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Sunday, August 25, 2013

Recommended Hotels in ASEAN Countries

RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN ASEAN COUNTRIES
(updated as of April 15, 2020)


BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Bandar Seri Begawan

Rizqun International Hotel - Abdul Razar Complex, Gadong BE3519, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam; Tel. (673) 2423000; Fax (673) 2428000; www.rizquninternational.com
  • Located in the heart of Brunei's retail and entertainment district - Gadong, the hotel is only 10 minutes from Brunei International Airport and Bandar Seri Begawan.
  • This 4 Star hotel is adjacent to "The Mall", a shopping complex.  Hotel is surrounded by other shops and restaurants.
  • Hotel facilities include coffeeshop, poolside bar, business center, meeting and conference rooms, parking. Hotel has the biggest pillar-less ballroom in Brunei Darussalam.
  • Rooms are spacious and offers free bottled water, coffee/tea and daily newspaper.  Room facilities: flat TV, DVD player, ironing board, electronic safe, refrigerator, telephone, bath robe, sleepers.
  • NO FREE WIFI.  Wifi in rooms cost US$5 per hour.  Free WIFI at coffeeshop and lobby but very slow.  Alternative WIFI at Coffee World at the Mall. 
  • Room Rate: Brunei Dollars 170 per night with breakfast (IUS$ = 1.2 Brunei Dollars)
  • Cite of the 6th ASEAN Forum on Migrant Labour (November 26-27, 2013)
  • Don't forget to bring your electrical adoptor
The Empire Hotel and Country Club - Jerudong BG3122 Negara Brunei Darussalam; Tel. +673 241 8888; Fax +673 241 8999; www.theempirehotel.com
  • Five-star luxury hotel. The most prestigious bearch resort in Brunei. Hotel is set in its own 180 hectar estate with manicured garden and an 18-hole golf course. 
  • 15 minutes from Brunei International Airport and 20 minutes to Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei Darussalam; 5 minutes to the Convention Center
  • Cite of ASEAN Labour Ministers' Meeting in 2004

CAMBODIA

Phnom Penh

Hotel Cambodiana - 313 Susiwath Quay/ Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia; Tel 855-23 426 288/218 189; www.hotelcambodiana.com.kh
  • Four star hotel with good location (close to the Grand Palace and restaurant rows along Mekong River or the river front)
  • Approximately 10 km from the international airport
  • Hotel has good dining facilities including poolside and lobby bars, music lounges, bakery, french restaurant and coffeeshop
  • Rooms are clean with following amenities: free wifi, flat TV, mini bar, room safe, free water, coffee and tea, toiletries, robes and slippers, ironing board (upon request), AC
  • official hotel venue for participants during the ILO SURAC Meeting held at the Intecontinental hotel
Phnom Penh Hotel - 53 Monivong Boulevard, Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Tel +855 23 991 868; www.phnompenhhotel.com
  • Four star hotel approximately 7.9 km from the airport; approximately US$70 per night
  • Rooms comes with standard amenities of keycard electronic lock system, safe, free coffee/tea, TV (not flat) bathrobe and slippers
  • Free wifi connection in rooms
  • several restaurants at the ground floor (japanese, chinese, coffeeshop, coffee corner)
  • facilities include spa and health center (foot massage-$17; body massage -$28; gym and jacuzzi)
  • close to Central Market (1.3 km) or 5 minutes by tuk-tuk or moto ($2). Central Market was erected by the French in 1937 offering a variety of products under one roof. Buy silk scarf ($6), pashmina scarf ($4); kampot peppercorns ($10 per kilo ), renowned for decades as one of the best and highly-sought peppers in the world. It develops a strong, delicate and aromatic flavor.
Imperial Garden Villas and Hotel - 315, Sisowath Quay, Riverfront, Phom Penh, Cambodia; Tel. +855 23 219 991; www.imperialgarden-hotel.com
  • Resort is located in Phnom Penh (Riverside), clost to Samdach Hun Sen Park, Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda.
  •  has 1 bedroom to 4 bedroom apartments
  • Hotel if facing the river; 10 minutes by tuk-tuk to the tourist areas
  • Hotel room amenities include flat TV with cable channels, free wifi in room, mini ref, safe box; tea and coffee maker, free bottles of water (2), bathroom robe and slippers.
  • Rate is approx US$60 per night with breakfast
  • has internet station at its business center
  • coffeeshop and swimming pool available
  • Site of TFAMW Consultation meeting on 7th AFML (Aug 2014)
Siem Reap

Angkor Pradise Hotel - National Road No. 6, Phum Sala Kanseng, Sangkat Svay Dongdom, Siem Reap, Kingdom of Cambodia; Tel (855 63) 760 690; (855) 63-965-658; www.angkorparadise.net

  • 4-star hotel  with spacious rooms; 15 minutes from the airport; hotel is near the city center (accessible by tuk-tuk at $1 per trip per person)
  • Hotel has big rooms with flat TV and cable, free coffee/tea and 2 bottles of mineral water, mini ref, room safe, bath robe, sleepers, free wifi (password: paradise@168).  Restaurants available and pool. Free use of computer and internet available at the business center in the lobby.
  • Rate US$ 56 with breakfast
  • Free wifi access in rooms and other areas of the hotel with single password
  • hotel airport van is US$10 on way; advance reservation needed; metered taxi from airport to hotel is US$7 (purchase taxi coupon before exiting the airport terminal)
  •  Site of the the 5th ASEAN Forum on Migrant Labour (Oct. 2015) and 6th AFML Prep Meeting (Oct. 2014); 8th AFML Prep Meeting (Aug 2015)
  • $1 by tuk-tuk to the Old Market and to the Night Market (Pub Street) which opens at 6pm. Need to negotiate for more than 50% discount at Night Martket. Shopping guiding rates (large silk and pashmina scarf - $4; collarless t-shirts - $2; embroidered cosmetic bags - $1.50; silk wallets - $2; local coffee beans - $7 for half kilo; Kamput pepper - $3 for 250 grms.)
  • Full day rate for tuk-tuk is US$15
  • visit Angkor Wat: enjoy services of a accredited and professional English guide.  Communicate in advance (at least two days before)  with Kimron at rkimrom@gmail.com or mobile +85570450025; whole day guided tour rate is US$50 plus tuktuk $20
Prince D'Angkor Hotel and SPA - Sivatha Blvd., Mondul II Sangkat Svay, Dangkum, Siem Reap, Cambodia; Tel. (855) 63 96 33 33 (reservation), (855) 63 76 38 88; www.pricedangkor.com
  •  4-star hotel (222 rooms)  very proximate to the night market and the famous "Pub Street" (5 minutes by tuk-tuk; fare is $2 on way)
  • with pool and SPA; bar at lobby with live music in the evenings
  • hotel rate is US$48 per night with breakfast (this is low season rate - May to September)
  • Room facilities include: flat TV with cable, free wifi (but very weak all day), complimentary tea/ coffee and mineral water in your room, bath robe, room safe, toiletries, mini ref, slippers (but used)
  • free airport shuttle to and from the hotel (otherwise, pay US$7 for taxi)
  •  Breakfast is good but a bit crowded
  • Site of the ACE Regional Meeting on Diversity (May 2016)
  • Tour desk at hotel lobby can arrange your local tour to Angkor Wat 
  • Note: this hotel is different from Princes Angkor Hotel which is located near the airport
Chronicle Residence and SPA - Road 30, 300m from Borey Pruem Prey, Siem Reap, Cambodia; Tel 855 63 963 693; www.chronicleresidencespa.com
  • 4-star modern hotel near Angko Wat but quit distance to the main town and the night market
  • hotel provides free tuk-tuk shuttle to the central and night markets
  • Rooms are very neat and spacious.
  • check rates and make reservations thorugh the internet
  • Hotel has small pool and  breakfast area
  • (I have not stayed in this hotel but have seen its whole facilities, including the rooms)
 Hotel Somadevi - Sivatha Blvd., Mondol II Village, Sangkat Svaydangkum, Siem Reap Town, Kingdon of Cambodia; Tel. +855 63 967 666; www.samadeviangkor.com
  • 4-star hotel very near the night market (just beside Prince D'Angkor Hotel)
  • Looks and facilties of the hotel are similar to Prince D'Angkok and Angkor Paradise Hotel
  • Has large pool and huge lobby and restarant
  • Room is spacious but rather dark
  • Hotel rates differ per season (check internet)
  • Provides free tuk-tuk shuttle to the night market and back; airport pick up also available 
Hotel Somadevi Angkor Boutique and Resort - Oknha Oum Chhay Street, Mondul II Village,
Sangkat Svay Dangkum, Siem Reap Town, Cambodia; Tel. (855-63) 962 666; www.somadeviiangkorboutique.com
  • 5-star hotel just behind Hotel Somadevi (same owner); very near the night market (you can actually walk but with the heat, its better to take the tuk-tuk (US$2 each way)
  • Resort has only 22 rooms and has pool
  • Rooms are nice and very modern
  • Published rate is US$280 for single room; US$320 double.  Check internet for promo rates or call its front office manager, Mr. Nicole VIN at +855 93 415 777 or email fom@somadeviangkorboutique.com
  •  Note:  Hotel is in the inner road of Mondul II Village. You need to walk from the mainroad (5 minutes); service van available for hotel pickup

INDONESIA

Bali

Swiss-Belresort Watu Jimbar (Sanur) - Jl. Danau Tamblingan No. 99A Sanur, Bali, Indonesia; Tel  (0361) 849 7000; Fax (0361) 849 7770; www.swiss-belresortwatujimbar.com
  • Four-star hotel; 30 minutes from the Bali Airport (US$20 by taxi)
  • Good facilities (pools) and coffeeshop
  • Rooms are clean and spacious with good amenities --- room safe, mini ref, free wifi and 2 bottles of drinking water per day, sleepers, toiletries, flat TV with cable, good AC, room jacuzzi, telephone.
  • walking distance to shopping and dinner areas including Starbucks
  • Site of the ILO Asia Tripartite Meeting on Fair Migration (May 6-7, 2015)
  • Rental cars available from the hotel or for private owner-driven car call:
    • Teja at +62 81 239 58208; email sutejawayan@gmail.com
    • Sample rates:  4 hours - approx US$40; 8 hours - approx US$55; 10 hours - approx US$65 
Ramada Bintang Bali Resort - Jalan Kartika Plaza, Kuta, P.O.Box 1068 Tuban, Bali 80361, Indonesia; Tel. 62-361-753292, 753293; www.bintang-bali-hotel.com
  • Very good four-star hotel with complete facilities
  • Venue of the ILO Employers' Regional Meeting on "Skills: Mismatch and Mobility" (2013)
Suggested places to visit in BALI:
    • Sukawai Market - for cheap batik and souvenir items (30 minutes by taxi)
    • Sari Amerta Batik Collection - Batubulan, Gianyar, Bali Tel (0381) 299057 299058 (for nice batik materials - shirts, dresses, table clothes, etc); shop has demonstration of batik the making
    • Udiyana Studio of Artist Painting - Jl. WR Supratman No. 327, Tohpati, Denpensar 80237, Bali, Indonesia; Tel (0361) 461734; www.udiyanahouseofart.com (for batik painting and arts)
    • Genesha Cafe at Kedonganan Beach, Kuta, Bali; Tel (0361) 703532, 085 100 585 222; www.geneshacafe.com (for fresh seafood beside the beach; good for dinner; 40 minutes by taxi from the hotel.
Jakarta

Sari Pan Pacific Jakarta - Jalan M.H. Thanrin 6, Tanah Abang, 10340 Jakarta; Tel. +62 21 2993 2888; jakarta@panpacific.com
  • 5-star hotel very proximate to the ILO Office (5 minutes walk across the hotel)
  • Hotel has fitness center and good restaurants, including a Japanese restaurant
  • A shopping mall (Sarinah) with wide-selection of restaurants  is just beside the hotel; silk scarf ($12), batik table cloth ($40), batik shirts ($30); king-size batik bedcover ($60-80); cheaper shopping at Tamrind City which is 15 minutes by taxi from the hotel (pay approximately $1.50 for taxi);or consider Plaza Indonesia (Mall) which is approximately $2.00 by taxi from the hotel. 
  • Rate is approximately US$90 - 130 per night with breakfast for two 
  • Take Blue Taxi (metered)  from the airport  at US$12-15 or hotel taxi (silver taxi)  at $30
  • Venue of ILO Regional Meeting on Mutual Recognition of Skills (Sept. 2014) 
Gran Melia Hotel Jakarta - Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said Kav. X-O Jakarta 12950 Indonesia; Tel. +62 21 526 8080; Fax +62 21 526 8181; www.granmeliajakarta.com
  • 5-star hotel; US$125++ (UN Rate)
  • Rooms are clean and spacious with bathtub, rain shower, mini ref, flat TV with cable, flat iron and board, bath robes, sleepers, shoe cleaning, free coffee/tea/mineral water, free wifi
  • Hotel has a number of restaurants apart from the coffeeshop: chinese, japanese, bar.
  • SPA and gym facilities available 
  • Note: Hotel is within walking distance from the Indonesian Ministry of Manpower (MoM) but quite distant from ILO Jakarta or Thamrin City (about 30-40 minutes by taxi)
  • Venue of National Data Focal Points Meeting for the ILMS (hosted by Ministry of Manpower of Indonesia)
The Hotel Gran Mahakam - Jin Mahakam 1 No. 6, Blok M, Kebayoran Baru, 12130 Jakarta; Tel. +62 21 720 9966; info@granmahakam.com
  • Five-star hotel with European architecture. Located in the Blok-M District and 5-minute walk to Plaza Senayan Mall.  Hotel is surrounded by different restaurants.
  • free wifi in the room, with safe, fridge, coffee/tea and 2 bottles of water free
  • Rate is US$111++ per day with good breakfast   
 Morrissey Hotel Jakarta - Jalan KH. Wahid Hasyim No. 70, Menteng, Jakarta 10340, Indonesia; Tel. +62 21 29933333
  • 4-star hotel; a boutique serviced apartment
  • approximately US$95 per night with breakfast
  • room size is average but with small kitchen (with  complete dining wares - pots, pan, cups and saucer, microwave, over, mini ref, water heater, etc)
  • nice rooms, friendly staff and different from standard hotels 
  • good breakfast buffet (Klasse Cafe) with local Indonesia cuisine
  • with infinity pool at the 6th floor
  • hotel is also famous for their Italian Restaurant - Ocha & Bella
  • 3 minutes ride to Sarinah Department Store (20,000 Ringgit or US$ 1.45) and 5 minutes to Thamrin 
  • Hotel provides free tuk-tuk shuttle to Sarinah
  • Venue of 3rd ATP PAC Meeting (June 2015); 8th AFML Prep Meeting
  • Suggested restaurant nearby:
    • Ocha & Bella - Italian; ground floor of the hotel; Tel (021) 3105 777, (021) 3105 999
    • Pelangi Seafood (Makassar) - Jl. Boulevard Raya TA 2/21, Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara; Tel (021) 453 0002, (021_ 453 4150. 5 minutes walk from hotel; fresh grilled seafood; reasonably priced; does not service alcoholic drinks except beer; credit cards accepted
    • Japanese Shabu-shabu buffet - just across Morrissey
Crown Plaza Hotel Jakarta - Jalan Gatot Subroto Kav 2-3 Jakarta 12930, Indonesia; Tel. (62-21) 526-8833; www.crownplaza.com/jakarta
  • Four star hotel with complete facilities (meeting and conference facilities, business center, coffee shop; gym and health SPA, Japanese and Chinese restaurants)
  • Rooms are equipped with flat TV, cable, mini ref, safe deposit box, free WIFI, coffee/tea, free 2 bottles of mineral water, sleepers, bath robe and toiletries
  • Rate is approxinately $140 per night with breakfast; credit cards accepted
  • Hotel is 5-minutes walk to Plaza Semanni, a shopping mall with lots of eateries
    • Note: Good selections of nice hand-printed batik shirts, blouses and dresses at  PREMESWARI located at the ground floor of the mall.  Look for owners Winarko (0818-07569506 or 0818-192628) or Yovita.
  • Blue Bird metered from the airport to the hotel is approximately US$12-15. To reserve for Blue Bird taxi call (021) 7917-1234; 794-1234; 798-1001
  • Hotel is site of the Indonesia National Preparatory Meeting for the 6th AFML
Hotel Aryaduta Jakarta - Jl. Prapatan 44-48 Jakarta 10110, Indonesia; Tel. +62 21 2352 1234
  • Hotel is 35 minutes from the airport
  • Hotel is recommended by ILO Jakarta as venue of an ILO meeting. 
  • Room rate is US$68 per night with breakfast
Mercure Hotel
Makassar

Aston Makassar Hotel and Convention Center - Jalan Sultan Hasanuddin, Makassar; Tel +62 411 3623222
  • Modern and stylish 4 star hotel with 177 rooms located just 20 minutes from the international airport (metered taxi to hotel at approximately US$10-12; hotel taxi at US$15)
  • Hotel facilities include a coffee shop, "sky dining" restaurant with amazing city and ocean views, swimming pool, gym and spa facilities; rooms have flat TV, ironing board, safe, robe, slippers, refrigerator, bath tub and free coffee/tea + bottles of mineral water.  Free sauna and jacuzzi to hotel guests
  • Free wifi in all hotel area including rooms (user name: aston; password: indonesia)
  • Rate is approximately US$100 per night with breakfast for two
  • Hotel is near Fort Rotterdam, a historical walled-military fort built by the Dutch in 1670s. 
  • Site of ILO Regional Meeting on Work in Fishing
  • Try: Great seafood restaurant - Rumah Makan BAHARI located at Jl. Yosp Latumahina, No. 18, Makassar, Indonesia;  Tel. (0411) 854462
Semarang

Ciputra Hotel Semarang - Jalan Simpang Lima, Semarang, Central Java; Tel. +62 24 844 9888; www.hotelciputra.com
  • Five-star hotel; managed by Swiss-Belhotel International
  • Centrally located and adjacent to the Ciputra Mall Semarang 
  • Rate is US$90 per might with breakfast
 Gumaya Tower Hotel - Jl. Gajah Mada No. 59-61, Semarang , Indonesia; Tel (62 21) 355 1999; www.gumayatowerhotel.com
  • Four - star hotel with nice facilities; very near the ASEAN Secretariat
  • Site of ASEAN SLOM meeting
  • Rate is approximately US$120
Bitung, South Sulawesi Province

Aston Hotel Manado - US$58/night
Aryaduta Hotel Mando - US$64/night
Sinesta Peninsula Hotel Manado -  US$63/night


LAO, PDR

Vientiane

Lao Plaza Hotel
  • five-star hotel beside the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training
  • 15 minutes from the airport
  • airport hotel service available
  • venue of 7th AFML Prep Meeting
City Inn Hotel Vientiane - Rue Pangkham, Vientiane, Lao PDR; Tel. +856 21 218333; www.cityinnvientiane.com
  • 3-star hotel
  • 15 minutes from the airport ($7-$8 by taxi)
  • hotel is small but clean; just across MoLVT
  • rate per night $70 with breakfast (internet rate)
  • hotel room amenities:  room safe, ironing board, flat TV, free wifi, free tea/coffee/mineral water, slippers, mini ref (note: rooms not carpeted; no business center)
  • hotel van to airport at $7 (book in advance)
  • shopping tip:  Morning Market (5 minutes by tuk-tuk; pay $1.50 one way)
Sabaidee@Lao Hotel Vientianne - Pangkham Road, Sisaket Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Lao PDR; Tel. +856-21-265141-2, +856-21-265152; sabaideeatlaohotel.com
  • 3-star hotel just across the Lao Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training (also just beside City Inn Hotel); 2 minute-walk to Lao Plaza Hotel
  • Single room rate is US$75 inclusive of taxes and breakfast
  • Free airport pick-up available but needs advance notification to the hotel 
  • Rooms are clear with flat TV, mini ref and toiletries. 
  • Good breakfast
  • 15 minutes drive from the international airport
  • suggested shops: PK Jewelry (2ndd floor of Morning Market) look for owner Ms. Cleo; Ciengsavanh Jewelry at Talatsao Shopping Mall 2 (Morning Market); look for Ms. Moy; Mulberries silk - 021562951; Mixay Boutic (for Lao silk) - 053-55 Nokeokuman Street, Ban Mixay, Vientiane, Laos, www.artofmekong.com ; buy good Lao coffee and tea at SINOUK Coffee Shop at Khemkhong corner Fa Ngum- F.Nginn (tel. 030-20000654), www.sinoukcafe.com
Cheaper hotels: (beside Sabaidee@Lao Hotel)

City Inn Hotel

Day Inn Hotel 

Don Chan Palace Hotel and Convention - Unit 6 Piavat Village, Sisatanak District, Vientiane, Lao PDR; Tel. +856 (0) 21 244288; donchanpalacelaopdr.com
  • 5-star hotel located beside the Meking River
  • Convention center was built for the ASEAN Summit in 2007
  • government negotiated room rate - US$100 per night (published rate US$160++)
  • venue of the 24th ASEAN Labour Ministers Meeting (May 2016)
Lao Plaza Hotel - Samsenthai Road, P.O.Box 6708, Vientiane, Lao PDR; Tel. (856-21) 218808; www.laoplazahotel.com
  • 5-star hotel just beside the Lao Ministry of Labour
  • Government negotiated rate per night is US$ 190
Luang Prabang

Sofitel Luang Prabang Hotel (Accor Hotels) - Ban Mano, 0600 Luang Prabang, Democratic Republic Lao; Tel. +856 71 260 777; Fax +856 71 260; GPS: N 19 52' 55.24" E 102 8' 7.72"; www.sofitel.com (highly recommended) Known locally as Hotel de la Paix
  • Five-star (Luxury) hotel restored from the French Governor's family house which was built in 1900. 
  • 25 suite rooms with private gardens (with gazebo and open shower tub)
  • room amenities:  flat TV with english cable, mini bar, free wifi, free bottles of water, mini-ref, room safe, bath robe, slippers, toiletries, bath tub
  • Rate per night: from US$190;  US$130 net (low season rate)
  • has conference facilities for 80 pax
  • Hotel is 5 minutes drive from downtown (but hotel offer 24 hours free CRV "transfer-to-town" service to all guests)
  • airport transfer is free
  • has good restaurant open for breakfast, lunch or dinner; has afternoon tea for guest 
  • has swimming pool (25m), SPA and gym facilities
  • offers Lao cooking lessons with Chef
  • friendly and efficient staff: (Pablo Barruti (from Argentina) , General Manger (MOB +856 20 2235 0986); Mao (from France) , Restaurant Manger; and Frederico (from Portugal) , external relations; others: Val (Thailand)
  • sister hotel of 3 Nagas (located at the downtown area) 
3 Nagas MGallery Luang Prabang by Sofitel - Vat Nong Village, Luang Prabang Old Town, Lao PDR,; Tel. +856 71 253 888;
  • 4-star hotel (15 rooms)  at the Center of the UNESCO World Heritage Luang Prabang; housed in three restored UNESCO Heritage buildings
  • Rate: from US$130 (US$70 during low season - May to October)
  • a charming boutique hotel by Sofitel; a walking distance to the temples and night market; right in the path of early monring alms-giving procession each day. 
  • hotel has friendly and presonalized service
  • hotel amenities: nice room with aircon, private balcony (overlooking the main street), mini safe, bath robe and toiletries and  huge bed (with mosquito net); free wifi; free water and coffee/tea
  • NOTE: hotel has no TV (a UNESCO protected house)
  • no swimming pool but with free use of Sofitel swimming pool (transfer provided)
  • small coffee shop at the front garden
 Luang Prabang View Hotel - Phou Meo, Lao-Thai Friendship Road, Luang Prabang, Laos; Tel. +856 (71) 260 560; Fax +856 (71) 206 290; www.luangprabangview.com
  • 5-star hotel located on a hill overlooking the city; constructed in 2007
  • with hourly shuttle buss to downtown
  • nightly rate is US$130 net (low season - April to Sept)
  • site of ASEAN ACMW  meeting hosted by the Lao Ministry of Labour
Sanctuary Hotel - Kitsalat Road, Ban Aham, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR; Tel. +856 71 21377-7/8/9; Fax +856 71 213780; www.sanctuaryluangprabang.com
  • 3-star hotel; 30 airconditioned rooms
  • at the heart of the city; near the night market
  • hotel is nicely designed and quiet
  • comfortable rooms with private balcony 
  • rate is US$70 net per night
MALAYSIA

Kuala Lumpur

Cititel Mid Valley - Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley, 59300 Kuala Lumpur (highly recommended)
  • Three-star hotel adjacent to the Mid-Valley Megamall.
  • Very clean hotel. Rooms have cable TV, free wifi , safety deposit box, free tea/coffee and free bottles of mineral water (2 per day).
  • Rate is approximately US$80 per night with breakfast
Boulevard Hotel Mid-Valley - Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley, Kuala Lumpur 59200;Tel. +603 229 5800
  • Three-star hotel adjacent to the Mid-Valley Megamaill
  • Hotel is a bit crowded
  • Wifi is free in the room for two computers
  • Rate is approximately $100 per night with breakfast    
Dorsett Regency Hotel - 172 Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Tel. +603 2716 1000; reservations.kl@dorsettregency.com.my
  • three-star hotel located in KL's Golder Triangle, close to the finest shopping malls and eateries; 5-minute walk to Pavillion Shopping Malll
  • Rate is approx US$100-120 with breakfast
  • Hotel facilities are clean but no business center
  • Room facilities: mini ref, flat TV, flat iron and board, sleepers, robe, safe
  • Free wifi in guest rooms
  • very busy with Asian (Indian) guests
  • Breakfast buffet features Indian cuisine
  • hotel was venue of BWI Migration Planning Workshop in March 2014
My Hotel @ Sentral (budget hotel) - No.1 Jalan Tun Sambathan 4, Brickfields, 50470 Kuala Lumpur; Tel. +603 2273 8000; www.myhotels.com.my
  • a budget hotel just beside YMCA Kuala Lumpur; 3 minutes walk to NU Sentral Mall; walking distance to KL Sentral train station; hotel is surrounded by eateries, groceries including 7-11
  • Room rate per night is RM 98 nett (approx US$25) without breakfast;  hotel breakfast available for additional charge but good breakfast is available at Old Town White Coffee just beside the hotel.
  • 5-story hotel; rooms clean and with aircon, flat TV with cable, mini safe, hairdryer; Free water (2 bottles per day), coffee/tea set; NO ref, toiletries, slippers, robe; room service available
  • 10 minutes by taxi to Pasar Seni Central Market (approx RM5 or US1.20 by taxi)
  • From airport, you can take the airport metered taxi RM 75 (approx US$19)
  • Note:  there are three My Hotels close to each other in the area (central reservation at www.myhotels.com.my):
    • My Hotel @ kl sentral
    • My hotel @ brickfields
  • Other hotels in the area: Hotel Summer View
  • Official hotel of ATUC event (ASEAN Youth Rally held at YMCA)
Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre Hotel and Residences - No. 4 Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Tel. +603 2170 8888; Fax +603 2170 8999; www.pullmanhotels.com; www.princehotelkl.com
  •  5-s.tar hotel, 40 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur Airport and 30 minutes away from Putrajaya; 15 minutes walk to Petronas Twin Tower; just across Pavillion Mall.
  • Hotel features 445 rooms and has 6 restaurants and bars, swimming pool, fitness center, business center and function rooms.
  • Breakfast coffeeshop (look for Gina and April)
  • Rooms are spacious with following amenities: flat TV with cable, ironing board, mini ref, room safe, slippers, free coffee/tea/mineral water, free wifi, toiletries
  • Daily room rate is approximately US$90 with breakfast for two
  • Official venue of the 8th AFML and 8th ACMW hosted by MOHR Malaysia (Oct. 2015)
The Royal Chulan Hotel - Jalan Conlay, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur; Tel. +60 3 2688 9688
  • Five-star hotel centrally located in downtown KL; within walking distance from the trendy district of Bukit Bintang and a few minutes from the Petronas Twin Towers.
  • Room rate is US$95 per night with breakfast; with flat TV and satellite cable, free WIFI, bath tub and shower, irong and ironing board, mini-bar, coffe/tea maker, room safe
  • Good coffee shop, bar and restaurants (Japanese, french, chinese);  has a business center and fitness center
  • Site of employers' regional meeting (ACE)
  • Metered taxi from airport to hotel - US$ 25 (note: flat rate of taxi between 12midnigt to 6 am is US$ 22 plus 50%)
Budget Hotels suggested by MOHR Malaysia

 Izumi Hotel Kuala Lumpur -  No. 85, Jalan Berangan, Bukit Bintang 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Tel. +60 3 2145 8833; Fax +60 3 2145 8388; reservations@izumuhotelkl.com.my

Le Apple Boutique Hotel KLCC - No. 85 Jalan Berangan, Bukit Bintang 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Tel. +60 3 2179 3777; Fax +60 3 2179 7337; info@leapple-llcc.com.m

Piccolo Hotel Kuala Lumpur - 101, Jalan Conlay, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Tel +60 3 2688 9688; Fax +60 3 2346 5001; reservations@piccolohotelkl.com.my

Selangor

Sunway Lagoon Resort Hotel - Periaran Lagoon, Bandar Sunway, 46150 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia; kualalumpur.sunwayhotels.com
  • Delux 5-star 441 room hotel complex within the Sunway Lagoon Resort offering convention and leisure facilities.
  • 35 minutes from Kuala Lumpur International Airport
  • within easy access to the Sunway Lagoon Theme Park and Sunway Pyramid - a grand shopping complex.
  • Rooms are huge, luxurious  and nicely decorated with themes. Facilities include flat TV with cable network, free internet system (WIFI), electronic safe, FREE coffee/tea and drinking water; minibar and writing desk. 
  • Don't forget to bring your electrical adaptor
  • Room rate: approximately US$100 per night with breakfast
  • Cite of the Philippine-Malaysia Annual Dialogue of Recruitment Agencies and Service Providers (November 2013)

MYANMAR

Note: US Currency is widely acceptable in the whole of Myanmar.  However, vendors and sellers are be very choosy on accepting only clean (unmarked)  and crisp dollar bills.

Nai Pyi Taw City

Hotel Shwe Pyi Taw (or Hotel Golden Land) - Yaza Thingaha Street, Hotel Zone, Naypyitaw; Tel. 067-422163-67; fax 067-422168; hotline 067-422161; email: hotelgoldenland.npt.mm@gmail.com
  • 3-star hotel with small coffeeshop and business center
  • Room rate is $50 per night with breakfast; cash payments only; no credit card accepted
  • old hotel. Room facilities include flat TV with cable; free WIFI, toiletries, slippers, bath robe,  mini refrigerator. Note: NO safe deposit box in the room; no bath tub
  • Hotel taxi service to airport US$30 on way; metered taxi is cheaper
  • Car rental with driver for tourism is approx IS$20 for two hours; payments in local currency or in US dollar
  • Site of the Myanmar National Preparatory Meeting for the 6th AFML
Zubu Thiri Hotel - #8 Hotel Zone, Yarze Thingaha Road, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar; Tel. (95) (067) 422042, 422050, 422060; Fax (95) (067) 422041; www.zubuthiri-hotel.com
  • Four-star hotel with coffeeshop
  • Hotel rooms and villas (Diamond) are available; you need to take the hotel buggy to get to the villas)
  • Villas are spacious with with receiving room, flat TV with cable, free wifi, slippers, mini ref, safe, bath robe, mini kettle with free tea and coffee, free mineral water
  • room rate is approximately US$95 per night with breakfast
  • site of 7th ACMW meeting 
Royal Lotus Hotel - No. H 28/39, Yarzathingaha Road, Dekkhina Thiri Township, Hotel Zone 1, Southern Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
  • Three-star hotel
  • Site of ASEAN SLOM meeting in May 20, 2014 
Horizon Lake View Hotel -Block 9/10, Taw Win Yadanar Road, National Guest House Zone/ Dekhinathiri Township, Naypyidaw 11221, Myanmar
  • five-star hotel with huge impressive rooms and meeting facilities. 
  • Room facilities with mini-bar, flat TV, robe and sleepers, ironing board
  • in-room safe; coffee/tea facilities.
  • Special rate negotiated through government ministry (MoLESS)- US$55 per night (junior suite)  with breakfast
  • hotel provides free use of electric cars from one villa to another
  • no metered taxi available from airport (private limousine airport to hotel is US$30 - one way)
  • you can hire a private limousine with driver through the hotel concierge (US$15 for half day)
  • Site of 7th AFML National Tripartite Preparatory Meeting
  • Shopping suggestions: Capital Mall and Junction Mall (located beside each other); at Junction Mall try Tri-Jade gems and jewelry at the ground floor for jade products; supermarket for your tea-leaf salad and accompanying mixed bean.
  • Suggested site to visit: Uppatasani Pagoda
Mandalay

Pacific Hotel - corner of 30th Street and 78 Street; infront off the Mandalay Railway Station, Manadaly, Myanmar; Tel.  (+95) 2 32057, 32508; email: pacifichotel@mandalay.net.mm
  • Three-star hotel; $60 per night with breakfast (local rate is $40 per night
  • Only cash payments --- either in US Dollar or MMK (Kyat)
  • Parking available
  • no mini-ref or safe
Kyaing Tong, Shan Province

Golden World Hotel - near Wat Pha Jao Loang, #26 Zay Dan Laing Street, Kyaing Tong, Myanmar;
Tel. (+95) 84 22733, 21545; email: goldenworldhotel@gmail.com
  • 3-star hotel; rate is US$40 for twin room with breakfast and US$30 for double room; local rate is $20 for a double room
  • Breakfast is simple (continental plus egg and fruits)
  • WIFI available in room and lobby but very slow
Yangon 

Summit Parkview Hotel - 350 Ahlone Road, Dagon Township, Yangon, Myanmar; Tel. (+95-1) 211 888; 211 966
  • Four-star hotel; 5 minutes by taxi (or $2) to the famous Shwedagon Pagoda; 10 minutes walk to the pagoda
  • Rate is US$120 per night with breakfast
  • Hotel amenities: flat TV with cable, mini ref, room safe, bath robe and slippers; free WIFI, one bottle of mineral water, free tea and coffee
  • with restaurants and bar;
  • small business center also sells items for your basic needs (including electrical adaptor at $2)
  • request for a room with a good view of the Pagoda upon checking-in 
  • good eateries and bars nearby (3 minutes walk)
  • 15 minutes by taxi to famous Bogyoke Market ($4 by taxi)

PHILIPPINES 
(for more hotels, see separate listing under "Philippines: Recommended Hotels)

Baguio City

The Manor Hotel at Camp John Hay

It has been sometime since I last stayed in this hotel in Baguio.  This 17-year old hotel inside Camp John Hay still offers large and clean accommodation for every traveler. The rooms are equipped with all the standards items of a four-star hotel including room safe, ironing board, coffee maker with free coffee and tea and two bottles of drinking water for each day.  The room has a wide-variety of snack and drink selections in its mini-bar that are priced moderately. However, here are some practical things travelers should know about this hotel:

1.      Rooms have no air-conditioning units

2.      Parking is very limited, and many car owners will be asked to park at the adjacent Forest Lodge Hotel which is about 5 minute-walk from Manor and passing through the back garden of the hotel. Walking to Manor may be a problem when it rains or during night time.

3.      In the morning and in late afternoon, there is free coffee, tea or drink at the waiting area near the piano bar.  This is snack cart is visible, but the free coffee & tea is not advertised.

4.      Linens and towels are not automatically changed each day even if towels are left on the floor to change as practice in other hotels.  Guest needs to dial “3” (housekeeping) each time to request for fresh towels or linen.

5.      There is buffet for dinner, but ala carte menu is not available.

6.      Avoid rooms at the second floor during rainy season because you are likely to be disturbed by the noise of falling water coming from the upper floors or roof.

Our short stay was pleasant and without problems.  Staff were friendly and efficient.
(Trip Adviser, 29 August 2019)


Elizabeth Hotel 
This three-star hotel is located near the Wright Park, the Mines View Park and the Baguio Mansion House.  The hotel is quiet, and service is friendly and efficient. The whole hotel is decorated with European theme.  Rooms have wifi access, flat TV, minibar, refrigerator, tea and coffee maker, room safe. The room that we got has a balcony.  Room rates differ depending on the season, but its usual published rate is P3,600 per night with free breakfast. Hotel has huge coffeeshop which is open all day. Breakfast buffet is very good. The hotel has a small fitness centre, wine store, piano bar. it also has a nice garden and a guarded underground and outside parking. I highly recommend this hotel. 
(Trip Advser, 13 May 2018)

Forest House Lodge (AirBnB) , located at the Loakan Road just near the old main gate of John Hay.
The place offers 5 country-designed rooms for rent which you can reserve through their website – www.foresthouse.ph. Rooms are good for 2 or 3 persons at the rate per room ranging from Php 3200 to 6,000 including breakfast.)


Basco, Batanes


Fundacion Pacita Batanes Nature Lodge, Batanes 

What a beautiful place to be in Basco, Batanes.  This hotel is strategically located on top of a hill overlooking the rolling hills and ocean.  Facilities are very good and the beautiful gardens are well kept. It has a little restaurant, CafĂ© du Tukon, that is worth trying --- food is good and service is friendly. I recommend this place to see to all my friends visiting Basco, Batanes. (Trip Adviser, 10 February 2020)


Pension Ivatan, Basco, Batanes - “Very convenient hotel from the airport”- 


We stayed in this hotel for two nights in 2018 and again for three nights in February 2020.  The hotel is conveniently located just behind the airport in Basco. The hotel is nice.  The room I got had a queen-sized bed and it came with all amenities of a big hotel --- nice bed, fresh towels and linens, toiletries, free coffee and tea, refrigerator.  However, the room did not have a telephone, no WIFI system and no room safe.   Breakfast came with the room which was served either ala carte or buffet (which was good)  depending on the number of guests the hotel has. Restaurant of the hotel is small but known to be a place to get you local dishes.  Hotel staff were friendly and accommodating.  The hotel has its own bakery located just beside the main entrance which sells freshly baked bread everyone. Hotel has shuttle service and may be contracted for you to move around during your stay.  If you are in Basco for business or pleasure, I recommend this hotel. (Trip Adviser, 10 February 2020)

Bacolod City

Sugarland Hotel Bacolod

I re-visited this hotel after my last stay there more than a decade ago.  The hotel is old but it may have kept its standards on par with other famous hotels in the city. Rooms are huge and clean and are priced from P2500 with breakfast. Bathrooms are well-lighted and newly renovated. Buffet breakfast is serviced by the pool and the selection of food is fine. As before, service at the Front Desk and in the whole hotel was very warm and friendly.  I will recommend this hotel to my friends who will visit Bacolod. (Trip Adviser, 24 June 2019)

Coron, Palawan

R2R Bayview Inn

This three-star hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Coron and a stone’s throw to lots of eateries and shops.  Hotel has several types of accommodation including rooms that can take 5 persons.  Room that I got can accommodate two persons. It was clean with a queen-sized bed,  small toilet and shower with hot water.  It has TV with cable, telephone but no ref.  I notice some small insects in the room during our stay. The hotel has its own restaurant and swimming pool.  My room rate was P2900 but with no breakfast. (Trip Adviser, April 12, 2019)

Skylodge Resort, Coron

This three-star hotel has a nice view of the harbor and the city.  Rooms and toilets are clean and equipped with the usual room amenities --- AC, flat TV with cable, room safe, small ref , telephone, free bottled water, coffee & tea. It also has a room that can accommodate 5 persons. Room rates starts from P2900.  It has a restaurant that has good food and a good view of the harbor.  The staff are friendly, and service is good.  Hotel is located on top of a hill with a steep winding road to the top.
(Trip Adviser, 15 April 2019)

Cebu City

Mandarin Plaza Hotel - Archbishop Reyes Avenue corner Escario Street, Cebu (+44 20 3027 6614)
  • Four-star hotel in the heart of Cebu
  •  Fifteen minutes walk to Ayala Center
  • Rate is approximately P2,500 (US$50)  per night for double room with breakfast (as of 2019)
  •  Good hotel facilities; big rooms with complete amenities, free wifi
  •  Highly recommended
Cebu Parklane International Hotel - Escario Street, Cebu City
  •  Four-star hotel just beside Mardarin Plaza Hotel
  •  Rate is approximately P2,300 per night with breakfast
  •  Has a nice Cebuano buffet restaurant (Kan-Anan) at its top floor that serves grill dishes at Php 399 per head
Hotel Elizabeth Cebu  - Archbishop Reyes, Camputhaw, Cebu City (+6332 231 8000)
  •  Four-star hotel with European design and motif
  •  Rooms at approximately P2,300 per ngiht with breakfast (as of 2020)
  • Clean and spacious rooms with good service
  •  Sister hotel of Elizabeth Hotel Baguio
  •  Highly recommended


La Union (Bauang) 
  1. The Laffayette Luxury Suites Resort, 353 Baccuit Sur, Bauang, La Union - "Some practical tips for this pricey but nice resort in Bauang"

      Our group of 18, all seniors and mostly vacationing balikbayans, stayed in this resort for a mini-reunion of our high school group.  Without doubt, this resort may be one of the best, if not the best, in the rows of resorts in Bauang, La Union. The resort is new, having opened only six month ago.  Facilities are very clean including its two infinity pools. We were very happy that there did not have problem with no mosquitos in the resort. The beach front is rather small, but you can walk along the coast which we enjoyed the next morning given the opportunity to buy some fresh seafood from local fishermen and having them cooked by the resort’s chef for a minimal fee.

      Rooms in the resort are mostly found in two-story villas which are adjacent to each other. Each villa has three big rooms (one located at the ground floor and two at the second floor), one T&B  in each floor but located outside the rooms, a small sala with a sofa and a flat TV; and a kitchen with a big refrigerator and a dining set for six.  All rooms are clean and have either two queen beds or one king bed. Room amenities include a flat TV, bath robes, room safe. Toilets are provided with clean towels and standard toiletries (toothbrush, soap, bath get, cotton buds, body lotion) and the kitchen with free bottles of water (which were generously refilled upon request), free coffee/tea, sugar and cream.

Our group finds the resort very pricey (one villa costing 25K pesos) but worth it.  Generally, service in the whole resort was efficient, courteous and friendly. The complimentary breakfast which comes with the room was good.   Our group tried the buffet dinner by the beach which turned out to be very good. It came with a free drink (beer or juice) and an array of Filipino grills and dishes including soup, tilapia fish, squid, chicken, pork, shrimp, vegetables and water melon as dessert. Dinner buffet is priced at 500 pesos and paid as you enter the beach dining area. 

As expected of a newly opened resort, there were some “birth pains” that we experience which we brought to the attention of management. In particular, we experienced water interruption in one  evening because one of its water tank got emptied due to a malfunctioning float bulb.  The problem was resolved within minutes.

Here are some practical tips for those considering using this resort in the coming days:

1.       Come early so that you can get a good parking slot.  The parking area of the resort is very small, and the motor bikes and equipment of the resort are occupying part of it.


2.       Ask for a room or villa away from the kitchen. One of the villas occupied by our group was smelly inside because its windows were not closed.

3.       Note that check-in time of the resort is 2pm.  If you come early you need to wait or be charged extra for early check-in. A couple from our group who travelled all the way from the US went straight to the resort early morning and was charged for their early check-in despite the resort being “empty” that day.

4.       Resort does not allow food and drink from outside into the restaurant and public areas of the resort. Food and drink that you bring can, however, be consumed within the confines of your villa or room. (Trip Advisor, February 14, 2018)

Manila City

Holiday Inn & Suites - Palm Drive,  Ayala Center, Makati City 1224, Philippines; Tel. +632 909 0888; www.holidayinn.com

The Bayleaf Hotel - Muralla Street, Intramuros, Manila; Tel. +63 2 318 5000
  • Four-star hotel located inside the historic Intramuros in Manila.
  • Hotel is very proximate to the Philippine Department of Labor and Employment (5 minutes walk)
  • Rate is approximately US$ 80 per night with breakfast for two.
Jens Hotel Manila - 3001 Roxas Boulevard, 1305 Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines; Tel. +63 2 795 8888; hoteljen.com
  •  Good three-star hotel just across the Philippine Cultural Center
  •  Hotel was formerly the Holiday Inn Manila
Makati City
Holiday Inn Suites and Hotels - Greenbelt, Makati City
  • 4-star hotel
  • good location in the heart of Greenbelt, Makati; hotel is adjacent to the shopping malls and eateries
  • Rooms are very clear and staff are friendly
  • Room rate : approximaely US$110 per night with  breakfast
  • venue of 4th PAC Meeting of ATP

New World Makati Hotel -   A.Arnaiz Avenue, Makati City, Philippines ; Tel. 63 2 811 6888; www.manila.newworldhotels.com
  • Five-star hotel ; centrally located in the heart of Greenbelt Makati
  • Rate is approx. US$190++ per day with breakfast
Somerset Millenium Hotel - a104 Aguirre Street,  Legaspi Village, Makati City, Philippines 1229; Tel. +63 (2) 750 7888; reservations: +63 (2) 2550 3200
  • Three-star hotel located behind Asian Institute of Management (AIM) and walking distance to the Greenbelt Shopping District
  • Rate per night Php 4200 (US$100) with breakfast
  • hotel is clean and quiet
  • hotel facilities include restaurant, business center, gym and pool (at 10th floor)
  • Rooms are huge (executive room or junior suite) with receiving room and full kitchen
  • room facilities: 2 free bottled water, free wifi, ref, ironing board, flat TV, slippers and robe
  • airport to hotel by metered taxi is approximately Php 300 or US$ 8
Ormoc City
  1. Sabin Resort Hotel - Bantigue, Ormoc City 6541; Globe 09176339534; Smart 09209815613   Resort has a native design and has a good view of the bay. Hotel and restaurant facilities are good. Published rates: superior room P2,600; de luxe P2,800; Premier P3000; Executive Suite P3,800.
Pampanga
  1. Prado Farm, Lubao, Pampanga - "A quiet and relaxing place to be". Prado Farm is located in Lubao, Pampanga just two hours drive from Manila. The farm resort is quiet and relaxing enough with its gardens, architecture, art exhibits, infinity swimming pools, farm house,  free carabao rides and bicycles. There is a nice souvenir shop and kiosk at the main entrance of the farm where you find the resort’s registration desk.  You can tour the whole farm anytime on your own or by joining the free scheduled daily tour. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Visitors need to make a short walk inside the farm to their rooms (of course, there is  concierge service for your luggage and other things). Rooms are clean and air conditioned with basic hotel facilities but one should know that rooms come without television, refrigerator and room safety vault.  Room rates start from 3,500 pesos per night for a double occupancy with breakfast. There is a nook just bedside the hotel lobby that offers flowing free coffee and tea all day.  Many visitors come for a day trip but those staying overnight can enjoy the nice breakfast that is available in the main dining room located just beside the hotel. Breakfast is good and we like their native dishes like crispy danggit (local fish), spiced pork and chicken adobo, beef tapa and with array of organic fruits and vegetables.  Visitors can also opt for their delicious buffet dinner of organic dishes (served from 7pm) at 450 pesos per head.  There is a standard corkage of 300 pesos for each wine bottle brought in. All is well except for the drivers’ quarter (costing 450 pesos per night) that can stand lots of improvement.  Our driver complained that the common room for drivers is small, without AC and the toilet and shower are not working well. WIFI system in the whole farm can also be made better. (Trip Advisor on June 30, 2017 and posted in Travel Blog on October 20, 2017)

Tagaytay City

Mi Abuela Tagaytay -  “Very nice BnB in Tagaytay City”
I stayed for a night in this AirBnB in Tagaytay City in March 2018  together with a group of friends from Thailand, Korea and the Philippines.  Of the five uniquely designed rooms made available to our group, my wife and I chose “The Attic”.  This unit is nicely decorated and came complete with a small sala with flat TV, dining table, kitchen (with microwave, water heater, etc), and toilet and bath.  A rather steep stairs bring you to the attic room which can accommodate 4 people.  Room is huge but one must be careful to avoid hitting the beams with your head.  I recommend this room for young people. As in most BnB, there is no room service, no telephone, no WIFI.  There is a couple taking care of the whole property who were very helpful. Our stay was pleasant and comfortable. Our group has no complaint about this facility except for its low water pressure at bath time. (Trip Adviser, March 16, 2018)

SINGAPORE

Rendezvous Grand Hotel Singapore - 9 Bras Basah Road, Singapore 189559; Tel +65 6336 0220
  • 4-star hotel proximate to the key districts of the city - 10-minute walk from the Orchard Road shopping belt; 10-minute drive from the Central Business District, 5-minute walk from the hotel to the Bras Basah and Dhoby Ghuat MRT Stations; 5 minutes walk from hotel to Plaza Singapura; just beside the School of Arts of Singapore
  • Rate is S$290++ (or US$240++) without breakfast; breakfast is additional S$25 ($20)
  • 40 minutes taxi ride from the airport; reachable from the airport by airport shuttle bus at S$9  ($7.5)
  • has good coffeeshop nearby within the hotel building - Deli France, Mexican Grill
  • Hotel rooms with mini bar (free 2 bottles of water per day), free coffee and tea, ref, safe, robes, sleepers, flat TV with cable, free WIFI, ironing board, weighing scale
  • Contact person: Mr. Guha Shan, Catering Manger (DID +65 6335 1788; HP +65 8611 0769); guhavandayar@fareast.com.sg
  • exchange rate as of 25 February 2014: 1US$ = Singapore $ 1.23
  • Recommended
SeaCare Hotel - 52 Chin Swee Road (off Jalan Kukoh) Singapore 169875; Tel +65 6818 2688; www.TheSeacareHotel.com.sg or www.seacare.com.sg
  • 3-star hotel; rate approximately S$18++ ($150++) with breakfast
  • 103 guest rooms; designed for business travelers
  • hotel is walking distance to Chinatown but accessible from the airport only through taxi (approximately S$18-20)
  • Rooms are small but clean
  • Hotel offers free shuttle service every 30 minutes to hotel guests to Outam MRT, Great World City and DFS Galleria (but not available on Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday)
  • Small coffeeshop; hotel has bar and Japanese restraurant (Niji Japanese Restaurant)
  • Contact person: Ms. Chen Liwen, Sales Manager (HP +65 9648 8858)
YWCA Fort Canning Lodge (operated by YWCA) - 6 Fort Canning Road Singapore 179494; Tel. +65 6338 4222; www.ywcafclodge.org.sg
  • 3-star LODGE operated by YWCA
  • located in the area where Rendezvous Hotel is located; centrally located
  • Room rate is approximately S$150++ ($125)  with breakfast; Reservations DID 6339 4222
  • Note:  there is also the Fort Canning HOTEL in the area with is more expensive
  • Contact person: Mr. Billey Yeo, Assistant Director of Sales; DID 6335 8090; HP 9178 5121; email billy_yao@ywcafclodge.org.sg; Mr. Jonathan Tay, Food and Beverage Manager - DID 6335 8050, HP 9751 3371, jonathan_tay@ywcafclodge.org.sg
Oxford Hotel  - 218 Queen Street, Singapore 188549; Tel. 6332 222; Fax: +6334 9633; reservation@oxfordhotel.com.sg; www.oxfordhotel.com.sg
  • budget hotel close to Rendezvous Hotel and Bras Basha MRT station (3 minutes walk). Right beside St. Joseph catholic church
  • Daily rate is approximately S$160 to S$200 (US$130-154) with breakfast
  • Hotel is crowded with non-hotel guest group tours taking breakfast at the coffeeshop
  • room has safe and flat TV (no: ref, sleepers, robe, ironing board); has free coffee and tea but no free bottled water
  • no room service
  • no business center; no meeting facilities
  • Reachable by airport shuttle bus (van) for S$9 (US$7.50) one way
  • free WIFI in guest rooms but you need to get password from front desk (wifi rates if not part of package: in S$ - 1 hour $2; 4 hours $5; 8 hours $10; 24 hours $20
  • look for Filipina at front desk: Janeth (from Cabanatuan City)
  • hotel suggested by ITUC-AP
Orchard Hotel Singapore - 442 Orchard Road, Singapore 238879; Tel. 6734 7766; www.orchardhotel.com.sg
  • Good four-star hotel at the heart of the commercial district of  Singapore

Park Hotel Alexandra - 323 Alexandra Road, Singapore 159972; Tel (65) 68 8888; Fax (65) 6828 8899; parkhotelgroup.com
  • Four-hotel located just beside IKEA.
  • Rate is approximately US$ 100; breakfast is additional US$ 15 (note: there is Toast Box just beside the hotel and  other good eateries)
  • Hotel is clean and provide complete room amenities (robe, slippers, cosmetics, mini safe, free wifi, free tea coffee in the room, bathroom cosmetics, flat TV with cable)
  • Proximate to the National University of Singapore (NUS)
THAILAND

Bangkok (see separate blog entry)

Kanchanaburi

Boutique Raft Resort River Kwai - 103 Moo 3 Tombon Tha-Sao, Amphur Sai-yok, Kanchanaburi 71150, Thailand; Tel. + 66 34 634 191; www.boutiqueraft-riverkai.com
  • Some rooms are afloat on the river
  • Rate for the honeymoon suite is US$170 per day with breakfast
  • Reservation through Prateep Tunprasenrt, Manger for Sales and Marketing

VIETNAM

Hanoi 

Church Boutique Hotels - chain of good 3-star hotels; www.churchhotel.com.vm
  • No. 9 Nha Tho Street, Hoam Kiem District, Hanoi, Viet Nam, Tel. (84 4) 3928 8119, Fax (84 4) 3828 5793
    • Located inside the Old French Quarters and at the same street as the St. Joseph Cathedral (catholic); 5 minutes walk to the lake and supermarket
    • Hotel is clean and with friendly staff (Rose Mai: with Sam and Tommy/pet dogs)
    • facilities include flat TV with cable, robe, slippers, free WIFI/coffee/tea, mini safe, AC (but rooms are a bit small); no business center
    • Room rate per night approx US$60 net
    • Breakfast is okay; many restaurants beside the hotel
    • ILO recommended hotel (met former ILO Dir Allan Bolton here)
  • No. 95 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Viet Nam; Tel (84 4) 39 382233)
    • Very near the Church Hotel above
Dragon Hotel - 48, Xuan Dieu str, Tay Ho dist, Hanoi, Vietnam; Tel. +84 4 38292954, www.dragonhotel.com.vn
  •  Three-star hotel proximate to Sheraton Hanoi Hotel
  •  Hotel facilities are limited but with internet access
  •  Good for student travellers 

Hilton Hanoi Opera - So 1, Le Thanh Tong - Hoan Kiem - Ha Noi - Vietnam; Tel. +84 (4) 3933 0500; Fax +84 (4) 3933-0530, email: Hanoi.Opera@hilton.com
  • Five-star hotel in the heart of Hanoi's elegant French Quarter; 45 minutes from the airport; walking distance to Hanoi's central business district and beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarters (shopping district)
  • Room at is US$115++ per night with breakfast
  • Spacious room and bathroom (with tub), with flat TV and cable, mini ref, safe, free WIFI, bath robe and slippers, ironing board; hotel has good coffeeshop and meeting rooms.
  • Site of 20th WSBI (bankers) meeting
  • Arrange your taxi upon arrival at the Tourism desk at the airport lobby (one way is US$23; book roundtrip for another US$15)
Prestige Hotel 17 Pham Dinh Ho, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi; Tel. +84 4 6299 9888
  • Four-star hotel with small pool and coffeeshop
  • Rate is approximately $100 per night with breakfast
  • 10 minutes by car to Hanoi's Old Quarter, the shopping district
  • Friendly English speaking staff
  • Site of Regional Workshop on Trade Union Cooperation 
Sheraton Hanoi Hotel - K5 Nghi Tam, 11 Xuan Dieu Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam; Tel. +84 4 37 19 90 00; sheraton.com/hanoi
  • 5-star hotel with very good facilties and restaurants
  • Room amenities include room safe, ref, iron and board, bath robes + sleepers and toiletries; free wifi, coffe/tea,  four bottles of water
  • location is opposite side of the lake from the Old Quarter ; taxi to Old Quarter approximately US$2.50
  • Rate is approx US$120 per night
  • venue of 10th SURAC Meeting (April 2016)
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Grand Hotel Saigon - 8 Dong Khoi Street, Distict 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Tel ++84 8 3915 5555 (highly recommended)
  • Four-star hotel located in District 1, the center of HCMC and near the Saigon River.  Hotel is beside the Renaissance Hotel; 5-minute walk to Grand Opera.
  • Hotel is a restored colonial building; it has spacious accommodation and marble bathrooms. Rooms have cable TV, good, safety deposit box,  mini/bar and coffee/tea facilities with complementary two bottles of mineral water each day; hotel offers good breakfast.
  • Hotel has pool and spa facilities. It has a restaurant and bar at the rooftop (Bekke-Vue Restaurant) that gives you a nice view of the city and the river. It also has a business center and a casino.
  • Rate is US$106 per night inclusive of taxes.
Bong Sen 1 Hotel Saigon - 117-123 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (recommended by a colleague from the UN)
  • Three-star hotel situated on the popular shopping street in District 1. 
  • Very proximate to the Grand Opera House
  • Rate is approximately US$50 per night with breakfast
Da Nang City

Brillant Hotel - 162 Bach Dang Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City, Viet Nam; Tel )84-511) 3 222 999; Fax )84-511) 3 222 998; www.brillanthotel.vn
  • Four-star hotel; located at a prime location on Dan Street along the riverside (lake). Dan Street is the most beautiful street of Da Nang city center just 3 km from the international airport (US$5-7 by taxi) Hotel is close to the Han market, shopping malls and bars.
  • Rate is US$75 per night with breakfast
  • Hotel has conference facilities, coffeeshop, room service.
  • 45 minutes drive to the world-famour Hoi An ancient town.
  • Site of the Vietnam National Preparatory Meeting for the 6th AFML
OTHERS

Colombo, Sri Lanka

The Steuart by Citrus - No. 45, Janadhipathai Mawatha, Colombo 1, Sri Lanka;f alternative address as  per internet: 45 Hospital Lane, Off Chtham Street, Colombo, Sri Lanka;  Tel. (+94) 11 5575 575; fax (+94) 11 2 444 440; www.the steuart.lk
  • 3-star hotel located at the entrance of the Hospital; 8 floors, 50 rooms
  • Nice location. Right at the back entrance of the Old Dutch Hospital which is across the World Trade Center and near Hilton Hotel
  • Rate per night is LKR 10,,409 (approx US$74.35) with  breakfast (1 $= LKR 140 as of Oct 2015)
  • The newest hotel in Colombo built from a colonial building
  • Room is new and nicely decorated (whole hotel is  in "violet" color theme).  Room amenities include: flat TV, free wifi, free coffee/tea/mineral water, flat iron and board, mini ref (you need to request for content), mini safe, toiletries
  • Friendly English-speaking staff (look for Mr. Ahamed Firdous, Executive Front Office Manager - +94 77 0070 203 or ahamed@thesteuart.lk)
  • airport to hotel recommendation: get a small car from Arams Tour located at the lobby of the arrival area at LKR 2650 (approx US$18) on way (look for Mr. Ranasingke or call him at 0773957951) 
  • daily mobility: by tuk-tuk at standard rate of US$1 per person

 

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