I recently took my mom and sister for a bonding trip to Phuket and Bangkok. Since there aren’t direct flights to Phuket anymore, we had to stop in Kuala Lumpur—and it was all good, since my mom and sister were able to go shopping at Mitsui Outlet Park near the airport. Our flight from Manila arrived late into the afternoon at KLIA2, while our flight to Phuket was leaving early next morning. Staying in Kuala Lumpur an hour away was imprudent—and again, they wanted to go outlet shopping in Sepang—so staying at the airport itself was the best option.
There’s a capsule hotel at the airport, and by and large, that is cheaper, but honestly, my mom’s a bit of a snob. Fortunately, Plaza Premium Lounge has private resting suites at gateway@klia2, the mall attached to the airport terminus, and so we were booked in a family room for four.
Upon arranging our stay details, we were escorted to our room. Honestly, it wasn’t much by way of design and amenities—the lack of a TV and a minibar signified that it was indeed a resting suite of an airport lounge rather than a hotel room.
The beds (one double bed and two bunk beds) with crisp linens and fluffy pillows were comfortable though, and the en suite bathroom, although compact, was spotless. Basic toiletries, towels, and bottled water were provided, and there were adequate power points and fast wireless internet.
Thankfully, there was barely any noise from the outside; therefore, we spent maybe about six hours sleeping. Early next morning, we woke up reinvigorated.
Before we checked out, we decided to have breakfast at the lounge. The elegantly-designed main lounge is divided into a dining area, a lounging area, and a working area with a communal table. Those who are using only the lounge are entitled to use the showers.
The breakfast spread included a couple of hot items (including nasi lemak), bread, fruit, and cereal. The selection was obviously modest compared to the other properties of Plaza Premium Lounge I’ve been to, but it was filling enough. Do note that the food and beverages in the lounge are complimentary to those staying in the private resting suites, as well as those who are availing of the lounge-only access.
In all, the private resting suites of Plaza Premium Lounge at gateway@klia2 are wonderful for overnight layovers, especially for families who would rather sleep in one room. And the free flow of food and beverage all day and night is definitely an awesome added perk of staying there.
Note: Plaza Premium Lounge at gateway@klia2 should not be confused with Plaza Premium Lounge’s properties at the departure areas of KLIA2. gateway@klia2 is the mall attached to KLIA2 and is thus beyond the terminal itself. Those intending to use the lounge must satisfy entry requirements into Malaysia and clear customs, immigration, and quarantine. Philippine passport holders may enter Malaysia without a visa for stays of up to 30 days.
PLAZA PREMIUM LOUNGE
Level 2M, gateway@klia2, Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA2), Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia
Telephone: +60 3 8787 8396
Email: malaysia@plaza-network.com
Website: www.plaza-network.com/location_detail?city=Kuala%20Lumpur
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