HPL Hotels & Resorts is to manage Asia’s third Hard Rock Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel Port Dickson, located on the coastal city of Port Dickson, in the state of Negeri Sembilan on the west coast of Peninsula Malaysia.

Scheduled to open in late 2006, this 300-room beachfront hotel is undergoing multi-million dollar construction on a four-hectare site overlooking the Straits of Malacca. The Hard Rock Hotel Port Dickson will be a luxury themed hotel, offering the finest services and facilities for the leisure, group, government and Meeting, Incentive, Convention and Exhibition (MICE) markets.

“The design, concept and the theme of the hotel will be synonymous to the other two Hard Rock Hotels in Asia [Pattaya and Bali]. This musically themed and vibrant hotel will serve both our leisure and MICE markets with its quality standard of services and facilities, which our customers have come to expect. Its 500-seat state-of-the-art ballroom and smaller meeting rooms, together with Hard Rock Hotel’s themed meeting packages, will be able to cater to the demands and requirements of our MICE markets,” said Edmund Nicholas, Vice President – Marketing of HPL Hotels & Resorts

In addition to its meeting facilities, the hotel will also feature a signature large free form swimming pool, water slide for kids, poolside cabanas, sand island, kids’ play station, Kids’ Club, Hard Rock Spa, gym, tennis court, broadband Internet access in the rooms, as well as the time honoured catalyst of the resort, the Hard Rock Cafe which will provide live entertainment for hard rockers of all ages.

Port Dickson is an established seaside town, offering 18 kilometres of fine sandy beaches fringed by casuarinas, coconut palms and banyan trees. Its strategic location offers visitors a wide range of seas sports, shopping, historical monuments, cultural shows, golf, venue for annual water sports activities, and many more. It is also easily accessible by a 90-minute drive from Kuala Lumpur city or 3-hour drive from Singapore.

“This new hotel, the first international themed hotel in the city of Port Dickson, is set to be a strong addition to the overall offerings of the town. With its live entertainment facilities, game activities and themed parties, it will be an attractive venue for both corporate and social events,” said Edmund Nicholas

http://www.asiatraveltips.com/newspics/051/HRHPDBeachView.jpg

http://www.asiatraveltips.com/newspics/051/HRHPDexterior.jpg

Sorry, but already covered here :) http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=173914&page=4

PORT DICKSON, NEGRI SEMBILAN, Thurs.
Work on the Hard Rock Hotel in Port Dickson has yet to begin, despite its scheduled opening early next year.

This has given rise to rumours that the project has been shelved due to objections that the hotel, to also house the Hard Rock Cafe, can lead to a rise in social ills.

A visit to its proposed location at the site of the former Si Rusa Inn at Batu 7 of Jalan Pantai showed that no work had started.

Port Dickson Municipal Council president Tenku Idris Tenku Hadi, when contacted, said the project was still on the cards as far as he was concerned.

"I see no reason why the project should be shelved. In fact, such a hotel will greatly contribute to the development of Port Dickson and we welcome it. Plans have been submitted. But I do not know why work has yet to begin."

In July last year, the State Government said it had approved the development plans for the hotel and that work on the RM175 million project was to be completed in early 2007.

Hmmm...i dont think it will materialised...

This is in today's NST

PD Hard Rock Hotel on hold


KUALA LUMPUR, Sun.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supreme Prospects Sdn Bhd has placed plans to build a Hard Rock Hotel in Port Dickson on the backburner in favour of a Casa Del Mar boutique hotel.

Company chairman Datuk Syed Yusof Syed Nasir said this was because the company was still negotiating the deal with Hard Rock International, which owns the Hard Rock brand.

"Hard Rock Port Dickson will be good for tourism... but we have yet to have an agreement with Hard Rock International," Syed Yusof said.

"We have 5.27ha of land in Si Rusa, Port Dickson. We have decided to proceed with the other phase, which is the Casa del Mar."

Both hotel projects are part of a tripartite joint-venture by a team comprising Syed Yusof, Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, and Perak-born tycoon Ong Beng Seng.

According to Syed Yusof, the boutique hotel will be modelled after the Casa del Mar in Langkawi.

"There will be 60 rooms and 10 kampung houses and a man-made pond. We are in the process of getting the approvals. We expect the hotel to be ready sometime next year," he said.

Syed Yusof expects the hotel to perform as well as the one in Langkawi, with an expected average occupancy of between 60 and 70 per cent and an average room rate of RM200.

In Langkawi, the average room rate for the hotel is around RM400 per night.

"The average room rate in December was RM488. We made RM600,000 that month," he said.

Casa del Mar Langkawi is a 34-room suite hotel that enjoys an occupancy of over 85 per cent.

HPL Hotels & Resorts to Open Hard Rock Hotel in Penang
SHAH ALAM, Feb 1 Asia Pulse - Singapore-based HPL Hotels and Resorts will open its latest property in Malaysia, the 255-room Hard Rock Hotel Penang.
The first Hard Rock Hotel in Malaysia and the third in Asia is scheduled to be opened late next year, HPL Hotels & Resorts said in a statement.

Penang is the perfect location for Malaysia's first Hard Rock Hotel, the statement said.

The first Hard Rock Hotel in Asia was opened in Bali in 1998 while the second in Pattaya in 2001.

It said the Casuarina Beach Resort, which was closed in December last year, will undergo extensive renovation for a complete makeover before it opens as the Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

Currently, there are eight Hard Rock Hotels around the world. Apart from Bali and Pattaya, the others are located in Biloxi, Chicago, Hollywood, Las Vegas, Orlando and Tampa.

Two more will be opened this year that is in San Diego and New York.

A great news for Penang, great that they chose Hard Rock over other concept choices. The revival of Batu Ferringi continues.

A great news for Penang, great that they chose Hard Rock over other concept choices. The revival of Batu Ferringi continues.

true. I prefer it to be built in penang rather than in PD. PD is not the fav place especially among the malaysian chinese

oh no...i tot the current Casuarina Hotel will be remain as Casuarina Hotel after it has renovated:( It is one of the most expensive hotel rate in Penang..

But, anyway..i'm so glad to hear that Hard Rock hotel will take over it.

great news!! but what happened to the proposal for Port Dickson??

and what about Hard Rock Cafe?? there was news that one will open in Penang. i suppose they are the same company right?

oh no...i tot the current Casuarina Hotel will be remain as Casuarina Hotel after it has renovated:( It is one of the most expensive hotel rate in Penang..

But, anyway..i'm so glad to hear that Hard Rock hotel will take over it.

Casuarina Hotel expensive?? but it is a 3 star hotel isn't it?? and one of the oldest in Batu Ferringhi.

Thursday February 1, 02:33 PM

HPL Hotels & Resorts To Open Hard Rock Hotel In Penang

SHAH ALAM, Feb 1 Asia Pulse - Singapore-based HPL Hotels and Resorts will open its latest property in Malaysia, the 255-room Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

The first Hard Rock Hotel in Malaysia and the third in Asia is scheduled to be opened late next year, HPL Hotels & Resorts said in a statement.

Penang is the perfect location for Malaysia's first Hard Rock Hotel, the statement said.

The first Hard Rock Hotel in Asia was opened in Bali in 1998 while the second in Pattaya in 2001.

It said the Casuarina Beach Resort, which was closed in December last year, will undergo extensive renovation for a complete makeover before it opens as the Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

Currently, there are eight Hard Rock Hotels around the world. Apart from Bali and Pattaya, the others are located in Biloxi, Chicago, Hollywood, Las Vegas, Orlando and Tampa.

Two more will be opened this year that is in San Diego and New York.

any update? nutin new????

so the conclusion is in penang or PD??

10/16/2007

HARD ROCK INTERNATIONAL AND HPL HOTELS & RESORTS ANNOUNCE DEVELOPMENT OF HARD ROCK HOTEL PENANG

INNOVATORS IN HOTEL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT TO DELIVER UNPRECEDENTED FOUR-STAR, LUXURY TO EXOTIC MALAYSIAN RESORT SETTING

Orlando, FL – October 16, 2007 – Hard Rock International and Hotel Properties Limited (HPL) announced today their plans to develop a Hard Rock Hotel in Penang, Malaysia. Hard Rock Hotel Penang will be a luxury resort situated along the famous beaches of Batu Ferringhu, touted as the Pearl of the Orient. The property, which aims to infuse new excitement and energy into the market, underscores resurgence in tourism and reflects Hard Rock’s strategy to accelerate expansion of the brand worldwide.

The resort is situated on nearly five acres of land with approximately two miles of magnificent private beachfront on one of Asia’s most popular island destinations. Coupled with Hard Rock’s tradition of providing luxury, quality service and amenities with a unique rock ‘n’ roll edge; this destination resort will bring a unique entertainment element the island has yet to offer.

“The Seminole Tribe of Florida is thrilled about further Hard Rock development in Southeast Asia,” notes Jim Allen, Chairman of Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment. “It’s a testament to the brand that we have such incredible strategic partners and ample opportunity for global growth in such interesting locations. We are looking forward to this groundbreaking new property.”

Through a major renovation of the existing property, Hard Rock will completely revamp the existing five-story main building, add additional rooms and maintain one of the two current beachfront bungalows, converting it into a full service luxury spa. The renovation and expansion will increase guestroom keys from 175 to 252, configured as mostly standard suites with balcony, half-balcony suites and pool-facing suites with decks. There will also be nine deluxe suites, seven garden suites and a remarkable presidential suite. Four food and beverage outlets are planned for the resort, which will include a Hard Rock Cafe, 24-hour dining option and a bar/lounge. The resort’s main ballroom and three function rooms offer a total of 5,700 square feet for private events and the meetings, incentives, corporate and exhibitions clientele. Additionally, there will be a fully equipped gym and specialized kids club.

A main trademark of the Hard Rock Hotel experience, Hard Rock Hotel Penang will feature an incredible oversized free-form pool, totaling 3,500 square feet, replete with sand islands and luxurious poolside cabanas.

“Penang has eagerly anticipated the entry of an energetic and adventurous hotel brand such as Hard Rock,” says Stephen Lowe, CEO of Hotel Properties Limited. “Our company’s projected growth strategy is to continue to open more resorts and hotels in key Asia-Pacific cities that, in partnership with like-minded associates, will assure our guests a satisfying level of comfort backed by personalized service. Hard Rock Hotel Penang could not be more perfect.”

“We plan to continue our expansion of the Hard Rock brand with unique, new properties – including urban hotel and destination resorts – and look forward to collaborating with the State and its residents as we prepare to unveil Hard Rock Hotel Penang,” adds Hamish Dodds, President and CEO, Hard Rock International. “We have an incredible working relationship with HPL Hotels & Resorts through our current Hard Rock Hotel properties in Bali and Pattaya and foresee this as a prosperous business venture, while simultaneously maintaining focus on the environment, employee partners and the wider community.”

Declared by the Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak as Visit Malaysia Year, 2007 has seen an increase in the number of tourist arrivals from 15 million to approximately 20 million. With the Visit Malaysia Year 2007 campaign, coupled with the State’s efforts to bring back the glory days of tourism to Penang, the island is expected to see a major resurgence in leisure, transient and business travel with robust gains in overall occupancy and average rates.

“We feel confident this development will have numerous benefits for Penang and the larger Southeast Asia market,” says Trevor Horwell, Vice President, Hard Rock Hotels. “Hard Rock properties are truly four-star in every way, from the outstanding amenities and service, to a dedication to supporting and serving the communities we are in.”

cool! when will be completed?

Ya, cool ma.
At least next time we really have a motorbike on the roof.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/46/149814666_60cb20613b_b.jpg

Syed Yusof buys Sutra Beach Resort
By Vasantha Ganesan Published: 2008/06/30

http://www.btimes.com.my/Monday/OurPick/jojohtl.xml/Article/Current_News/BTIMES/Images/btgraph8/sutra.jpg


The company will also open the Hard Rock Hotel, Penang, previously the Casuarina Beach Resort, in early 2009 and has started the development of the Four Seasons Hotel and Service Apartment in Kuala Lumpur.

^^ Casuarina/ Hard Rock Hotel is under renovation now. they are expanding the back part of the building. passed by the area early this month ;)

^^ Casuarina/ Hard Rock Hotel is under renovation now. they are expanding the back part of the building. passed by the area early this month ;)

:):banana: but how about Penang InterContinental ex Mutiara Beach.. nampak cam penuh lalang jerr:nuts::nuts:

^^ Casuarina/ Hard Rock Hotel is under renovation now. they are expanding the back part of the building. passed by the area early this month ;)

:):banana: but how about Penang InterContinental ex Mutiara Beach.. nampak cam penuh lalang jerr:nuts::nuts:

:):banana: but how about Penang InterContinental ex Mutiara Beach.. nampak cam penuh lalang jerr:nuts::nuts:

that i'm not too sure... i think it has been over a year since i last passed that area...

http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_07.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_03.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_05.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_06.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_04.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/media-room.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/media-logo.jpg
:cheers::cheers:

^^ cool!! nice!!!

more pics from the website http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/media-room, click logo & images

looks very hard rock hotel to me!!

OMG!!! I LOVE THE LOUNGE BY THE POOL!!! SOO CHILL!!!!

it always looks nice in the rendering.

looks promising :)

i dont care the bar looks great! :cool:

It looks like one of the hotels in Las Vegas... hhaha

are they really gonna build this thing? they've been talkin about it forever...show some action!

^^I thought they are in the process of renovating now???

yup still in the process of renovating and are expected open in 2009 :)

Do people still get excited about hard rock? :P

^^ nope! but the bar by the pool ecite me! Alot! :cool:

I know..I like the overall retro feel too

^^ gee.. u guys r quite dull.. always talks bout architecture.. wat other feel do u get other than the retro yadayada feel? :naughty:

what else is there to be felt?

what else is there to be felt?

don't forget SEED is a pervert...












:jk::jk::jk::jk:

:nuts:
Crazy slow progress
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll23/kubundu/hrockedit.jpg

Hotel Hard Rock siap Ogos 2009



MEWAH dan Eksklusif itulah suasana yang bakal dirasai pengunjung apabila menjejaki kaki di ruang pintu hotel bertaraf antarabangsa, Hotel Hard Rock (HRH) yang bakal dibuka buat pertama kalinya di Malaysia.

Berlokasikan pantai peranginan Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang yang indah sekali gus menjadi mercu tanda terbaru kepada pusat pelancongan negara apabila hotel itu bakal siap dibina pada Ogos 2009.

Pengurus Besarnya, John Primmer berkata, HRH menawarkan pelbagai kemudahan yang menarik dengan tarikan utama 250 bilik yang luas serta dilengkapi kemudahan terkini.

Beliau berkata, jika sebelum ini pengunjung pernah merasainya di rangkaian HRH di Bali, Indonesia mahupun Pattaya, Thailand, namun HRH di Pulau Mutiara, Pulau Pinang lebih unik dari kedua-duanya.

Katanya, keindahan bilik yang menghadap panorama laut yang indah, setiap pengunjung akan merasai keindahan fajar pagi dan petang sambil beriadah.


“Lebih menarik, setiap bilik tetamu turut diberi kemudahan secara terus (direct-access) dengan kolam renang yang cantik,” katanya ketika ditemui di Batu Ferringhi di sini, baru-baru ini.

Hadir sama, Pengarah Jualan dan Pemasaran, Betty Lim.

John berkata, selain kemudahan lima restoran yang berkonsepkan hidangan yang mewah 24 jam yang lazat dengan alunan muzik di bar, lounge di lobi dan tepi kolam menjadikan ia lebih menarik.

Beliau berkata, hotel itu juga menawarkan perkhidmatan spa, gimnasium, kelab kanak-kanak, stor barangan, pusat perniagaan hotel, kelab lounge yang dilengkapi koleksi indah artis terkenal.

^^What is so nice with this hotel?

http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_07.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_03.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_05.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_06.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/header_04.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/media-room.jpg
http://www.hardrockhotels.net/penang/images/media-logo.jpg
:cheers::cheers:

http://images.our-hotels.com/countries/malaysia/penang/batu-ferringhi/hotels/hard-rock/front-facade-m.jpg

http://images.our-hotels.com/countries/malaysia/penang/batu-ferringhi/hotels/hard-rock/sea-facing-m.jpg

http://images.our-hotels.com/countries/malaysia/penang/batu-ferringhi/hotels/hard-rock/direct-pool-access-m.jpg

http://images.our-hotels.com/countries/malaysia/penang/batu-ferringhi/hotels/hard-rock/sand-island-m.jpg

Hard Rock Hotel Penang - Batu Ferringhi
Opening early 2009
Hard Rock Hotel Penang will be a luxury resort situated along the famous beaches of Batu Ferringhi, hailed as the Pearl of the Orient. The property, which aims to infuse new excitement and energy into the market, underscores resurgence in tourism and reflects Hard Rock's strategy to accelerate expansion of the brand worldwide.


Hard Rock Hotel Penang is located in Batu Feringghi which is 45 minutes drive from Penang International Airport and 30 minutes from Georgetown. Penang is easily accessible by road via the Penang Bridge which links the mainland of Peninsular Malaysia to Penang Island. The approximate travelling time to Penang by road is: 4 hours from South (KL) or 2 hours from North (Perlis).

Accomodations
There will be a total of 255 guestrooms, configured as mostly deluxe rooms with hill, sea, and garden or lagoon views. There will also be nine studio suites and one Kings' suite.
Seaview Deluxe 166
Hillview Deluxe 44
Lagoon Deluxe 27
Garden Deluxe 8
Studio Suites 9
Kings' Suite 1
Dining & Nightlife
There are four food & beverage outlets planned for the resort. These include a Hard Rock Cafe, an all-day dining restaurant, a bar and a lounge.

Amenities
A main trademark of the Hard Rock Hotel experience, Hard Rock Hotel Penang will feature an incredible oversized free-form pool, totaling 25,833 square feet, replete with sand islands and water slides, and luxurious poolside cabanas. There will also be a Lil' Rock Kids Club, a full-service luxury spa, a well-equipped gym and a Hard Rock merchandise store. Other services and facilities include wireless Internet Access and a Snooker Table.

Entertainment
Hard Rock is synonymous with music, good fun and entertainment, and Hard Rock Hotel Penang will offer a plethora of options to be entertained and to have fun!

Meetings
Hard Rock Hotel Penang's MICE facilities offer a total of 5,700 square feet for private events and the meetings, incentives, corporate and exhibitions clientele. These include a Marquee Garden Ballroom, a Pre-Function Garden area, three Meeting Rooms, and a Business Centre.

kinda 70's design building...
:)

Hard Rock Hotel
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll23/kubundu/hrock.jpg

another 7 8 months...

Hard Rock Hotel Penang to open its doors soon
By ANTHONY TAN


GEORGE TOWN: Malaysia’s first Hard Rock Hotel is scheduled to open in Batu Ferringhi in the middle of this year.

Formerly the Casuarina Beach Resort which was closed in December 2006 for an upgrading and repositioning exercise, Hard Rock Hotel Penang will have 249 rooms, most of which are configured as deluxe rooms with sea views.

Singapore-based HPL Hotels & Resorts, which manages the hotel, said it would be the first musically themed resort in the country.

The hospitality management company said in a statement that five food and beverage outlets were planned for the hotel, including a Hard Rock Cafe and an all-day dining restaurant.

The release, which announced the appointment of John Primmer as general manager, said the lagoon deluxe rooms would have direct pool access off the guests’ balconies.

Facilities include a full-service luxury spa, a fully equipped gym, a specialised Lil’ Rock Kids Club, Hard Rock merchandise stores and a free-form swimming pool.

Its indoor and outdoor function facilities include a marquee garden ballroom, pre-function garden area and three meeting rooms.

A New Zealand national, Primmer has 27 years of hospitality experience.

He has held senior management positions in Malaysia, New Zealand, Australia and Britain for the past 17 years.

HPL Hotels & Resorts manages 11 hotels and resorts in the Asia-Pacific and the Indian Ocean regions.

Hard Rock Hotel
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll23/kubundu/hardrockjun.jpg

First Hard Rock Hotel in Malaysia to open in September


HARD Rock Hotel Penang is offering fabulous packages to celebrate its opening come Sept 19.

Take a break and soak in the sun during the day, and watch live band performances and party during the night as Hard Rock Hotel Penang promises the ultimate fun-filled vacation for holidaymakers by infusing elements of Rock ’n’ Roll music and entertainment.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/6/3/central/m_20artist.jpg
Solid: An artist's impression of the facade of the Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

Featuring a modern structural design with a rockin’ edge and memorabilia from rock stars around the world, the hotel – the first Hard Rock Hotel in Malaysia – is offering an Opening Special Package that starts at RM368++ for Hillview Deluxe and RM418++ for Seaview Deluxe, valid from Sept 19 until Dec 18, 2009.

These packages include accommodation for one night, breakfast for two adults and two children (below 12 years old) and a Limited Edition Platinum Record Souvenir.

“To celebrate the opening of this hotel, we are offering the Opening Special to allow everyone to walk this journey of entertainment, fun and music with us. It’s more than just a vacation at Hard Rock Hotel Penang,” said Hard Rock Hotel Penang general manager John Primmer.

Located at the famous Batu Ferringhi in Penang, Hard Rock Hotel Penang boasts 249 chic rooms and suites with unprecedented view of the hill and sea.

All rooms are fully equipped with DVD/CD players, a 32-inch LCD TV, iPod Docking station, Wi-Fi connectivity, IDD telephone, in-room safe, mini bar, hairdryer, coffee- and tea-making facilities and iron and ironing board.

For an exceptional dining experience, the hotel features five food & beverage outlets, including the famous Hard Rock Cafe serving authentic American food; Starz Diner, an all-day dining restaurant featuring Asian and International Cuisine; and the Pizzeria by the poolside. To enjoy a chill-out session, relax at The Shack pool bar or at the Lobby Lounge.

A wide selection of facilities are also available at the hotel, including the Rock Spa, Lil’ Rock Kids Club, Teens Club, a fully equipped gym, Hard Rock merchandise stores and a 2,416 sq m (26,000 sq ft) free-form swimming pool – the largest swimming pool in Penang.

So get ready to rock! For reservations, book online at www.hardrockhotels.net/penang or call the hotel’s toll-free line at 1800-88-ROCK (7625) and request for the Opening Special Package.

Hard Rock Hotel still has KL on radar screen:banana::banana:
By Marina Emmanuel Published: 2009/06/04



The opening of a Hard Rock Hotel in Kuala Lumpur will hinge on timing, the economic climate and 'our investment partners', says Hard Rock International president

THERE may yet be a Hard Rock Hotel in Kuala Lumpur as the brand owner is still confident of the potential of the capital city.

For now, the country's first Hard Rock Hotel, and the world's tenth, will be in Batu Ferringgi, Penang.

The RM150 million hotel will open its doors on September 19 and create 250 new jobs.

"The opening of our new properties, such as the one in Kuala Lumpur, will hinge on timing, the economic climate and our investment partners," Hard Rock International president and chief executive officer Hamish Dodds said.


Hard Rock International and Hotel Properties Ltd had eyed two to three properties in Kuala Lumpur, but the deals fell through.

"Kuala Lumpur, however, remains on our radar screen," Dodds said.

As for the Southeast Asian region, Hard Rock International may open hotels and casinos in Vietnam. Other potential hotel locations in Asia include Shanghai, Beijing and Tokyo.

"If the Japanese and Thai markets open for bona fide gaming, we are also keen to participate in these countries," Dodds told a media briefing in Penang.

The first Hard Rock Hotel in Asia opened in Bali, Indonesia, in 1998, followed by one in Pattaya, Thailand, in 2001.

Hard Rock International is also partnering Genting International, a unit of Genting Bhd, to set up a hotel on Singapore's Sentosa Island.

On a global level, Dodds said there are plans to open between five and six Hard Rock Hotels and 11 to 12 cafes a year.

"Some of these projects were initiated before the poor economic climate and we are still working on big international projects.

"Although we are concerned about the current business environment, the impact on us has not been severe."

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/6/5/north/hard2.jpg
Paying tribute to Rock 'n' Roll: even the bathrooms at the Hard Rock Hotel Penang have music themes.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/6/5/north/hard3.jpg
Rock on: The hotel will include its own Hard Rock Cafe.

can't wait to dine in there...

any latest pic???
i think dis gonna be a hit among 4reigners

Hard Rock Hotel in Batu Ferringhi will open its doors on Sept 19


GEORGE TOWN: Amid much excitement, the Hard Rock Hotel Penang in Batu Ferringhi finally unveiled its 5.5m (18ft) by 2.1m (7ft) giant guitar in front of the lobby entrance to signify that it will be opening soon.

Hotel general manager John Primmer said the giant guitar was what defines Hard Rock.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2009/8/4/nation/n_16hotel.jpg
In high spirits: The 200-strong staff posing for a group photo outside the hotel Monday.

“Almost everyone will identify this feature and it is something that is recognisable from afar,” he said during the unveiling ceremony at the hotel yesterday.

In addition to the giant guitar, both the hotel and the cafe will be filled with over 500 pieces of memorabilia of rock stars of different decades as in all Hard Rock establishments around the world.

Loud music was heard blasting through the speakers as about 200 hotel staff with face masks, face painting and balloons marched about 1km to the hotel after gathering nearby.

Primmer said that the hotel – the first Hard Rock Hotel in Malaysia – aimed to offer its staff more than just a job.

“Our mantra is ‘All Is One’ and here we are today, making their first day at work unforgettable,” he said to the cheers of the staff.

Red FM and Clarion were also on the island to give a shout-out on the opening and that the public could walk away with room stays at the hotel as well as goodie bags.

The hotel, which will open its doors on Sept 19, boasts 249 rooms and suites with good views of the hill and sea.

It is learnt that the Hard Rock International group had invested RM150mil for the new building and renovations at the site where the Casuarina Hotel once stood.

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs166.snc1/6210_117252519579_605794579_2380625_6285100_n.jpg

I hope that's not the final look. A far cry from the rendering.

Renderings are almost always artist impressions only, sadly.

Yea...but pleaseeee, at least have something comparable to Hard Rock Bali and Pattaya. If not, malu la.

Any pictures of those two so we could see the differences?

Isnt the hard rock brand so yesterday's news?

Isnt the hard rock brand so yesterday's news?

yeah..you're right..its just a hotel..not a city of the future...

^^ owh...thanks for the info people.

Hard Rock Hotel set to add RM10m to Penang economy
By Marina Emmanuel Published: 2009/08/22

http://www.btimes.com.my/articles/hr21/pix_topright

The opening of Malaysia's first Hard Rock Hotel in Penang next month is set to generate up to RM10 million for the island-state's economy.

Hard Rock Hotel Penang general manager John Primmer said the figure includes wages and spin-offs to local businesses, including transportation companies and an estimated 100 local vendors.

"We are planning to open three Rock Shop merchandise outlets (in the hotel), offering 150 items from t-shirts, caps, pins to Hard Rock souvenirs, and expect up to RM4 million in revenue from the sale of these items during our first year of operation," he told Business Times.

"These outlets are located at different parts of the hotel and each shop carries a different range of items," he said, adding that the Rock Shop by the main driveway to the hotel will allow convenience and access to the public who are not hotel guests.

The RM150 million Hard Rock Hotel Penang will open its doors on September 19 and has created over 200 jobs.

"Due to the brand and the concept of the hotel, we are looking at young information technology-savvy couples (30 per cent), families (30 per cent), older rockers (20 per cent), and the meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibition market (20 per cent) in terms of the markets we are targeting," Primmer said.

He added that while the concept that the Hard Rock brand carries remains, what makes the Penang property unique is that it will be the first Hard Rock Hotel with a beach front in the world.

"At the same time, it adapts a modern concept compared to the existing Hard Rock hotels outside of the US," he added.

The first Hard Rock Hotel in Asia opened in Bali, Indonesia, in 1998, followed by one in Pattaya, Thailand, in 2001.

The Penang property will be the 10th Hard Rock Hotel worldwide.

opening on 19-9-09
special opening rate - rm368 1nite wit breakfast 4 2..

Yea...but pleaseeee, at least have something comparable to Hard Rock Bali and Pattaya. If not, malu la.

the Pattaya one crap oso lah.

the Pattaya one crap oso lah.
yup.. i agree.. i think penang better than pattaya:nuts:

By Jieloe

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Wow. Nice. The landscaping could and should be improved a whole lot though.

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nice hotel:) but do they clean the room? u can see on the right side door of the wardrobe is dirty with fingerprints...lol:lol: ^^

Lol people are still into this passe Hard Rock cr*p?

^^

Lots of people think that they are too cool for the cliche-laden hard rock cafe, but passe crap or not.. you have to acknowledge that the level of awareness for hard rock brand is still very high. It is a a good brand that commands a huge fan around the world. There are plenty of people who make a point to buy a hard rock cafe merchandise (t-shirt, coffee mug, etc) when they visit a foreign city. To certain extent, a hard rock cafe is a tourist attraction on their own right. I won't be the main reason for people to visit Batu Ferringhi, but once they are there, it is something that they will make a point to visit.

waaa....nice

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Hard Rock Hotel, Penang
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been there... the hotel is too neat haha.
nice atmosphere in the cafe though..

man i can't wait to drop by next week!!

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Hallway of fame
By ALLAN KOAY


The newly-opened Hard Rock Hotel in Penang is a living museum of rock memorabilia.

WHEN I told a friend, who plays in a band, that I was off to Penang for a two-night stay at Hard Rock Hotel, the dude quipped: “Bring along an empty guitar case.”

“Why?” I asked.

“So that you can carry off a Les Paul with you before you check out,” he quipped.

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Rockin’ time: A mural of stars in Hard Rock Hotel Penang’s Cafe.

Of course, my friend was just kidding; he would never advocate theft. But such is the expectation when the name Hard Rock is mentioned – images of valuable and precious rock memorabilia are conjured. And here, credit should be given to Eric Clapton, the rock star who started it all by donating the first ever item in Hard Rock’s collection – an unsigned red Fender Lead II guitar.

Then, in a typical rock ‘n’ roll show of one-upmanship, Pete Townshend of The Who donated one of his guitars, with a note saying: “Mine’s as good as his! Love, Pete.”

That was in 1979. Today, Hard Rock has amassed what is regarded as “the largest and most valuable music memorabilia collection on the planet” – a total of 71,000 items to date. Or more accurately, 71,002, thanks to Hard Rock Hotel Penang. But more on that later.

The memorabilia items are spread out across all the Hard Rock Cafes and Hotels around the world, while some are also kept in a warehouse in Orlando, Florida (simply called Memorabilia HQ or The Warehouse). Hard Rock has a team that buys stuff at auctions while its cafes request donations of memorabilia from the stars themselves.

The biggest item in the Hard Rock collection is the Beatles’ Magical Mystery Tour bus, the five-tonne psychedelic bus used in the band’s 1967 film of the same name.

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Door handles in the shape of guitars, the quintessential instrument of rock and symbol for Hard Rock.

There are also some pretty bizarre stuff such as Gwen Stefani’s brassiere, Stone Temple Pilots’ Scott Weiland’s bullhorn (through which he sometimes sang), Elton John’s Visa card (expired in 2007!), Ray Charles’ Braille edition of Reader’s Digest, Bruce Springsteen’s handwritten note to his cook. and a police mugshot of The Doors’ Jim Morrison for his 1968 Las Vegas arrest (strangely, signed by the band’s keyboardist).

The Hard Rock Hotel Penang, which opened on Sept 19, boasts a collection of more than 500 items on display all around the hotel and in the Rockshops and Cafe.

In the lobby itself, there is a long glass display with items such as Elton John’s stage costume; one of The Supremes’ glittering dress; Jon Bon Jovi’s jeans, scarf and jacket; and various guitars, basses and more costumes from bands such as Canned Heat and Motley Crue. On every floor is a glass display of a costume and framed rare photographs all along the corridors.

On the VIP floor is a special room called the King’s Lounge, dedicated to the King of Rock n’ Roll himself, Elvis Presley, and blues master B.B. King. In that lounge can be found King’s guitar Lucille, and Presley’s famous red sweater.

Down at the Cafe, you can find Madonna’s famous biker hat and “pointy-breasts” costume, as well as Guns n Roses guitarist Slash’s top hat, among other stuff like drum sets and guitars from other rock stars.

Meanwhile, Hard Rock Cafe Kuala Lumpur, which opened 18 years ago, has about 110 pieces of memorabilia, including Jimi Hendrix’s silk jacket, Cheap Trick’s guitar and Gwen Stefani’s stage costume. The Cafe, completely refurbished, was relaunched on Nov 8 last year.

It’s all about the music, but wouldn’t you know, it all actually started with food.

Rockin’ all over the world

June 14, 1971, is a special date, not just for the Hard Rock chain but also for the music world in general. In an effort to bring American-style food to Britain, Americans Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton opened the first Hard Rock Cafe in London, near Hyde Park Corner.

From the very beginning, there was already the rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere, not just affordable food. Both Tigrett and Morton were music lovers. Incidentally, Morton’s former stepdaughter was Domino Harvey, the English bounty hunter/model who inspired the 2005 movie, Domino. And Tigrett later also founded House of Blues, the famous joint he created with actor Dan Aykroyd and designer James Cafarelli.

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A series of paintings by cartoonist/artist/actor Imuda on display at the lobby of Hard Rock Hotel Penang.

It wasn’t long before the cafe became known for more than just food, especially when Clapton donated his guitar and changed the initial decor of the restaurant. Eleven years later, Morton and Tigrett began their business expansion, and Hard Rock Cafes opened in major cities around the United States, as well as in Paris and Berlin in Europe.

Over the years, interests, properties and the brand itself changed hands, and in 2007, the Seminole Tribe of Florida acquired Hard Rock International Inc and other related entities.

Today, there are “157 venues in more than 52 countries around the world, including 127 cafes and 12 hotels/casinos,” according to Hard Rock’s official website.

And each venue is a “living museum” of rock memorabilia. So, not only is it about American cuisine and a rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere, the memories from throughout the history of modern music live on in the Cafes and Hotels. The Hard Rock chain is also the first themed restaurant chain in the world.

In 2006, Hard Rock International embarked on an ambitious project, the Hard Rock Park, a theme park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, that would include a huge arena for concerts and more than 40 attractions. It opened in April last year but closed and filed for bankruptcy six months later.

But the brand’s guiding philosophy of “Love all, serve all” and a faithfulness to the rock n’ roll sensibility continue to be observed, and have led Hard Rock to be closely associated with many music stars, both for philanthropic efforts and also for its growing collection of memorabilia.

Currently Jon Bon Jovi is helping to raise funds with a Signature Series T-shirt line for the Philadelphia Soul Charitable Foundation, now known as the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, a charitable group fighting poverty and homelessness.

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Beatlemania: The Beatles are everywhere in Hard Rock Hotel Penang, even on the rooftop facing the sea.

This month is also Pinktober, a campaign dedicated to breast cancer awareness.

Here, there and everywhere

Walk into the spanking new Hard Rock Hotel Penang in Batu Ferringhi and you will be greeted by ... music, of course. Apart from that, you’ll also be greeted by four busts representing the Beatles, at the front door.

Inside, you’re met once again by the Fab Four in a colourful mural next to the lifts. Further inside, next to the Starz Diner is a beautiful large mosaic mural of John, Paul, George and Ringo. Step out onto the beach and pool area, and you will see, standing atop one of the roofs, the Beatles once again, this time as bronze statues.

Nice to see the Fab Four everywhere, as if in celebration of the recent release of the remastered versions of their albums. A Beatles fan couldn’t be happier. But it’s understandable why the Beatles would be everywhere in Hard Rock Hotel, just as how Elvis has an entire lounge dedicated to him. After all, modern rock owes much to the Liverpudlian quartet, not just the music but also the lifestyle, image, persona and attitude of rock, a phenomenon captured perfectly by the Prefab Sprout song Electric Guitars.

And it is this irreverence, brashness and the celebration of individuality that is at the core of what Hard Rock stands for.

More than just the memorabilia and the live music, it seems that the entire Hard Rock design, concept and even its staff embody the essence of rock.

On my visit to the hotel, I caught sight of staff members dancing or strumming a guitar in the lobby and elsewhere. Go to the Hard Rock website’s corporate page, and you’ll be greeted with the words “Anti-established since 1971.”

Hard Rock Hotel Penang had put an ad in a newspaper and interviewed more than 2,300 people for 280 jobs, said its general manager John Primmer.

“We were looking for what’s on the inside,” he explained. “We’re not a ‘snobby’ chain. As for outward appearance, we weren’t intentionally looking for people who had big hair, earrings or tattoos. But we were looking for people who had something different inside, the right attitude, and who wouldn’t be scared to get up on stage in front of a crowd.

“We even asked some of them to dance! It wasn’t whether they could dance, but whether they were willing to have a go at it.”

But all talk inevitably leads back to the memorabilia, snapshots of the rock star life.

Things we saved today

On the last day of my visit, I was taken on an inaugural “memorabilia tour”, something that would be included as part of the hotel’s activities for guests in the future. My guide? A guy in a funny wig dressed like a member of Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.

When he talked about the Fender donated by Clapton in 1979, Aidrul Fathuddin Ahmad, also known by his rock star name Ai, launched into Tears In Heaven on his acoustic guitar.

There are still items being shipped to the hotel, Primmer told me. Every six or seven years, a whole new bunch of stuff will be brought in, and the current bunch shipped to other venues. This is the rotation system used for all the outlets.

“I was lucky enough to have a look through the warehouse (in Orlando) about a year ago,” said Primmer. “The Hard Rock team go to Christie’s auctions a lot, and a lot are donated by the artistes. But what’s important to these guys is that (the memorabilia) are all authentic. And they would process the appropriate documentation from the artistes to state that it is all authentic.”

But who determines which venue gets what?

“There’s a whole team of memorabilia people in Orlando,” said Primmer. “These guys will know a certain style of a hotel. If it’s more a resort (such as this hotel), then what suits this hotel might not suit the San Diego hotel, which is more of a corporate hotel.”

Security is not a problem, said Primmer. There are closed-circuit cameras everywhere in the hotel. But then, the shipments that come in containers do not have armed guards accompanying them. Still, these are valuable stuff.

“We keep a close eye tracking them and where they are at all times,” said Primmer of the shipments. “And the guys from Orlando do all the installations and everything. They take it very seriously. You see in some of the older Hard Rock Cafes, there’ll just be a guitar hanging on the wall. This (pointing to the framed items nearby) is the style of what they’re doing now, sort of the old-fashion frames and ... they’ve gone for a certain look. They’re very particular about the pieces, where they go, what mixture of genres we’ve got in the hotel.”

Indeed, everything now is framed, and costumes dressed on mannequins. But not everything is international though. There are some local flavours. For a start, the murals and mosaics, and even the giant guitar and statue of Michael Jackson in an armchair outside the hotel, were all created by local hands.

And over at the Hard Rock Cafe in the same building, are a pair of jeans and an acoustic guitar from local rock queen Ella, and a small drum and pair of drumsticks from singer/percussionist Zainal Abidin. All framed and signed, of course.

“We started back in June, we wanted to send the message to Malaysians and Singaporeans before we opened, that we support local artistes and the local industry,” said Primmer. “So it was just a phone call to them and they said yeah, they’d love to donate a couple of pieces.”

Ella and Zainal are the latest additions to the Hard Rock living museum. The collection will continue to grow.

And when you step out of the hotel, you will come face to face with an appropriate quote on a wall from Emerson, Lake & Palmer: “Welcome back, my friends, to the show that never ends.”

Fun in the sun


WHEN you’re in Hard Rock Hotel Penang, try this. Call up front desk from your room. Instead of the usual “How may I help you, sir?” greeting, this one answers you with: “How may I rock your world today, sir?”

It’s a bit of a shock to the system at first, but once you take it all in with the Hard Rock concept in mind, it’s not that strange anymore. When you sign your name on the dotted line upon registering at the hotel’s check-in counter, you won’t see the usual “Signature” on the form. Instead, it’s “Autograph”.

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Idyllic setting: Hard Rock Hotel Penang is located right on the beach in Batu Feringghi and boasts the largest swimming pool in Penang.

It’s the rock star life. But, of course, don’t throw the TV out of your hotel room window. Please leave that to Keith Richards or Alice Cooper.

Hard Rock’s hotel chain was a natural progression, another logical step in business expansion. “It just evolved, you know,” said John Primmer, general manager of Hard Rock Hotel Penang. “It’s like how some of these boutique hotel chains maybe started with a spa or something like that.”

Hard Rock Hotel Penang is the 11th in the chain, and one is being constructed in Singapore, due to open next year.

Two more in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will open in 2012. Hotels include Bali, Pattaya, Orlando, Chicago and San Diego; while Hotels and Casinos can be found in Macau, Las Vegas, Hollywood, Biloxi, Tampa and Tulsa.

The very first Hard Rock Hotel and Casino was in Las Vegas (built in 1995, and sold to Morgans Hotel Group in 2006), while Hard Rock Hotel Bali was the first in Asia.

The hotels in Bali, Pattaya and Penang are managed by Singapore-based HPL Hotels & Resorts which also manages the Concorde Hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Shah Alam, KLIA and Singapore.

Located on Batu Ferringhi beach, the 250-room Hard Rock Hotel Penang is right smack on the hotels-and-resorts trail along the seaside. Being a resort hotel, Hard Rock is naturally more than just a bed-and-breakfast place.

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The statue of Michael Jackson sitting in an armchair ala Lincoln in front of the Cafe was made in tribute to the late King of Pop.

While there is public transportation to take you into George Town or elsewhere, one can really “camp out” at the hotel and enjoy the many activities and facilities (spa, gym, pool). There are live music performances and movies down at the lobby at night, along with fire-eating and juggling shows. Or you can head to the cafe located within the building for more live music.

“We have a whole team of entertainment people,” said Primmer. “Their job is to go out and delight people, and then do something a little bit unexpected, whether it’s bellydancing or a fire show or some hip-hop dancing, or just putting on some crazy costumes and having a jam session. And we’ve bands going on all over the place. We like to mix it up.” – By Allan Koay

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the facade treatment and the lobby design is disappointing, dont hv the grand feeling of had rock hotel

The place to rock ‘n’ roll
Wednesday October 28, 2009

THE Hard Rock Cafe Penang, the franchise’s second outlet in Malaysia, was officially opened on Saturday night with a grand celebration.

Located at the Hard Rock Hotel Penang, the rock ‘n roll-inspired cafe marked its opening with a customary guitar-smashing ceremony by Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, Palmco Hotels Sdn Bhd chairman and co-owner Tan Sri Syed Yusof Syed Nasir and hotel general manager John Primmer.

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Lim (left) and Syed Yusof (second right) reacting after Lim smashed a guitar
- a Hard Rock tradition - during the official opening ceremony of Hard Rock
Hotel on Saturday night.

Lim felt honoured that Penang is now the newest member of the Hard Rock fraternity, in line with the state’s vision to brand itself quality, reliability, sustainability and integrity.

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Malaysian rock Queen Ella wows the crowd at the launching ceremony.

“I’m just bowled over that a brand name which took years to build is now in Penang. The Hard Rock Cafe Penang will be a mecca to all party-goers in the region, where lots of great fun await,” Lim said.

Tan Sri Syed Yusof said it had been an exciting journey since the first Hard Rock Café opened in Kuala Lumpur in 1991, and the opening of the Penang outlet marked an important milestone for lovers and supporters of the brand worldwide.

He added that the concept café would bring a new image to Penang, and hopefully give tourism a welcome boost.

Adding to the festivities were lion dance and drum performances, a Hard Rock merchandise show and performances by Malaysian rock stars Ella and Zainal Abidin. The VIP guests were also treated to a fine line up of classic American fare and the café’s signature beverages.

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Models lining the stairway in Hard Rock merchandise.

Also present to grace the occasion were the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj and Star Publications (M) Bhd executive director Tan Sri Kamal Hashim.

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the facade treatment and the lobby design is disappointing, dont hv the grand feeling of had rock hotel

ON the contrary, I quite like the facade :yes:

I even liked the old Casuarina's facade which have a very retro feel (60s and 70s) to it and I am glad that Hard Rock kept it that way and extend its retro look to the entire hotel. As for the lobby I have no comment as I haven't been there personally. However I like that LED cum fiber optic lighting of the Hard Rock logo.

I've seen the Bali Hard Rock when I was there and it was nothing more impressive than the one in Penang. I supposed their design is not supposed to be 'grand' but 'personal and engaging'. ;)

Sze, ur opinion is same as mine! :D

hehe dont comment so much negative ler..at least this one is far better than Casuarina that i used to stay before..
hard rock hotel brand name is at least far better than Ah Long Hotel anywhere somewhere...

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^^

feeling macam kat Los Angeles...or Vegas..

luv the design.

Is there anyone that could help me get the floor plan of the hotel? im sorry if i'm a bit crude but i need it so badly for my project and i'm not in penang now. anyone with details could you please pm me? i'm desperate. thank you in advance! :(

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wow!!! so cool!

Hard Rock Hotel Penang is proud to be honoured the Top 10 Trendiest Hotel in Asia on TripAdvisor 2011 Travellers’ Choice Awards, ranked at Number 3.

http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/1/27/central/7861640&sec=central

Hard Rock Hotel Penang is proud to be honoured the Top 10 Trendiest Hotel in Asia on TripAdvisor 2011 Travellers’ Choice Awards, ranked at Number 3.

http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2011/1/27/central/7861640&sec=central

Congrats!!!

Some pictures i took when i stayed there in August 2010:
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View from room:
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Vrooms how did u find your sta? Was thinking of whether to give it a try

Vrooms how did u find your sta? Was thinking of whether to give it a try

I think its a great hotel.:) I too was also thinking of going back to visit this year......................

Vrooms how did u find your sta? Was thinking of whether to give it a try

I stayed here for 2 weeks in November/December and it was pretty good! The worst thing about it IMO was breakfast which was like feeding time at the water hole!! So many people in such a small area, all rude and trying to push in to get food ASAP.

^^ Yeah the coffee house is pretty small.............But the spread is quite reasonable.:) I think the big al fresco area with only a few tables is such a waste. I wonder why they didnt add more tables there so that it wont be so cramped up inside.

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stayed there for two nights 2 months ago...all i can say is that they have great facilities....great pool...service a little slow though

stayed there for two nights 2 months ago...all i can say is that they have great facilities....great pool...service a little slow though

agree i love it!!!!:)

Hard Rock Hotel Penang Wins Best Luxury Beach Resort Award
Friday, 14 October 2011
Hard Rock Hotel Penang in Malaysia has been named a Country Winner in the Luxury Beach Resort category at the recent 2011 World Luxury Hotel Awards in Croatia.

“To receive this award against other prestigious hotel chains around the world is an honour and an awesome recognition for Hard Rock Hotel Penang,” says John Primmer, General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Penang. “It’s a true testament to our ongoing efforts and commitment to consistently deliver the best holiday experiences for our guests.”
“Service standards and guest experience are our utmost priority and we strive to continuously exceed the expectations of our guests in every aspect of their stay. We ensure that our guests have a great time and an overall rocking experience throughout their stay with us; and this is delivered via a number of ways including highly personalised services, guest recognition and the close attention to detail we provide, among many other deliverables.

“Without the support of our dedicated and innovative team, this award would not have been possible. A win such as this certainly reassures us that we’re on the right path.”

The World Luxury Hotel Awards recognises and celebrates the world’s finest hotels committed to the highest standards of service. It is all about congratulating hotels that have taken the extra step by providing their guests with outstanding experiences and as such proven to be part of the “very rare legendary hotel” association.