We love Malaysia and this is the first time I've been moved to post a warning on a Malaysian hotel.

Penang Hill is a delightful area and one we wanted to stay. The Bellevue is the only hotel: it has an excellent location on the hill - central and convenient for walking and the funicular railway. The rooms are a good size. The lawned garden is attractive with nice views over the city (no views from the rooms).

BUT BUT BUT sadly it has to be one of the dirtiest and most sloppily run hotels. We prepaid three nights but gave up and left after two. What did we dislike?
- filthy carpet in the room. OK, we can wear slippers.
- discoloured and dirty paintwork throughout. This room hadn't seen a coat of white paint in many years. OK, don't look.
- one small old threadbare towel each. Ok we carry towels.
- very very old badly discoloured bath (enamel all peeled off), no water, only cold from a shower hose. Old insanitary loo.
- no soap. OK... more