A STAR IS REBORN

It has been seven years since the closure and demolition of Kuala Lumpur’s beloved Hotel Equatorial, once a byword for ’70s glamour. Now, a new, rebranded incarnation stands in the same prime location on Jalan Sultan Ismail—EQ, a 52-story property with a modern and sophisticated persona. As much of a landmark as its predecessor, the building is adorned with a unique mosaic of steel strips against glass that also serves as an energysaving feature. Inside, there are 440 rooms and suites alongside a host of business and leisure facilities, including Sanctum, a luxurious spa and wellness center set 29 stories above street level. Fans of the old Hotel Equatorial’s Kampachi will be pleased to know that the award-winning Japanese restaurant has made a comeback, though there are plenty of other dining outlets competing for guests’ attention. Among them: Étoile, a contemporary street caf ; the Bottega wine lounge; and Sabayon Sky51, a rooftop restaurant serving Europeaninspired cuisine against a backdrop of Kuala Lumpur’s glittering skyline. For more information, call 60-3/2789-7777 or visit eqkualalumpur.com