THE Port Dickson beach hardly needs introduction; it is one of the most popular seaside spots along the West Coast. However, a setback there is the sight of a muddy beach, especially during low tide.
However, guests at the Avillion Admiral Cove all-suites hotel need not worry about the unsightly view.
"The good thing about this place is that one does not see the dirty side of the sea even during low tide.
Air of serenity: A serene ambience permeates the Admiral Marina and Leisure Club,
which shares same facilities with the Avillion Admiral Cove. (Photos: Salina Khalid)
"The marina is quite deep and the water is quite clean; in fact, one can see a variety of fish and and even spot the occasional seahorse from the pontoon," said the hotel's general manager, Thiang Yang Hian.
Located on the 5th mile of Jalan Pantai, the resort is the latest addition to the Avillion group of hotels. Built within the 40.5 hectare (100-acre) Admiral Cove development, the Avillion Admiral Cove adjoins the world-class Admiral Marina and Leisure Club.
All the 36 Straits Studio rooms face the Straits of Malacca, allowing guests to watch the sunrise and sunset from their room. Setting eyes on the marina, one cannot help but be captivated by the yachts and dream of owning one someday.
Each of the rooms measures about 70 square metres (750 square feet) - spacious enough for the whole family.
There is not much difference between the superior and deluxe rooms but the prime rooms - the Straits Studio rooms - come with a view of the Straits of Malacca.
Soothing view: Guests at the Avillion Admiral Cove enjoy the soothing view of the boats
docked at the marina.
All the rooms are furnished with digital TV sets, fixed to the wall to avoid cluttering the floor.
Chiang said the idea of building the hotel took shape after they realised the need for such a facility in the area.
Previously, the Marina and the club were opened to members only.
"We held many activities here at the Club and Marina but there was no place for the people to stay; that's why we built this hotel," he explained.
The hotel shares the facilities at the clubhouse, which include a cafe, function rooms and even a theatrette.
Guests need to walk to the clubhouse for dinner or to attend a function, passing the beautifully laid out swimming pool and the pontoon along the way.
Chiang added that being part of the Avillion group, the hotel offers hospitality and service on par with its sister establishments, but at much lower prices.
"Usually, when one thinks of Avillion, one will think about the other Avillion. But, we have our own identity and people find it hard to believe that we belong to the same parent company as our prices are so different.
"We cater for a totally different group of customers," he said.
When it comes to activities, the hotel offers plenty.
Arrangements can be made to suit one's needs, whether for or an individual or a group, and whether it is for a tour package, team-building or sports activities.
During a recent familiarisation trip, members of the media had a chance to try the water soccer and paintball activities.
The hotel can be contacted at 06-647 0888. The rooms are priced between RM189 and RM270.
