THE PRESTIGE HOTEL
Modern Victorian meets luxury
By Agnes Aui
Stepping into the island of Penang feels like the world transforms, from brick houses to British colonial buildings and Chinese shophouses, it seems as if we’ve travelled back in time. And the island’s new escapade located along Church Street is a facade featuring modern Victorian architecture with a playful interior inspired by a Christopher Nolan film called “The Prestige”. Alongside local botany, black-and-white tiles that seem to magically “appear and disappear”, and an intriguing floor maze at the lobby, The Prestige is an ideal staycation spot you’ll never want to leave.
REST
The Prestige Hotel houses four different types of rooms, namely the Deluxe, Premier Deluxe Suite, Loft Suite and the unique Deluxe Trio room that’s recommended for families with children. We were in awe at every detail throughout the cosy Deluxe room. From dusty beige fur carpeting and trapezium bleached walls to copper accents and subtle washes of pink, the room was not only Instagrammable but instantly gave us a sense of relaxation that was unparalleled to anywhere else. Certainly, the hotel added a touch of Houdini by concealing the toilet in plain sight. But the highlight of the room was the vanity mirror featuring a rose gold diamond cut outlined with fluorescent lamps, that creates the ultimate optical illusion of many rooms. Other than it being the perfect selfie spot, the intricate design proves to be fascinating.
REPLENISH
There’s no better way to start the day than having breakfast as the sun penetrates through glass windows and finally setting onto your skin. That was our morning at The Glasshouse restaurant, accompanied by waffles and fresh fruit juices. Of course, we had to try the big breakfast, a delightful medley of crispy hashbrowns, succulent chicken sausages, eggs (of your choice) and crisp salad. If you’re not a morning person, opt for the junior platter, which is essentially the big breakfast on a smaller scale with additional toasted fluffy white bread. For a healthier start, get the salad featuring avocados, feta cheese, chilli flakes and a soft, melty poached egg. However, don’t leave without trying the nutmeg juice, a Penang specialty that’s tangy and refreshing, fuelling you up for the sight-seeing adventure that lies ahead.
RECONNOITRE
Thanks to the hotel’s strategic location, exploring Penang island was a breeze. Hotspots like Armenian Street, Little India, Khoo Kongsi and the Clan Jetties were all within walking distance. Evidently, food takes centre stage here and we decided to try some famous local delights. Armenian Street was where we had the ice ball, drenched in syrup that brought the bees out to play. We then explored the famous Deen’s Maju Nasi Kandar, which honestly still lingers in our minds till today. We also couldn’t leave without satisfying our Penang char kuey teow and chee cheong fun cravings, so we adjourned to the Gurney Drive Hawker Centre. Then, we made one last pitstop to the beach where we soaked our feets in the sand and greeted little crabs, before bidding farewell to the soothing island and the hotel we so deeply fell in love with.
Address: The Prestige Hotel
8, Gat Lebuh Gereja, George Town, 10300
George Town, Pulau Pinang
Tel: 04-217 5888