Unbelievable Malaysian Homestay: D'Citrine Masai Awaits!
Unbelievable Malaysian Homestay: D'Citrine Masai Awaits! - A Seriously Honest Review (with a side of SEO!)
Okay, so, you're looking at D'Citrine Masai in Johor Bahru, eh? Let's get real. Forget the glossy brochures and the PR fluff. I've been there. I've seen it. I've lived it. And let me tell you, it's…a lot. But in a good way. Mostly.
(Disclaimer: I'm going to get very specific here. Because that's what a REAL review should do. And because, let's be honest, I need a break from adulting.)
First things first: Accessibility - The Good, the Okay, and the "Hmm…"
Okay, here's where it gets a little tricky. D'Citrine seems to try with accessibility. They say they have facilities for disabled guests, and there's an elevator, which is a HUGE win in a multi-story place. But the devil's in the details, folks. I didn't personally need a wheelchair, but I did take note of things. I saw no specific ramps at the main entrance, and the layout…well, it's not exactly designed for graceful maneuvering. Some areas are TIGHT. So, while they're technically saying they're accessible, call ahead and triple-check if you have specific mobility needs. Don't just rely on the description; ask them the really granular questions. Make them sweat a little.
Internet & Tech - The WiFi Whisperer & the LAN Lost Soul
Alright, let's talk connectivity. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! Thank the internet gods. And, it actually works! I streamed Netflix like a fiend, and the connection held up remarkably well. This is huge for a digital nomad like myself, or just, you know, anyone who wants to actually use the internet.
Now… Internet [LAN]? They claim it's there. I couldn’t find it. Maybe I'm blind. Maybe they're playing a cruel joke on us tech-heads. So, if you're relying on a wired connection for work, double-check this before you arrive. My advice? Stick with the glorious, reliable Wi-Fi and save yourself the headache.
Cleanliness & Safety - Sanitized Sanctuaries & Peace of Mind
Okay, THIS is where D'Citrine shines. In a post-pandemic world, this matters. A LOT. They've got the works: Anti-viral cleaning products. Daily disinfection in common areas. Rooms sanitized between stays. Staff trained in safety protocol. I even noticed they had Individually-wrapped food options, which is a nice touch. I felt genuinely safe. And the best part? They offer Room sanitization opt-out available. So, if you're a germaphobe, you're covered. If you're like me and just want to breathe easy, you're in good hands.
They also have some serious security going on. CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside the property, Security [24-hour]. I’m not expecting a fortress, but knowing there’s someone watching the place is always reassuring.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax - Spas, Pools & a Dose of "Ahh"
Alright, let's get to the FUN stuff! They have a freaking Swimming pool [outdoor]! And it’s pretty decent. A good spot for a relaxing dive. They also have a Fitness center. Okay, I didn't personally use it (because…vacation!), but it looked like the gym, so that's good, right? I saw a Pool with view too, though to be frank, it's not the most spectacular view. But hey, it's a pool, and it's outdoors, and that's enough for me.
Now, the kicker: a Spa/sauna area! And, yes, I used it. And, yes, I loved it. They've got a few treatments on offer (Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage), and it’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day of eating amazing Malaysian food (more on that later). The Steamroom? Delicious. I spent a solid hour just melting into a puddle of relaxation. Seriously, book a massage. You deserve it. DO IT NOW.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking - A Culinary Adventure (Mostly Delicious)
This part is a bit of a mixed bag, but mostly great. They have Restaurants! Plural! A Buffet in restaurant. Asian cuisine in restaurant. Western cuisine in restaurant. Okay, so the Breakfast [buffet] was pretty good. A good selection of Asian and Western options. The coffee was surprisingly decent.
Then comes the quirks. They have a Poolside bar. I tried a cocktail. Let's just say it wasn't mixology at its finest, but it was drinkable, and the atmosphere was fun. They also have a Snack bar. I tried snacks too. Some were great, others… not so much. This is where I got my first hint that not everything would be perfect -- it's the charm of travel, right?
BUT! The best part? The sheer convenience. Room service [24-hour]. Yes, please! And, even better, they have a Coffee/tea in restaurant and a Coffee shop, so you can get your caffeine fix whenever you want.
**Services & Conveniences - From Cash Withdrawal to Babysitting (Maybe) **
This is where D'Citrine REALLY steps up. They've got practically everything! Air conditioning in public area. Concierge service. A Convenience store. Currency exchange. Daily housekeeping. Doorman. A Gift/souvenir shop. Laundry service. Luggage storage. Meeting/banquet facilities. Safety deposit boxes.
They even have a Babysitting service! (Though I'd recommend checking out reviews for that one specifically if you have kids. I didn't need it, so I can't vouch for it).
For the Kids - Family-Friendly Fun?
They claim to be Family/child friendly and have Kids facilities and a Kids meal. But again, do your due diligence if you're bringing the little ones. Ask about specific kid-friendly amenities before booking.
Getting Around - Easy Peasy (or Not)
Airport transfer? Check. Car park [free of charge]? Double-check! Massive win. Taxi service available as well. This makes getting around incredibly easy.
Available in all rooms - Home Sweet Home
Alright, let's peek inside the rooms. They are quite spacious, to be fair. The rooms include Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, 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, 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, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
And, maybe MOST IMPORTANTLY, a well-functioning Air conditioning unit – a MUST-HAVE in Malaysia.
My Anecdote and My Truth
Okay, I have to tell you one thing. I was stressed. I’d had a truly terrible week. I had a thousand things on my mind. And I really needed to relax. I booked the D'Citrine almost on a whim, and almost wished I hadn’t when I saw the slightly dated look of the lobby. But I went straight to that spa. I got a massage. And for ONE whole hour, I forgot all my troubles. Right there, that massage alone made the trip worth it. Okay, it wasn't the most luxurious spa I've ever been to, but it did its job. The therapist spoke excellent English, was genuinely kind, and knew the pressure points I needed. I almost fell asleep. But I knew I needed it, and that made everything better. This is the memory I'll carry with me.
Overall - The Verdict
Unbelievable Malaysian Homestay: D'Citrine Masai Awaits! is a solid choice. It's not perfect. There are things to nitpick. But the good outweighs the bad. The location is great, the security is top-notch, the staff are friendly and, most importantly, the spa is fantastic. Is it a 5-star resort? No. But is it comfortable, clean, and a good value? Absolutely. Would I go back? Yeah, probably. Especially if they promise me another massage.
Vietnam's BEST Kept Secret: DHTS Business Hotel & Apartment!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned travelogue! This is… well, this is me, loose-lipped and slightly overwhelmed, trying to survive a trip to Homestay D’Citrine Masai, Malaysia. Consider yourselves warned.
Homestay D'Citrine Masai: A Chaotic Chronicle of a Human in a Homestay
Day 1: Arrival & "Where's the Fridge?!" Panic
- Morning (7:00 AM - 10:00 AM): Flights, flailing, and questionable airport coffee. Seriously, is it even considered coffee anymore if it tastes like burnt shoe leather? Made it through customs… which, let's be honest, is always a small victory. The flight was late, which, of course, meant my carefully crafted itinerary was already a joke.
- Mid-morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Taxi ride to the homestay. The driver, bless his soul, had a map that looked older than my grandpa. "Almost there, almost there…" he kept muttering, while we circled the same roundabout for the third time. Finally, we arrive! Homestay D'Citrine… It's… clean. Definitely clean. Maybe too clean? I felt like I needed to shower after just looking at the spotless tiles.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Unpacking, which is usually a disaster zone in my life. Clothes everywhere. Books tumbling out of my backpack. And the eternal question: WHERE IS THE FRIDGE?! Seriously, I need to keep my water cold, or I will melt. Found it. Small. But sufficient. Victory!
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Initial exploration of the homestay. The air con is working and that alone means I am in paradise. It comes with a balcony, which I will probably never step foot onto as I have a crippling fear of heights. I could see the pool from there, which is a good reminder to get one of those fancy floating things.
- Evening (4:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Quick trip to the local market. OMG, the food! So many amazing smells assaulting my nostrils. I'm a veggie normally but the smell of the grilled chicken, the satay, was overpowering. I ate far too much. Regret: I have it, but it was worth it. Back to the homestay feeling pleasantly stuffed, and slightly guilty about my lack of self-control. Bedtime.
Day 2: Pool Dreams and the Battle of the Bug Spray
- Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Woke up with a mission: Conquer the pool! Except, I hate water. Or, maybe I like water, I don't know, I'm full of confusions. It has the advantage that it is cold and I am very hot. First, though, the eternal struggle of applying sunscreen and bug spray. I feel like a walking toxic waste dump, but the mosquitoes here are ruthless.
- Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): POOL TIME! Ok, maybe not conquering. More like gently dipping a big toe in and whimpering. It was actually lovely. The water was the perfect temperature, the sun was warm, and… wait is that a mosquito? Bug spray war continues.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Leftovers, and a general feeling of contentment. This homestay thing… it's growing on me. It's homey in it's own way. It's not a soul-less hotel room. Although I'm still missing the minibar.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Decided to attempt some sightseeing. I swear, the heat here is just… it’s a thing. So a nice stroll took a turn and turned into me running for the nearest air conditioned shop with a bottle of water.
- Evening (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Found a great restaurant with actual air con, so I was able to breath. The food was fantastic. I had some local noodle dish, that I can't even pronounce, and a cold drink. I'm starting to get the hang of this whole "eating and drinking" thing. Ordered takeout this time and went back to the homestay, so I can sit and relax.
Day 3: The Epic Coffee Quest and Saying Goodbye (With a Grumble)
- Morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Coffee crisis! The little percolator in the homestay… let’s just say it’s not exactly a barista’s dream. So, the quest began: Find proper coffee. This required asking the lovely (and very patient) hosts for directions.
- Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): The search for coffee lead me down a rabbit hole. I’d followed the directions, then it turned into a 45-minute exploration of the local area. Which was actually a great distraction from the coffee hunt. Finally, success! Found a tiny little cafe. Ordered an iced latte that was actually amazing.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): More delicious food at the same cafe. I might have become addicted to that latte. Consider this my new routine: Coffee, lunch, repeat.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Packing. The dreaded part. Why do I always acquire so much stuff on a trip? How am I going to fit it all in my backpack? Deep breaths. Maybe I should just leave some clothes. Or just eat the excess snacks.
- Evening (4:00 PM - 8:00 PM): Last dinner. One last evening stroll. I'm feeling a bit sad to leave. I actually like this place. The friendly hosts. The slightly wonky air con. The amazing food. I'm totally going to miss it. But. The flight is early, and I still have that bug spray residue to contend with. Ugh.
- Departure (8:00 PM onwards): Taxi arranged. Check out. Goodbye hugs. And a promise to go back to that cafe and the Homestay. Despite the chaos, the heat, and the bug spray, it was a great trip.
So there you have it, the messy, imperfect, and utterly human experience of Homestay D’Citrine Masai. Would I recommend it? Yes, absolutely! But be warned… bring bug spray! And maybe a decent travel coffee maker. You've been warned. The end. (Until next time!).
24 Hours in Thailand's WILDEST Hostel: You WON'T Believe This!
So, D'Citrine Masai... Is it actually "Unbelievable"? The ads are always so *shiny*.
Okay, okay, let's get real. "Unbelievable" is a bit of a marketing stretch, yeah? I mean, it's not like I walked in and the entire place spontaneously combusted into rainbows and Nutella. (Although, a Nutella fountain would be a serious upgrade, just saying!) But... Look, it *is* pretty good. Seriously, I've stayed in some dumps, and D'Citrine is definitely NOT a dump. The photos? They're real...ish. Think Instagram vs. Reality. The reality is, it's well-maintained, clean (mostly!), and actually feels like someone *lives* there, which is a HUGE win for a homestay. The "unbelievable" part… well, it’s the feeling of being welcomed. You can't fake that with a polished photo!
What's the vibe like? Do I need to be super formal?
Forget the stiff upper lip! D'Citrine is relaxed. Think 'friendly neighbour' not 'hotel concierge'. The owners, bless their hearts, are genuinely warm. No pressure to dress up, no stuffy rules. I walked in one day looking like a drowned rat (thanks, Malaysian humidity!), and they just laughed and offered me a towel. You know you’re in the right place when the worst thing that happens is one little tiny cockroach, and you are just *completely* unbothered. That's the vibe I'm talkin' about, baby.
Oh, and the other guests? It's a mixed bag, which is lovely. We had a family from Australia, a couple from the UK... and me. A slightly frazzled solo traveller from… well, let's just say a place far, far away from Malaysia. We all ended up swapping travel stories over breakfast. It's social, but not pushy. You can retreat to your room and binge-watch Netflix guilt-free if you need some alone time. I did… several times.
Okay, the rooms. Are they as good as the pictures? (And are the beds comfy?)
Right. The rooms. Let's be honest, the pictures are flattering. My room, room 102 (I think), *was* lovely. Clean sheets, nice decor, a decent-sized bathroom. The AC worked like a champ – a GODSEND in that heat. The bed… ah, the bed. This is where things get interesting. It *was* comfortable. Until, you know, the cat from the outside, came in to sleep for the night! I’m still not sure how he got in….
But the bed… well, let's just say I had a *bit* of a wrestling match with the pillows. One was perfect, the other lumpy. I spent half the night trying to find the "perfect" pillow position. First world problems, I know. But still… A pillow rating… 7/10. Could be better, could be worse!
Let's talk breakfast. Is it the continental "toast and jam" type, or something more exciting?
Listen, breakfast is KEY to my happiness. And… the breakfast at D'Citrine? It's solid!. It's a mix of things. Toast, jam, cereal (boring, I know, but sometimes you just need a bowl of Cheerios). But also, sometimes, and this is where it gets good, there's *nasi lemak*. If you are not familiar with Malaysian foods, look it up! It's a delicious rice cooked in coconut milk with some spicy sides that make my taste buds sing! If you are familiar with the dish however, you can see why I loved it so much.
The best part? The chat at the breakfast table. You'll get to know everyone. You'll find out about the local markets, the best places to eat (ask about the *laksa* nearby – seriously, trust me!). And yes, sometimes, the coffee is a little weak. But hey, that's what instant coffee is for, right? And the owner always seems to bring out something special, even if it’s just a plate of fresh fruit. Bless her!
Is it in a good location for exploring?
Okay, location. You are in Masai, which isn't exactly downtown KL. But! It's a good base. Close (ish) to some interesting temples. If you have transport (rent a car!), you're within striking distance of Johor Bahru and other attractions. The local restaurants? AMAZING. Cheap, authentic, and full of flavour. You'll be eating like a local in no time. The only problem? The taxis are a *little* unreliable. On one occasion, I waited for an hour and a half for a taxi, so eventually just decided to walk!. But hey, it's an adventure, right? And it's certainly cheaper than calling an Uber.
Were there any downsides? Be brutally honest!
Brutal honesty? Okay, buckle up.
1. **The noise**. The mosques like to sing at 5 am. That's just a fact of life in Malaysia, and it's not really their fault, but bring earplugs (I didn’t, and I regretted it!).
2. **The Wi-Fi**. It worked… mostly. But it did have its moments of "gone dark," which is a problem when you are trying to find the best Nasi Lemak in town.
3. **That darn cockroach**. Look, it was tiny. I am not someone who would have ever have complained about that, but it did make me question the overall cleanliness of the place. And it went right through the middle of my book!
But honestly? Those are minor gripes. The benefits far outweighed the negatives. You are always going to find something "wrong" if you look for it!
And as for the cockroach? I'm still traumatized. I mean, *did* it lay eggs? *shudders*
Would you go back?
Absolutely. Yes. Even with the potential for a rogue cockroach and weak coffee. D'Citrine Masai? It's got a bit of soul. It's not perfect, but it's real. And honestly, that's a lot more "unbelievable" than a perfectly Photoshopped picture could ever be. Plus, I need to crack the secret of getting the cat to stop by every night!
