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The Wembley Penang and Cititel Express Penang: hotel review

Mid-range hotels have been growing in demand in Georgetown with the influx of tourist visiting the island over the last few years, and The Wembley Penang and Cititel Express Penang pushes the buttons in the right places, as Zac Teo explores.

Tucked in the bustling Magazine Road, The Wembley Penang and Cititel Express Penang are excellent choices for tourist looking for accommodation in Penang island. Catering for a growing demand for mid-range accommodation in a strategic location, these two hotels are perched right in the heart of Georgetown to ease traveling for tourist. With both hotels housed in a single complex, The Wembley Penang, a four-star hotel, is located on Magazine Road while Cititel Express Penang, being a three-star hotel, is perched right behind with its entrance on Noordin Street.

Unveiled on the 2nd of April 2015, The Wembley Penang impressively holds a function space on Level 9 and 10 would set as the preferred venue for dinners, meetings, seminars and weddings. The Wembley Grand Ballroom, one of the largest pillar-less ballroom in Penang, with a seating capacity of more than 1,200 persons. There are also other multi-function rooms. Being shown around by their PR Manager, I was informed that there are 415 sea-facing and heritage-view guestsrooms, inclusive of Suites and Executive Rooms, exquisitely designed with batik-style motifs adorning the walls.

Vibrant hotel in the heart of Georgetown–The Wembley and Cititel Express, Penang
A View of Penang from The Wembley Penang. Photograph: Zac Teo/Penang365.com

After some exploring of the city, I had the opportunity to kick back and spend some time with a refreshing dip in the salt-water infinity pool and enjoy a workout in the well-equipped gymnasium in The Wembley Penang. Both of this recreation place is located on Level 11.

For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, guests can consider the Executive Suite. The room, which is furnished with a charming view overlooking the harbor and the bridge, comes with a bath tub and a living hall and dining area, very much suitable for groups or families with small children.

  Vibrant hotel in the heart of Georgetown–The Wembley and Cititel Express, PenangIMG_2618
Interior of Executive Suite at The Wembley Penang. Photograph: Zac Teo/Penang365.com

On the other hand, the Cititel Express Penang located on the adjoining street seeks to cater for those looking for a cheaper alternative. Think of it as the Airasia of hotels, with the basics such as clean room and comfy bed in place. Simple yet to the point, the location is excellent for tourist wanting to explore the inner annals of Georgetown. The Cititel Express Penang with 234 Guestrooms & Family Rooms, overlooking the panoramic view of the city. For a hearty simple breakfast, drop by at Enoshima Japanese restaurant located at the lobby level.
  
Vibrant hotel in the heart of Georgetown–The Wembley and Cititel Express, Penang Vibrant hotel in the heart of Georgetown–The Wembley and Cititel Express, Penang
Cititel Express Penang offers budget-friendly alternative accommodation. Photograph: Zac Teo/Penang365.com

I headed down to Wembley Cafe for their famed buffet spread, and was not disappointed at all. I tucked into their spread which even offers a seafood and sashimi platter, hot dishes, action station and a variety of dessert, including ice kacang. Other theme buffets include Spices and Herbs Penang on Monday, Mediterranean on Tuesday, Tantalising Thai on Wednesday, Japanese and International Inspired on Thursday, and Italitan on Friday. Saturday is dedicated to Wembley Seafood. With Oriental weekend on Sunday, the high tea starts from 12pm to 3.30pm.

Vibrant hotel in the heart of Georgetown–The Wembley Hotel and Cititel Express, PenangWembley Cafe with a cosy ambience and spacious seating. Photograph: Zac Teo/Penang365.com

All in all, I would say that the reasonable prices of either The Wembley Penang or its sister Cititel Express Penang are definitely a great pull for visitors. Cleanliness is kept to a high level, and the selling point would be the strategic location. Guests will no doubt feel the accessibility to friendly and attentive service, comfortable guestrooms and convenient modern facilities in the heart of Georgetown.

Accommodation was provided by The Wembley Penang and Cititel Express Penang (183, Jalan Magazine, 10300, Penang). Rooms at The Wembley Penang from RM265 nett onwards (exclude council fee of RM3) and Cititel Express Penang from RM146 nett onwards (excluding council fee of RM2), buffet prices at Wembley Cafe are to be revamped from March 2016 onwards.

For Wembley cafe bookings and pricing inquiry, do call 04-259 8123
For The Wembley Penang room bookings, visit http://www.stgiles.com/penang-hotels/the-wembley-hotel/
For Cititel Express Penang room bookings, visit http://www.cititelexpress-penang.com/default-en.html/




Zac Teo

Zac Teo

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