The Forbes annual awards and ratings was started in 1958, called the Mobil Travel Guide. 60 years later, we have the Forbes Travel Guide 2019 Star Awards. They claim to be the only independent global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas. Curious to see which local hotels made the list, we sniffed around. We’re happy to share that three of our very own hotels in Malaysia were Star Award recipients. Read all about them and why they made it to the Forbes Travel Guide 2018 Star Awards list below.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur

It comes as no surprise that The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur that is frequented by international and local VIPs and royalty made the list. Its elegant European-inspired design with cozy lounges in subdued palettes seem to have done the trick. Of course, the rooms at this Ritz-Carlton is worth a visit on their own. And then, there are their fabulous restaurants – The Cobalt Room, Li Yen, The Lobby Lounge, The Patisserie, and The Library.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur also has their own spa called Spa Village Kuala Lumpur. Pre or post-treatment, guests can lounge by the poolside. Another highlight the Forbes team picked up is the air-conditioned walkway that connects the hotel to Starhill Gallery, a high-end shopping mall.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur, 168 Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur

Maxims at Resorts World Genting

Interestingly, a stay at Maxims is exclusive to casino guests and Genting Rewards Card members (Gold and above) only. Their fine-dining restaurant options however are open to the public, and include Ming Ren and Imperial Rama. Room types range from 325 square-foot Premier units to three-bedroom Belgravia palaces, which feature lush greenery and a vertical garden.

For the active, an indoor heated swimming pool is located right beside e18hteen, an all-day dining venue. Guests who are looking for an all-in-one experience will enjoy the multiple shopping, dining, and entertainment options that are all connected.

Maxims at Resorts World Genting, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang Darul Makmur

Genting Grand at Resorts World Genting

Travelers looking for a luxury retreat outside KL can consider this Forbes recommendation. The Genting Grand hotel is situated at the top of the entertainment complex, a good accommodation option for those who want some peace in between slot machine game time.

Contrary to previous stay experiences in Genting Highlands, guests of the Genting Grand can look forward to spacious rooms and bathrooms. In fact, there are double vanities, separate soaking tubs, and showers for ultimate peace and quiet. If that’s not enough for you, the hotel’s own M Spa will see that you get the R n’ R you need via a pampering session.

Genting Grand at Resorts World Genting, 69000 Genting Highlands, Pahang Darul Makmur