With travellers becoming more conscious of the impact of tourism to the environment and sustainability being a global issue, eco-tourism is a big thing now and as such, one of the world’s leading hotel group, Westin Hotels and Resorts, has launched their Element Hotels range. The first Element Hotels in Southeast Asia is now open in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
With eco-tourism in mind, Element Hotels is grounded in smart, environmentally friendly thinking, from its products, services and programs to its physical spaces with flowing, multipurpose areas that maximise space.
Element Kuala Lumpur stands proudly at 275-metre high in Ilham Tower, one of the tallest, most iconic buildings in Malaysia designed by the globally acclaimed Foster+Partners. It is conveniently located near the city central and just 2 minutes walk from Ampang Park LRT station.
The 100% smoke-free hotel features 252 guest rooms from studio units to three bedroom suites, meeting rooms, an all-day-dining restaurant and bar as well as an indoor heated saline pool and a 24-hours gym. At the same wellness floor on the 29th floor where the gym and pool are situated, there are also scheduled yoga and zumba classes which guests can attend for free (or pay RM45 nett per session for non staying guests). Check with the hotel staff for the class timings as they may vary on different days and subject to availability.
For guests who like to travel around KL city with a sustainable transport, the hotel has a complimentary bike-lending programme whereby guests can get a bike to ride around for free. Contact the hotel staff for details.
Before you get jumping on the eco-friendly claim with the heated pool, I checked with the hotel administration on this and they mentioned that it is just mildly heated to keep the water temperature comfortable. The use of saline versus chlorine also makes the pool more sustainable.
Built green from the ground up with eco-friendly practices, natural light and open spaces, the Green Building Index (GBI) certified hotel offers captivating 360° panoramic view of the KL city skyline. Check out the awesome view from the infinity pool on the 39th floor, open to guests from 6am to 11pm:
The exoskeleton-like structure on the building exterior is not just for decorative purpose, but serves to collect rainwater which is reused in the hotel. A lot of thoughtfulness goes into the overall design of the hotel to promote sustainable hospitality, without compromising on comfort and quality. The hotel also supports local artists, with many artworks by young Malaysian artists on display like these two:
Element Kuala Lumpur was officially launched in May 2017 as the flagship hotel in Southeast Asia for the Element brand under the Westin group. Each of the room is well-equipped with modern, practical fixtures and fittings to help you settle in, including fully a furnished kitchenette with energy-efficient appliances, filtered tap water, spa-inspired bathroom, spacious entertainment area and signature Westin Heavenly Bed (aptly named because it truly is that comfortable to sleep in).
I support the hotel’s decision to do away with bottled water, a major contributor to environmental pollution arising from tourism. Guests are encourage to bring your own bottle and fill them up at the filtered faucet. Similarly, there are no bottled shampoo and body soap too, eliminating unnecessary plastic container usage.
Here’s a photo walkthrough of the room I stayed in during my last trip to KL:
If you are feeling hungry, all-time dining is available at TRACE on the 40th floor, where the hotel reception is. Check out my other post for the food offerings at TRACE ranging from local delights to western fusions.
To top off the hospitality experience, there is Relax Happy Hour programme which takes place four times a week, from Monday to Thursday, 5.30pm to 7pm at TRACE. The event is the hotel’s complimentary evening get-together, complete with free drinks and some light refreshments!
Next time you are traveling to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, do consider staying at Element Kuala Lumpur if you are looking for a eco-conscious hotel to stay in that is not too shabby with the comfort and amenities. More details are available via the official website.
Element Kuala Lumpur
Ilham Tower, No. 8, Jalan Binjai
50450 Kuala Lumpur
Tel 603 2771 3388
Fax 603 2771 3399
Email [email protected]
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