A Malaysian Sabbatical, Laterally A Malaysian

- A Malaysian Sabbatical, Laterally -
Because I’ve always wanted to...
Journey key:
A. Malacca
B. Kuala Lumpur
C. Ipoh
D. Penang
E. Langkawi
F. Kuching
G. The Batang Ai Lake
Peninsula
H. Gaya Island
I. Kota Kinabalu
J. Sepilok
K. Kinabatangan
L. Danum Valley
M. Redang Island
In a Nutshell...
Day 1 - Arrival in Malaysia & transfer to Malacca. Majestic Hotel Malacca.
Day 21 - Sepilok - Orang-Utans & Sun Bears. Sepilok Nature Resort.
Day 2 - Malacca City Tour. Majestic Hotel Malacca.
Day 22 - Journey to Kinabatangan & Proboscis Monkeys. Kinabatangan Lodge.
Day 3 - Journey to Kuala Lumpur. Villa Samadhi.
Day 23 - Journey to Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley. Borneo Rainforest
Lodge.
Day 4 - City Tour & Sunset Drinks. Villa Samadhi.
Day 5 - Journey to Ipoh. The Banjaran.
Day 6 - Taiping Sightseeing & 4x4 Ride. The Banjaran.
Day 7 - At Leisure, Ipoh. The Banjaran.
Day 8 - Journey to Penang. Seven Terraces.
Day 9 - Cycling Penang. Seven Terraces.
Day 10 - Fly to Langkawi. Four Seasons Langkawi.
Day 11 - Beach. Four Seasons Langkawi.
Day 12 - Beach & Cable Car Ride. Four Seasons Langkawi.
Day 13 - Journey to Kuching, Borneo. The Ranee Boutique Hotel.
Day 14 - Journey to The Batang Ai Lake Peninsula. Longhouse at Batang Ai.
Day 15 - Batang Ai Lake Peninsula. Longhouse at Batang Ai.
Day 16 - Journey to Bunga Raya Island Resort. Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.
Day 17 - On the Beach. Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.
Day 18 - On the Beach. Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.
Day 19 - On the Beach. Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.
Day 20 - Speedboat to Kota Kinabalu & North Borneo Railway. Le Meridian.
Day 24 - Rainforest Walks & Suspension Bridges. Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
Day 25 - Return to Kota Kinabalu. Le Meridian Hotel/KK or Hotel Majestic/KL.
Day 26 - Journey to Redang Island. The Taaras.
Day 27 - Beach at leisure. The Taaras.
Day 28 - Beach at leisure. The Taaras.
Day 29 - Depart for the UK.
Malaysia...
Malaysia is a land of hidden charms and allure that you will definitely find hard to resist. Prepare yourself for a journey through this country’s string of wonders spread across a
combination of fascinating landscapes. Separated into two distinct parts (Peninsula Malaysia and East Malaysia) over 13 states, travel on an adventure to uncover the secrets
behind cosmopolitan cities, diverse cultures and people to stunning natural beauty from tranquil highland retreats all the way down to pristine beaches and islands. Experience
the length and breadth of luxury and adventure with the boundless possibilities of Malaysia.
Flights...
Date
Airline & Flight
Number
From
Departs
To
Arrives
Class
DAY 0
TBC
LONDON
TBC
MALAYSIA
(VIA SINGAPORE)
(DAY1)
TBC
DAY 10
TBC
PENANG
TBC
LANGKAWI
TBC
TBC
DAY 13
TBC
LANGKAWI
TBC
KUCHING
TBC
TBC
DAY 16
TBC
KUCHING
TBC
KOTA KINABALU
TBC
TBC
DAY 22
TBC
KOTA KINABALU
TBC
SANDAKAN
TBC
TBC
DAY 26
TBC
LAHAD DATU
TBC
KOTA KINABALU OR
KUALA LUMPUR
(depending on routing)
TBC
TBC
Day 27
TBC
KOTA KINABALU OR
KUALA LUMPUR
(depending on routing)
TBC
REDANG ISLAND
TBC
TBC
DAY 30
TBC
REDANG ISLAND
TBC
KUALA LUMPUR
TBC
TBC
Day 30
TBC
KUALA LUMPUR
TBC
LONDON
(VIA SINGAPORE)
TBC
TBC
Your Recommended Itinerary...
Day 1 - Arrival in Malaysia & transfer to Malacca
On arrival in Kuala Lumpur you will be welcomed by a laterallife representative
and driven to Malacca for your 2 night stay (approx. 2hrs).
The historic city of Malacca is steeped in a rich tapestry of multicultural influences
reflected in its heritage architecture, diverse lifestyles and eclectic cuisine. Founded centuries ago by a Sumatran prince, Malacca grew to become a powerful sultanate and the centre of the lucrative spice trade, visited by Arab, Tamil and Chinese merchants and subjected to dominance by the Portuguese, Dutch and British in turn. Each left their mark, creating the unique and enduring allure of the
city today.
Located on the banks of the river which in yesteryear teemed with Chinese junks
and spice-laden vessels from all over the world, The Majestic Malacca provides a
glimpse into the splendid saga of an extraordinary empire. The Majestic Malacca
is an integral part of Malacca's colourful history. The original serene mansion,
dating back to the 1920's, remains at the heart of the hotel, whilst a new building
has been created, mirroring the original architecture, to house 54 spacious rooms
and suites.
This evening enjoy an introductory guided walk through the bustling weekend
night market. Take a stroll to Jonkers walk, a food night market which comes to
life when street vendors set up selling all sorts of local Nonya delicacies.
Accommodation: Majestic Hotel Malacca.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 2 - Malacca City Tour
Today enjoy a walk around historical Malacca, the only state and city in Malaysia
to have been ruled by three different colonial powers. Today the city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit sites such as A’Famosa Fort, Jonker
Street, Stadthuys, St. Paul's Church and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.
This evening take a boat ride along the river and enjoy a traditional dinner of Baba Nyonya food at Nancy’s Kitchen.
Accommodation: Majestic Hotel Malacca.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 3 - Journey to Kuala Lumpur
This morning after breakfast transfer by car to Kuala Lumpur (approx. 2 hrs).
The appeal of this nation’s capital city cannot be denied. Be immediately struck
by South-east Asia’s tallest building stamping its mark on the iconic Kuala Lumpur
city skyline. A mesmerizing blend of old and new, the city’s dynamism is reflected
within its offerings; stroll through cultural enclaves, take in historical sites and
landmarks that dot the city centre and enjoy yourself amongst modern day attractions. Take a short drive out of town and uncover the calmness of the city’s
countryside or immerse in the thrills and excitement of famous theme parks
amidst unique backdrops.
This afternoon enjoy afternoon tea in The elegant Tea Lounge in the Hotel Majestic. Cosy arrays of comfortable arm chairs provide the perfect setting for an English Afternoon Tea with a Malaysian twist.
Accommodation: Villa Samadhi.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 4 - City Tour & Sunset Drinks
Start the day with a morning tour of Kuala Lumpur, which includes taking a lift to
the top of the famous Petronas Towers and a stop at the railway station to see its
East meets West architecture. Finish at Central Market where you can browse the
countless stores.
This afternoon is at leisure. You may like to head to the famous shopping district
at Suria KLCC Mall.
This evening enjoy sunset drinks at the Sky Lounge in the Maya Hotel with its
stunning view of the Petronas Towers.
Accommodation: Villa Samadhi.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 5 - Journey to Ipoh
This morning, drive to Ipoh for your 3 night stay (approx. 2.5 hrs). On route visit
the Royal Selangor Pewter Centre.
Founded in 1885, Royal Selangor is the world’s foremost name in quality pewter,
a brand synonymous with design and craftsmanship. In the hands of our skilled
craftspeople, this versatile alloy of tin, copper and antimony is transformed into
an endless variety of home-ware and gifts sold in more than twenty countries
around the world. The Visitor Centre takes you back over a hundred years to the
founding of Royal Selangor and its inextricable link with the history of Malaysia,
to the present day as the world’s largest pewter maker and its expansion into
gold and sterling silver. During your visit you can try your hand at making your
own creation of pewter.
Arrive later this afternoon at the Banjaran, one of Malaysia’s lesser known retreats.
Accommodation: The Banjaran (Note min age is 12 years).
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 6 - Taiping Sightseeing & 4x4 Ride
Today drive to Taiping (approx. 30 mins) for a morning of sightseeing. Taiping
dates back to the 1870s and during the 19th Century became famous for its tin
mining activities. Taiping has some historical buildings, a famous zoo and the
beautiful Taiping Lake Gardens. Stroll through the lake gardens before taking a
4x4 ride (mostly old Land Rovers) up Butik Larut (Maxwell Hill) for fantastic views
of the lowlands below. This spot is a former British hill station to escape the heat.
Enjoy a picnic at the top before returning to Ipoh.
Accommodation: The Banjaran.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 7 - At Leisure, Ipoh
Today you are at leisure at The Banjaran. Explore Ipoh on your own accord or
enjoy relaxing in the hot springs in The Banjaran.
Accommodation: The Banjaran.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 8 - Journey to Penang
This morning you will be driven to Georgetown, the capital of Penang (approx.
1.5 hrs). A 13km bridge gives you access to Penang, a large developed island.
Georgetown, the capital of Penang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both old
and new, this historical town has a fun vibe with numerous street markets, food
stalls, bars and restaurants to choose from and some truly beautifully preserved
buildings.
This evening begin your exploration of historic Georgetown with a stroll through
the food markets.
Accommodation: Seven Terraces.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 9 - Cycling Penang
The old world charm and deep rooted history that earned this state’s capital city
Georgetown its status as one of UNESCO internationally recognized World Heritage
Sites is testament of the appeal of Malaysia’s only island state. As quoted from
UNESCO, be prepared to explore by bike one of the most “complete surviving city
centres on the Straits of Malacca” that “holds unique architectural and cultural
townscape without parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.” Together with
its mouth-watering culinary mix, stretch of beaches and major attractions across
the island, enjoy a multisensory experience that lives up to its name as “The Pearl
of The Orient”.
A visit to Penang isn’t complete without a visit to the beautifully preserved and restored Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion which also now serves as a small hotel – see
www.cheongfatttzemansion.com
Accommodation: Seven Terraces.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 10 - Fly to Langkawi
Today you will be transferred to the airport in good time to check-in for your flight
to Langkawi. On arrival you will be welcomed by a laterallife representative and
transferred to the Four Seasons for your 3 night stay.
The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the beach.
One of only four inhabited islands in an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman
Sea, Langkawi is a nature-lover’s dream – relished for its equatorial climate, tropical flora and fauna, and clear emerald waters. Two-thirds of the island’s dramatic
mountainous landscape is covered with rainforest, while vibrant coral reefs lie just
off shore.
Once a haven for pirates, Langkawi’s intriguing cultural and ethnic diversity can be
traced back to its days as a centre for Chinese, Indian and Arab traders. In a spectacular setting on Langkawi’s northern cape, Four Seasons Resort Langkawi offers
easy access to discoveries on land and at sea, from bird watching, snorkelling and
diving to jungle trekking, golf and island-hopping tours.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Langkawi.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 11 - Beach
Spend your day at leisure on the beach. This evening go for dinner at Temple Tree
at Bon Ton which has one of the best restaurants on the island www.bontonresort.com.my.
Accommodation: Four Seasons Langkawi.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 12 - Beach & Cable Car Ride
This afternoon take an exhilarating ride on the cable car to enjoy the stunning
sight of Langkawi from above. Comprised of 3 stations, the Cable Car enables
visitors to enjoy 360 degree views of Langkawi from 708m above sea level. At the
highest station, enjoy a drink in the café as the sun goes down, cross the SkyBridge (which ranks among the world’s longest curve suspension bridge at 125m
in length) and send a post card using the specially placed post box!
Accommodation: Four Seasons Langkawi.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 13 - Journey to Kuching, Borneo
Today you will be transferred to the airport in good time to check-in for your
flight to Kuching. On arrival you will be met by a laterallife representative and
transferred to your hotel for your overnight stay.
If time permits, head to the Sarawak Cultural Village, a short drive away from
Kuching where you get to interact and learn about the various tribal cultures of
Borneo from witnessing the different types of homes and architecture to local
food delicacies to traditions such as blowpipe hunting, weaving and birds-nest
breeding.
This evening go for a walk along the river around Kuching and dine with the locals at Top Spot.
Malaysian Borneo:
Unwind on the third largest island on Earth, where the other side of Malaysia can
be found (East Malaysia). Here, where the states of Sabah and Sarawak are
found, you’ll be greeted by a part of the country that is renowned for its natural
beauty and endless adventure opportunities; scale hills and mountains, traverse
lush green rainforests, navigate the open seas and be in awe of the idyllic landscape. Yet amongst all these, delight yourself further by meeting the indigenous
villages and keepers of the land and come in close contact with intriguing nature
and animals that will be sure to amaze you.
Note, should you wish to stay another night in Kuching, we will arrange a visit to
the Semenggoh Nature Reserve to see the orang-utans and visit to the Long
House community at Annah Rais. This is a good option if you prefer not to embark on the longer journey to Batang Ai as described below.
Accommodation: The Ranee Boutique Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 14 - Journey to The Batang Ai Lake Peninsula
Today’s adventure combines a 3 hour drive and a 15 minute boat ride to get to
the resort. Batang Ai National Park is only a 2-hour boat ride away. This afternoon set out on a guided nature walk to experience the canopy walkway in the
nearby rainforest.
Set on the edge of the world’s most ancient rainforest on the mystical island of
Borneo, the Batang Ai Longhouse Resort is a self-contained haven on 20 hectares
on the shores of the Batang Ai Lake peninsula, 275 km from the city of Kuching
and is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest just waiting to be explored.
Whilst here there are plenty of things to do:
 Explore life beneath the canopy as you take a guided nature walk through the
surrounding rainforest with the resident naturalist.
 Thrill-seekers may want to embark on more difficult walks like the one along
an old smugglers’ trail, or shoot the rapids on the longboat river safari.
 Alternatively, you can visit the neighbouring exotic Iban longhouses and discover the unique simplicity of a rich cultural heritage combined with ancient
human skulls hanging from the rafters. You’ll learn how to use a blowpipe and
there will be a performance of the warrior dance.
 For something more relaxing, take an early morning walk with the resident
naturalist, fish at the jetty, picnic by a waterfall, luxuriate by the pool or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the most breath-taking sunset.
Accommodation: Longhouse at Batang Ai.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 15 - Batang Ai Lake Peninsula
Today choose from a variety of activities as mentioned above.
Accommodation: Longhouse at Batang Ai.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 16 - Journey to Bunga Raya Island Resort
Today you will be transferred back to the airport in Kuching in good time to check
-in for your flight to Kota Kinabalu (note depending on flight schedules a night
back in Kuching may be required). On arrival you will be welcomed and transferred to the marina to board a speed boat to Pulau Gaya, for your 4 night stay at
Bunga Raya Island Resort.
Accommodation: Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 17 - On the Beach
Today you are at leisure. You may like to relax on the beach or enjoy some of the
activities on offer here: kayak; explore mangroves; catch a sight of Hornbills; trek
through thick jungles bursting with butterflies, birds, cicadas, and endless flora;
dive into the ocean or sunbathe afloat its waters.
Accommodation: Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 18 - On the Beach
At leisure.
Accommodation: Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 19 - On the Beach
At leisure.
Accommodation: Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 20 - Speedboat to Kota Kinabalu & North Borneo Railway
Take a speedboat back to Kota Kinabalu and head straight to the North Borneo
railway station. Set off on an historic route by steam train (Wednesdays & Saturdays). The small steam train and carriages are a delight and the train follows a
historic route via Beaufort. Carriages have a/c and there is a typical lunch served
on board. On route you pass through countryside and local villages via parts of
the coast.
This afternoon is at your leisure to wander around Kota Kinabalu.
Note, KK (as it is known locally) is also a base for treks up SE Asia’s highest
mountain – Mount Kinabalu at just over 4,000m above sea level. If you want to
climb this, we can arrange stays in local lodging which is very basic. Alternatively
you may choose to spend a day hiking the lower trails of Mount Kinabalu which
go as high as 3,200m above sea level.
Accommodation: Le Meridian.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 21 - Sepilok - Orang-Utans & Sun Bears
This morning take a short flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, the gateway to
the Sepilok Nature Reserve. From here transfer (approx. 20 minutes) to Sepilok
where the animal sanctuaries/rehabilitation centres and tourist attractions are
located.
Begin by visiting the Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre: this professionally
run centre is run with the interests of the wildlife in mind with sincere volunteers
and guides all around for impartial advice. Start with a short video presentation
and ‘sponsor a baby orang-utan’ request. Then head to the viewing platform area
to see the rangers call the orang-utans and other wildlife for feeding time. It
seems that you are almost guaranteed to see a few orang-utans here, along with
many macaques and other monkeys vying for fruit. Note – a special access viewpoint with one way glass windows is due to open for the nursery part of the centre. Until then private viewing can be arranged on request.
Next visit the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, a new small enclosure to
care for rescued bears, which is located just next door. Small sun bears are
strapped in tiny cages in Vietnam and China, hooked up to an IV that pumps bile
from their gallbladders – a delicacy, apparently! This centre is new and still a
work in progress but you get to see these cute animals with razor sharp claws.
Accommodation: Sepilok Nature Resort.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 22 - Journey to Kinabatangan & Proboscis Monkeys
Depart today and transfer from Sepilok through Sandakan to the water’s edge of
the Sulu Sea (approx. 50 minutes). From here it is a 1 hour approx. boat ride
firstly on the Sulu Sea then on the river to Abai Lodge on the lower River Kinabatangan – look out for wild pygmy elephants grazing in fields close to the river
banks! Stop for lunch at Abai Lodge.
After lunch it is around an hour from Abai Lodge to Kinabatangan by river boat.
Kinabatangan Lodge – is a typical Bornean nature lodge with spacious, fan-cooled
chalets, simple bathrooms, very friendly staff and decent food for a rainforest
buffet. Located on the river, close to a small tributary of the river of the same
name, it is 99% guaranteed to see proboscis monkeys.
This afternoon, head out by river boat to view proboscis monkeys as well as macaques, hornbills, monitor lizards, kingfisher, cormorant, crocodiles, snakes and
spiders of all shapes, colours and sizes.
Accommodation: Kinabatangan Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 23 - Journey to Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley
Today’s journey takes you to the remote Danum Valley. You are driven around 2
hours on a paved road to Lahad Datu town, where the office of Borneo Rainforest
Lodge is located. Change vehicles and continue the journey in a new SUV on the
2.5 hour journey through the Danum Valley to the lodge. About half the trip is on
a non-paved road but really it is not that bad at all; the scenery is beautiful and
truly remote as you drive into the million acre preserve, protected by the government.
Expect a warm welcome in the plush rainforest lobby before heading upstairs to
the bar area which is open on all sides to take in the views of the river. Service
here is really very good and your local guide will introduce you to the lodge and
activities on offer. The food is buffet style but considering the remoteness of the
location is very good indeed with a good selection of Asian and Western, there is
even apple crumble!
Accommodation: Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 24 - Rainforest Walks & Suspension Bridges
Activities are focused on jungle treks/walks of differing lengths, vistas and fitness
levels. The canopy walkway is a great experience and stretches about 300m and
up to 27m. Night safari drives provide a completely different perspective as you
seek out sambar deer, mouse deer, small loris, flying squirrel, civet, tarsiers and
more. Night walks are also possible but not recommended if you are squeamish
as the focus is on insects, snakes and spiders!
Our favourite hike takes you to the ‘Valley view point’ which is challenging but
manageable for most fitness levels and on the way back you stop by a small waterfall and natural Jacuzzi to cool off and enjoy a private lunch. Note you may
consider spending 3 nights at this lodge.
Accommodation: Borneo Rainforest Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 25 - Return to Kota Kinabalu
Today you are driven back to Lahad Datu where you’ll board a short flight to Kota
Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur for an overnight stay.
Note routing will be subject to flight schedules on the particular date.
Accommodation: Le Meridian Hotel/KK or Hotel Majestic/KL.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 26 - Journey to Redang Island
Transfer to the airport this morning for a flight to Redang Island. Spend your final
few days at the family-friendly Taaras resort which has an idyllic setting on one of
East Malaysia’s most beautiful bays. Snorkelling, diving, swimming and host of
other water-sports and island activities are possible if you are feeling active.
The Malaysians call this Island ‘Pulau Redang’ which is thought to be because of
the Redang tree that once grew here as well as it’s literal meaning as ‘a stop-over
place’; perhaps long ago to take refuge from pirates on the trade routes between
India and China. Redang is located 45km off the coast of Kuala Terengganu and
is the largest (6km by 7km) among a group of Islands dotting the north east
coast of Malaysia and surrounded by the South China Sea. The Island is blessed
with crystal clear waters housing numerous dive sites and some amazing as well
as abundant marine life. The coral collection is generally excellent all year but can
be influenced from time to time by weather and sea conditions. As part of the
surrounding waters there are designated conservation sites as well as a protected
Marine Park (including a turtle sanctuary) actively protected by the Malaysian
Government.
‘The Taaras’ is a luxurious beach property, tucked away in a quiet location on
Redang Island. It provides contemporary, barefoot luxury and is comprised of
183 stylish suites and rooms, as well as a stunning five bedroom Private Villa
perched high up on the cliff overlooking the ocean and resort below.
Accommodation: The Taaras.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 27 - Beach at leisure
Today you are at leisure to do as you please. Relax on the beach or enjoy the
numerous activities on offer. Things to do include: The Taaras Spa; diving; Jungle
Trekking; Tennis (Outdoor); Cooking Class; Island Tour; Turtle watching by glass
bottom boat; and Sea sports such as snorkelling (day or night), parasailing, windsurfing, fishing trip, island hopping, banana boat, paddle boat, canoe/kayak, boat
charters and boogie boards.
Accommodation: The Taaras.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 28 - Beach at leisure
At leisure.
Accommodation: The Taaras.
Meals: Breakfast.
Day 29 - Depart for the UK
Today you begin your journey home with a flight to KL, connecting with an onward flight to the UK.
Note: if flying via Singapore, consider an extension of 2-3 nights with fine dining,
a traditional tea house ceremony, shopping on Orchard Road, some creative
sightseeing at Gardens by the Bay, theme parks and one of the best zoos and
aquariums in the region.
If staying in Singapore we recommend the following:
New Majestic - www.newmajestichotel.com
The Fullerton or Fullerton Bay Hotels – www.fullertonhotel.com/default-en.html
www.fullertonbayhotel.com
-----
Laterally sleeping...
Majestic Hotel, Malacca.
Located on the banks of the river which in yesteryear teemed with Chinese junks and
spice-laden vessels from all over the world, The Majestic Malacca provides a glimpse
into the splendid saga of an extraordinary empire and today the hotel represents an
integral part of Malacca's colourful history. The original serene mansion dating back to
the 1920s, remains at the heart of the hotel, whilst a new building has been created,
mirroring the original style and traditional feel inside to house 54 spacious rooms and
suites. Facilities include a small outdoor pool, mini-gym and a gourmet restaurant in
the old wing.
Villa Samadhi, Kuala Lumpur.
Located in a quiet residential neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur’s embassy district, Villa
Samadhi provides a quiet retreat from the bustling malls and markets of Malaysia’s
capital. Samadhi consists of 21 contemporary Asian-inspired rooms, spanning from
600 to over 2000 square-foot of living space. The moon shaped pool backs on to
many of the rooms in the main building and just behind is a small dining area where
breakfast is served. In the evenings, the roof top bar is a wonderful secret spot to
enjoy an early cocktail and KL’s colourful skyline before heading out to dinner.
The Banjaran, Ipoh.
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is nestled in a 16 acre valley, cradled by 260 million
year old towering limestone hills, lush rainforest, rejuvenating geothermal hot springs,
natural caves and cascading waterfalls. 25 sumptuous Garden and Water villas, a
pampering Spa and Wellness Centre and a host of retreat experiences combine for
ultimate seclusion. Also of note is the magnificent Jeff’s Cellar, the owner’s wine collection and bar set within a limestone cave. Savour a wide range of organic and rare
wines in a setting where ethereal lighting, intimate cave interiors and natural water
features present a whole new encounter and indulgence.
Seven Terraces, Penang.
A converted row of seven, 19th Century Anglo Chinese terraces, in one of Penang’s
finest and most intact heritage streets, is The Seven Terraces hotel. Comprised of only
18 suites, it is just a few minutes’ walk to all Penang’s major historical sights.
The suites surround an elegant Chinese granite courtyard with beds of frangipani set
between tall wooden columns and walkways. Some suites have their own outdoor
decks with views of the Georgian Church. Facilities include a generous pool, Asian fusion dining room, full bar and exquisitely furnished reception. The hotel offers the perfect sanctuary but within a stone’s throw of the bustle and hawker markets for which
Penang is so famous.
...sleeping Laterally
Four Seasons, Langkawi.
A beautiful beach facing resort with great architecture and lush green gardens. The
Four Seasons is comprised of 91 villas and pavilions and is bordered by lush rainforest and cliffs. Family friendly, it is ideally situated for exploring Langkawi and enjoying its stunning beaches. Tanjung Rhu which is another popular beach, is nearby.
The Ranee Boutique Hotel, Kuching.
Stylishly rebuilt from two traditional 19th century shophouses and ingeniously
adapted to modern standards, The Ranee Boutique Hotel is a real gem. The property
consists of 24 spacious suites, varying in size and theme, but all full of character. The
two top floor suites have a private terrace and river view. There is also a reading
lounge with a well-stocked bookshelf and a great ground-floor café-deli.
Longhouse at Batang Ai, Batang Ai Lake Peninsula.
Set on the edge of the world’s most ancient rainforest on the mystical island of Borneo is the Batang Ai Longhouse Resort. The Hilton managed resort is a self-contained
haven on 20 hectares of the Batang Ai Lake peninsula, 275 km from the city of Kuching and is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. You can choose to stay in the
Longhouse Style accommodation, a native Borneo timber room, or opt for a twostorey Duplex Suite, for more space and comfort.
Bunga Raya Resort & Spa, Pulau Gaya.
Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious jewel set on a coral reef island just off the
coast of Borneo. A secluded island hideaway of 48 timbered villas, the resort is
tucked away on a tranquil and hidden bay framed by crescent shaped white sand
beach on one side and the centuries old virgin jungle on the other. There are two
restaurants and a gorgeous infinity pool area which backs onto the beach. Access is
by a short 25 minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu.
Laterally sleeping...
Le Meridian, Kota Kinabalu.
Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu is well situated for enjoying the city’s sites and retail, dining
and entertainment options. With four restaurants and bars you are spoilt for choice.
The roof top pool and accompanying roof bar with views over the South China Sea
and nearby little islands is the perfect spot for sundowners.
Sepilok Nature Resort, Sepilok.
Hidden amongst a veritable treasure trove of tropical plants, grasses, huge trees and
spectacular orchids in bloom, the quaint bungalows of the Sepilok Nature Resort are
within walking distance of the world-famous Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, precious
home of the last wild Orang-Utans of Northern Borneo. Combining rich traditional style
with contemporary jungle comfort, Sepilok Nature Resort’s beautiful grounds are dominated by a central lake-pond, which you overlook as you dine.
Kinabatangan Lodge, Kinabatangan.
The Kinabatangan River, Malaysia’s second longest river, is one of the most exciting
and easily accessible places to explore the rich biodiversity of Sabah. The lower Kinabatangan offers an incredible opportunity to see a large range of wildlife including
Borneo’s unique proboscis monkeys, the wild Orang Utan, Bornean Pygmy elephants,
crocodiles, otters, sun bears, wild cats and countless rare and beautiful birds such as
hornbills and the Oriental Darter. Accessible by either road or river, Kinabatangan
Lodge is comprised of 33 rooms, all connected by wooden jetties.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley.
Nestled on the riverbank, in Sabah’s largest protected lowland rainforest, Borneo Rainforest Lodge has only 31 villas with either forest or river views. The bar/lounge/
restaurant area is open on all sides to take in the views of the river in front. This pristine rainforest is also home to more than 340 bird species, 124 different mammals, 72
types of reptile, 56 species of Amphibians and a staggering 200 species of plants per
hectare.
...sleeping Laterally
Hotel Majestic, Kuala Lumpur.
The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur includes the original Hotel Majestic which is documented as a national heritage site. This colonial structure was built in 1932 and became one of the great hotels of Kuala Lumpur in its time. A true heritage classic landmark hotel, it is a short drive away from the shopping zone. Divided between a new
and old wing, the new wing has an excellent restaurant and at lunchtime, the gourmet buffet is well worth a stop. Rooms in the new wing are fresh, modern yet traditional, light and inviting and very spacious with a mix of views. Rooms in the old wing
are ‘heritage suites’ with mixed layouts and sizes. Old wing suites also have butler
service. Facilities at the Hotel Majestic include an outdoor pool, a Truefitt & Hill Barbers, snooker room, cigar room and bar, an orchid house and a wonderful afternoon
tea room and adjacent café.
The Taaras, Redang Island.
The Taaras is a luxurious beach property, tucked away on Redang Island, just off the
unspoilt East Coast of Malaysia. Providing contemporary, barefoot luxury, it is comprised of 183 stylish suites and rooms, as well as a stunning five bedroom Private
Villa perched high up on the cliff overlooking the ocean and resort below.
Laterally Thinking...
Teh Tarik
Teh tarik is recognised by the Malaysian Government as part of the food and beverage heritage of Malaysia and is considered by some as the national drink of Malaysia.
Literally meaning ‘pulled tea’ it gains its name from the preparation process in which
the ingredients (black tea and condensed milk) are poured between two beakers
from a height. The result? A delicious frothy beverage at perfect drinking temperature!
Orangutans
In Malay, the word ‘Orangutan’ means 'person of the forest' - stemming from the
words ‘orang' meaning people and ‘hutan' which translates as forest. Orang-utans are
currently only found in the rainforests of Borneo (Malaysia) and Sumatra (Indonesia).
One of the most intelligent primates, it has been suggested that there could be distinct cultures within populations. However, unlike other great apes they are surprisingly solitary, with males being found mainly alone and females often with only one
or two young. This is thought to be due to their high calorific needs (which comes
mainly from fruit) or the lack of predators they face (humans). Considered to be endangered as a result of human activities such as poaching and habitat destruction,
there are numerous conservation and rehabilitation organisations that are dedicated
to protecting them.