Economic Stimulus Package 2020: Top 5 Malaysian Luxury Resorts to Splurge On
In an effort to boost the the sluggish economy affected by the Covid-19 outbreak, the Malaysian government has recently announced the Economic Stimulus Package 2020. With an injection of RM20 billion, special incentives had been lined up to encourage consumers to spend domestically to mitigate the impact to the tourism and aviation industry. Here’s a highlight of perks we are looking forward to:
- Employees’ contribution to the Employees Provident Fund reduced from 11% to 7% (Expect more cash in our bank on our payday).
- Personal income tax relief of up to RM1,000 on expenditure related to domestic tourism.
- Digital vouchers, for eligible Malaysians of up to RM100 per person for domestic travel (air and railways), and hotel accommodation.
While it is still not very clear what the criteria is for some of these incentives, I’m sure many of us had already pictured ourselves sipping cocktails by the beach and lounging by the pool. It is just a matter of time before we click the “book” button to take full advantage of the Economic Stimulus Package. So to prevent you from missing out on the fun, here are Top 5 luxury resort vacation ideas for your consideration.
1. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is nestled in a 22.7-acre valley, cradled by 260 million-year old towering Paleozoic limestone hills, verdant rainforest, rejuvenating geothermal hot springs, natural caves and cascading waterfalls.
Your getaway to regain balance and rediscover your sense of true self, this unique hideaway is designed to luxuriate in, with therapeutic value in mind.
45 sumptuous Garden, Water and Lake villas, a pampering Spa and Wellness Centre and a host of retreat experiences combine for ultimate seclusion and bliss. Restore what life takes from your body and soul as you dip into the Geothermal Hot Springs Dipping Pools, or stare and be overwhelmed by the near-vertical rock formations around the retreat. Perhaps take a relaxing stroll through the jungle to breathe in the sights of rarity. Otherwise, simply immerse in a state of enlightenment and inner peace in the Meditation Cave.
This sanctuary of bespoke holistic wellness in the northern state of Perak is only 15 minutes drive from Ipoh city and approximately 2 hours drive from Penang and Kuala Lumpur.In keeping with the exclusivity and ideals of The Banjaran, only adults and guests 12 years of age and above are accepted.
Whilst you are there, don’t miss the chance to pamper your palate and feast your eyes on the magnificent Jeff’s Cellar. Set within a limestone cave, Jeff’s Cellar is one of the most unique wine bars in the world. Savour a wide range of organic and rare wines in a setting where ethereal lighting, intimate cave interiors and breathtaking natural water features present a whole new encounter and indulgence.
Book your stay here.
2. Pangkor Laut Resort
Nestled amidst an ancient rainforest, on a private island fringed by white sandy beaches and emerald waters lies Pangkor Laut Resort. Set along the Straits of Malacca, three miles off the West Coast of Malaysia, discover a piece of paradise 2 million years in the making.
Of the island’s 300 acres, only a fraction has been developed to house this peaceful luxury resort and its Estates. Declared a paradise by the late Pavarotti and previously voted ‘Number One in the World’ by Condé Nast Traveller; here, wooden buildings blend seamlessly into the forest, walls curve around foliage, and roofs open up to allow trees to continue on their journey to the sky.
Resting beneath the shade of forest giants as old as the land, this island is not only home to one of the world’s premier resorts but also to variety of wildlife. Long-tailed macaques and oriental pied hornbills perch in the branches above while white-bellied sea eagles soar overhead and large monitor lizards sunbathe on the island’s rocky outcrops.
Nature is respected here, almost revered and it rewards visitors in ways that simply need to be experienced.
There is more good news for us as Pangkor Laut Resort offers Resident’s Package exclusively for residents of Malaysia. The following are the highlights of the perks as Rakyat Malaysia:
- Includes all meals & return speedboat transfers
- Purchase spa treatments at a special price during booking
- For every night of stay, meals included in this offer consist of one breakfast at Feast Village, one two-course lunch at Royal Bay Beach Club or Chapman’s Bar, and one set dinner at Uncle Lim’s Kitchen or Feast Village, inclusive of complimentary coffee, tea and mineral water served during meal times.
Book your stay here.
3. The St. Regis Langkawi Resort
Situated on the southern tip of the Langkawi Island, The St. Regis Langkawi is nestled between centuries-old rainforest and glimmering beach views of the Andaman Sea. Promising unparalleled relaxation, immerse yourself in 5-star luxury resort living in our oasis-like pool and luxury private beachfront access.
With 85 suites and four over-water villas, experience the exquisite signature Butler Service, serene spa quarters, luxury chauffeured limousine service and many more during your stay.
Indulge your palate in exquisite masterpieces in one of our six dining venues concocted by the finest esteemed chefs located on island. Amongst the highlights you must not miss is the daily champagne sabrage experience, bubbly buffet breakfast and evening cocktails while watching the sunset at Kayu Puti.
From its rich history to natural geo-parks, discover the beauty and mystique that is of ‘the Jewel of Kedah’ and immerse yourself in the local natural beauty and culture of Langkawi. Live your life exquisitely at Langkawi’s best address.
Read my review of the Premier Andaman Sea View Room here.
Book your stay here.
4. Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa
Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa is a 5-star property that exudes an elegant sense of history and tradition, nestling beneath a verdant canopy of century-old rain trees.
The expansive tropical gardens, with a fantastic lagoon-style pool as the focal point, create a lovely setting for a relaxing holiday. Well-maintained facilities, awesome choices of activities and complimentary daily shuttle service to George Town, make it highly convenient to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The resort features 304 premier guest rooms and suites fitted with good quality linens spanning 2 distinctive wings furnished in traditional Minangkabau style. Well-decorated interiors, delicately carved fixtures, modern and comfortable surroundings create a serene and peaceful haven.
For those who wish to reward themselves with a higher level of indulgence, then upgrade to the Rasa Wing where each room comes with a large bathroom, soaking tub on the balcony overlooking the great view outside. Guests of this wing enjoy a complimentary fruit bowl throughout their stay, wonderful afternoon high tea and cocktail hour before dinner at Rasa Lounge. Enjoy access to an adult only swimming pool meant exclusively for Rasa Wing guests.
For formal dining, head to the classy Feringgi Grill, voted Best Restaurant in the international category by Tourism Malaysia. Soups and salads are prepared and tossed in front of your very eyes, with roast beef and Yorkshire pudding from silver wagon among the favourites in its menu, enjoy freshly baked bread and desserts such Crepes Suzette flambé at your table and chocolate lovers will go crazy over fluffy Chocolate Mousse.
Don’t miss out on the once a month Sunday Champagne brunch for the ultimate indulgence.
Book your stay here.
5. Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson
Located about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and nestled along Pasir Panjang beach, Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson sprawls into the Straits of Malacca and resembles the national flower of Malaysia. The Resort is the proud record holder of Guinness World Records for achieving “The most swimming pools in a resort” and “The most overwater villas in single resort”. It is also the recipient of the World Luxury Hotel Awards for having won the Luxury Water Villa Resort.
Each of its 639 pool villas is spacious, tastefully decorated and comes with its own private dip pool and steam room for luxury and privacy. Many of these villas offer spectacular views of the open sea.
Complementing the villas are a selection of exciting dining and entertainment options, offering local and regional tastes as well as international cuisine.
Book your stay here.
Conclusion
There is no better time than now to treat ourselves and our loved ones to a luxury domestic retreat. With the future so fickle and unpredictable, we should take full advantage of all the incentives available to us right now. You will never know what is in store for us next year. Have a fabulous Cuti-Cuti Malaysia!
