TOP 5 VALENTINE’S SPA DESTINATIONS

Tranquil, serene, elegant, and exotic, we present our edit for your next romantic rendezvous.

1. BEST SPA DESTINATION

FOUR SEASONS LANGKAWI

For the pure love of nature, UNESCO-protected labyrinthine mangroves, lush tropical vegetation, and a pristine beachfront of golden sands are among the features specially curated for your holiday pleasure. With picturesque views of the emerald sea from your unique Malay-designed pavilion and every modern convenience at your fingertips, you will be forgiven for not wanting to ever leave this haven. Please do, though, if only to visit the resort’s renowned Geo Spa, which brings into synergy the ancient healing energies of the island and bespoke natural treatments for sessions of utmost pampering and relaxation. Inspired by the elements of earth, water, light, and air, every signature experience aims to deliver balance to your core. For a spa treatment to deepen your compassion and sincerity, book the Jantung ‘Heart’ Ritual where your therapist coaxes your heart chakra with focused treatments to restore equilibrium to your body and encourage feelings of warmth, sincerity, and love. Trust the highly specialised therapists, sensual local oils, and healing techniques for a truly unforgettable experience in this quiet paradise. With spirits renewed and bodies rejuvenated, the scene is set for both you and your significant other to reconnect and deepen your love for one another. Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Jalan Tanjung Rhu, Langkawi. Tel: 04-950 8888. www.fourseasons.com/langkawi

2. BEST SEASIDE GETAWAY

THE DATAI LANGKAWI Nestled at the northwestern tip of Langkawi island, this secluded retreat offers a hideaway fit for the glamorous couple opting for a reclusive weekend away. Meander down the paths from your villa to arrive at a private bay and sandy beaches. With soft white sand at your feet, caressed by the gentle sea breeze, this location is nothing short of perfection. For a romantic sanctuary, check in to one of the spectacular beach villas fitted with racked timber ceilings for optimal airflow and a private pool when a beach swim still does not suffice. Seamlessly integrated into the lush surrounds of the virgin rainforest, The Spa at The Datai challenges the couple to take a reprieve from all-consuming technological gadgets and succumb to the allure of nature. Here, the Ramuan Ritual begins with a coconut milk foot soak and scrub of an exotic blend of ground rice, wild ginger, pandan leaf, and kaffir lime. This total sensorial experience is then followed by a head massage, exfoliating body scrub, and full body massage. The ritual concludes with a hibiscus bath and coconut milk rinse, while you take in the striking scenery. The perfect setting to cultivate some quality time with your loved one, you may find yourselves wanting to return to this gem of a retreat again and again. The Datai Langkawi, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah. Tel: 04-959 2500. www.dataihotels.com

3. BEST GETAWAY FOR TWO

AVILLION PORT DICKSON Now that far-flung locales have become more and more accessible, we tend to overlook the places nearest to us. Only an hour’s drive away from Kuala Lumpur, Avillion Port Dickson is a great place for vacationers who want a quick weekend getaway. A large part of the resort is made up of spacious water chalets that hover above the sea in seemingly random arrangements. The quaint and cosy style mimics the traditional Peranakan and Malay fishing villages that certainly provided inspiration. The decadent Honeymoon Indulgence Package is a beautiful two-night stay at this seaside resort, which includes a romantic candlelit dinner on the balcony of your chalet and a couple’s spa treatment which is Peranakan-inspired and uses a mix of relaxing Swedish-Balinese techniques at the aVi Spa, housed in a modern twostorey pavilion that extends far out into the sea. With a colour scheme of white, cream, and duck-egg blue, the spa looks contemporary but still cosy and warm. After treatment, enjoy hot ginger tea on the outdoor balcony of your spacious couple’s treatment room, which is particularly beautiful if you scheduled your session to end when it’s close to sunset. A wonderful treat whether you’re celebrating new love or rekindling an old flame. Avillion Port Dickson, Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. Tel: 06-647 5740. www.avillionportdickson.com

4 BEST HONEYMOON HIDEOUT

SPA VILLAGE RESORT TEMBOK, BALI

Black volcanic sand and the rolling Bali Sea sets the scene of this exotic haven in the northeastern coast of the Island of the Gods. Strategically tucked away from the touristy sights of Kuta and Seminyak, Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali is ideal for a romantic rendezvous for two. From the architecture of the resort to the bespoke spa treatments, every nuance of this breathtaking resort has been infused with rich Balinese culture. Every spa treatment comes with the prelude of a feet cleanse in black sand to signify a cleansing of self and negativity from the earth. For a truly private escape, opt for either the Baruna or Samudra Villa. Designed with a private entryway and plunge pool with unobstructed views of the ocean, you can celebrate newly wedded bliss in absolute seclusion. Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali, Jalan Singaraja-Amlapura, 100 Desa Tembok Tejakula Buleleng, Tianyar, Bali, Indonesia. Tel: 03-2719 8122. www.spavillageresort.com/tembokbali

5 BEST NATURAL WELLNESS RETREAT

SPA VILLAGE PANGKOR LAUT

Imagine swaying in a hammock to the lullaby of gentle lapping waves, looking up to the hypnotic rhythm of swinging palm trees, and breathing in pristine fresh air. This world-class retreat can be found at a privately owned island, just off the west coast of the Straits of Malacca. A great escape in all respects, think magnificent nature with a gorgeous beach, unbeatable spa experiences, amazing food, and even greater hospitality. For a romantic treat, book the Spa Villa, which is a private bungalow on stilts over the sea. When the sun is scorching, it’s the perfect time for an indulgent spa session. The Ultimate Spa Experience for two allows you to properly relax in the seclusion of the luxurious and private Belian Spa Pavilion. Trust the skilled therapists to knead, pamper, and soothe your body and soul. The full Pangkor Laut experience will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to take on the world together. Pangkor Laut Resort, Lumut, Perak. Tel: 03-2783 1000. www.spavillage.com/pangkorlaut