Hydro Hotel Penang

The decor was in need of upgrading. There were hooks on the corridor walls which could have easily injured guests walking past. The shower light was hanging off the ceiling. The television was an old CRT set which must have been over 20 years old. Our room telephone had to be repaced because it was faulty. The telphone looked very tired and old. There was no air condition in the communal areas. However, the staff and service were good. It was supposed to be a 4 star hotel, but it looks as though the proprietors have not invested in any modernisation since it received its star rating.

I was impressed with the size of the lobby and the good condition of the hotel and our room was clean. We had a room with nice view of the beach on the 10th floor. The room was spacious and came with all the necessities like hair dryer, ironing, kettle, safe. The beach was just accross the road. Our stay of 3 nights was very pleasant. The only downside was that the hotel was not located close to shops or entertainment areas (i.e. not walking distance). But on the other hand, the bus stop is right next to the hotel and the bus fare is cheap. Overall, the hotel was very good value for us and it was nice and clean.

Just feel the hotel has dated and needs a further revamp. Door cards continually did not work; floors seemed very dull and dark (only a small number of lights were on); very noisy plumbing. Breakfast not the best but we were happy with the location as it is nice & quiet. Could not go for an early morning swim (before breakfast) as each morning it was being cleaned. I suppose for the price it was ok but I think we will look elsewhere when next visiting Penang.