The LimeTree Hotel

Glass facades are modern at this 2009-opened property, where a location by the Jalan Abell crossroads is great for the nearby Chinatown and Waterfront Esplanade, though expect traffic noise. Named by lime plantation owners, the hotel is centered around their passion for the fruit, with the lime theme everywhere-- from citrus-toned wall panels, rugs, and furniture, to lime-scented toiletries in rooms, and the welcome lime drink. The lobby's open-play layout consists of clean lines, brown-leather armchairs, and an all-day cafe, where blond woods and frosted glass are simple, but upbeat. More popular, on account of its city views, the Limelight Rooftop Lounge has indoor seating and a pleasant, green-colored terrace. Modern comforts are low-frills and limited here -- there are no wellness or kids' amenities -- but meeting rooms and parking are useful, and a boutique selling lime products and Sarawak souvenirs is surprisingly well-priced. Note, elevators don't reach the basement parking lot.

The hotel's junction setting renders it prone to traffic noise, but it's location just outside of Kuching's main hub keeps rates low. It's an excellent pick for foodies, as the Pandungan Chinatown district begins a three-minute walk away, and numerous cheap and upscale eateries stretch for many blocks. Walks take 15 minutes for the Waterfront Esplanade and Bazaar -- a riverside stretch of bars, restaurants, narrow streets selling handicrafts, and malls. The nearest, 12-story Tun Jugah Shopping Centre is five minutes on foot. Kuching translates to "cat", and the Cat Museum is a seven-minute walk away, while temples are a little farther. The hotel's lime-colored shuttle runs to most attractions for a fee. Kuching International Airport is an 18-minute drive.

Straightforward rooms have contemporary decor, outfitted in laminate wood floors, dark-wood furniture, cream walls, and pops of the hotel's signature lime hue in bed throws, bubble-print tea trays, and bathroom packaging. Entry-level Superior Rooms lack windows, although they're actual more spacious than upgraded Deluxe Rooms, which have natural daylight. Unfortunately, many past guests have complained of traffic noise reaching rooms.Eco-friendly practices mean free mini-coolers are on request in lower-category rooms, although they come standard in Executive Rooms and Suites. These upgraded units have slippers, robes, better views, larger work spaces, seating areas or full living rooms, and safes, although reception can store valuables for units lacking them. Rooms span 205 to 344 square feet (19 to 32 square meters). Family units offer two bedrooms and a pantry kitchenette, although it's not suitable for cooking.Phones, desks, international adaptors, bottled water, kettles for tea- and coffee-making, flat-screen TVs, and AC come standard. Bathrooms in glossy white tiling have large, walk-in rainfall showers (plus separate soaking tubs in Suites), wall-dispensed toiletries, and hairdryers. Crib fittings and Wi-Fi are free, but the latter is often unreliable.

Features aren't extensive here (there are no pool, gym, or anything for kids), but the on-site dining covers the basics. Free breakfasts are all-you-can-eat, offering Malaysian noodle and rice dishes, banana fritters, and limited Western options. The homemade lime marmalade is particularly popular. Alongside all-day meals, breakfasts are served in the ground-level Cafe Sublime. Its lightweight white and green furniture has a low-frills IKEA look, and the space is bright and welcoming. Guests often head to the rooftop bar in the evening (it opened at 5 p.m. during out visit), where city views are good. A lovely protected outdoor terrace has relaxed seating, green flooring, and lime trees. It serves the cafe's local and international a la carte meals, alongside beverages, including lime cocktails and mocktails.The hotel has two meeting rooms and a 24-hour business center. The lobby-level boutique sells well-priced Sarawak souvenirs, plus a range of lime-themed goods. Shuttles (at a fee), free parking, and free Wi-Fi throughout complete features.