thanks - I really would like to return someday. We went at Easter before and I've always been put off by the high rainfall stats for summer

I have been there in the summer for the last 7 years and had good weather but I have just had an email from someone who lives there who says it is raining more now. I struck it lucky again.

hmmm.. I'd better not show my OH that as he just wont go

Its worth going in the summer- as I say i have had no problems with weather.

Just back yesterday from the Golden Sands. Had a superb time, met loads of great people. The staff at the hotel were great - so friendly.
Weather was pretty much ok but we had lots of storms and very heavy rain at times but overall the sun was out for much of it.
We spent 3 days in KL first which we really enjoyed, managed to get tickets for the Petronas Towers which my 10 year old son was delighted with.
Never having been to Malaysia before we weren't sure what to expect but I can honestly say we were more than happy and we will definitely be returning again.

Golden Sands is just one of the options we are looking at for next year- if I can get a good enough flight price.
It looks a great hotel

Glad it all went well Prada. I left on Friday 14th and the weather had been great. I agree with you about the staff, they are so friendly.

Memories

Those pictures are great, I recognise the beach boys, is one of them Ali?
Right now I have a terrible case of post-holiday blues! Wish I could get the next plane back right now.

Just realised one of the photos is of one of the lifeguards, can't think of his name, he was great - so chatty and pleasant.

did you book directly with the hotel?

No - I booked through 'Travepack' direct who organised the flights and hotel for me.

must have a look at them

I can give you the phone number if you want?

that would be good.
Just been looking at reviews and was a bit alarmed about comments re food and drink not being as cheap as expected. We have to make a trip to Belize later that summer which is costing an arm and leg to get there( mainly business) We were in Penang in 2001 and found things very cheap so have things changed a lot?

Fiona the food has not gone up much over the years- eating out in the hotel is dearer (although in comparison to us is still cheap) but eating in most restaurants in cheap- Hawkers £3ish for a Chicken Tikka Masala and rice- can't complain at that. Roughly £3 for a large Tiger beer, wine in the hotel roughly £4 BUT IN HAPPY HOUR - cocktails, wine and draft beer 50% off.

Never booked direvtly with the hotel - have booked through Travelmood, Voyana. Dial a Flight and Airline Network- I always try to find the cheapest dealand play them off against each other. Also try http://www.malaysia.letsgo2.com they quoted good prices last year but when phoned they couldn't offer, could be worth a go.

The main thing you would notice is the growth of Batu Ferringhi. I first went in 2001 and have noticed changes and more and more new housing appearing but the main character of the town is still there.

thanks
you have given me a few more places to phone. Tried Dial a flight for accomodation elsewhere but they didn't come up with the prices I wanted-but worth a go again. Still swithering though.

telephone number for Travelpack 0870 127 1003

We found the food to be extremely cheap particularly at the Hawker stalls (Long Beach). Sizzling chicken and veg cost 6 Ringetts (£1). Small Tiger beer 7.50 ringetts and can of Sprite 2 ringetts. At lunchtime we sometimes got some curry puffs from a lady by the Bakery and they cost half a ringett each - 8p!
Also Joys Bakery was lovely - very clean, air-conditioned and the best tuna sandwiches ever for 11 ringetts.

thanks for the number. Still not sure but I think I will use them for a quote when we finally come to a decision( I'm the same every year )

Joy's bakery- mmmmm..... have to agree the Tuna Sandwiches were lovely- I sent many people there this year.....