Welcome to the Singgahsana Lodge!
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About Us
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| Singgahsana Lodge Reception, Lounge & Cafe | |
As passionate travellers, it is our dream to own a little sanctuary at home where we can travel vicariously through hosting fellow travellers and to share travel tales with. ‘Singgahsana’ is the fulfilment of this dream.
Having stayed in every sort of accommodation imaginable worldwide from the immaculate to the appalling, singgahsana is our version of the ideal home away from home.
During our ‘shoe string’ travels, rarely do we get to experience the essence of the destination within our lodging spaces except for the odd night where we splurge and check into a luxurious heritage hotel. As avid art appreciators and owners of an art gallery, we attempt to infuse singgahsana with our touch of Sarawak Style. Our guests will know that they are in exotic Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo when they awake each morning to a room filled with unique local decor. Artefacts collected from the 30 or more ethnic tribes of Sarawak adorn each room and common area. Even the ubiquitous lamps of your room would have been cleverly made out of utilitarian baskets and the floor covered with rattan and bark mats.
Travel photographs decorate each wall bringing sweet memories of the many destinations we have or should travel to.
Regular travels abroad have made us appreciate our home even more. Sarawak's great diversity both in its peoples and its nature makes it totally unique. But above all these, our Bornean home is exceptionally special because of the warm hospitality of its people.
We hope to have the opportunity to make your stay in Kuching and Sarawak a memorable one.
About Kuching, Sarawak and Malaysian Borneo
The state of Sarawak is located in the northern strip of the Island of Borneo. It is the largest state in Malaysia and Sarawak houses one of the world's richest and most diverse ecosystems. Sarawak was famed as a land full of headhunters and longhouses lining lazy rivers. Contrary to these legends, Sarawak has since experienced rapid urban development especially in its major cities. It has emerged as a premier tourist attraction in the region, promoting its richness in culture, adventure and nature.
Despite its growth and development, the state of Sarawak still maintains its reputation as the most exotic state in Malaysia and Asia 's best kept secret. Rainforests of Sarawak are among the oldest in the world, boasting the Rafflesia - a plant the size of a coffee table, snakes that fly and bearded monkeys.
Kuching - Cat City of the World
Kuching, in the national language, means cat. This is accentuated by dozens of cat statuettes around the city plus a world-famous cat museum featuring statues, photographs and memorabilia gathered from all over the globe.
The capital city of Sarawak was famed in the early days as a river port ruled by legendary White Rajahs. The olden day stories of Kuching are enchanting, as acknowledged by the dozens of biographies and books published and screenplays written based on its rich history.
As the largest city in the state, Kuching is now a rapidly developing city, boasting a population of almost half a million. In the city itself, one can find bustling shopping hubs and eclectic buildings that consist of a mix of modern and post-colonial architecture. Within minutes of journey to its outer boundaries are magnificent mountains, unspoilt beaches and even an award winning "living" museum, the Sarawak Cultural Village .
Kuching's environment is safe and peaceful, its topography is free from earthquakes, tsunamis and other natural disasters with a wonderfully tropical climate that is full of sunshine.
Voted as one of the most livable cities in Asia in year 2000, Kuching remains one of the best kept secret of the region.
Coming from Kuching International Airport
1. Bus
The price for a ticket is RM1.60. Please note that Kuching bus drivers are not able to give you change, so you will need to get the exact fare before boarding the bus. You can get change from either the moneychangers or the newspaper/snacks stand in the domestic arrival halls of the Kuching International Airport .
Bus number and frequency:
Walking directions from General Post Office bus stop:
2. Taxi
It will cost you RM17.50 per ride to Singgahsana Lodge. Simply purchase a coupon at the Taxi counter just right of the international arrival hall and make your way to the taxi (taxi's are red and yellow) outside. If he does not already know, inform the driver that singgahsana lodge is directly opposite the Harbour View Hotel along Temple Street.
Location: No. 1 Temple Street, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo
Strategically located along Temple Street in the heart of beautiful Kuching City, Singgahsana Lodge is only 20 steps from the famed Kuching Waterfront and 15 steps diagonally across from the oldest Chinese Tua Pek Kong Temple .
Straddled between the old and new quarters of the city, you could spend the morning walking along quaint narrow alleyways in old Kuching where tinsmiths noisily go about their work, spice and textile traders selling their merchandise and then spend the afternoon wandering around modern malls in new Kuching afterwards.
Tel: +60 (82) 42 92 77 Fax: +60 (82) 42 92 67 Email: info@singgahsana.com
Located in the heart of Kuching, most places of interest are minutes away on foot. However, you can find bus route just steps away from the front door, and taxis regularly pass by every day.
Q: Why singgahsana?
A: Because: we are 20 steps away from the famous Kuching Waterfront; we provide all the creature comforts and highest standards of hygiene every discerning traveller expects - our bathrooms and toilets are immaculately clean and customised to country club standards; we provide in-house email facilities, a comprehensive library, cable t.v.(only in the common areas), a cosy lounge area, access to international telephone and fax facilities. Security is paramount and all of Singgahsana Lodge is accessible only to in-house guests, guests are issued with access cards to the front door. Infused with our touch of Sarawak style, you will wake up each morning in your locally decorated air conditioned rooms fully aware that you are in magical Sarawak.
Q: Why is singgahsana different from other budget hotels?
A: We are a guest house as opposed to a hotel. For the uninitiated, nearly all facilities in a guest house are shared with other guests. At singgahsana, we encourage our guests to interact with each other to create a sense of warm and friendly camaraderie. Although facilities such as bathroom, toilets, lounge area, library, etc are shared, they meet the highest standards. All of these within a bright and tastefully decorated ambience.
Q: Are towels and bed linens provided?
A: Bed linens such as sheets, blankets and pillowcases are provided for every type of accomodation but towels are only provided for those occupying private twin-sharing or family rooms. Guests utilising dormitory beds may however rent towels at a nominal fee of RM2.00.
Q: What about shampoo and soap?
A: Hair & body shampoo is provided in all shower cubicles for all guests.
Q: Are we required to pay a deposit with each booking?
A: Yes to secure your bed or room you will be required to make a 30% non-refundable deposit with your booking. We will only hold rooms/beds for you upon receipt of this deposit.
Q: How do we pay this non-refundable deposit?
A: By banking into our account and or by way of credit card through our sister company. For the latter, you will be required to fill out and sign an authorisation form and fax this back to us complete with your details.
Q: Mode of payment for rooms/beds?
A: Cash in Ringgit Malaysia.
Q: Are the rates quoted nett?
A: Yes, inclusive of continental breakfasts.
Q: Can we smoke within the guest house premises?
A: Singgahsana is a smoke free zone. Guests who are smokers may indulge in their nicotine fix outside the singgahsana premises or at the outdoor garden balcony. RM50.00 fine for breaking this rule OR eviction with no refunds.
Q: Are there lockers in the dormitory rooms?
A: Yes.
Q: What you may NOT like about Singgahsana Lodge?
A: NOISE. We are in the centre of the city. You would hear cars and motorcycles speeding down the streets late at night especially during weekends. Bring your ear plugs if you are a light sleeper. The Chinese Theatre next to Singgahsana Lodge will have their occasional 'concert', we have no control over these events.
Q: What should I expect from Singgahsana Lodge?
A: We are NOT A FIVE STAR establishment, we are only a little guesthouse. We provide only the basic of the basics. So, if you have been recommended to stay with us, PLEASE DO NOT come in with high expectations. In any case, for things that are within our control, we will always try our VERY BEST to make your visit to Kuching a good one.
Q: I have more then 3 days in Kuching, how many nights should I book with Singgahsana Lodge?
A: We suggest 3 days maximum. Only just in case you do not like our set up or do not like us ;), in which case you would want to check out early and that means too that you would want your 'non-refundable deposit' back from us. In which case, you will be reminded that you were told that the 'non-refundable deposit' is such because 'we have reserved the room for you'. At this stage, the Guest would not listen to what we are saying and what do we do ..... ????
Q: What do I need to provide upon check in?
A: We require our Guest to fill in the guest registration form, to place a RM50.00 refundable deposit (for any lost or damages to your room/bed, keys, access card, towels or because we fine you for smoking in the premises), full payment of your room/bed in advance and the name of your room-mate (if any).
Q: What time is check-in and check-out times?
A: Check-in is at 1 pm and Check-out at 11 am.
Q: What if I lose or damage the keys, access card, towels or linen?
A: For lost/damaged keys: RM20.00, Access Card: RM30.00, Towel: RM20.00 & Linen: RM80.00
Q: What if we need an extra bed?
A: We charge RM30.00 nett (RM40.00 peak period) for an extra mattress on the floor BUT only subject to availability and space allowance. This will also include breakfast for the additional person.
Q: What if we want to arrange for late check out?
A: For check outs between 1 pm to 3pm we charge one-half of the room/bed rate and any check out after 3 pm we charge full room/bed rate BUT ALWAYS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. Having said that, if you have a late flight/bus/boat out, you are welcome to store your bags with us (at your own risk :)) and you are welcome to laze around in the common areas until when you have to say goodbye.
Q: What are Singgahsana Lodge's terms and conditions?
A: Please click on this link ... Singgahsana Lodge Terms & Conditions.
Q: Does Singgahsana Lodge has any other guesthouses in Kuching City?
A: NO, despite what people, establishments or the internet might tell you.
Q: What else should I have to be ready for?
A: To be toilet train? That is because we keep our toilet clean and dry always.
No. 1 Temple Street, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo
Phone: +60 (82) 42 92 77
Fax: +60 (82) 42 92 67
Email: info@singgahsana.com
Website: http://www.singgahsana.com
note:
If you are not within Malaysia - dial all the numbers
If you are outside of Kuching area, dial 082 followed by our number
If you are in Kuching, dial our number without any prefix.
Airlines
Tourism Info
Accommodations
Upcoming Events of Interests
Miscellaneous
| Characters | Biodata |
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Donald & Marina - Sarawak born and bred, Donald & Marina went to the mission schools of St Joseph 's and St. Teresa's and later pursued their tertiary education in Australia and England, respectively. Donald - holds a Sports Sciences Degree and spent 10 years as head of the State Sports Council's Sports Science Division. He was subsequently employed as the Operations & Activities Manager of the Sarawak Golf Club. Making a career change, ARTrageously Ramsay Ong - The Art Gallery was established as a partnership with his prominent artist uncle, Ramsay in 1999. Donald has since been at the helm of this expanding artistic business as the managing partner. Marina - read law at what is now London Metropolitan University and was called to the bar at Lincoln 's Inn. Subsequently making her way back to Asia, she spent a year in Singapore, was called to the bar there and then decided that Singapore was too 'glamorous' for her and returned home. Called to the bar of Sabah and Sarawak in 1993, she practiced law with a leading legal firm and rose to become a partner. Choosing to be answerable to no one but herself she set up her own legal firm and is currently the lady boss, which means she can travel when she likes. Traveling is a passion for Donald & Marina and between them they have covered most of Asia, Australasia, Europe and North America . Singgahsana lodge is a fruit of this passion and the fulfillment of a dream to host fellow travelers at home and to share travel tales. |
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Richard Foo - Affectionately known as 'Chard', Mr. Foo is the big brother for the young Singgahsana crew and oversees the day to day operations with sisters Nuzie & Rina. Sporting an elaborate range of tattoos featuring the name of his son Brandon, Chard is a hit amongst the youngest of Singgahsana guests (young Mia & Jake Cohen bears testimony to this). Like all Singgahsana-ers, he will go to great lengths to meet the needs of all Singgahsana guests including scouring about town at some unearthly hour to try shop for new clothes for a fellow traveler whose laundry cannot make it back on time. (Photo: Having fun with Brandon) |
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Nuzie & Rina a.k.a. 'sisters livewire' - Almost inseparable, these two livewires act as the pillars to the Singgahsana administration. Totally dedicated to ensure that all Singgahsana guests experience the best service, either Nuzie or elder sis Rina is always at the front desk to answer all of your queries. Service always comes with an infectious smile. |
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Shanti - Part timer Shanti is at the front desk most evenings. With a charming personality and excellent command of English, Shanti is the people to turn to if you need help between the hours of 6 to 10 p.m. most days. Ever friendly and willing to share her ‘2 cents worth’ on Kuching and Sarawak, she always looks forward to making new friends. If you’re extremely nice she might even cook you her wonderful curry… yummmmy. |
Dormitory (sleeps one per bed)
The Price per Bed per Person per Night is RM30.00* nett and includes:
- 10 Bedded Dorm Room Accommodation
- Bed Linen and Blanket
- Shared Hot and Cold Showers / Toilets
- Breakfast consisting of fruits (local varieties for you to try), bread/toast with a variety of spreads, orange juice, tea & coffee.
- Use of Safe Deposit Box
*RWMF Rates 10 to 14 July 2008: RM50 nett
Twin Bedroom with Shared Showers / Toilets (sleeps two in a room only)
The Price per Bedroom per Night is RM85.00* nett and includes:
- Two Single Beds
- Bed Linen and Blankets
- Shared Hot and Cold Showers / Toilets
- Breakfast for two consisting of fruits (local varieties for you to try), bread/toast with a variety of spreads, orange juice, tea & coffee.
- Use of Safe Deposit Box
*RWMF Rates 10 to 14 July 2008: RM118 nett
Twin Bedroom with Attached Shower/Toilet (sleeps two in a room only)
The Price per Bedroom per Night is RM95.00* nett and includes:
- Two Single Beds (not possible for beds to be placed side by side)
- Bed Linen and Blankets
- Ensuite Hot and Cold Shower / Toilet
- Breakfast for two consisting of fruits (local varieties for you to try), bread/toast with a variety of spreads, orange juice, tea & coffee.
- Use of Safe Deposit Box
*RWMF Rates 10 to 14 July 2008: RM125 nett
Family Bedroom with Shared Showers / Toilets (sleeps four in a room only)
The Price per Bedroom per Night is RM115.00* nett and includes:
- 2 Single Beds +1 Bunk Bed or 1 Queensize Bed + 1 Bunk Bed
- Bed Linen and Blankets
- Shared Hot and Cold Shower / Toilet
- Breakfast for four consisting of fruits (local varieties for you to try), bread/toast with a variety of spreads, orange juice, tea & coffee
- Use of Safe Deposit Box
*RWMF Rates 10 to 14 July 2008: RM150 nett
Family Bedroom with Attached Shower/Toilet (sleeps four in the room only)
The Price per Bedroom per Night is RM135.00* nett and includes:
- 1 Kingsize Beds & 1 Bunk Bed
- Bed Linen and Blankets
- Ensuite Hot and Cold Shower / Toilet
- Breakfast for four consisting of fruits (local varieties for you to try), bread/toast with a variety of spreads, orange juice, tea & coffee
- Use of Safe Deposit Box
*RWMF Rates 10 to 14 July 2008: RM175 nett
Double Bedroom with Attached Shower/Toilet (sleeps two in a room only)
The Price per Bedroom per Night is RM100.00* nett and includes:
- Queen Size Bed
- Bed Linen and Blanket
- Ensuite Hot and Cold Shower / Toilet
- Breakfast for two consisting of fruits (local varieties for you to try), bread/toast with a variety of spreads, orange juice, tea & coffee.
- Use of Safe Deposit Box
*RWMF Rates 10 to 14 July 2008: RM135 nett
Honeymoon Suite with Attached Shower/Toilet (sleeps two in a room only)
The Price per Bedroom per Night is RM125.00* nett and includes:
- Queen Size Bed
- Bed Linen and Blanket
- Ensuite Hot and Cold Shower / Toilet
- Breakfast for two consisting of fruits (local varieties for you to try), bread/toast with a variety of spreads, orange juice, tea & coffee.
- Use of Safe Deposit Box
*RWMF Rates 10 to 14 July 2008: RM168 nett
Please fill in the following form to reserve your accommodation.
Please Note that:
