Grand Paragon Hotel Johor Bahru

I chose this hotel based on TA reviews and some research on my own for a short trip for a group of 7 friends. Reservation was easy via their online system and email responses came quickly as well.

PRICE - We paid 2 x Family Suites (each equipped with 2 bedrooms) and paid MYR630nett for each suite including breakfast for 4pax each which was not too bad a deal.

CHECKING IN - We arrived on a Sat morning 9am and obviously we were early so we came back late afternoon about 4pm (usual check in time is 3pm) and received the keys to our rooms. There were adequate staffing at the check in counters to assist guests though. ROOMS - We were assigned 1304 and 1307. The rooms were very spacious and each bedroom in each suite was too - so much so it felt that there were a lot of wasted space in the rooms. Amenities were average though. Room 1304 was a corridor room and the layout was usual with the living room in the middle and the 2 bedrooms to the left and right. Room 1307 was a corner room so it had a more awkward layout with a smaller living room and then the rooms to each side of it. The bedrooms had 1 king and 2 double beds in each - the double beds can in fact sleep 2 comfortably - and each bedrooms has its own washroom, Each suite is also allowed to put in a max of 2 extra rooms although the space would have allowed for many more. The cleanliness in 1307 can be better though, with stained linens (which I didnt bother to seek a replacement for since its only for 1 night) and dusty couches. FACILITIES - Apparently the hotel has it own spa on level 5 which is reasonably priced. Also a pooi, gym and your usual offerings. RESTAURANTS - I only had breakfast at the Para Para restaurant (ground floor) hotel which was alright. I could see that they try to do well on the variety but nothing was excellent in terms of quality. The place was also quite bustling when we were there. CHECK OUT - Check out was quick since our bill was quite simple and we paid in cash. They also tore the credit card deposit on the spot in my presence which was good.

SERVICE - Service in general was nothing to complain about since we didnt spend a lot of time in the hotel itself. A call for a wine opener was quickly answered to which was a plus point.

LOCATION - The nearest mall is KSL which was big and offered many options for a 2d1n trip but the walk from the hotel to the mall takes about 10-15mins at leisure pace. The route is also extremely un-sheltered so be prepared to brave the elements (heat / rain) if you are unlucky.

Although nothing memorable, this must already be one of the better hotels in JB. I will definitely stay here again but I will probably request for 1304 again or any room along the corridor as I feel housekeeping pays more attention to those than the corner ones.