With an eco-conscious ethos, creature comforts and thoughtful safety protocols, the region’s most beloved resort is welcoming guests back again
In partnership with The Datai Langkawi
Tucked between 1.5km of coastline and the steep green mountains along northwestern Langkawi, The Datai Langkawi offers an off-the-grid experience without having to forgo contemporary creature comforts.
Since its inception in 1993 and recent makeover in 2018, it has bagged more than 150 awards worldwide, earning its place as a top destination for travellers from around the world. Perhaps more importantly, it has also stepped up its safety protocols for guests and employees since the onset of the pandemic.
Here are five reasons to book a stay at The Datai Langkawi for your next vacation.
1. An eco-conscious escape
This seafront resort has sustainability at its core. To keep the beauty of the island untarnished, The Datai Langkawi built its concept around eco-friendly practices. In the beginning, trained elephants replaced heavy machinery to make way for the construction of the property. For every fallen tree (subsequently used as lumber for the resort), a new one was also planted.
The first in the world to receive the EarthCheck Certification for land-based tourism projects in 2019, the resort has a “no single-use plastic” policy and established a permaculture garden to support zero-waste dining. It also limits its energy consumption where possible, bottles its own water, actively recycles and spearheads conservation programmes to protect the local habitat.
2. An award-winning golf course
Besides traditional spa treatments, yoga classes and a boutique retailing artisan goods, the upscale retreat also offers an award-winning golf course, designed by golf icon and four-time major winner Ernie Els. Considered one of the world’s most spectacular courses, the 18-hole, 47-hectare facility at The Els Club Teluk Datai extends out to the edge of the open sea. Also available are GPS-installed buggies and an al fresco lounge with panoramic views of the course.
3. Luxurious villas
The Datai Langkawi is home to 121 newly refurbished rooms, suites and villas, some of which boast dreamy views of the Andaman Sea, while others face the dense ancient rainforest. Each private villa is positioned to ensure maximum privacy, and equipped with plush furniture and modern amenities.
Of its various spacious lodgings, The Datai Estate Villa stands out as the most extravagant. With five bedrooms spanning 3,500m2, five balconies, a gaming room and two private pools, it accommodates the entire family and more. What’s more, guests will have access to a private chef and a 24-hour butler.
4. A host of nature activities
Get closer to nature at The Datai Langkawi, where spectacled langurs, flying lemurs and sea otters make regular appearances around the resort. Its new 15m-high canopy walk, offers vantage points to the pristine, ancient rainforest. Guests can sign up for butterfly walks, bird-watching treks and mangrove kayaking expeditions as well.
Led by resident naturalists and marine biologists, these activities can be tailored to each traveller. This team of specialists will also be on hand at The Nature Centre, an open-air educational facility, to share more about the local flora and fauna, and serve herbal teas made from native plants.
5. Diverse dining options
Savour Malaysian cuisine at The Gulai House, a rustic, kampung-style restaurant where diners can sit on the floor, or climb up to The Pavilion, an elevated treehouse-like setting, for authentic Thai fare. For a more personalised experience, the resort can arrange anything from an intimate beachside picnic to a private feast. You’ll have access to the resort’s collection of more than 16,000 bottles and 465 wine labels.
Contact The Datai Langkawi at +60 4 9500 500 or reservations@dataihotels.com to book your stay today.
