Perfect for the family
Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Kuantan has undergone a major upgrading to keep up with the times. Tasnim Lokman checks them out
MY 3-year old son does not want to leave the Young Citizens of the World Club. He starts his adventure with slides and follows up on that with restaurant play, where he cooks and cleans the dishes for me and his baby sister. He then moves on to play with Lego blocks with his father. It will be probably the hardest goodbye he has had to experience when leaving Swiss-Garden Beach Resort Kuantan the day after tomorrow.
The club has won this mother’s heart with its beautiful and resourceful play centre. The experience begins with an indoor playground, followed by tables and chairs for activities such as batik painting. Further into the club, you will see a PlayStation area for the bigger kids and, in some cases, also their fathers.
There’s a big play area completed in 2018. It has toys for everyone — blocks, kitchen, board games, guitars and a rocking horse. There’s a shooting range and a movie room with bean bags.
The four-star resort made the right choice in prioritising kids because happy children equals happy parents, which also means happy customers. It has direct access to the beach, providing an idyllic holiday destination for the family.
FAMILY ROOM
Located 15 minutes from Kuantan’s city centre, the resort makes the perfect getaway for those looking for an affordable family retreat as it offers rates starting from RM250 per night for deluxe rooms.
Its biggest option, a family executive suite, is what my family and I have the pleasure of staying in.
All its 300 rooms have new beddings and lightings. You do not need to spend much to feel like you’re floating on air because even the cheapest room will make your stay worthy.
The rooms are elegantly decorated in warm muted tones with neutral fittings, inspired by traditional elements. Its feature wall, television cabinet doors as well as the sofa set carry the anyaman (weaving) designs.
The suite has two single beds and a queen-size bed in the master bedroom. As we have a 6-month old baby, a baby cot is placed in the room.
Its spacious bathroom has a shower, Jacuzzi and double-sink vanities.
The resort has added new tables, chairs and pool lounges that carry the traditional weaving pattern too. It’s a modern interpretation of the Malaysian lifestyle.
ABUNDANCE OF FOOD
Guests can start off their morning at The Garden Terrace Coffee House, which offers a good spread of live stations serving hot food. The continental breakfast includes great options for adults and kids as well as offering international guests a taste of local delights.
The Blossom Chinese Restaurant, which serves halal Chinese food from Szechuan to Canton, is one of the most sought-after dimsumrestaurantsinKuantan. Eachdim sum is prepared meticulously and served hot. This is must-try even if you’re not a guest.
Located near the lobby, Swiss-Deli is another spot for people to mingle over cakes, pastries and a cup of freshly- brewed coffee. The Pool Bar is for those who want to relax and enjoy the South China Sea breeze.
However, nothing can beat the newlyrenovated Malibu Pub. The upgrade cost up to RM1 million and is worth every sen.
The contemporary interior and addition of a karaoke set are perfect for those who want to let their hair down. The pub, which opens from 5pm, serves grilled dishes and cocktails.
PERFECT FOR THE FAMILY
Previously promoted as family-friendly holiday destination, the resort stays true to its name by focusing on children’s facilities in its restoration.
The resort launched a splash pool for kids with water features, water slides and a tipping bucket.
Twisted roots fitted with water jets and mists shooting out in different patterns and directions get the children running around before heading for the water slides.
A major plus is the fact that the floors have anti-slip tiles, making them safe for children and adult.
Those who forget to bring swimming attire need not fret as the resort provides rental services not only for children’s swimwear but also burkinis. The resort also rents out giant floats. Those looking to relax can soak in the Jacuzzi. However, only 16-year olds and above can use it.
There is a new recreational park equipped with activities for the family, including all-terrain vehicles for kids and adults, electric scooter, archery and water gel gun.
The beach is clean and secluded, making you feel like you are on a private island.