As we pull up to the hotel from the main road my initial reaction is did we choose the right hotel? The outside, apart from being a classic British colonial-era building is as inconspicuous as the building next door. But as soon as the doors of the taxi are opened for us by the bell boys with massive ear-to-ear smiles, I know that this is the right place.

The foyer is elegant and classic in its colonial heritage look and feel – sparse, with wooden features, marble floor, Roman columns, black lacquered ceiling fans, and 2 stunning chandeliers.

As we are waiting for our check-in formalities, we are offered a glass of cold fresh fruit juice and an ice-cold wet towel – a refreshing welcome from the humidity outside.

As we exit the lift in the 2nd floor, we are welcomed by the floor butler who is, we are told, on call 24/7 to attend to out every whim if required.

The room is nothing but stunning. A separate entrance foyer opens up to a huge bedroom with adjacent sitting room and working desk. A bottle of complimentary red wine and fruit basket is waiting for us on the small table by the sofa. The bathroom is spacious with a ‘his’ and ‘hers’ basin, separate shower and clawfoot-like bath. The amenities are provided in ceramic bottles that are refreshed daily. A TV with cable and the other usual facilities are included.

Breakfast is also included, a la carte as opposed to the standard Buffet which is another refreshing change. The choice is still endless and includes a Mynamanese selection. The food when it comes is fresh and delicious, and the bread selection, we are assured, is baked on the premises.

The only letdown (if any) is the lack of a swimming pool which would have been nice to dip into after a day of sightseeing. The one other downfall was an unasked for wake-up call at 6.15am on our second morning. Apparently the wrote down the wrong room number.

All in all, a wonderful place to stay, fabulous service, and I would probably stay again.