The Jesselton was a charming hotel with old-world ambiance in a great loc in KK. Bar area with piano was very cosy and the Italian-themed restaurant as well. Didn't eat dinner there, but the cooked-to-order breakfast was good.

Rooms were modern and clean, with effective, quiet, air con and good bathroom.

Highly recommended.

Booked this place because of all the positive reviews on Tripadvisor. This was the first time ever where we felt so disappointed that we checked out early even with a penalty on one night's stay. The rooms are so old, and dingy. It was depressing. This is the first hotel that I've ever stayed in where the hallways are nicer than the rooms. Hotel is very well located, in the heart of downtown KK, but there are better choices for this price. The rooms need refurbishing.

Great hotel - stayed two nights.

Friendly staff, nice decor all around- we found it very good value if you are looking for a few days of comfort after backpacking around the island. Very close to the pier and to the middle of town for the shops/ restaurants etc

The hotel has nice atmosphere dating back to 1950's. Situated in the very center of Kota Kinabalu everything is close enough. We had Superior Double Room which was really classy and nice. Because I dive, I had booked the hotel via Downbelow Padi center and we got discount and free breakfast. Superb! Which by the way was also superb!

The personnel was helpful and friendly. For instance when Malaysia Airlines caused us trouble by canceling our flight we could use the telephone at the reception instead our mobile phone (without local SIM card) and the expensive telephone in our room.

While coming back to hotel during night it was nice to notice the promotion sale fof wines in the bar!