointed, with good hot shower pressure, though some mentioned dim lighting or minor leakage from shower doors. Despite the hotel's proximity to the airport, soundproofing is generally effective, though some guests did experience noise from planes taking off and landing, particularly at night. In-room amenities like Netflix and toiletries are appreciated.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not feature an on-site restaurant or bar, which guests should be aware of, impacting convenience for in-house dining. Breakfast, if offered, is typically a simple, pre-ordered meal delivered to the room, often described as cold, tasteless, or limited in variety, leading many guests to opt out or seek alternatives. This setup means guests cannot enjoy a traditional buffet experience. Most guests recommend exploring the numerous nearby restaurants and local eateries, including a vibrant night market and fresh seafood restaurants at Tanjung Aru Beach, which are easily accessible and offer diverse culinary experiences. The staff are helpful in providing recommendations and assisting with food delivery services like Grab Food, ensuring guests have convenient dining options despite the hotel's lack of in-house facilities.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, particularly its proximity to the airport, being only a 5-10 minute Grab ride away, making it highly convenient for transit travelers. It is also ideally situated near Tanjung Aru Beach, which is within walking distance and renowned for its beautiful sunsets. While the hotel is in a quieter area away from the main city bustle, Grab cars are readily available, providing easy and affordable access to Kota Kinabalu town center and attractions like Imago Mall, typically a 10-15 minute ride. Guests appreciate the convenience of nearby local supermarkets and various food outlets. Parking is available and well-managed, with an impressive automated system, though some guests noted it could be time-consuming.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and politeness, significantly contributing to a positive guest experience. Guests frequently highlight the efficient check-in process, with staff providing clear guidance, especially regarding the unique automated parking system. The team is described as attentive and responsive to guest needs, from assisting with food deliveries to promptly addressing in-room issues. While the overall service is excellent, a few guests reported isolated instances of less warm greetings from the front desk. Additionally, guests should be aware that the deposit paid by card may take up to two weeks to be refunded, which can be an inconvenience for some. The staff's dedication to service ensures a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

Additional Information
Guests should note the hotel's distinctive automated parking system, which, while impressive and secure, requires a specific digital card for access and can lead to waiting times during busy periods. The key card system for room and lift access is comprehensive, but some guests found it inconvenient to manage multiple cards, with extra keycards sometimes requiring an additional deposit. While the rooftop pool offers stunning views, there is a notable lack of sunbeds or comfortable loungers, limiting relaxation options by the poolside. Guests are also advised that room cleaning is typically done upon request, rather than automatically, and it is recommended to request it at the front desk when leaving the room. A minor suggestion from some guests was the addition of a rack or holder inside the shower for toiletries.