Chill in style for less in Malaysia

The exchange rate for the Ringgit is at a 10-month low against the Singapore dollar, so exploit it by indulging in a lux getaway? We look at high-end destinations up north.

PANGKOR LAUT RESORT

PAVAROTTI SUITE

Rate: RM4,500 (S$ 1,700) per night

Where: Pangkor Laut Island, Perak, 32300 Lumut, Malaysia

Set on the private-owned island of Pangkor Laut, this resort is the perfect escape.

It has an extensive list of accolades to its name, the most impressive being 2003's Conde Naste Traveller Best In The World award.

It's not just about pampering clients. The entire resort is designed to cause minimal disruption to the 121ha island.

The Pavarotti suite, named after the renowned tenor, was described by the man himself as being set in "a paradise" with a view that brought him close to tears.

This stylish two-bedroom suite is built on a lush, rainforest-covered hillside and luxury and tranquillity are its signature notes.

A spacious lounge leads to an extensive balcony with a breathtaking view of the sea and tropical greenery below.

And what could be more romantic than watching a glorious sunset while soaking in a bathtub in a vast open-roofed bathroom?

FOUR SEASONS RESORT LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA

BEACH VILLA

Rate: RM7,105 per night

Where: Jalan Tanjung Rhu, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia

This one-bedroom villa overlooks the azure Andaman Sea and the white sand beach is just a step away.

If that seems like too much effort, you have the option of your own 129 sq ft private plunge pool.

Enjoy the bathroom that is resplendent in Spanish marble or use the villa's secluded outdoor bathing and shower facilities.

The Naturally Langkawi option provides daily breakfast for two as well as a three-course set dinner for two at the waterfront Ikan Ikan restaurant, which serves Malay cuisine.

If the tranquillity proves too restful, you can inject a hint of adventure. The mangrove and eagles boat safari is a naturalist-led excursion into the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park.

Aside from the stunning scenery, it is an opportunity to see the eagles - in Malay: helang - that gave Langkawi its name.

TANJUNG RHU RESORT

BAYU SENJA SUITE

Rate: RM4,254.55 per night

Where: Mukim Ayer Hangat 07000, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah Darulaman, Malaysia

This five-star accommodation stands on a 2.5km white sand beach on the northern tip of Langkawi.

After a sumptuous buffet breakfast, you can indulge in the resort's cave exploration and see geological marvels formed over millions of years.

After the exertion, experience JivaRhu which offers a range of purifying and revitalising treatments, reflexology and other fusion massages.

If you need further proof that this resort is worth the splurge, note that it has topped TripAdvisor's Travellers' Choice Award for the past two years.

JAPAMALA RESORT, TIOMAN

THE PENGHULU'S HOUSE

Rate: RM2000 per night

Where: Kampung Lanting, 86800 Pulau Tioman, Pahang Darul Makmur, Malaysia

Holiday like the boss on the southern coast of Tioman Island.

Penghulu (Malay for village chief) is a royal-worthy accommodation. The two-storey and two-bedroom villa kisses the shoreline in its backyard.

This luxurious escape combines a rustic look with modern amenities.

The huge main bedroom, known as The Atas Residence, offers a spectacular view of the sea. The ground-floor room, The Bawah Residence, opens out to the private swimming pool.

BUNGA RAYA ISLAND RESORT & SPA

3 BEDROOM DELUXE SUITE

Rate: RM3,922 per night

Where: Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, 88778 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Minimum stay: Two nights

This is perfect for a holiday with the whole family because this spacious three-bedroom suite has space for everyone.

It is built at the resort's the highest point, so expect a breathtaking ocean view.

Be sure to secure the master bedroom of this two-storey hilltop villa - it has its own giant whirlpool bath.

The reservation includes return boat transfers, unlimited use of non-motorised water sports equipment, daily breakfast for six and a tour of the Marine Ecology Centre at Gayana Eco Resort.

*Availability, prices and exchange rates correct at press time.

This article was first published on December 7, 2014.
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