HE uncompromisingly mod 571-room Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur (by Shangri-La) is a gleaming icon of progressive Malaysia. It is not just smart on looks; it is smart inside, packed to the gills with bright splashes of colour, modern art, the stylish SkyBar, and mood lighting that gets guests into the party spirit regardless of whether the boss is having a bad hair day or not.

The downtown KLCC location is a useful asset. This places Traders right next to the city’s green “lungs” and 1.3km jogging track, core luxury shopping, conferences, and offices. Broadband and Wi-Fi are complimentary too. Not surprisingly, this is one of the best Kuala Lumpur business hotels for both pin-stripers on the go as well as leisure trippers.

The rooftop Health Club & Spa offers breathtaking views and breathless 24-hour fitness regimens. By the long alfresco pool, the SkyBar is a chic after hours rendezvous with breezy snuggeries and great views of the Twin Towers that come ablaze as

the sun sets and the powerful uplights begin to work their magic. The SkyBar is a hip venue for fashionistas and well-groomed cognoscenti.

Indeed, the pool is refreshing sight at any time, day or night, blue enough to be inviting, and long enough for a quick sprint. Chill out here at the SkyBar with cool drinks and bespoke cocktails 11am to 1am (Sunday to Thursday) and up to 3am on weekends and on the eve of any public holiday. Cool music, cool crowds, and cool views. Enough to galvanise the Malaysia Tatler to name this the “Best Bar” in the country.

The Traders Club tosses in a slew of work amenities. In-room expect well-lit bathrooms with shower and a weighing scale. No rubber ducks here, just a lollipop. The minimalist rooms in earthy pastels offer an interactive LCD TV, a low sink-in chair, iron and ironing board, a laptop-size safe, and a decent work desk. Space is well used and everywhere there are cinematic views across the city, or the park. Welcome to one of the best Kuala Lumpur business hotels, and not without good reason.