KL's BEST Kept Secret: Amazing 23 AsHomeB in Bangi/Reko/UKM!
KL's BEST Kept Secret: Amazing 23 AsHomeB in Bangi/Reko/UKM! - Is It REALLY That Good? (A Messy, Honest Review)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea (or maybe the complimentary coffee, depending on how this review goes) on KL's BEST Kept Secret: Amazing 23 AsHomeB in Bangi/Reko/UKM! You know, the place that's supposedly "amazing." Honestly, after spending a few days there, I'm still processing. It's not perfect, let's just get that out in the open right now, but it definitely has its moments. And some of those moments… well, they were amazing.
So, first things first, let's talk accessibility. Now, I don't have any mobility issues myself, but I did pay attention. They do list Facilities for disabled guests and an Elevator, which is a good start. I didn't see any truly obvious wheelchair-accessible ramps or anything like that, but I also wasn't specifically looking for them. So, mixed feelings on that front. I'd recommend checking directly with the hotel if accessibility is a crucial factor for you.
Getting There & Getting Around: The Car park [free of charge] is a HUGE win. Finding parking in Bangi can be a nightmare, so this is a definite plus. They also offer Car park [on-site] (presumably for a fee, but I'm guessing it's still cheaper than the public ones), Bicycle parking (for the eco-conscious!), Taxi service, Airport transfer (a lifesaver!), and even Valet parking. They've pretty much got all the transportation options covered. Just a heads-up, Bangi's a bit spread out, so consider how you'll be getting around if you don't have a car. I ended up relying on taxis, which, honestly, were pretty reliable.
The Room - My Home Away From Home (Mostly):
OK, let's dive into the heart of the matter: the rooms! Mine was… a mixed bag. They've got every bell and whistle listed: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone (who even uses a bathroom phone anymore?!), Bathtub, Blackout curtains (thank the heavens!), Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens. (Phew!)
Seriously, the list goes on and on! I’m telling you, I was almost overwhelmed. They even have Interconnecting room(s) available which I’d imagine is great for families. But here’s the real story: the decor was… interesting. Let's just say it wasn't exactly my style. I wouldn't call it "stylish" – maybe "eclectic"? But hey, the bed was comfy, the blackout curtains were a godsend for sleeping in, and the Wi-Fi [free] was actually fast. And the Daily housekeeping? Absolutely crucial. It was immaculate. They even left little chocolates on the pillow, which is a nice touch. I spent a lot of time lounging in my bathrobe. The mini-bar was there but wasn’t fully stocked, which was a little disappointing. A few more snacks would have been nice.
The Internet Situation:
Okay, the Internet situation is… complicated. They advertise Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! which is true, and the speed was generally acceptable. But I also noticed they offer Internet access – LAN. Who even plugs in a cable anymore? But hey, options!
Cleanliness & Safety - COVID-19 Era:
This is where AsHomeB actually shines. They're taking things seriously, and that’s HUGE in this crazy world. They had: Anti-viral cleaning products, Cashless payment service, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, and Rooms sanitized between stays. They even have Staff trained in safety protocol and Sterilizing equipment. A LOT of effort has been put in. I felt incredibly safe. I mean, I still did the paranoid hand-sanitizing thing, but I felt like they were doing all they could.
Food, Glorious Food (and Drink):
Alright, now we're talking! The Dining, drinking, and snacking options at AsHomeB are pretty impressive… on paper. The Breakfast [buffet] was advertised.
Breakfast & Dining: The Breakfast [buffet] was… a bit of a rollercoaster. Some days were amazing, with fresh fruit, pastries, and eggs cooked to order. Other days… let's just say the scrambled eggs looked a bit sad. They offer Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Restaurants, and Room service [24-hour], though, so I’m not complaining. I did not see a Vegetarian restaurant, though that might be a mistake. They've got a Coffee shop and a Snack bar, too.
The Pool (and the Spa/Sauna!):
Now, THIS is where things got interesting. They have a Swimming pool [outdoor] (advertised as a "pool with view," which is stretching it a bit, but it was pleasant), a Sauna, and a Spa/sauna. I had a massage. My masseuse, bless her heart, was a tiny whirlwind of pressure. I walked out feeling both relaxed and potentially bruised. A good kind of bruised.
Things to Do… Or Not Do (Relaxation Time):
They're definitely leaning into the relaxation vibe. They've got a Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, but let's face it, Bangi isn't exactly known for its vibrant nightlife. They also have Family/child friendly features like Babysitting service and Kids meal.
Services and Conveniences - The Little Things:
This is where AsHomeB really tries to impress. They've got everything: Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center, etc., etc. The Contactless check-in/out was a huge plus. The Doorman was friendly. The Concierge was helpful, though sometimes seemed a bit overwhelmed. Having the ability to get Food delivery was also pretty clutch.
What's the Deal? Is It Actually a "Best Kept Secret?"
Okay, so, here's the bottom line. KL's BEST Kept Secret: Amazing 23 AsHomeB in Bangi/Reko/UKM! isn't perfect. It’s not the most stylish hotel I’ve ever stayed in. But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a pleasant experience. The staff are friendly. The rooms are comfortable. The safety precautions are top-notch. The pool is lovely. And the massage… well, let’s just say it left a lasting impression.
My Honest Recommendation:
Would I recommend it? Yes, with qualifications. If you're looking for a luxurious getaway, maybe look elsewhere. But if you're looking for a comfortable, clean, and safe place to stay in Bangi, with a fantastic spa and convenient amenities, then absolutely, give KL's BEST Kept Secret: Amazing 23 AsHomeB in Bangi/Reko/UKM! a try. Just… maybe skip the sad-looking scrambled eggs.
Book Now & Experience the Surprisingly Awesome!
Ready for a Bangi adventure? Embrace comfort, safety, and a touch of quirky charm at KL's BEST Kept Secret: Amazing 23 AsHomeB! Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, delicious dining options,
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Alright, buckle up, buttercups! Because this isn't just a travel itinerary, it's a vibe. We're going to the heart of it all – Bangi/Jalan Reko/UKM/Kajang 23 AsHomeB, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. And trust me, we're not aiming for picture-perfect Instagram moments. We're after the real, sweaty, chaotic, and utterly delightful mess of it all.
Day 1: Disorientation and Deliciousness (aka, Arrival and Noodle Nirvana)
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Arrival & Apartment Awkwardness: Landing at KLIA, grabbing that overpriced airport taxi (because, let's be honest, who can deal with public transport after a flight?), and navigating to 23 AsHomeB. The apartment? Fingers crossed it looks remotely like the photos. Expect a frantic text exchange with the host and figuring out the door code, because let's just say I'm not exactly known for my technological prowess. Observation: Why, why, WHY are travel pillows so ridiculously bulky? I end up carrying that thing like a newborn baby all the time.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: The "Lost in Translation" Grocery Run: Okay, gotta stock up on essentials. This is where my Malay language skills will be truly tested…or hilariously exposed. I'm picturing myself pointing frantically at fruits and vegetables, hoping for the best. Maybe grabbing some instant noodles, just in case the fridge proves more barren than my bank account. Impression: The fluorescent lights of the local supermarket always felt like a time portal.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Unpacking and Unraveling: Finally, refuge in the apartment. The first thing, of course, is to crack open a cold bottle of… well, let's see what's available. Then, the grand unpacking. I'm a chronic over-packer, so it's going to be a multi-stage operation. Expect a minor mental breakdown over what to wear on day one.
- 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: The Quest for Laksa: Dinner is the priority, however. I'll embark on a mission to discover the best Laksa in the area. Recommendation from the host? Google Reviews? Or just wander around until I find somewhere promising? I'm betting on the smell of deliciousness. Anecdote: Once, I ordered a "mild curry" in Thailand, and it came so spicy I cried. Learned my lesson…maybe.
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Noodle Nirvana (The Actual Food): Find the place. The anticipation is already killing me. I'm not a picky eater, but I'm very serious about quality noodles. The first bite of proper Laksa will make or break this trip.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Stroll & Reconnaissance: After the Laksa ecstasy, I'll take a walk around. The local area, get a feel for the streets. The "real" Malaysia, beyond the tourist traps and photo ops.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Rest and Reset: Quick shower, recharge (both myself and my phone), and start planning tomorrow.
Day 2: UKM, Culture Shock, and Mango Tango
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Breakfast Battle and Caffeine. I'm going to need to have breakfast. Maybe a trip to a local cafe -- that is definitely on the agenda.
- 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM UKM Exploration: Let's finally go to the UKM. Because hey, I'm here, right? This is going to be the most educational thing of the whole trip.
- 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Lunch & Local Life: Try any local restaurant. See what the fuss around is.
- 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Street Food Adventure: This is where I'm really hoping the magic happens. I'm going to go on a serious street food hunt. Anything and everything goes. I'm talking Satay (the real deal, of course), Roti Canai (with lots of dhal), and whatever else looks too intriguing to pass up. Emotional Reaction: The fear of food poisoning vs. the deliciousness factor is a constant internal struggle.
- 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Lost in the Market: Explore the local market. Smell the durians. Get haggled. Enjoy it.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Dinner and the Evening: Whatever I eat, I'm going to finish off the day with an evening stroll around the area.
- 7:00 PM- onwards: The Night is Young: Wind down with a late night Netflix.
Day 3: Kajang and Beyond (and Possibly Regret?)
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Coffee and Reflection: Morning coffee, journal time. Reflecting on my decisions, second-guessing every snack I ate. Quirky Observation: My travel journal is less of a sophisticated diary and more a collection of panicked scribbles and doodles of food.
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Kajang Adventure: Head to Kajang by train or taxi. The goals are simple: explore, and… well, eat. It's all about eating.
- 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Satay Showdown: It's Kajang, so Satay is a must. Local joints. Take notes. Rate. Review. Overeat.
- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: The Unplanned: Things are going to get unplanned. Maybe a bus ride somewhere.
- 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Back to the Apartment (Maybe): Head back to the apartment for a rest.
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: The Last Supper: The last hurrah! The end of the trip.
The "Messy" Stuff:
- Transportation Woes: Expect taxi negotiations to become a comedy act (especially when I don't understand the spoken Malay), and potentially getting horribly lost at least once. Maybe I'll even brave the public transport for a truly authentic experience – pray for me.
- The "Lost in Translation" Moments: Guaranteed. From ordering the wrong dish to accidentally offending someone with my clumsy attempts at Malay. Embrace the awkwardness!
- The "Is That Safe to Eat?" Dilemma: Street food is a risk. The risk of food poisoning.
- Emotional Rollercoaster: There will be moments of pure joy – the perfect noodle, the sunset over the rice paddies. And there will be moments of sheer frustration – the missed train, the language barrier, the homesickness sneaking in. It's all part of the journey.
- The Unexpected: Because let's face it, the best travel memories are the ones you didn't plan.
Final Thoughts:
This itinerary isn't about ticking boxes. It's about experiencing. It's about embracing the chaos, the smells, the flavors, and the imperfections. It's about finding the beauty in the unexpected and maybe, just maybe, learning a little something about myself along the way. And, of course, it's all about the food. Wish me luck! I'm certainly going to need it!
Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Martin Anugrah Hotel & Restaurant, Siborongborong!
KL's BEST Kept Secret: 23 AsHomeB in Bangi/Reko/UKM - The FAQ (and My Own Personal Rant)
Alright, alright, alright... let's talk about 23 AsHomeB. You've probably heard whispers, maybe seen a cryptic Facebook post. Well, buckle up, because I'm about to spill the tea, and frankly, I'm still recovering from my last stay. This isn't just an FAQ; it's my personal chronicle of the highs, the lows, and the sheer WTF-ery of this place.
1. What *IS* 23 AsHomeB, Exactly? (Because Honestly, The Website Is Vague AF)
Okay, so they market themselves as a "homestay." "Homestay." That's the sanitized version. Think "slightly evolved hostel meets your quirky aunt's house after she's had a few too many glasses of wine." It's a collection of rooms (varying in size and… well, let's call it "aesthetic") tucked away in the Bangi/Reko/UKM area. The actual *location* is already a bit of a treasure hunt to be honest.
My first time, I spent a solid 45 minutes circling the block, convinced Google Maps was leading me to a goat farm. It wasn't. Definitely wasn’t a goat farm. Though, now I think about it, there *was* a faint smell of… something. Okay, moving on.
2. Is It Actually "Amazing" Like Everyone Says? (Or Is This All Hype?)
"Amazing" is subjective, alright?! Let me put it this way: the first time I went, I was *blown away*. The price was laughably low, the staff (mostly the owner, Azman, a character unto himself) were unbelievably friendly, and the communal areas felt genuinely welcoming. I’m talking, genuine, not the fake-smiles-for-guests-only kind! I remember sitting in the open area one night, some random guests started a karaoke session, and Azman was there, belting out a classic Malay ballad… in his pyjamas. Pure gold.
But… and there's always a "but," isn't there? The second time? Let's just say the charm had *worn off* a little. The air conditioning in my room was… temperamental. And the "breakfast" (included, mind you) was… well, let's call it "minimalist." Think instant noodles and a lukewarm Milo. But hey, at that price, complaining feels… greedy. Maybe. It depends on the day. It's a rollercoaster, people. Expect a rollercoaster.
3. Okay, Spill the Tea: What's The Vibe Like? Is It... Clean?
The vibe is... eclectic. Think "bohemian student commune meets slightly neglected holiday home." There's a lot of mismatched furniture, random art on the walls (some of which I suspect was created by a particularly enthusiastic toddler), and a general sense of organized chaos. Cleanliness? Let's say it's "acceptable." The rooms are generally alright, but don't expect pristine, sterile environments. Remember, you’re not staying at the Ritz. You are likely going to get dust motes!
I once found a rogue sock in the bathroom. Whose sock? Where had it been? The world may never know. But hey! It's part of the *experience*! Right?
4. What About the Food? Is There a Kitchen? Should I Bring My Own Spoon?
There *is* a kitchen, of sorts. It's… functional. Emphasis on *functional*. Expect the basics: a fridge, a microwave (that may or may not have a mind of its own), and a few pots and pans. They usually provide some basic coffee and tea. For anything more elaborate, you're on your own.
The included breakfast, as mentioned, is… basic. Bring snacks. Bring your own coffee (trust me). And, yes, maybe bring your own spoon. Because you *might* need it. You definitely will after my experience. My spoon journey? I brought my favourite spoon one night. The metal one, with the cool emblem. And I forgot! I *abandoned* my spoon. And the heartbreak... I’ll have to live with it forever! I need a support group.
5. The Rooms: Are They Comfortable? I Need My Sleep!
Rooms vary wildly. Some are small and cozy, others are bigger and… a little bleak. Some have air conditioning that works flawlessly. Others... well, let's just say you might want to pack a fan. Bed comfort is generally okay. It's not a five-star mattress, but it's… sleepable. I slept like a LOG. I’m a deep sleeper!
Important note: Noise levels can vary. You might be sharing a wall (or more) with other guests. If you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs. And maybe a good dose of patience. Because sometimes you need it. I had to shout at kids playing in the halls. It was rough.
6. Who Should Stay Here? Who Should RUN SCREAMING IN TERROR?
You should stay here if: You're on a budget. You're looking for a unique experience, NOT a cookie-cutter hotel. You don't mind a little… *character*. You're easygoing and adaptable. You enjoy meeting new and interesting people. You're okay with a slightly disheveled environment. You like Azman- he can be a good laugh.
You should RUN SCREAMING IN TERROR if: You are a germaphobe. You demand absolute cleanliness. You are a light sleeper and can't handle noise. You're expecting luxury. You can't handle a little bit of chaos. You're a high-maintenance diva. Or if you just hate fun. Seriously, don’t ruin it for everyone else!.
7. What's the Wi-Fi Like? (Because, you know, the modern world...)
Hit and miss. Sometimes it's blazing fast. Other times... well, let's just say you build a tolerance for buffering. Don't expect to stream HD movies. Consider yourself warned. Bring a data plan. Or a book. Or just embrace the enforced digital detox. It might be good for you. It *was* good for me, mostly. Except when I needed to pay bills. Then I was screaming.
8. Transportation: How Do I Get Around? (And is it easy?)
You'll probably need a carHotel Hop Now
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