Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang

Phil Denholm

A fantastic stay in this amazing 5 star resort. We stayed 2 nights in the Rassa wing with club lounge access and it was simply superb. After a week exploring KL and George Town a couple of days relaxation was just what we needed before heading off to KL again. The lounge gains you afternoon tea, evening drinks and nibbles and the option of breakfast in the Ferengie grill. Food was all really good, free drinks round the pool was also really good, the pool it's self was really quiet when we visited (easter Sunday and Monday) but other reviews say about it being very busy so I guess it's about the type of crowd during your stay. The grounds are immaculate just don't expect a beach, if you want sand you have to go further along the coast, the sea is full of jellyfish so beat staying in the pool anyway. I would 100% recommend this place and we will hopefully be back soon.

Amit Chippa

I recently booked a stay at this hotel with my family for a luxury staycation, expecting an experience as grand and refined as the reputation suggests. Unfortunately, the reality fell short of expectations. Room Experience – Rasa Wing: We stayed in the Rasa Wing, which is marketed as the premium wing of the property. Naturally, we anticipated top-tier rooms and amenities. However, the experience didn’t reflect that standard. Pillows: The pillows provided were extremely flat, so we decided to try the extra ones kept in the wardrobe. To our surprise, the pillowcases were covered in dust, indicating they hadn’t been cleaned in quite some time. We then ordered pillows from the Pillow Menu, which were cleaner but noticeably smaller and not very comfortable. It’s unclear why the sizing was inconsistent. Coffee Table & Amenities: The coffee table drawers were dusty, and the instant coffee and tea sachets stored inside were also covered in dust. Even if they haven’t been used, basic cleanliness should be maintained—especially in a hotel of this caliber. Cleanliness & Hygiene: One night, we stepped out of our room and were shocked to see a small mouse running along the corridor, attempting to enter various rooms. While we understand the hotel is surrounded by nature, this is not something guests expect to encounter in a five-star environment. We understand the presence of reptiles/insects in the garden but not in the corridor of the rooms. High Tea Experience: The high-tea offering was quite underwhelming. The quality and selection of food were below average compared to similar offerings elsewhere. The set included beef sandwiches, which we don’t consume, so we inquired about a substitute. We were told that dietary requests needed to be made in advance—however, no menu was provided at the time of booking, so we had no way of knowing this. Additionally, the coffee served was basic machine-made coffee, not barista-crafted as one would expect in such a setting. Breakfast: The breakfast experience was much the same—lackluster in both variety and quality. In fact, we’ve experienced significantly better breakfasts at hotels that charge a fraction of this price. Overall Impression: Rasa Sayang simply does not deliver on the promise of a luxury experience. For the premium rates they charge, one expects far better standards in food quality, room upkeep, and overall service. There’s a lot of potential here, but considerable improvements are needed to justify the pricing and the brand image the hotel aims to uphold.

ElizarUs Boutique

Title: Beautiful setting, but not quite the 5-star experience The ocean view is truly stunning, the food was excellent, and the in-room service — including laundry — felt luxurious. So far, so good. But if you’re sensitive to nature, be prepared: mosquitoes, ants, and jellyfish are part of the package. I got stung three times on the legs right near the shore — the burning lasted all day. A bit more excitement than I signed up for. Also, the “beach” is more like a boat dock with rocks underneath — not ideal for swimming or relaxing by the water. Overall, it looks like a 5-star resort, but the experience didn’t quite match. Come for the view, stay for the sting (or not).

david

Like all 5 star resorts, the staff go out of their way to help. Street food down the road is a great go to. Night markets there also. They start approx 6pm. Use the facilities Nextdoor at golden sands resorts for the kids pool, skids etc. this is permitted. The time we went breakfast was busy after 8:30 but never low on food.

CW Ang

Stayed at rasa junior suites and was very happy with experience. Service was prompt but intrusive. Concierge and the service team also went above and beyond to set up my room beforehand so my little ones had access to a baby tub and milk warmer. Landscaping was well done and the overall atmosphere was relaxing and welcoming.