Damai Beach Resort past its prime by Adrian

Damai Beach Resort has been a popular place for Kuchingnites to spend the weekend or other days away from Kuching city. The resort has been perceived to be a luxurious resort for many local and international tourists. It was the place to be when you need to have fun and relax. I have not stayed at the resort since the day Serene and I spent our honeymoon there. It was then managed by Holiday Inn part of the InterContinental Hotels Group until 2007 and was turned over to Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC).

Moving forward to 2013. I was appalled by the conditions of the resort as we happened to stay a night at the resort on Feb  17.  It is very sad that the place is no longer in pristine condition. It is way past its prime...!  The pool areas have cracked or broken tiles which are very hazardous to small children. The room we stayed has musky mold smell and the TV channels selection are limited to about 10. It is so ironic that we can continue to list more negative than positive things. Anyway, here  is the kicker. Anything that you break or would like to have extra will be either be fined or charged. It is no longer "THE" place to be. We felt like a "communist resort" with all the fees and fines in placed.

Fine warning near the shaving station

Extra charge reminder at the coffee and tea making station

Partial list of imposed fees/fines

Moldy corner (Bath tub)

Moldy spots at the soap holder

Unfinished spackling on the bathroom ceiling

Fortunately, the natural beauty of the beach is still there and we manage to enjoy by walking on the sand. We just hope the management would do something to return the resort to its former tip top condition that everyone used to remember. Holiday Inn Damai Beach Resort the place to be regardless of the re-branding changed.

Verdict: Not recommended unless they make drastic changes. 

P/s Just a note the breakfast buffet stations are messy, unhygienic and not constantly refilled.