The
Datai, Langkawi
Pulau Langkawi, named for the brown eagles that rule its skies (‘lang’ – eagle; ‘kawi’ – brown), lies 30km off the coast of the northern end of the Malay peninsular, near the Thai border, and is accessible by boat or plane from Penang. The only inhabited island to speak of in the 99-island Langkawi Archipelago, it has jungle-clad hills set behind stunning beaches; as little as 15 years ago there were no roads as such, no resorts and no tourism industry. Dr Mahatir’s personal obsession with the island has been largely responsible for the millions spent building an infrastructure and creating a tourist paradise, in turn creating employment and bringing wealth and security to the local community.
The Datai resort, in the north-western corner of the island, hugs the coast of the Andaman Sea, offering glorious accommodation (with wonderfully big bath tubs) both in the main hotel and in freestanding rainforest villas. Several restaurants, a cosy bar with a gifted piano player, superb water views, and all the trimmings of a 5-star resort, including swimming pools, tennis courts, health club and day spa, private beach with a wide array of water sports and adjacent 18-hole golf course, complete the picture. Open-air covered walkways and meandering paths connect the various areas while red timber, black granite, and white marble create a sleek, but far from sterile, effect. This is a wonderfully secluded spot, perfect for recharging the batteries, revelling in or rekindling a romance.
The Pavillon Thai restaurant, elevated in the rainforest, has glorious sea views and lazy overhead fans. Known well beyond the borders of Langkawi, their live lobster, flown in from the USA, is finger-licking fantastic and their wine list is extensive. The Dining Room offers Malaysian and Western fare, and for alfresco dining, The Beach Club is the spot.
The Datai
Jalan Teluk Datai Langkawi 07000
Pulau Langkawi Kedah Darulaman
Malaysia
Tel: (+60-4) 959-2500
Fax: (+60-4) 959-2600