Shabby chic and unique to say the least, Boutel's three themed rooms represent Malaysia's largest ethnic groups: the Chinese, Malay and Indians. Nicknamed Singpan (Hokkien for 'wedding room'), Batik and Kamasutra, each abode boasts of different merits, but our favourite is the Kamasutra room for its raunchy artwork, swing set, hammock and life-sized birdcage containing a bed.
The old building's creaky wooden flooring and morning traffic might tick off light sleepers, but minute imperfections give the space more charm; take the roughly hewn wooden sink, for instance, or the old fan that looks as if it precedes World War II.
Bring your own towels. Self check-in is the practice here, so don't expect a warm welcome from the host, although Lainux is efficient and always one text message away.