Johor Bahru Hotels, Guesthouses and Resorts

The majority of the low-end and mid-range accommodations in Johor Bahru lack a certain flair found in similarly priced places in locations like Penang, or Langkawi. However, that is not to say that the accommodations are not impressive. The host of amenities that are included at the various price levels far surpass that which we have experienced elsewhere in Malaysia. Indeed it must be true, that with each door that closes, there is another that opens.

Budget

The Memory Guesthouse is a fantastic option for someone saving their money for taxis and expeditions. The property offers rooms for as little as MYR 30 with WiFi that spans the entire property. It is excellently located, just around the corner from the Angry Birds Activity Park. A shared kitchen and shared bathrooms are available to all, and some rooms come with a cosy seating area.

The Beacon Inn is a standout option for those looking to keep their expenses low. Air-conditioning and free WiFi throughout the property for the minimal price of MYR 45 – what a deal! The lodging is high-end in its aesthetics with a fantastic shared lounge. Really, it hardly seems to be a budget accommodation. The property is located in Austin Heights, centrally located between Singapore and Desaru.

Mid-Range

The majority of accommodation choices fall into the mid-range price bracket. A distinct favourite of ours was a place called **Tropical Inn&&. The included buffet breakfast could well have been the highlight of our stay, with a dazzling array of choices to help us begin the day of exploration on the right foot. However, the breakfast had stiff competition from the spa, sauna, beauty parlor and bar that were all located within the building. The rooms come with everything you would expect, and are priced at around MYR 220 per night. The property is also very well located, just a few hundred meters from the Kotaraya II bus terminal.

The JB Central Hotel offers a similar level of service at significantly discounted rate. The hotel is located in the top half of the Merlin Tower, which results in some pretty fantastic cityscapes come dusk. The rooms are well equipped with the expected amenities and they even have a couch and coffee area, sweetening the deal just that little bit. However, there is no WiFi in the rooms, which is significant drawback in today’s times. A spa and sauna provide sufficient justification to stay inside on rainy days and provide affordable services to guests. The buffet breakfast is slightly less impressive than the one at Tropical Inn, but shouldn’t engender any dissatisfaction. Overall, a great mid-range option with rooms beginning at MYR 135.

Top End

The only reason you would find yourself this far out of town, is for uninterrupted access to the prestigious golf course and country club. Really, it is a destination of its own. Indeed, the Le Grandeur Palm Resort is quite sensational. An 8-lane bowling alley, a fully equipped sports center with squash and tennis courts, and a children’s playground will take care of the young and sporty. An incredibly decadent spa, jacuzzi, sauna, and several fine-dining restaurants will take care of the indulgent. Rooms begin at MYR 420 and head upwards to MYR 1800. Bring your wallet, and get ready to splurge in the most grandiose of fashions.

The Berjaya Waterfront Hotel is quite special, really. All five stars are evidently well earned. A rooftop swimming pool with a dazzling view, a luxurious spa and beauty centre, and several fantastic restaurants are all at your fingertips. There is no doubt that the integrated duty-free-zone is a distinct lure to travellers. Shopping, dining and entertainment options abound, all shining with the prospect of tax-free bliss. The rooms are impeccable with the utmost attention to detail and aesthetics. The cheapest room with no breakfast included begins at MYR 260.