City Sights & Beach Delights – Singapore and Langkawi

Transport yourself to a haven of tranquillity in the heart of Malaysia’s 10-million-year-old rainforest. The Datai Langkawi is one of Asia’s very best luxury retreats, situated on the northern coast of the mystical island of Langkawi, along a private bay. Raised on stilts, the elegant villas are connected by walkways, on one side you will find the pristine white sandy beaches and the other the miraculous jungle, home to a plethora of wildlife of which you can expect daily sightings. Guests can also indulge at the award winning Datai Spa or try their hand on the Ernie-Els-designed golf course. For the more active traveller, why not experience the variety of sports on the water or take a nature walk through the enchanting rainforest with a resident guide. After a day of exciting experiences and activities, enjoy the breath-taking views and delicious cuisine from one of the Datai’s restaurants – choose from an award-winning Malaysian inspired restaurant, a fine dining experience or a restaurant which soars high above the rainforest canopy. It doesn’t get much better than this.

Nestled between the glorious mountain range of Mat Chincang and the beaches of the Andaman Sea sits The Andaman Resort. The Andaman Resort overlooks centuries-old trees, sparkling waters, and dense vegetation offering a glimpse into the history of the area and surrounding parts. Apart from enjoying a fabulous holiday getaway, speak with the professional naturalist that work at The Andaman to learn about the copious amounts of wildlife surrounding the resort which coincides with the environmentally friendly aspect of the hotel including the nature walk. To rejuvenate the body, mind, and senses, luxury travellers can journey to the V Botanical Spa to enjoy some serenity. This one-of-a-kind hotel offers a contemporary and effortless experience incorporating indigenous art and culture alongside the breathless views of the shimmering sea and bustling rainforest.

Gaya Island’s little sister, facing Emerald waters and fringed by white sand beaches, the Pangkor Laut Resort is its own little slice of paradise. Voted 'Number One in the World' by Condé Nast Traveller, this is a little place of heaven on earth. It is the only bit of developed land on the 300-acre island, and even then it feels as if the resort and the surrounding estate have always been features of the land. The wooden building blend seamlessly into the forest, the walls accommodate the mangroves and the buildings have been built around the trees, with roofs that allow them to stretch up into the sky. The respect for nature is at the forefront of the hotel’s operations and it rewards the guests with its beauty and bounty. Cheeky macaques will come for an inquisitive interaction and the pied hornbills will be colourful additions in the trees. Like all great luxury hotels, the Pangkor Laut Resort has a remarkable spa. They don’t just have a spa, however, they have their own spa village. It is a place to go where wellness is a philosophical principle. Healing ingredients and practices come from the land and ancient traditions that have been handed down over centuries. Some of the oldest remedies have the most effective powers, and will deliver you to rejuvenation.