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E&O Hotel Reopens Iconic Heritage Wing
07 January 2020 | Written by Chris Alexander

The Eastern and Oriental (E&O) Hotel has announced the re-opening of its Heritage Wing, following an extensive refurbishment project that first began in March 2019. Widely regarded as one of the finest hotels in Penang, the reopening marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of E&O.

As part of the rejuvenation of the Heritage Wing, several key elements of the property have been restored or updated, including the Echo Dome. A range of newly refurbished suites now feature a brighter concept, with more natural light and a softer colour scheme, while retaining the signature twin vanities and long bath.

The Heritage Wing can now provide a more personalised guest experience, thanks to a suite of pre-arrival services, in-room check-in, and round-the-clock butler service. Guests are also entitled to exclusive privileges such as access to The Cornwallis – a private lounge offering breakfast and complimentary evening canapés and cocktails, the Heritage Wing pool, as well as an in-suite decanters with premium selected beverages and snacks that will be replenished daily.

Alongside the reopening of the Heritage Wing, the hotel is also introducing three new dining outlets – Java Tree, Palm Court and Farquhar’s Bar. In spite of the many new facilities and renovations, the hotel has been careful not to lose its original ambiance and historic charm.

“Generations of guests and visitors alike have chosen the famous Heritage Wing as the backdrop for their magical moments over its 134-year history,” explains Alison Fraser, who is the hotel’s general manager. “Mindful of this beloved legacy, careful consideration has been taken to ensure we retain E&O’s treasured style of timeless elegance that is unique to this cherished heritage landmark,” she continued.

The new suites, dining outlets and an E&O exhibition at the Francis and Martina suite were recently unveiled to a collection of representatives from the assembled press. Fraser also presented the new art colonnade situated along the hallway outside The Cornwallis, showcasing artworks by local photographer Howard Tan. The exhibition will be open to the public from now until end of January 2020.

Established by the famed Sarkies Brothers in 1885, the E&O is the only seafront hotel in the George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site. The E&O Group (Eastern & Oriental Berhad) has established a reputation as a premier lifestyle property developer. In Kuala Lumpur, E&O’s landmark properties include The Mews, St Mary Residences, Dua Residency, Idamansara and Seventy Damansara, all located in prestigious neighbourhoods of the capital. In Penang, the award-winning Seri Tanjung Pinang (STP) is the island’s first seafront development. In Johor’s southern development corridor of Iskandar Malaysia, E&O has embarked on Avira; a 207-acre development within Bandar Medini Iskandar that benefits from easy access to Singapore. The Group has further leveraged on its experience and expertise in hospitality management with the opening of E&O Residences – serviced apartments in Kuala Lumpur.