Embassy Row

The prestigious Embassy Row or its actual name, Jalan Ampang, is aptly named due to the presence of many embassies and high commissions within its vicinity. The long stretch of road connecting the Ampang area to the city centre is certainly one of the busiest and noisiest in KL. Dotted along its rather small and restrictive road are the embassies of Chile, Afghanistan and the People's Republic of China, amongst others, as well as numerous office buildings, upscale residential and condominiums, shopping malls such as the Great Eastern Mall, and restaurants. There is also a healthy dose of medical centres with the Gleneagles Intan Medical Centre taking the lead, polo and riding clubs for the wealthy residents, cafes and variety of nightspots. Embassy Row stretches up to the Petronas Twin Towers and the KLCC area.

Within the vicinity of the Embassy Row, you would find well-kept lanes shadowed by large, mature trees that give it a rather cooling and calm ambience even though the busy major roads are just minutes away. Perhaps due this rather unique environment and its close proximity to KL city centre, the Embassy Row is the choice location for expatriates and foreign businessmen alike when they are searching for a place to stay. Needless to say, the real estate here is in high demand and a condominium unit can fetch hundreds of thousands of Ringgit or even a few millions.

There’s not much to do in terms of attractions in the Embassy Row area. But the winning point would be its closeness to the city and other attractions. Getting around is a breeze with numerous bus networks, private taxis and the LRT line that can take you as far as Kelana Jaya, which is basically on the other side of the city. Food, of course, is not a problem at all. There are many international food outlets here serving all manner of food. For a bit of an adventure, try those serving Arabic or Eastern Europe cuisine. You can go for fine dining or you can go casual and local. Expect to pay a bit more though as the rental in this area is quite high.

The Embassy Row would probably have one of the highest numbers of hotels in Kuala Lumpur. Most of them are in the 5-star category befitting the fact that many who stay in this area are basically those from the upper end of the economic strata. You’re talking heads of state, dignitaries, politicians, business travellers, as well as tourists who don’t mind spending for luxury.

The first on any traveler’s list has to be the Nomad SuCasa Serviced Residences, formerly known as SuCasa Service Apartment Kuala Lumpur. Su Casa means Your Home in Spanish and this is quite true for this four-star establishment that has been around for years and yet still remains popular not only amongst the travellers but locals and expatriates alike. Nomad SuCasa Serviced Residences is a home away from home with its luxurious setting and charming personal touch you’d receive from its staff. From as low as RM330 (USD93) per night, you would be pampered with an elegantly appointed fully furnished one and 2 bedroom apartments, complete with lounge, dining area and fully equipped kitchen. It’s a great place for large families and corporate groups as the accommodations are quite spacious.

Another popular hotel in the Embassy Row is the Lanson Place Kuala Lumpur. It’s a grand name befitting a grand location yet it’s an intimate home away from home establishment. Each residence is luxuriously furnished and comes with standard hotel amenities minus its coldness. Instead, what you would get is a comfortable, homey environment that allows you to just put up your feet and relax. A host of facilities are available for your pleasure such as a spa, café, swimming pool and fitness centre, amongst others. With a starting rate of RM280 (USD74) for a one bedroom residence, it’s a great way to enjoy all the comfort of a hotel room with the additional privacy and personal hospitality.