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When you head to the rooms, make sure you haven’t had too much to drink — the swirling carpet in the hallways leading to life-sized photographs of piers will leave even the most sober of guests feeling drunk. Rooms are considerably less nauseating — all have either magnificent sea views or city views. We feel it’s worth paying the 35 ringgit more for a sea view if your budget stretches.

Not your usual lamp. Photo: Sally Arnold

Rooms are luxurious and stylishly decorated in sophisticated dark tones with wooden floors, wood paneling and luxe amenities. Some have large photographs, others just the great view. All you would expect at this pricepoint, including satellite TV, minibar, robes and WiFi, is provided. Ensuite bathrooms with rain showers continue the theme, and everything is just right. Even bathroom scales are supplied, to ensure you don’t go overboard on the delicious KK food. Oddly, the bath tub in the grand deluxe rooms is not in the bathroom, but behind the bed — so you can watch the sunset while you soak. Some rooms are equipped with an Asian-style round wooden tub.

Non-smoking floors are available, and some rooms are disabled accessible. Be warned that stinky fruits are banned, and there is a 200 ringgit fine — enjoy your durian and tarap outside!

Comfy. Photo: Sally Arnold

Horizon Hotel has four restaurants and cafes to suit every taste — the cakes in the coffee shop look hard to resist. Buffet breakfast is included in the rates, making the deal even sweeter. Amenities include a gym, a spa and a fabulous but small outdoor sixth floor pool. The pool area has a kids pool, and a small cafe — great for sunset viewing or unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. Non-guests can use the pool all day for 60 ringgit.

The views aren’t bad either. Photo: Sally Arnold

We think Horizon Hotel offers one of the best top-end deals in Kota Kinabalu — it’s very popular with Chinese tour groups. Walk-in rates are quoted here, but good deals can be found online. Can’t get a room? Hotel Grandis has good online deals too.