The Eastern & Oriental Hotel or more fondly referred to as the E & O, is hard to miss, let alone forget. Standing majestically along Farquhar Street, she welcomes you in her glorious white gown as you drive up the courtyard, to the hotel's main entrance. Here a porter awaits. The sight of him clad in his uniform - complete with gloves, knee-high socks and a bright, cheerful smile - is sure to set you down memory lane, to the colonial days of Malaya.

Re-opened after a major restoration and refurbishment programme that cost RM75 million, the Eastern & Oriental retains the old-world charm that it was widely recognised for - while incorporating modern-day facilities, necessary in this new millennium. Personalised services and the highest level of hospitality was and will always be the hallmarks of the Eastern & Oriental.

Take a stroll along the promenade and drink in the sight of the Straits that was once filled with vessels from all over the world. Let the salty breeze wash over you and listen to the palm trees whisper their stories. Walk down the staircase or step into the oldest Otis lift in Malaysia and let it carry you back in time to the days of the British Empire, where the Eastern & Oriental was the social playground for scores of upper class echelons.

Stand under the spacious domed lobby or watch the sun set while you dine. You hear wineglasses clinking, laughter filling the air and music wafting across the lawn. You see people dancing and parading in their pretty dresses and handsome coats. It becomes so real that it isn't merely reminiscences anymore. It is happening all over again at the Eastern & Oriental.