BLAST FROM THE PAST

The Ritz-carlton, Langkawi, takes guests on a historical journey.

Upon stepping into the newly built The Ritz- Carlton, Langkawi, I can’t help but feel that I’ve travelled through time, to Malaysia in the 1960s. For one, the designs are reminiscent of a traditional Malay village. Take for example the overwater spa. Locals will point out that this is how a kelong (floating village) looks like. Wooden beams are hammered into the ground, providing structural support for a fisherman’s home. The design also resembles woven traps used to lure unsuspecting fish and crustaceans into it, with no way out.

The main lounging areas also feature gabled roofs, which are still used in huts located in rubber plantations due to their weather-resistant properties.

Each of the 29 villas is a gem in itself (there are also 75 guestrooms and 15 suites), looking out to the Andaman Sea or rainforest. In particular, the three-bedroom Villa Mutiara feels like you’re living in a modern treehouse. It comes with two private pools that let you enjoy both sea and forest views.

Foodwise, the resort is equipped with three restaurants and a bar. A must-visit is Langkawi Kitchen, offering traditional Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisines, all of which have shaped the country’s gastronomical scene. The Ritz- Carlton, Langkawi Jalan Pantai Kok, Teluk Nibong, Langkawi, Malaysia Tel: +60 4 952 4888 www. ritzcarlton.com ≠