4Fab
Beach Breaks The Andaman, a Luxury Collection Resort PER AQUUM Niyama
Where: On Malaysia’s Langkawi Island, tucked away between a 10-million-yearold rainforest and tranquil Datai Bay, and fringed by an 8,000-year-old coral reef. Why: The Andaman takes advantage of its surrounding wildlife and exotic flora by offering unique activities for guests – these include a series of coral-related experiences at a special coral nursery.
The resort’s 178 rooms and suites reflect contemporary Malaysian style; you have a choice of evocative views of the ancient rainforest or sweeping vistas over the Andaman Sea. There are four restaurants to choose from, along with the Jentayu Lounge and Beach Bar, which means a wide range of local specialties and international favourites to cater to Where: Dhaalu Atoll, surrounded by pristine reefs and turquoise seas. Why: PER AQUUM Niyama is one of the stunning, hand-picked destinations offered by luxury tour operator Scott Dunn, and it occupies two beautiful islands in the Maldives – one dedicated to couples for the perfect romantic escape, the other with a family focus.
Unique to Niyama, and specifically aimed at younger guests, is Scott Dunn’s Explorers kids’ club, catering for children from as young as 12 months and up to 12 years. The club offers a wide variety of activities, which means there’s something for every child who takes part – and parents can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.
More active guests can get involved in everything from catamaran sailing and wakeboarding to game fishing and kitesurfing; or take a boat trip to a special snorkelling site. When you need to take things down a notch, try a tai chi class or visit the Lime Spa for an indulgent treatment. What else: For more information and special offers, visit the Scott Dunn website or call 3158 6530.
Where: In a gorgeous tropical setting on Samui’s western coast, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, the Five Islands and Ang Thong National Marine Park. Why: The resort’s 79 rooms, suites and villas include spacious two- and three-bedroom options for families, with lounges, dining areas, and huge terraces or private decks; there’s even a three-bedroom villa with a kitchen, butler service and a private swimming pool. All little guests receive beach games and colouring books, with slippers, bathrobes and other amenities to make their stay as comfortable as possible.
The Planet Trekkers Club, for ages four to 12 years, offers daily activities including batik painting, gardening projects and fishing from the pier, plus a menu of fun, healthy food created by celebrity chef Theo Randall and child food expert Annabel Karmel. Adults, meanwhile, can visit the seven swimming pools, enjoy snorkelling or ocean kayaking, or relax in the award-winning Baan Thai Spa by HARNN. What else: The Family Getaway deal starts from THB 26,500 (around S$1,070) per night, for two adults and two children under 12 years in a two- or three-bedroom villa. Inclusions: daily breakfasts, all kids’ meals, two hours of babysitting, daily access to the Planet Trekkers Club, children’s cooking class and more. Minimum three nights. For bookings, call +66 (0) 7742 9100 or email icsamui.rsvn@ihg.com.