Courtyard by Marriott Penang

Nice hotel

Nil

To be a five-star hotel, everything needs to be working. The reception at the lobby was very polite and helpful, and the hotel was generally very neat, clean, and well maintained. I cannot say the same for the parking system because it uses a very antiquated number-plate recognition system. When you first enter, there is no indication anywhere that your plate has been recognised. There is no digital display, for instance, to say that the system has recognised your plate. When I registered my car with reception, they assured me I could exit and enter without any problem. I could exit — it seemed to recognise my plate and the barrier lifted. But when I tried to re-enter the hotel, the number-plate recognition system failed. I had to call reception and, after some time, they said they had to re-register my vehicle before the barrier would lift. Management really needs to replace this ridiculous system, add a digital display feedback for plate recognition, and remove the touch-and-go payment system from the entry point so payment is only required at exit. Otherwise it is very confusing for people who drive to your hotel.

Everything was smooth and the staff did an amazing job making us feel welcome.

The breakfast, the staff were helpful and friendly

Stayed twice recently (room 1506 and 1619). Check-in and check-out were efficient, as always. Vee Ter and Zarina were excellent—attentive, courteous, and clear in their explanations. Having last stayed on 31 December 2023, I’m pleased to see that by October 2025 the facilities and room conditions remain very well maintained. The only exception was the pendant lamp in Room 1506, which appeared broken and emitted a burning smell when switched on. I also noticed the toiletries rack in the shower area has been removed—probably because many guests mistook it for a bench. Breakfast at Penang Kitchen was delightful. The variety and quality truly reflect Penang’s vibrant and much-celebrated food culture. I would readily recommend this hotel for its location, hospitality, amenities, and culinary offerings. A note to fellow Elite Members: let’s remember not to be overly demanding—privileges are benefits, not entitlements. That said, I thoroughly appreciated the perks extended to me. Thank you, CYPEN.

This hotel is located near to town. If you drive, it is practically about 5 minute drive to town. Hotel was clean, spacious and comfortable. Staff was courteous and helpful Overall, it was a nice hotel to stay

The bathroom and linens smell bad in both of the connecting rooms. The staff are friendly though. Breakfast is mediocre.