L Homestay: Gaya Street & Jetty Views - KK's BEST Jesselton Quay Stay!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive HEADFIRST into the swirling, vibrant, and occasionally baffling world of L Homestay: Gaya Street & Jetty Views – KK's BEST Jesselton Quay Stay! This ain't your dry, corporate hotel review, this is me, spilling the beans (and maybe a little bit of Sabah sunshine) on my experience.
First things first: The Big Picture - Is it any good? YES! Seriously, from the get-go, this place oozes potential. The "Jetty Views" part isn't just marketing fluff; you're talking postcard-worthy sunsets, the gentle lapping of the sea… the kind of stuff that makes you briefly forget you're a complete mess of a human being.
Accessibility (or, Can a Klutz Survive Here?)
Okay, so I’m not exactly a ballerina. My coordination is…well, let’s just say I’ve tripped on air. So, I always perk up when they mention ease of access. I'm happy to say that there is an elevator, which is crucial, especially if you're lugging a suitcase the size of a small car (guilty!). I didn't personally check, but the mention of "Facilities for disabled guests" is a huge plus. Wheelchair accessible is a big win too. I just hope they have grab handles in the shower. It goes a long way.
Internet, Internet, Internet! (Or, How I Avoided a Digital Breakdown)
Let's be real, in this day and age, Wi-Fi is a basic human right, right? Thank goodness, because at L Homestay, you're covered: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Praise the digital gods! And, just in case you're a total Luddite who prefers cables (or you’re old school, like me), they also offer Internet [LAN] and Internet services. The Wi-Fi in public areas was surprisingly decent too. I’m a blogger, so connectivity is essentially my life force. And I’m happy to say, I didn’t experience any catastrophic download failures while there. Phew!
Cleanliness and Safety (Because, You Know, Pandemic)
Okay, the post-COVID world has made us all germaphobes to varying degrees. So, a clean hotel is basically non-negotiable. L Homestay seems to be taking this seriously. They boast Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, and even Sterilizing equipment. Honestly, it felt…reassuring. And not just that, they also have Front desk [24-hour], CCTV in common areas & outside property, Fire extinguisher, Hotel chain, Non-smoking rooms, Smoke alarms, Soundproof rooms, Safety/security feature, Security [24-hour]. I felt safe and sound.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Or, My Stomach’s Guide to Happiness)
Alright, let’s talk about the important stuff: food. This is where things get interesting. While not a culinary palace, L Homestay offers a decent range. There are Restaurants, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Bar, Poolside bar, Soup in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, Snack bar, and Room service [24-hour]. And the Asian cuisine in restaurant, and International cuisine in restaurant options were surprisingly good. I was particularly fond of the Happy hour, after a long day in the sun. The Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service was okay – definitely serviceable, with Asian breakfast, Western breakfast, and Buffet in restaurant, but don't expect gourmet. I was happy to see they did have some Vegetarian restaurant options. I do have to say I particularly enjoyed the Coffee/tea, it kept me buzzing!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Or, Did I Actually Leave the Room?)
Okay, so here's where L Homestay really shines. They've got Swimming pool [outdoor] & Pool with view, Gym/fitness. The views from the pool are genuinely stunning, it really helps you unwind. There's also a Spa/sauna, Sauna, Spa, Steamroom, Massage, Foot bath and Body scrub & Body wrap. It’s a true getaway.
Services and Conveniences (Or, The Little Things That Make a Difference)
Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty. This is where L Homestay tries to make your life easier. They’ve got Air conditioning in public area, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, Outdoor venue for special events, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center, and Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service, Valet parking. The Daily housekeeping was a lifesaver, I didn’t have to lift a finger to make my bed! And thank goodness for the Laundry service, because I can't be trusted with a washing machine.
For the Kids (Or, Is This Family-Friendly?)
Okay, so I don't have kids. But the fact that L Homestay offers Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal is a definite plus for parents.
Available in all rooms (Or, The Essentials to Survive)
Right, now let’s unpack what you’ll find inside your room. You get the standard stuff, which is fine. They have Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Blackout curtains, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], and a Window that opens. I'm happy to report it had a desk where I could work, a refrigerator for my snacks, and, praise the Lord, Air conditioning to save me from the Sabah heat.
The Quirky Anecdotes (Or, My Hotel Mishaps)
Okay, here's where it gets real. Picture this: me, trying to navigate the maze-like hallways after a particularly potent cocktail by the poolside bar. Let's just say, I briefly mistook the fire escape door for the bathroom. Oops. But hey, the staff were super understanding (and probably used to it!).
Speaking of the staff, they were generally lovely and helpful. One time, I was desperately searching for a local snack (because, you know, research purposes). A receptionist not only helped me find a nearby shop but also gave me some insider tips on what to try.
The Verdict
Look, L Homestay isn’t perfect. Nothing is. But, for the price, location, and overall vibe, it's a winner. It’s clean, comfortable, and offers a great base for exploring Kota Kinabalu.
My Offer (The Only Reason You're Still Reading!)
Okay, here’s the deal. Book your stay at L Homestay now and get:
- (A) Free upgrade to a room with a sea view (subject to availability) - Trust me, that view is worth it!
- OR (B) A complimentary cocktail at the poolside bar upon arrival. - You deserve it after your travel!
- PLUS (C) A free map of Kota Kinabalu with all my favorite hidden gems marked! - Because, trust me, you need them.
Why book now? Because those sunset views are calling, and you don’t want to miss out! Click that book now button, pack your bags, and prepare for a Sabah adventure. You'll be glad you did!
Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Rustic Farmhouse Awaits in the Netherlands!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned tour itinerary. This is… well, this is my chaotic, probably slightly sweaty, Kota Kinabalu adventure. We're starting at L Homestay Jesselton Quay, near Gaya Street and the Jetty. God help us.
Day 1: Arrival – Kota Kinabalu's Hot, Humid Hug (and a Big Question)
14:00 - 15:00: Arrival and Face-Plant Into Relief. Arrived at the airport, sweat already beading on my forehead. Malaysia's welcome hug is intensely humid. Finding an airport taxi - success! Getting to L Homestay Jesselton Quay - success! Finding the actual room- uh oh. Tiny. Cozy. Let's just say the pictures online lied a little. I unpack, change into something resembling a slightly less embarrassing version of myself, and the overwhelming question hits me: Did I bring enough deodorant? (Spoiler alert: probably not.)
15:00 - 17:00: Exploring the Jesselton Quay (and the Quest for the Perfect Coconut). Okay, taking a deep breath. The Jesselton Quay itself is buzzing. Boats everywhere, people haggling, the air thick with the smell of… well, delicious things being cooked. I aim to find my bearings. And maybe a coconut. Finding the perfect coconut becomes my mission. The first one I taste? Lukewarm. Damn. I need to find a better one. This is important, okay? My whole Kota Kinabalu experience might hinge on my ability to locate the perfect coconut.
17:00 - 18:30: Gaya Street Wanderings and Food Coma Initiation. Time to hit Gaya Street. I am picturing street food heaven, and I'm not wrong. So many smells! So much chaos! I stumble across a Chinese restaurant and I am suddenly overwhelmed. I try the dim sum. It's divine. I eat so much that I actually have to sit on a roadside bench for a while, wondering if I’ve accidentally eaten my body weight in dumplings. (I probably have.)
18:30 - Onwards: Sunset at the Waterfront and the Worst Nasi Goreng Ever. The waterfront is stunning at sunset, even with a million other tourists scrambling for photos. It’s…romantic, I guess? Until I stumble into a restaurant that serves what can only be described as "nasi goreng with a side of disappointment." Okay, maybe the food coma from the dumplings numbed my taste buds, but this was bland. My first culinary failure. Damn. I'll chalk it up to experience… and spend the rest of the night pondering if the coconut quest will be a bust too.
Day 2: Island Hopping – Paradise Found (and Lost and Found Again)
08:00 - 09:00: The Boat Nightmare. I'd had a plan to get to one of the islands. I’d hoped to get up early, grab breakfast, but I hit snooze until I am rushing, and by the time I get to the jetty with the ticket, the boat is about to leave without me. The ticket lady is so unhelpful. The chaos is intense, and I'm genuinely convinced I'm going to drown in my own sweat. But hey, at least got on a boat, eventually.
09:00 - 13:00: Sapi Island & Snorkelling. Paradise, Kinda. Okay, Sapi Island is beautiful. THE water. The turquoise water. I mean, it's basically a postcard. I snorkel and OMG. The fish are absolutely ridiculous! So many colors and species! The sun, the water, and the fish take my breath away. I think I might actually cry. Then, the sun starts to hit me hard, and I miss my suncream application. Now I remember the horrors of sunburn.
13:00 - 14:00: Lunch, Sand, and the Search for Shade. The island gets crowded really fast. Finding shade is now life or death. Lunch is… well honestly? overpriced and a bit of a letdown after the snorkeling triumph. It's just okay and the sand is HOT. But hey, I can't stay disappointed.
14:00 - 16:00: Back to the mainland, a Brief Moment of Regret. Back to the mainland. Sunburnt. Overwhelmed by a mix of joy and exhaustion. I'm not sure how many more boat rides I can handle, let alone how to apply sunscreen.
16:00 - 19:00: The Coconut Hunt… Continues. I go back to the Jesselton Quay. I try another coconut. This time…it’s better. Not perfect, but close. Progress! Maybe my Kota Kinabalu mission isn't doomed, after all. More snacks. More relaxing.
19:00 – Late: Dinner, and "Are You Sure About This?" Moment. I have dinner. I'm thinking of trying to go to the night market. The heat is relentless. I look in the mirror and see a pink, slightly dazed, version of myself. This is so far from luxurious. Maybe that’s part of the charm. (I’m saying that to convince myself!) Am I having fun? Yes. Am I a mess? Absolutely. The night market calls and by 11 PM I'm completely zonked from the day, but I can say I have explored.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion (and More Food)
09:00 - 11:00: Atkinson Clock Tower & City Exploration. The Atkinson Clock Tower gives me a great view of the city and a sense of perspective. It's pretty. Historical. I pretend to be very cultured. I walk around town, and appreciate the architecture, the people, the general vibe.
11:00 - 13:00: The Sabah State Museum: I go to the museum. So many things to learn. Some things you will hear people say. I feel as if I only experienced the tip of the iceberg.
13:00 - 15:00: Food, Food, Food. More eating! I try laksa! So many flavors. The food is good; I realize how much food Malaysia has to offer.
15:00 - 18:00: Handicraft Market and Souvenir Shenanigans. The Handicraft Market is a sensory overload! So many things to buy, so many people trying to sell you them! I end up buying a ridiculously patterned shirt that I will probably only wear once. It's perfect!
18:00 – Late: Farewell Dinner & Packing with Despair. I have a bittersweet goodbye dinner. The entire time I'm thinking that I don't want to leave. The amount of sweat is real and so are my emotions. Packing my bag. Not enough space. This time I will take more photos.
Okay, So…
This isn't a perfect itinerary. It's got more than a few imperfections. This is probably the most honest and human itinerary you have ever seen. But it's mine. And despite the sweat, the sunburn, the questionable nasi goreng, and the coconut quest, I'm going to miss this chaotic, beautiful mess called Kota Kinabalu. I will come back. Probably. And I will try and find the perfect coconut. Maybe.
Escape to Paradise: Chalet Sauna & Spa in Aalst, Netherlands!
L Homestay: Gaya Street & Jetty Views - KK's BEST Jesselton Quay Stay?! (Let's Get Real)
Okay, spill. Is this place ACTUALLY as amazing as the pictures? Because, let's be honest, online photos LIE.
Alright, deep breaths. The pictures? They aren't *completely* lying. The view from the balcony? Spectacular. Seriously, the sunsets? Forget about it. Instagram gold. First night, I actually just stood there, jaw agape, watching the sky bleed into the sea. Pure bliss. But... and there’s always a but, isn't there? The photos are REALLY GOOD at hiding the… well, the *human* elements. The slightly worn couch? Yeah, the photos don’t show it, but you’ll get comfy on it pretty quick. The slightly wonky water pressure in the shower? Yeah… that’s there. Still, view is EVERYTHING.
The location...Gaya Street & Jetty Views? Tell me more about actually *being* there. Like, the *vibe*.
Okay, so *vibe*. Gaya Street itself? Absolute chaos, in the best way possible. Especially on Sunday market day! Think food vendors yelling, people jostling, and a general sense of happy mayhem. I'm not usually a "markets are my jam" person, but even *I* got swept up in it. Ended up buying some weird fruit that was exploding with juice EVERYWHERE (lesson learned: don't wear white). The jetty? That's your gateway to the islands. Boats are constantly coming and going, the air smells of salt and diesel (it’s charming, trust me!), and you can grab a ferry to paradise. It's buzzing, it’s alive, it’s… well, it’s Kota Kinabalu! This spot is great for a quick and easy adventure.
Cleanliness - let's be real, how clean is it, *really*? I am a bit of a germaphobe...
Okay, I'm going to be brutally honest because I am also… well, I wouldn’t say a germaphobe, but I definitely notice things. The place is *generally* clean. I mean, it's not sterile. You might find a stray dust bunny or two. The kitchen was good and well-equipped; the bathroom was clean (ish), but look, it’s not a five-star hotel. Just keep your expectations realistic. Bring some Clorox wipes if you're super worried. I did, and felt better for it. But overall, it was well maintained.
Okay, the view. Let's talk about the view. Is it like, *actually* worth it?
The view? WORTH. IT. Seriously. First night, I was exhausted from traveling, grumpy, and ready to complain about everything. Then I walked out onto that balcony. The sun setting over the water, the boats bobbing, the colors… I completely forgot I was tired, forgot I was hangry, forgot everything except being in that moment. Okay, maybe I made myself a snack because hunger is a real thing, but the VIEW. You gotta go early to grab the view before sunset!!! The balcony is the REAL HERO.
What about the noise? You're in the city... Is it loud all night?
Well, yes, you're in a city. So yes, there's some noise. It's not like ear-splitting, can't-sleep-at-all noise, but you'll hear traffic, the occasional motorbike… and people. Yes, people. If you're a light sleeper, bring earplugs. If you can sleep through anything, like me, it's fine. But it *is* a city. What did you expect, silence? Crickets? You'll get used to it. Honestly, after a day or two, I barely noticed.
What else is in the Homestay? (Amenities etc.)
Okay, the basics are covered: kitchen with a fridge (essential for keeping your water cool in the heat!), a washing machine (THANK GOD!), air conditioning (another godsend!), and Wi-Fi that… mostly works. It wobbles a bit sometimes, so don't expect to stream HD movies all day. But for checking emails, social media, and planning your next adventure, it’s perfectly fine. The kitchen? Fine. The TV? I didn't even turn it on! WHY WOULD YOU WHEN YOU HAVE THAT VIEW? But yeah, all the practical stuff is there.
Is it easy to get around from there?
SUPER easy. Walking, taxis, Grab (the local Uber). Everything is right there. You can walk to the market, to restaurants, to the jetty… it’s all within a short distance. I walked everywhere! I like to think I saved a lot of money and got to see more of the local life. You can get to the islands easily. The area is very accessible and centrally located, so getting around is a breeze.
Any tips for future guests? Like, what to bring, where to go, etc.?
Okay, future guests, LISTEN UP:
- Bring: Earplugs (if you're a light sleeper!). Mosquito repellent! Seriously, the little buggers are relentless. A reusable water bottle (stay hydrated in that heat!). And your camera! Duh!
- Do: Head to the Sunday market on Gaya Street. Eat ALL the food. Take a boat trip to the islands (Sapi Island is fantastic, but get there early!). Watch the sunset from your balcony (obvious!). Try the seafood.
- Don't: Be afraid to haggle at the market (respectfully!). Overpack. Worry about being perfect. Just enjoy the experience!
Okay, so, overall? Would you recommend it?
Look, the world is not perfect. Nothing’s perfect. And L Homestay isn't perfect. But its got a lot of soul. That view? It's worth any minor inconvenience. The location is fantastic. It's really good value for the money. It’s a great base for adventures. I had a fantastic time. Did I mention the view? Yes, I would definitely recommend it, especially if you like a little bit of chaos with your amazing sunsets.
