As Langkawi’s five star eco-resort, The Datai provides the perfect escape to restore your mind, body and spirit. Surrounded by a ten million year old rainforest, this property takes luxury island escapes to a whole new level. Travel Beyond’s corporate travel consultant Chris, embarked on a famil to this amazing property and shares his experience during his stay…
Country: Malaysia
Closest International Airport: Kuala Lumpur Airport
Airlines (from Sydney, Australia): Emirates, Asia Air X, Singapore Airlines, Qantas Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Virgin Australia, Cathay Pacific, Garuda Indonesia
Approximate Flight Time (to Langkawi): Approximately 13 hours
Traveller Types: the authentic experiencer, the rejuvenator, the cultural explorer, and the solo traveller.
Best Time of Year to Visit: Between March and August
Average Temperature: Approximately 28 degrees
Budget (for five days): $2000 – $5000 (AUD)
1. Beach-Front and Rainforest Villas
Nestled in lush rainforest surrounds, each room, suite and villa have their own private verandah with breath-taking views of the Andaman Sea. Datai Bay was also voted as the 10th best beach in the world, and residents have this magnificent bay a stones-throw away from their doorstep. Chris’s stay in the rainforest villa was nothing short of impressive. However if you have the funds, he highly recommends the new beachfront villas as they come equipped with their own pools, butler service and spectacular views.
Photo: The Datai
Photo: The Datai
Photo: The Datai
2. Dinner at The Gulai House
Set up as a traditional Malay Kampung house surrounded the breath-taking rainforest, The Gulai House was one of Chris’s favourite spots in the hotel. Accessible via a traditional “Titi Bridge”, The Gulai House is ideal for sampling a range of local food and alcohol, and did not disappoint our consultant.
Dishes consist of authentic Malay cuisine combined with Indian influences and effectively captures the culture and ethnicity of Langkawi. Chris recommends making a reservation before dining as it is one of Langkawi’s most popular establishments.
Photo: The Datai
Photo: The Datai
3. Drinks at The Beach Club
There was no better place at The Datai to unwind with an afternoon drink in hand than The Beach Club. This open air bar and cocktail space showcases breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and is ideal to experience during sunset. An international and Mediterranean cuisine buffet, caters for any traveller with any dietary requirements.
Open from 11am to 11pm, The Beach Club is an ideal location for a midday cocktail and wood-fired pizzas or a buffet dinner to end another day in paradise.
Photo: The Datai
Photo: The Datai/LipsBrothers
4. Rainforest Flora and Fauna Tours
Set in the famous ten million year old rainforest, explore an abundance of flora and fauna during a complimentary morning or early evening walk with a local naturalist. Chris’s guide was mentored by the great Sir David Attenborough, and his passion and knowledge of the local flora and fauna made it an experience he will never forget.
Photo: The Datai
From a spa treatment or massage set along a relaxing stream in the rainforest in an open air spa villa, to a round of golf at the 18 Hole/Par 72 Championship course, The Datai also offers an array of complimentary experiences.
Photo: The Datai
Photo: The Datai
Another experience to tick off the bucket list is a ride on the steepest cable car ride in the world. With exquisite views of hillside flora and waterfalls, the cable car allows you to explore the coastline of Langkawi and surrounding islands at its absolute finest.
Photo: Lonely Planet
5. Private Chauffeur Services
Private air-conditioned chauffeur services are available for guests at The Datai where you are greeted by friendly drivers, providing a comfortable and luxurious trip around the islands and to/from the airport.
Photo: The Datai
Have a question for Chris? Leave a comment below or contact us to book your next stay at The Datai with Travel Beyond…
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