Travel

Why Casa del Rio Melaka is My Hotel Choice for A Staycation

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A 5-Star Luxurious Stay at Casa del Rio Melaka
During my recent trip to Melaka, my wife and I had the pleasure of staying at Casa del Rio, a 5-star luxury hotel perfectly situated along the Melaka River. Just a short walk from Jonker Street, it offered the best of both worlds—convenience and tranquility. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by its Mediterranean-inspired design, with warm tones, arched windows, water fountains and elegant architecture that transported me to a different world.

A Room with A View
The Studio Lago/River King Room was spacious and beautifully designed, complete with a private balcony overlooking the Melaka River. I loved starting my mornings with a cup of coffee while taking in the peaceful view. The highlight of the room was the huge bathtub—perfect for a relaxing soak after a long day of exploring Melaka’s historical streets. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and every detail in the room reflected the hotel’s commitment to luxury and comfort. Other facilities include coffee machine, TV, hair dryer, a sofa, iron & ironing board, robes and more.

Rooftop Pool & Gym
One of the best features of Casa del Rio was the rooftop swimming pool. The infinity pool overlooked the Melaka River, offering a breathtaking view, especially during sunset. It was the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the atmosphere. For those who like to stay active, the decent-sized gym was well-equipped with modern facilities, making it easy to keep up with workouts even while on vacation.

Breakfast at The River Grill
Besides the Ramadan Buffet Preview feast we had the night before, breakfast at the hotel was also a delightful experience, with a semi-buffet spread alongside an à la carte menu. The semi-buffet spread includes dim sum, porridge, cereal, pancakes & pastries, coffee & tea. I was recommended to try their must-try, Portuguese Baked Eggs and Kaya Toast. The food was fresh and delicious, and the service was exceptional. The restaurant had a relaxing ambience, making it a great place to start the day.

Exploring Melaka on Two Wheels
A unique perk of staying at Casa del Rio was the option to rent a bicycle and explore the town. Riding through Melaka’s heritage streets at my own pace was an unforgettable experience. The bicycle rental service is available exclusively for in-house guests from 9.00am to 7.00pm with the first 2 hours complimentary, and subsequent hours at RM10 nett per hour. By the way, hotel guests enjoy complimentary parking too.

A Favourite Among Celebrities
It’s easy to see why Casa del Rio is a top choice for celebrities and well-known personalities. Even my favourite singer, DS Siti Nurhaliza stayed here before!

The combination of luxury, comfort, and impeccable service made my stay truly special. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable experience in Melaka.

More info about Casa del Rio Melaka:
Website: https://casadelrio-melaka.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/casadelriomelaka/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/casadelriomelaka

Food & Drink

Santapan Cahaya Buffet 2025: Must-Try Iftar Feast in Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South

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I had the pleasure of attending the media preview for the Santapan Cahaya festive buffet dinner at Substance, Level 3, Courtyard by Marriott Kuala Lumpur South and it was truly a feast worth experiencing this Ramadan. Running from 3 to 27 March 2025, from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM, this buffet beautifully captures the essence of a traditional evening bazaar while offering a luxurious yet comfortable dining experience.

A Diverse and Flavourful Feast
Beyond Malay delicacies, diners can enjoy Chinese, Indian, Western, and fusion dishes. From aromatic Indian curries to flavourful Chinese steamed food and perfectly grilled Western-style meats, the variety ensures everyone finds something they love. The live cooking stations add an interactive element, allowing guests to watch their food being freshly prepared.

Indulgent Desserts and Sweet Treats
No Ramadan buffet is complete without a sweet ending, and Santapan Cahaya excels in this department. The dessert spread includes assorted kuih, cakes, fresh fruits, and a delightful chocolate fondue station—a favourite among both kids and adults. Whether you enjoy traditional Malay sweets or modern treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Welcoming Dining Experience
Beyond the food, what makes Santapan Cahaya truly stand out is its comfortable and spacious dining environment. The ambience is warm and inviting, perfect for gathering with family, friends, or colleagues. The friendly and attentive service further enhances the experience, making guests feel welcomed and well taken care of.

Book Your Table Now
Priced at RM137 nett per adult, RM69 nett per child (6-12 years old), and RM89 nett per senior citizen (55+ years old), this buffet offers incredible value for an all-you-can-eat experience. Whether you’re looking for traditional flavours or a mix of international cuisines, this is a buffet not to be missed.

For reservations, call +603 8682 8898 and secure your spot for an unforgettable Ramadan iftar feast!

Food & Drink

Indulge in a Flavourful Festive Feast, Santapan Senja at Traders Hotel KL

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If there’s one thing I look forward to during this special season, it’s indulging in the comforting flavours of traditional Malaysian cuisine. This year, I had the pleasure of experiencing Santapan Senja at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur, and it was truly a feast worth sharing.

From 28 February to 30 March 2025, Traders Hotel brings back Santapan Senja, offering two distinct dining experiences—a lavish buffet at Gobo Chit Chat and a refined three-course set dinner at Bara On Six. Both options celebrate classic flavours, crafted with care to evoke nostalgia while creating new memories with loved ones.

Santapan Senja Buffet Dinner at Gobo Chit Chat
Walking into Gobo Chit Chat, I was immediately drawn to the enticing aroma of slow-roasted whole lamb—succulent and perfectly seasoned. The mee bandung with lobster was a standout, packed with rich, umami goodness, while the seafood bakar daun pisang delivered that unmistakable grilled smokiness, enhancing the freshness of the seafood.

Other must-try dishes included the siput sedut masak lemak, creamy and bursting with flavour, and the fish head curry, which had just the right balance of spice and tanginess. Of course, I couldn’t leave without trying the asam pedas Melaka, a true comfort dish with its bold, spicy-sour profile. The buffet also featured fresh coconut for a refreshing touch, and an array of desserts to end the night on a sweet note.

📅 Available from 28 February – 30 March 2025
Price:

  • Weekdays (Sunday – Thursday): RM178 per adult | RM88 per child
  • Weekends (Friday & Saturday): RM198 per adult | RM98 per child
    Early Bird Price (until 23 February 2025):
  • Weekdays: RM148 per adult | RM78 per child
  • Weekends: RM168 per adult | RM88 per child

Santapan Senja 3-Course Set Dinner at Bara On Six
For those seeking an intimate dining experience, the Santapan Senja Set Dinner at Bara On Six is the perfect choice. The meal begins with an all-you-can-eat appetizers spread, featuring delicious kerabu and comforting bubur lambuk.

For the main course, diners can choose between the grilled seabass with nasi tomato—light yet flavourful, or the roasted lamb rack with nasi tomato, which was incredibly tender and juicy. To round off the meal, the fluffy banana sponge cake with gula Melaka ice cream was a delightful treat, balancing sweetness and texture beautifully.

📅 Available from 1 March – 30 March 2025
Price: RM108 per person

For further information and updates regarding the Santapan Senja Buffet Dinner, check out this link:
https://www.shangri-la.com/kualalumpur/traders/offer-detail/dining/gelora-raya-buffet-dinner-raya/

For Booking: E-Vouchers

Festive Treats: Koleksi Lebaran
No festive season is complete without Raya cookies and thoughtful gifts. Traders Hotel offers a curated Koleksi Lebaran, featuring classic treats like pineapple tarts and Almond London, as well as an exclusive Traders Lebaran Gift Box. These delightful goodies are available for purchase online from 28 February to 31 March 2025 at www.tradersklspecials.com

Whether you’re looking for a grand buffet spread or a sophisticated set menu, Santapan Senja at Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur offers something for everyone. The flavours, the ambiance, and the warm hospitality made this an experience to remember. If you’re planning to celebrate with family or friends, I highly recommend making a reservation early.

For reservations, call +603-2332 9888
Email: festive.thkl@tradershotels.com

Lifestyle

Huawei Mate XT: World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone Launches at Pavilion KL

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Huawei is once again pushing the boundaries of smartphone innovation with the launch of its groundbreaking tri-fold smartphone, the HUAWEI Mate XT. Following this major release, Huawei is inviting tech enthusiasts to experience its latest foldable technology firsthand at the brand’s largest Innovative Foldable Pop-up Store at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Running from 19 to 25 February 2025, the ‘Unfold the Classic’ exhibition showcases the seamless blend of advanced engineering, durability, and luxury craftsmanship in Huawei’s latest flagship lineup.

A Glimpse into the World’s First Tri-Fold Smartphone: HUAWEI Mate XT
Leading the showcase is the HUAWEI Mate XT, the world’s first commercially available tri-fold smartphone. This revolutionary device takes foldable technology to new heights with its ability to fold both inward and outward, thanks to Huawei’s cutting-edge Multi-Directional Flexible Material and the Advanced Precision Hinge System. These innovations ensure a slim, lightweight body without compromising durability, making the Mate XT a true game-changer in the industry.

The Power of Dual-Fold Technology: HUAWEI Mate X6
Alongside the Mate XT, visitors can also explore the HUAWEI Mate X6, which takes durability and functionality to the next level. Designed for everyday resilience, it features second-generation Kunlun Glass, a reinforced hinge system, and an Aviation-Grade Aluminum middle frame to withstand repeated folding and unfolding. A highlight of the exhibition includes a live demonstration where the Mate X6’s inner screen lifts a 150kg sports bike, proving its strength and endurance.

Luxury and Productivity Beyond Smartphones
Beyond foldables, Huawei is showcasing its premium wearable and tablet innovations. The HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2 is designed for high-performance productivity, featuring a flagship-level PC experience, Huawei’s NearLink keyboard, and an anti-glare OLED PaperMatte display for optimal eye comfort. Meanwhile, the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate stands out with its sleek design and advanced tracking features, perfect for sports enthusiasts, including golfers who can benefit from real-time swing analysis and course information.

Be Part of the Future of Innovation
The ‘Unfold the Classic’ exhibition at Pavilion KL offers visitors an exclusive opportunity to experience Huawei’s latest advancements in technology. Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, the pop-up store allows guests to test the newest foldable devices and even pre-order the HUAWEI Mate XT, available until 14 March 2025.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of smartphones—visit Pavilion KL today and explore the next evolution of foldable technology!

How to Buy and Stay Updated
The HUAWEI Mate XT is available for pre-order at HUAWEI Experience Stores, the HUAWEI Official Website, and HUAWEI’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. For the latest updates, promotions, and exclusive offers, follow Huawei on Facebook, Instagram, and the official HUAWEI website.

Food & Drink

Dorsett Hartamas Unveils Warisan Serumpun Ramadan Buffet, A Culinary Celebration of Malay & Indonesian Cuisine for Buka Puasa

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If you love rich, authentic flavours and a dining experience steeped in culture, the Warisan Serumpun Buffet at Dorsett Hartamas Kuala Lumpur is a must-visit. From 5 to 28 March 2025, this exclusive Ramadan buffet brings together the best of Malaysian and Indonesian cuisine, crafted by culinary celebrity Chef Fikree and Table Talk’s Head Chef Ahmad Mahamod.

A Taste of Indonesia and Malaysia
Bringing the best of both worlds, the buffet features an array of Indonesian favourites such as Ayam Bekaka, Nasi Kambing, Daging Rendang Minang, Soto Betawi, and Indo-Mee Goreng. Pair these with a selection of Sambal Tradisi, including Sambal Terasi, Sambal Tempoyak, and Sambal Colo Colo, for an extra spicy kick.

On the Malaysian side, guests can enjoy Nasi Hujan Panas, Kambing Masak Merah, Udang Lemak Cili Padi, and Patin Tempoyak, among many others. The Kerabu Corner offers refreshing starters like Kerabu Mangga, Kerabu Daging, Acar Buah, and Gado-Gado, while the Ulam-Ulaman Desa section showcases fresh, traditional greens.

Live Cooking Stations and Signature Specialties
The Warisan Serumpun Buffet takes dining to another level with live cooking stations, including:

  • Canai Corner serving up hot, freshly made Roti Canai, Murtabak, and Roti Jala
  • Goreng-Goreng Stall with crispy delights like Karipap, Pisang Goreng, and Cucur
  • Pencolek Stall offering tangy favorites such as Rojak Buah and Sotong Kangkong
  • Live BBQ Station featuring grilled-to-perfection treats like Mixed Satay, Ikan Bakar, Ayam Golek Percik, and Kambing Bakar
  • Live Pasta Station with freshly cooked Spaghetti and Spiral Pasta paired with Bolognaise and Carbonara sauces

Sweet Endings and Refreshing Beverages
No feast is complete without desserts, and Warisan Serumpun delivers an indulgent spread of Aneka Kuih Melayu, Puding Gula Hangus, and Bubur Jagung. Cool off at the Manisan Stall, featuring Air Batu Campur, Cendol, and Ice Cream, or sip on crowd-favorite drinks like Teh Tarik, Milo Tarik, and fresh fruit juices.

Price & Early Bird Deals
The Warisan Serumpun Buffet is priced at:

  • RM138 nett per adult
  • RM88 nett for children (5-12 years) and senior citizens (60+ years)
  • Early Bird Special: RM118 nett per person (purchase before February 28, 2025)

Book Your Table Now with Promo Code
Make your reservations early to enjoy this exclusive dining experience. Use this code WSDHSKOL15 for 15% off normal adult price upon booking.

WhatsApp: +6012 688 3043
Email: fnb.hartamas@dorsetthotels.com

Enjoy a live two-piece band performance by Didiekustik daily while indulging in this one-of-a-kind culinary journey. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today.

For more details, visit:
Dorsett Hartamas Official Website: https://www.dorsetthotels.com/dorsett-hartamas-kuala-lumpur/index.html
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DorsettHartamas/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorsetthartamas/