Kota Kinabalu's BEST Kept Secret: Hush Inn's Unbelievable Luxury!
Kota Kinabalu's BEST Kept Secret: Hush Inn - Luxury That Actually Delivers (and Doesn't Break the Bank!)
Okay, let's be real. I've been to Kota Kinabalu, and I’ve seen a LOT of hotels. And let me tell you, finding true luxury that doesn’t involve selling a kidney is a THING. But, GUESS WHAT? I think I’ve stumbled upon it. Prepare yourselves, folks, because Hush Inn is NOT what you expect. And that’s precisely why it's the best kept secret in town.
(Disclaimer: My standards are high. Like, REALLY high. I judge hotels like a hawk judges a… well, a hawk-sized hotel. So believe me when I say I was pleasantly surprised.)
First Impressions & Accessibility: Seriously Easy Peasy
Getting to Hush Inn? A breeze. Airport transfer? Tick. Car park on-site? Tick. Free car park? DOUBLE TICK! For those of us who value convenience, it's a win from the get-go. And, bonus points! They've got facilities for disabled guests. So, if you or someone you’re with has mobility issues, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Though, I didn't personally test it, the information is readily available. (I really could do with a wheelchair at times, it feels, after all the walking I do!) Accessibility is HUGE for me!
But wait, there's more! (And a bit of a ramble…)
Okay, so let's get into what REALLY matters: the stuff that makes Hush Inn shine. And, oh boy, does it shine.
The Rooms: My Personal Oasis
Let me paint you a picture. Imagine: You’ve just spent the day exploring the vibrant markets of KK, sweating buckets (it's the tropics, people, embrace it!), possibly getting ripped off by a overly-enthusiastic stall owner (it happens! It's part of the experience!), and then… you collapse. BUT NOT JUST ANY COLLAPSE. You collapse into a room that’s an actual sanctuary.
What I loved:
- The Bed (Oh. My. God.): Seriously, I think I’m still dreaming about that bed. It was the correct amount of firm, it was comfortable, it was just… right. Maybe I got lucky with the room? shrugs I don't know, but it was glorious. Extra long bed, check!
- Blackout Curtains: Crucial for sleeping in past the early bird chirping. I needed these. And they worked.
- The Little Extras: Free bottled water (essential), a coffee/tea maker (morning routine perfected!), bathrobes & slippers (because you are on vacation!), and a hair dryer (because frizz is NOT fashionable).
- Internet - The Lifeline Wifi? Free and blazing fast. Wifi in all rooms? Double check! I'm a workaholic, so internet access being available is essential. And for those who are like me, they cater for this easily.
- Views: I got a high-floor room, and the view was just stunning. Absolutely stunning. Every morning I woke up to a smile. And I don't smile easily!
Room Rambles & Minor Gripes (Because Perfection Doesn't Exist)
Okay, so, I'm a details person. And, obviously, I had to do a quick inspection of everything. The cleanliness was impeccable. The room itself? So very clean! Individually wrapped food options? Not sure how that works with a room but it gave me comfort, knowing they would take that into consideration.
Minor things included (and this is REALLY nit-picking): the "complimentary tea" was… okay. Nothing to write home about. But hey, I am not there to complain about the complimentary teas!
Dining, Drinking, & Snacking: Food, Glorious Food (and Maybe a Cocktail or Two)
The food situation at Hush Inn is VERY interesting.
- Restaurants & Bars: They've got a restaurant serving up a blend of Asian and International cuisine, and a pool-side bar! (Hello, happy hour!)
- Breakfast: (MY FAVORITE) - They offer a buffet breakfast, but you can also get Asian or Western options. And… you can have breakfast in your room! Oh, and the buffet? Top-notch. Seriously, the bread selection alone was worth the price of admission. And more importantly, it was clean!
- Snacks: A quick and easy snack bar for bites any time of the day!
The "Chill Out" Factor: Relaxing Like a Pro
This is where Hush Inn really, REALLY hits its stride.
- The Pool (with a View): This is where you'll find me. I love to swim, and this pool was beautiful. The pool is a great spot! There is a stunning view!
- Spa/Sauna/Steamroom: They've got a full spa! Body scrubs, body wraps, massages… Basically, everything you need to erase the stress of the real world. Sadly, I could not take the time to fully enjoy this, as much as I would love to.
- Fitness Center: For those of you who want to work out on vacation (mad respect!), there's a fitness center.
- Foot Bath: To soothe the feet, after all the walking!
Cleanliness & Safety: My COVID-Conscious Checklist
In this day and age, this is SUPER important. And Hush Inn doesn't mess around.
- Anti-viral Cleaning Products: Check.
- Daily Disinfection: Check.
- Safe Dining Setup: Check.
- Hand Sanitizer Everywhere: Check.
- Staff Trained in Safety Protocols: Check.
- Room Sanitization Opt-Out: Check. (For environmentally conscious folks).
- Professional-Grade Sanitizing Services: Check.
- Physical Distancing: Definitely.
The whole place felt spotless and well-maintained, which put my mind at ease. And I am VERY grateful for not catching COVID!
Services & Conveniences: Above and Beyond
Hush Inn knows how to make guests happy!
- Concierge: Super helpful. They can arrange tours, taxis, anything you need.
- Daily Housekeeping: Rooms were always immaculate.
- Laundry Service/Dry Cleaning: Essential for longer trips.
- Meeting/Banquet Facilities: Perfect for business travelers as well.
- Shuttle bus - This is a plus!
- 24-Hour Front Desk & Security: Peace of mind!
- Free coffee/tea in lobby - A nice touch!
For the Kids:
I didn't see any kids personally, but they do have a babysitting service and family-friendly facilities listed.
Getting Around - EASY
- Airport transfer? Yes
- Available Taxi Service? Yes
The Verdict? Hush Inn is a Winner!
Seriously, I went into this with a skeptical eye. I've been burned by "luxury" hotels before. But Hush Inn? They actually deliver on the promise. It’s well-located, it's gorgeous, the staff is friendly, the food is good, and the amenities are fantastic. It’s not just a hotel; it’s an experience.
The "Unbelievable Luxury" is Real! And surprisingly AFFORDABLE!
Here's the Hype-Up Pitch You've Been Waiting For:
Tired of Cookie-Cutter Hotels? Craving True Relaxation and a Taste of the Good Life?
Then it's time to discover Kota Kinabalu's BEST Kept Secret: Hush Inn!
Imagine:
- Waking up in a luxurious, spotless room, with a bed you'll never want to leave (trust me on this one).
- Sipping cocktails by a shimmering pool with breathtaking views, your stress melting away with every sip.
- Indulging in a world-class spa experience, from invigorating body scrubs to soothing massages.
- Feasting on mouthwatering Asian and International cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Enjoying the convenience of seamless service, from airport transfers to personalized concierge assistance.
Hush Inn isn't just a hotel; it's an escape. It's your personal oasis in the heart of Kota Kinabalu. It’s the perfect place to relax, recharge, and create unforgettable memories.
Here's what makes Hush Inn truly special:
- Unparalleled Comfort: Luxurious rooms with blackout curtains, ultra-comfy beds, and all the little extras you deserve.
- World-Class Amenities: A stunning pool with a view, a full-service spa, a well-equipped fitness center, and delicious dining options.
- Impeccable Cleanliness & Safety: Relax with confidence knowing that Hush Inn prioritizes your well-being with top-notch hygiene protocols.
- Exceptional Service: A dedicated team that's committed to making your stay unforgettable, from the front desk to the concierge.
- Prime Location: Easy access to Kota Kinabalu's vibrant attractions, shopping, and dining scenes.
Limited-Time Offer:
**Book your
Unbelievable Calvi Charm: Campo di Fiori's Hidden Gem Revealed!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, 'cause we're diving headfirst into my Kota Kinabalu escapade, currently centered around the suspiciously-named Hush Inn @ K Avenue. Let's just say, judging by the name, I'm expecting either intense tranquility or a whole lot of… well, you'll see. This isn't your pristine, perfectly-curated travel blog, this is the unfiltered, slightly-caffeinated ramblings of yours truly.
Day 1: Arrival and a Near-Disaster with a Plastic Bag (and a Prayer)
- 14:00 (give or take 30 minutes, let's be real). Landed in KK. Oh, the humidity! It hit me square in the face like a wet, warm sock. Airport chaos, as per usual. Finding a taxi was a sweaty, slightly-panicked experience. Did I bargain properly? Probably not. Did I care? Not really, I just wanted the blissful air conditioning of the hotel.
- 15:00 - 16:00. Check-in at Hush Inn. The "Hush" part? Well, it's got a certain… ambiance. Let's go with that. The room itself? Tiny, but clean. Bonus points for the working AC. Minus points for the questionable stain on the bedspread. (Don't ask, I chose to ignore it. Ignorance is bliss, especially when jet-lag is weaponized).
- 16:00 - 17:00. Unpack. Attempt to look remotely presentable. Contemplate the existential dread of being alone in a new city (it passes).
- 17:00 - 18:30. Local exploration. Walked the streets near… wait, why do I feel a tickle on my leg? Oh God, I think I stepped on a plastic bag and its now STUCK TO MY LEG?!?!?! A Malaysian local, witnessing my flailing, mortified, face, graciously assists me in removing it. This is my fault for being distracted by the vibrant street food. Lesson learned: Look where you step, idiot. Ended up at a small cafe, drowning my near-trauma in a ridiculously strong coffee.
- 19:00 - 21:00. Dinner at a seafood restaurant. I, single-handedly, devoured enough grilled fish to feed a small village. The view of the sunset over the South China Sea? Breathtaking. The price? Surprisingly reasonable, especially compared to the price of my sanity after the plastic bag incident.
- 21:00 onwards. Bedtime. Praying for a restful sleep. (And praying the bedspread stain doesn't come to life during the night.) I think the "Hush" refers to the sound of me snoring later.
Day 2: Floating Market, and My Near-Death Experience with a Kayak
- 07:00. Okay, so the "hush" part of the inn did extend to the noise levels, which meant I overslept. But hey, more time for breakfast! Found a little warung (local eatery) nearby. Nasi lemak with extra chili – because, why not?
- 08:00 - 12:00. A Day trip to the Floating market: Omg, it was SO much better than the Floating market in Bangkok, so many vibrant colors!! The boats were a kaleidoscope of produce, and fish and every imaginable kind of fruit. I decided to get some super cheap boat tour. Which turns out to be a harrowing boat adventure. And then! Then I thought I'd be clever and rent a kayak. I had to push past a tiny, little, woman, paddling down the river in a tiny boat, she smiled and waved at me - as I then proceeded to fall into the river because I was paddling in circles. I swear the other tourists were trying to suppress laughter as I struggled to get back in. I spent the rest of the time dripping wet and feeling like an utter buffoon, but the sun was kind and dried me. Overall, the experience was the highlight of my trip.
- 13:00 - 14:00. Lunch at a local restaurant in the town. Trying some Kinabalu delicacies… I really can't explain what I was eating, but it tasted so good.
- 14:00 - 15:00. Back to the Hush Inn to rest and recover from my aquatic adventures.
- 17:00 - 19:00. Sunset watching, and a spot of sightseeing.
- 19:00 onwards. More street food. More questionable culinary adventures. More praying for a successful night.
Day 3: (The Impromptu Beach Adventure and the Unexpected Friend)
- 09:00. Woke up. The air was different. The sky clearer. The universe was smiling on me today! I decided, "Beach Day!"
- 10:00 - 15:00. Found a perfect little beach, and it was idyllic. Clear water, white sand, palm trees swaying. I swam, I sunbathed, I attempted to read (but mostly just people-watched). And then, a small, furry creature ambled over. A stray dog, clearly used to humans, and clearly just as happy to be there as I was. We spent the afternoon, me with my thoughts (and now, him), with the sound of the waves.
- 16:00 - 18:00. Lunch and sunset (again). I now knew the routes, and was becoming a proud local, knowing all the local cafe's, street foods and back-alleys.
- 19:00 onwards. Dinner with my new friend. Well, with the dog near me. I shared some of my food (he wouldn't eat my chicken), and we, surprisingly, had a great time just sitting there in companionable silence. One of the best nights of my trip, honestly.
Day 4: The Departure (and a Sincere Promise to Return)
- 07:00. Packing. Checking out of the hotel. Sighing. This trip, despite the initial chaos and the plastic bag trauma, has been absolutely wonderful.
- 08:00 - 09:00. One last Nasi Lemak. A tearful goodbye to my furry friend at the beach. (Seriously, I teared up. Don't judge me!)
- 10:00 - 11:00. Taxi to the airport. Reflecting on the trip. Deciding that I'll definitely be back.
- 12:00. Flight home. Adios, Kota Kinabalu! You glorious, messy, humidity-soaked paradise. Until next time.
Final Thoughts
Hush Inn? It was…a place. A place that served its purpose. Clean enough, relatively quiet (thank goodness!), and conveniently located. But KK itself? Absolutely phenomenal. The people are lovely, the food is incredible, and the whole experience makes you want more. Would recommend. 10/10. Would return. And who knows, maybe I'll even conquer that kayak next time!
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Hush Inn: Kota Kinabalu's "Secret" (Let's See if it Stays That Way!) - Your Unofficial, Unfiltered FAQ
Okay, Seriously, What's the Deal with "Unbelievable Luxury"? Is It Just Hype?
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because the "Unbelievable Luxury" part? It's damn close to the truth. Look, I'm a cynical travel blogger, I've seen it all. I've stayed in places that promised paradise and delivered… well, let's just say I've written some truly nasty reviews. But Hush Inn? It's different. Think seriously plush beds you could *literally* disappear into, bathrooms that make you want to just… live there, you know? High-end toiletries – forget the sad little hotel soaps! – and a level of service that’s almost… unnerving in its attentiveness. I'm talking smiles, genuine smiles, not the forced, corporate kind. And the food?! Oh. My. God. The food. More on that later. (I got *very* emotional.)
Is it Actually a "Secret"? I Keep Seeing It Pop Up Everywhere!
Well… not *exactly* a secret anymore, are we? The cat's kind of, sort of, semi-out of the bag. But, still, the buzz isn't quite mainstream, thankfully. It's still not overrun with hordes of tourists. That's the beauty of something like Hush Inn. You're not just a number. You're a... well, you're treated like royalty. It's a beautiful thing before it gets really, really popular, you know? Get there now, before the influencers descend en masse and ruin the vibe.
Location, Location, Location: Is Hush Inn Convenient?
Okay, here's the honest truth: it's *not* smack-dab in the middle of the tourist chaos. It's a bit… off the beaten path. Which, in my book, is a HUGE plus. It’s a quiet sanctuary, a little peace of bliss. You're close enough to the main attractions, of course. Taxis are plentiful, Grab is easy, and I actually enjoyed walking around the neighborhood a little bit (surprising, I *hate* walking!). You can escape the hustle once you need to. You can escape the world and just be. That's gold, man. Real gold.
The Rooms: What Are They *Really* Like?
Alright, let's talk rooms. Forget those dingy, cramped hotel rooms. These are legit spacious. Think HUGE beds – seriously, I swear I could have done cartwheels on mine. (Didn’t, but the thought was there.) Beautifully decorated, with huge windows letting in the Sabah sunshine, and... the bathrooms. Oh, the bathrooms! Marble. Rainfall showers. Seriously luxurious. I mean, I'm not generally a "bathroom person," but I could have stayed in there all day. And I almost did one day after a particularly rough trek in the Kinabalu Park. The towels? Fluffy. The robes? Like being hugged by a cloud. I mean, seriously, what’s not to like?
The Food: This is the Part You Got Emotional About, Right? Spill the Beans!
Okay, yes. Let’s just rip the Band-Aid off. The food. The *food*. I'm not kidding, I actually cried a little. Not in front of anyone, thankfully, but… yeah, I got a bit misty-eyed. I ordered everything on the menu. Okay, maybe not *everything*, but I tried. The breakfast was out of this world. Freshly squeezed juice, pastries that were still warm from the oven, and the most amazing nasi lemak I’ve ever tasted. The chef, bless their heart, actually *cared* about the food. It's not just a meal; it's an experience. Then there was the dinner… (deep breath) One night, I ordered the seafood platter. It was like a work of art, and so fresh, so flavorful, I could have eaten two. Seriously. Twice.
I wanted to get the recipe and run back to my own kitchen right away. The flavors and textures were just... incredible. This deserves a whole paragraph, I swear. I think about that platter every day. The perfect char, the fresh, succulent seafood, the little sauces that exploded in your mouth with flavor. I still get the shivers thinking about it. It was... an almost religious experience, it was that good. And I am *not* a foodie, mind you. I’m a grab-and-go kinda girl. But Hush Inn? I'd go broke eating there every week. Totally.
Is It Kid-Friendly?
Um… I didn't see any kids wandering around. Look, it’s luxurious, yes, but also a retreat. A place to RELAX. I wouldn't necessarily say it's teeming with kiddie activities. Maybe call ahead if you're bringing a whole gaggle of them. It's a place to truly... breathe. Seriously, I could see myself losing it if the kids were running about!
The Staff: Are They Actually Nice?
This is the thing that really sets Hush Inn apart. The staff aren't just polite; they’re genuinely friendly and helpful. They anticipate your needs before you even know you have them. It feels like they actually enjoy their jobs, which is so rare these days. It’s not a robotic, scripted level of service. They made an awful coffee (which is impressive since the food is so good), and I was disappointed, so they immediately got me another, and it was perfect. They are good people. I would go back to Kota Kinabalu just to say thank you again. Their smiles are real, and that's a priceless thing. That's hospitality, baby. And it's a treasure.
Any Downsides? (Because Nothing's Perfect!)
Okay, fine. I'm not going to lie. It's not *cheap*. But honestly, you get what you pay for. And considering the level of luxury, service, and the food, it's actually a pretty good value. The only other "downside"? You might never want to leave. Seriously. I considered faking an illness just to stay longer. And I almost did! Okay, there's also the tiny issue of actually *leaving* my bed. I could have lived there forever!
Would You Go Back? (And Would You Recommend It?)
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! Seriously. I am already planning my return. Booked something, I think… yes, and I didn't let anyone read my review, including my own husband. I'd recommend it to anyoneHotels Blog Guide
