PRIMALAND Port Dickson Resort & Convention Centre (PRCC)

It's far from a couples destination, but the PRIMALAND Port Dickson Resort & Convention Centre (PRCC) caters to a wide range of other guests, so long as they're not interested in drinking alcohol. Most guests are families, or groups of either leisure or business travelers making use of the substantial water park and event facilities. But much of the property looks a bit run-down, from the cracked pavement and peeling paint by the pools, to the discolored pool bottom, to the mold on the exterior of the of the buildings, to the general scruffy appearance of the landscaping and grounds. The common spaces could use renovation, and are filled with cheap wooden furnishings and budget decor. At the center of the property, a five-acre water park includes a man-made beach with a freeform pool, and numerous places for kids to run wild.Guests should note that the resort only manages some of the units on the premises, and the rest are occupied by owners or rented out. This setup can occasionally lead to some confusion from guests. 

The hotel is located at the 12th mile along the main coastal road that runs through Port Dickson. There's nothing within walking distance apart from the Royal Palm Springs Golf Club and its 18-hole course, right across the road. Regional attractions like the Tanjung Tuan Forest Reserve, Rachardo Lighthouse, and the popular Port Dickson Ostrich Farm are all within a 10-minute drive. Central Port Dickson, with its marina and seafood restaurants is  about a 24-minute drive away. Expect a 90-minute drive into Kuala Lumpur.

The hotel has 300 rooms and suites with tiled floors and plain, budget-style wood furniture. Layouts include studios, one-, or two-bedroom options, but all have separate living areas with flat-screen TVs, wet bars, electric kettles, and mini-fridges. Free Wi-Fi also comes standard, but can be unreliable. Most have bare yellow, orange, and/or cream walls with queen or twin beds. The simple tiled bathrooms have walk-in showers, and basic toiletries are usually provided. There are no hairdryers. Upgraded rooms and suites have a more contemporary decor with the addition of plush armchairs, small balconies, and bathrooms with shower/tub combos.Many guests complain of issues with cleanliness and maintenance -- issues such as broken showerheads, extremely low water pressure, or leaking toilets can occur. The AC is also an issue for many; guests can turn it on or off, but there is no remote for the temperature. Block A is facing the water park, so those who don't want to walk far may want to request a room here.

The main event here is the water park, spread across five acres with multiple water slides, waterfalls, and other interactive water features. It encompasses a large man-made beach with a freeform pool, hot tub, and numerous play areas, but there are very few sun loungers (and those that do exist could use replacement -- we noticed some ripped cushions). There are a kids' club and a big game room with arcade games and ping-pong tables, but many of the arcade machines are broken. There's a large outdoor area that's packed with games and activities similar to a small carnival. There's also basketball, volleyball, and bicycles available. Dining options include a Thai restaurant, a large buffet restaurant with local and international cuisine, and a cafe with an outdoor terrace. Food quality gets mixed reviews, and flies can be a nuisance at mealtimes. There's also a karaoke bar, but no alcohol is served. The hotel also has the largest ballroom in Port Dickson, with a capacity for up to 1,500 people, along with 16 multi-purpose function rooms can cater up to 400 guests.