At Kenwood Travel we take pride in sourcing the best hotels from around the world. This allows us to provide the best possible choice to those customers searching for that luxury holiday tailored and fine-tuned to their specific requirements. Lately we’ve been looking out for new resorts in Malaysia, and we’ve discovered some absolute gems. Adding to our already impressive roster of Malaysian resorts this month then are the JapaMala, Tioman Island; Villa Samadhi, Kuala Lumpur; Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort and The Taaras, Redang Island.
Below you’ll find all the info you need to choose your new favourite resort in Malaysia. And remember, booking early is the best way to avoid disappointment on preferred dates and secure the best price on your holiday.
JapaMala / Tioman Island
Firstly it’s worth noting a couple of rather special facts about the location of this resort. Tioman Island has been described variously as ‘Best island in the world’ and ‘World’s most beautiful island’. Juara Beach on the island was voted 21st in the World’s Best Beaches by CNN and, adding a little Hollywood pizzazz to the place, the much-loved musical South Pacific featured Tioman Island as one of its beautiful backdrops.
JapaMala Resort also puts the island’s tropical beauty centre stage, and complements this with a number of world-class attributes. Known for rustic luxury, JapaMala was able to build this resort into the existing landscape without moving so much as a tree or boulder in the process. As a result you get an authentic island escape. This idea is further evidenced in the unique tree house or ‘nest’ style accommodation. ‘Sarangs’ are tucked away in the lower levels of the resort either with jungle, hillside or sea views.
Treetop Chalets meanwhile perch high in the rain forest canopies and, while being suitably secluded, are still only a short walk to the beach. Finally, this sensational holiday hideaway also grants access to the area’s best diving in Monkey Bay Marine Park, plus some excellent kayaking spots.
Unique accommodation. Tree houses or ‘sarangs’ at JapaMala.
Villa Samadhi / Kuala Lumpur
Brought to you by the same pioneering owners as JapaMala (Tioman Island), Villa Samadhi in Kuala Lumpur manages to offer a private sanctuary within a city location – no easy feat. It does this through thoughtful considerations such as having only 15 rooms, operating a boutique philosophy and residing in the luxuriously upscale Embassy district of the city. As such what you get is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur while still being close enough to enjoy its vibrant attractions, museums, street food and famous architecture.
Contemporary Asian aesthetics mingle with centuries-old design traditions to create an aura of serenity at this gorgeous hotel. City views from the ‘bumbung’ (a tall, tiered glass structure) showcase the iconic skyline while you enjoy a cocktail and a sense of seclusion from this unique vantage point. Akin to Tioman Island’s JapaMala Resort, Villa Samadhi offers nest-style ‘sarangs’ that bring the authentic Malaysian experience to guests wishing to discover the true meaning of ‘rustic luxe’ relaxation.
Relax in this city sanctuary
Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort / Sepang
Guests love the bright, contemporary style of the all-new Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort. Completely refurbished, redesigned and rebranded in 2014, the resort’s up-to-date design, furnishings, facilities and fittings represent a new direction in the levels of luxury implemented by hoteliers in Malaysia’s more secluded locations. Accommodation – all over-water villas – takes the form of a palmtree-shape jetty that extends into the Malacca Sea and comprises 392 rooms. Generous space, warm colour palette, original artwork, romantic drapes, daybeds, private balconies… the list of luxuries goes on.
At this charming resort guests can connect easily with the international airport, making transfer times minimal. Fans of the fast lane are on the doorstep of Malaysia’s Formula One Racing Circuit, putting you in poll position to witness the thrills and spills of this glamorous and exciting sport. Also in close proximity of the resort, discover beautiful tropical scenery and coastal splendour. A little further away, but still only about 50km, the urban adventure that is Kuala Lumpur awaits. Take in the sights and sounds of this stimulating city on a day trip from Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort.
These water villas command stunning sunset views
The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort / Redang Island
Barefoot luxury is the defining principle at this sophisticated resort on the small but perfectly formed island of Redang, just off the east coast of Malaysia. And this concept is bolstered by the resort’s commitment to service and hospitality, which are of the highest calibre.
The unspoilt island setting possesses the quiet, isolated privacy so lacking from modern life, and also features a fascinatingly varied landscape full of adventure. Jungle trekking, worldclass diving and other great activities can be arranged for you by The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort.
Back on site, swaying green palms connect your getaway to its natural surroundings and sway above the meandering pools and landscaped gardens of the resort grounds. There are two bars, three restaurants and also ‘Experience Dinners’ to tempt you. Experience Dinners, such as dining on a floating pontoon in the South China Sea, will leave you with a genuine castaway feeling. Not to be missed.
Beachfront al fresco dining