Brick Box Hotel @ Oldtown Ipoh

The hotel is primarily celebrated for its prime location in the heart of Ipoh's old town, serving as an ideal base for sightseers and train travelers due to its close proximity to the railway station and popular attractions. Guests frequently commend the hotel's unique design and the generally friendly staff, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. However, a recurring point of contention among visitors is the consistent issue with non-functional televisions in rooms, often despite online listings, and a noticeable musty smell reported by many, impacting overall comfort. The hotel offers good value for budget travelers and provides a convenient, central spot for couples exploring the city. For families, the availability of larger rooms and an elevator is a plus. To ensure a smoother stay, guests should be prepared for the lack of working televisions and consider bringing their own charging adapters, as power outlets can be limited in some rooms.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides several convenient facilities to enhance guest stays. An elevator is available, which is particularly appreciated by those with heavy luggage or mobility concerns, offering easy access to upper floors. Guests can also benefit from fast Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the property, ensuring they remain connected. A communal water dispenser is provided, allowing guests to refill their bottles, which is a thoughtful touch. While electric kettles are present in rooms, some guests noted a lack of accompanying cups. Ironing facilities are available, typically located in a communal area like the ground floor or near the lift, requiring guests to share. Some rooms were found to have limited power plugs, which can be inconvenient for charging multiple devices. Toiletries are generally available upon request at the reception desk.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is mixed among guests. While some found their rooms to be clean and tidy, a significant number reported a persistent musty smell upon entering the hotel and rooms, with some even noting mold along bathroom edges or on air conditioning units. Room sizes vary, with many guests describing them as small or tiny, though family rooms can accommodate more people. The beds received varied reviews; some found them comfortable, while others noted them as lumpy or accompanied by miserable pillows. Bathrooms were sometimes praised for being spacious and clean, but concerns were raised about toilet door privacy and slow basin drainage. Noise levels, including water pressure sounds and external noise from a nearby nightclub or clock tower, occasionally impacted sleep. A major and frequently cited issue is the non-functional television in many rooms, often serving only as a display.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, placing guests directly in the heart of Ipoh's old town. It offers exceptional accessibility to numerous popular attractions, including Concubine Lane, various street art installations, and historical sites, all within easy walking distance. Guests also appreciate the immediate proximity to a wide array of cafes and eateries, making food exploration convenient. A significant benefit for travelers is the hotel's very close distance to the train station, providing seamless connections for arrivals and departures. While the location is ideal for exploring on foot, parking can be a challenge, with guests often finding it hard to secure a spot and recommending the use of a local parking application.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receive high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, with many guests highlighting their polite and accommodating demeanor. They are often described as responsive and willing to assist with queries. However, some guests encountered language barriers with certain staff members, which occasionally hindered communication. The check-in process received mixed feedback; while some found it quick and smooth, others reported inconsistencies, particularly regarding staff availability after certain hours. This sometimes led to self-check-in procedures, where room keys were left for guests. A few isolated comments mentioned issues with housekeeping not cleaning rooms during multi-night stays or staff being perceived as judgmental regarding requests. Overall, the staff's positive attitude is a recurring theme.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several specific details that enhance or impact their stay. A notable point is the hotel's approach to televisions; despite being listed online, many rooms feature non-functional units or no television at all, which is a frequent comment. Travelers should also anticipate potential late check-out fees, typically an additional charge for extending beyond the standard check-out time, and be prepared for separate tourism and city taxes upon arrival. Some guests expressed concerns about security due to the reception not being staffed 24/7, with keys sometimes left for late arrivals. Practical amenities like hairdryers are generally not provided in rooms, requiring guests to bring their own, and slippers are also not available.