As a self-proclaimed "premium hobbyist" of hotel staycations, I recently ventured beyond my usual Kuala Lumpur haunts for the first time, choosing the Grand Paragon Hotel in Johor Bahru for a two-night getaway. This 4-star establishment not only offered a significantly more affordable option compared to its nearby competitors (as per my Traveloka research) but also delivered an experience that, in some aspects, surpassed my KL stays.
The room itself was a pleasant surprise, cozy, impressively spacious, and a fantastic value for its star rating. However, the undeniable highlight of my sojourn was the breakfast. I've often found hotel breakfast buffets in KL to be disappointingly bland, but the Grand Paragon shattered this stereotype. The main dishes were flavourful and well-prepared. The Nasi Lemak was authentically good, the Mee Goreng was a standout, and the array of pastries, especially the traditional kuih, was a true delight that I thoroughly enjoyed. It left me wondering why more hotels don't put this much effort into their morning spread.
In terms of facilities, the Grand Paragon holds its own. While the swimming pool's design was somewhat uninspired and didn't tempt me for a dip, it did offer a rather pleasant view. A noteworthy feature was the sauna (I think it is a sauna), seemingly located within the swimming pool's bathroom area. The gymnasium was another positive, proving to be clean, spacious, and well-maintained. For those seeking further relaxation or pampering, the same floor also housed massage and salon services.
Overall, my first staycation outside of KL at the Grand Paragon Hotel Johor Bahru was a resounding success. The combination of a comfortable and affordable room, coupled with an outstanding breakfast experience, has firmly placed this hotel on my "will visit again" list for any future trips to Johor Bahru