Stately, refined, exclusive, tranquil …… these are the words to describe the Carcosa Seri Negara, Kuala Lumpur 's most regal and expansive overnight stay. This boutique hotel has played host to many foreign dignitaries and VVIP, one of which is none other then the Queen of England herself, Queen Elizabeth the second.

The ride up to the estate takes you through a narrow winding road through thick foliage; as you make your way you begin to feel that you are going back in time as you pass weathered iron street lamps similar to those in London . As you approach the main security entrance you will be greeted by the stature of the Seri Negara mansion which towers directly above the guard post.

The Carcosa Seri Negara is far removed from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur although it is right in the city itself. The hotel is a union of 2 mansions, the Carcosa mansion and the Sri Negara mansion, hence the name of this grand dame. The main Carcosa mansion which was the original residence of colonial administrators back in the 1900’s boasts 7 suites whilst the Sri Negara Mansion , a later addition, has 6 suites.

Both mansions are perched within a very large private estate (almost 16 hectares to be exact), just above the Lake Gardens of Kuala Lumpur on the western edge of Kuala Lumpur . This strategic layout allows the management to add a high level of security by cording off the base entrance which is the primary means of entering the estate. Getting there is a 45-minute drive (75 km) from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and a mere a 10-minutes from Kuala Lumpur City Air Terminal (KL CAT).

Finding the location is slightly challenging as the estate is flanked by expressways and the turning into Taman Tasik Perdana can be easily missed. That should not be a worry however as the hotel provides personalized limousine and butler services which will greet you the moment you arrive in KLIA.

For a more unique entrance, fly in via helicopter and land on the hotel’s very own grass helipad. This is what some of the hotels more famous guests such as Jean Todd who did during the F1 season. Streetdirectory.com is please to include detailed mapping and satellite instructions on the premises with directions on how to reach this urban oasis.

I pulled up at the Seri Negara and was immediately greeted by my personal butler who escorted me to an executive suite which was at the end of a majestic staircase on the mezzanine floor. All check-ins are done in the comfort of your own suite.

The suites are specially designed in Victorian style, each having its own unique theme as depicted by its name. The décor, furniture and amenities replicate the very best from the colonial era. Indeed, attention to detail can be seen in all facets of the suite, from its plush sofas, hand made carpets and sparkling chandeliers to the gold plated wall sockets and a hand written welcome note from the management.

Despite having a very English feel, the ambience still has its own unique Malayan charm with local paintings and batik which was carefully selected to complement the specially commissioned antique furniture. I soon learnt from my butler why my suite was christened the Seri Kinabalu suite, the reason being that it was named after the highest mountain in Borneo , Sabah . As it were, t he people of this state are proud of their horsemanship and it so explained the beautiful oil paintings of horses that hung above the lounge area.

When entering into any of the suits, guests would gap at the sheer size of each room and the height of the ceilings; there are individual spaces for the lounge, bedroom, powder area and main bath. Each area can be individually sealed using the hand crafted wooden doors thus making the suites very functional when entertaining guests.

Most of the suites provide a clear view of the lush garden landscaping and the bath room facilities are especially well lit in the mornings, perfect for the morning soak whilst reading the papers. Each suite has its own private veranda which provides outdoor lounging amidst the melody of singing birds and courting crickets.

All suites are equipped with modern home surround sound system, DVD player and wireless Internet facilities which come complementary. We were plea san tly surprised at the Internet speed but experienced some intermitted drops in connectivity.

SD Verdict on the Carcosa Seri Negara Hotel

The Carcosa is indeed a place of luxury and indulgence as it caters to individuals who appreciate fine craftsmanship, impeccable service and a personal space that is unique to the hotel. It is however KL’s most expensive accommodation and is enjoyed on a regular basis by a privileged few.

Nevertheless, should you be looking for that ideal wedding proposal, boutique corporate event or fun filled retreat for the family, the Carcosa is certainly a hotel worth considering. You will be transported into a completely different world and who knows, you may even get a chance to be neighbors with your favorite celebrity.

Because the hotel is so exclusive, it is often easy to mistake that you are the only guest in the hotel. This is what attracts its regular guests back year after year.

As the hotel is not situated within walking distance to any popular shopping complex, guests are limited to the hotel’s three restaurants and the 24 hour room service. Still, if you suddenly have a craving for a Big Mac in the middle of the night, I’m quite sure that your butler will oblige.