Never would I have thought I’d ever need special instructions to park my car. But that assumption was put to the test recently upon my arrival at a new hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
That’s because what greeted me at this place was a fully automated car lift. And if that idea is as science fiction-y as it sounds, that’s because it actually is. The vertical car parking garage operates using a cool mechanical system.
That tech-savvy entrance was a precursor to more forward-thinking technology during my stay at the 43-storey Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang, which is located along Jalan Imbi.
Smart technology is integrated seamlessly into the rooms and amenities here. From a QR code-enabled personal digital concierge to a digital jukebox, the hotel is designed with millennials, Gen Z and other tech-inclined folks, in mind.
Technology aside, Capri by Fraser, Bukit Bintang also prides itself for the social setting that it has carefully curated. For example, The Den is the heart of the hotel’s social hub. Sprawled across two floors, the venue is where guests can mingle, surrounded by music, drinks and games.
More fun and play await at the laundrette (aptly called Spin & Play) which doubles as a game room. Then there are also the saltwater infinity pool and 24-hour gym that offer sprawling views of the KL skyline.
The upper level of The Den houses the hotel’s all-day restaurant. During my stay, I got to sample the breakfast buffet as well as the buka puasa feast. The breakfast spread had some good local and international fare. I was told by the hotel’s food and beverage assistant manager that the restaurant is able to accommodate ala carte requests too.
If you’re still hungry after breakfast, it helps that the hotel is located in one of KL’s most dynamic food scenes. Discreet cafes, upmarket restaurants and heritage hawker stalls are all within walking distance from the property.
Within close proximity too are some of the capital’s most exciting shopping malls like Pavilion KL and Starhill. If anything, the hotel’s location in the bustling Bukit Bintang area makes it a prime accommodation for a staycation or workcation.
After a day out exploring the area, I was glad to return to my room, which was really more of a small apartment. It features a bedroom, living area and a well-equipped kitchenette. There’s also a work desk to cater to the needs of business travellers and guests who are on a workcation.
Guests who take up the premiere rooms have access to the Pow Wow, a chic top floor lounge. The venue – with private monitor cubicles and plush furnishings – brings to mind a co-working space. The lounge also serves pre-dinner cocktails and beverages, so if you’re planning a more casual work meet-up, you could do it here.
Overall, the hotel provides for a fun and relaxing stay. The tech elements of the hotel may just appeal to young digital nomads. And given its prime location, the hotel would also be suitable for family vacations too.
I do wonder if digitally averse travellers might be intimidated by the futuristic aspects of the property, particularly the automated car park. I ran into a technical glitch at the car lift where my vehicle’s antenna interfered with the sensor of the garage. Fortunately, a concierge staff rushed over to help resolve the issue.
I suppose here’s where the debate between machine and man comes into play. But it’s nice to see the hotel striving towards that balance.
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