The Ritz-Carlton group of hotels recently unveiled their latest gem, a seaside resort on the tropical paradise island of Langakwi. Baroque Travel has all the details
All pictures courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
Surrounded by tropical beauty and set in a tranquil private bay, the brand new Ritz-Carlton Langkawi sits right on a beautiful white sand beach on the edge of the Andaman Sea. Designed in typical Malaysian style with more than a touch of eco-consciousness, this brand new resort is extremely luxurious and distinctly authentic.
It boasts 70 guest rooms as well as 15 luxury suites and 29 beautiful over-water villas, all spacious and designed to fit into the jungle setting, with breathtaking panoramic views either of the lush tropical surrounds or the sea. They all offer private balconies or terraces, marble en suite bathrooms, TV and entertainment systems with Bluetooth, 24-hour in-room private dining and WiFi. The cream of the crop of beautiful accommodations is the deluxe Villa Mutiara, which accommodates up to eight guests, and features two swimming pools and access to a private beach.
From the minute guests arrive at the Walkway of Wishes entrance to the hotel, they can feel the tranquillity. On arrival they write down their wishes on a flat stone, which is placed into the water fountain at the entrance. This is the first of the memorable experiences they enjoy at this idyllic resort.
The resort boasts four restaurants, each with stunning sea views. The Langkawi Kitchen offers a blend of Malay, Chinese and Indian dishes, while guests can enjoy Western favorites at the Beach Grill. Chinese seafood is served at Hai An, and the other two restaurants also offer delightful choices.
The resort features a choice of two swimming pools and a range of sports facilities including a fully equipped gym, outdoor tennis court, indoor and outdoor yoga classes, deep sea fishing, sailing and diving. There’s a state-of-the-art spa offering various treatments and rituals for health and beauty as well as a Vitality pool. Guests enjoy their pampering in five cocoon-shaped pavilions that float above the sea, inspired by the local fish traps that island fishermen have used on the island for centuries.
In keeping with the traditions of the island, guests enjoy contemporary performances of an ancient ‘tarian paying’ dance on the beach, at sunset and sunrise. This is the islanders’ way of showing thanks and respect for the rich bounty of the sea and the land they live in. They can also embark on guided walks into the surrounding jungle to see the creatures that live in the rainforest and can learn about various Langakwi traditions and legends. Another highlight is a visit to one of the island’s night markets to purchase traditional Malaysian, Chinese and Indian foods and crafts.