Being cooped up at home for more less the entire year has made us crave for a proper getaway where we can feel pampered from the minute we arrive. While travelling interstate is currently prohibited, when the CMCO does lift again, we’ve got just the places for you to experience luxury.
Located all around the country, these boutique hotels offer an elevated experience with elements you won’t find in your standard big chain hotel. Typically smaller in size with anywhere from 10 to 100 rooms, boutiques are more intimate in nature, with distinctive design and character. Bespoke amenities and highly personalised service are part of the package, ensuring your stay goes above expectations.
We’ve handpicked a few boutiques that demand a visit if you’re after something truly special.
Ambong-Ambong Rainforest Retreat
Langkawi, Kedah
This Travellers’ Choice 2019 Winner is located on the Jewel of Kedah, where it lies perched on a slope overlooking the sea. You’re right in the middle of a primary rainforest here, and yet close to some of the islands most well-known restaurants and cafes on Tengah beach.
Image Credit fb.com/ambongambong
Secluded but not isolated, the hotel is well known for its Ishan Spa which offers age-old therapies that rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Yoga and cooking classes are also available if you’re looking for things to do.
Ambong Ambong Rainforest Retreat
Where Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Tel 04 955 8428
ambong-ambong.com
Seven Terraces
Georgetown, Pulau Pinang
Capturing the spirit of Georgetown’s unique cultural heritage, Seven Terraces is beauty redefined. A converted Peranakan terrace house, the hotel is a past winner of the UNESCO Award of Distinction for heritage conservation and is situated on one of the town’s most historical streets,. This also happens to be next to the 1810 Goddess of Mercy Temple – a must-visit site.
Image Credit fb.com/seventerraces
Each room is flush with antiques and spacious high ceilings, and the leafy courtyard allows natural light to flood in at all angles. Entering the hotel is like stepping back in time and everything is built with the finest workmanship. If you’re feeling peckish, the famous Kebaya restaurant lays claim to some of the best Baba-Nyonya food in town (and that’s saying a lot!) – don’t leave without having a meal here!
Seven Terraces
Where Steward Lane, 10200 Georgetown, Penang
Tel 04 264 2333
georgetownheritage.com/seven-terraces-hotel
Mangala Resort & Spa
Gambang, Pahang
Once a bustling tin and sand mining site that left the land all but barren, the Mangala Resort & Spa sits on a now fertile estate overflowing with exotic flowers, fruit trees, lakes and flourishing wetlands. This eco-friendly property has been built to complement nature from every angle, highlighting the flora and fauna of the rejuvenated site with style.
Image Credit fb.com/mangalaresortandspa
A variety of exquisite villas comprise the accommodation, some on the edge of the wetlands, others surrounded by palm forests with complete privacy, and yet others with serene views over the Mangala Lake. Notable as well are the list of recreational activities available to guests, including archery, cycling, kayaking, birdwatching and picnics.
Mangala Resort & Spa
Where Lebuhraya Tun Razak, 26300, Kuantan, Pahang
Tel 09 505 7788
mangalaresortandspa.com
The Ranee
Kuching, Sarawak
Bringing together the old and the new in seamless fashion, The Ranee reflects Sarawak’s rich colonial heritage and colourful ethnicity. Oozing character, each room has it’s own distinct character in terms of furnishings and finishes. Centrally located in Kuching’s Old Town, the hotel is also just a stone’s throw from popular attractions, restaurants and historical sites.
Image Credit fb.com/TheRanee
With a warm and personalised service, a great atmosphere from the lobby to each individual room, waterfront vistas and a cosy restaurant, every guest is made to feel special here.
The Ranee
Where 6 & 7 Main Bazaar, 93000 Kuching, Sarawak
Tel 082 258833
theranee.com
Sari Pacifica
Redang, Terrenganu
If you’re looking for an island getaway with a difference, we recommend Sari Pacifica on the idyllic island of Redang. The East Coast of Malaysia is well known for having some of the most pristine beaches in the world, and Sari Pacifica is located on one of these – Pasir Panjang or Long Beach.
Image Credit fb.com/saripacificaredangisland
White sands, clear turquoise waters and an abundance of marine life await guests here who can take advantage of some of the best diving and snorkelling in the region. Meanwhile, the friendly hotel staff will make you feel right at home as soon as you arrive. Built in English Tudor style architecture with beautifully appointed rooms, the hotel also boasts an ocean view infinity pool.
Sari Pacifica
Where Lot 87 & 88, Pantai Pasir Panjang, Pulau Redang, Terengganu
Tel 03 6201 1055
saripacificaredang.com
Rosa Malacca
Malacca
The winner of numerous awards for its matchless design, Rosa Malacca is an Instragammer’s dream that is located in the heart of historical Malacca. Merging an industrial look with bare brick walls and metalwork, along with warm wooden floorings and a ton of quirky décor, everything seems to come together in chic, casual and comfortable fashion. Every inch of the hotel looks immaculate.
Image Credit fb.com/rosamalacca
The hotel has 60 rooms and suites ranging from Deluxe Twins to Family Suites, and each is decked out with comfy furniture and unique stylings. Breakfast is in the European-styled Bica & Co which has bright and airy courtyard tables as well as cosy indoor seating. You’re just 15 minutes away from the busy Jonker Street and other popular sites – enough to get you away from the hustle and bustle but close enough that you can take a quick stroll there.
Rosa Malacca
Where Lot 87 & 88, Pantai Pasir Panjang, Pulau Redang, Terengganu
Tel 03 6201 1055
saripacificaredang.com