Gem Of The Isle

After twenty-six years, The Datai Langkawi has lost none of its innate charm. Mindy Teh checks her urban sensibilities at the door and relishes in a weekend getaway full of natural wonders.

As paradoxical as it may seem, luxury has always had a place in Langkawi’s mysterious jungles. When the award-winning The Datai Langkawi was conceived, many were awed by its novel concept of well-appointed serenity and respite in the midst of a tropical rainforest. Twenty six years later, the resort is still a welcome sight for its loyal guests and has established itself as one of the world’s best holiday destinations.

The Datai’s hospitality is world-renowned but its real secret of success lies in its discretion with some high profile personalities staying incognito at the resort. Still, rumours abound and people whisper of European princesses, Hollywood heroes and music legends staying at the Datai’s many villas and suites—some so well hidden, they have accorded these celebrities the rare solitude (perhaps the one luxury that perpetually eludes them) they so desperately seek.

A weekend getaway to the resort gives me the chance to experience what these luminaries have long enjoyed, beginning with a long winding drive to the resort that assures me of the chance to get away, far from the madding crowd of Pantai Cenang.

As it stands, the resort looks unchanged from when it welcomed its first guests. The hardwood unvarnished timber structure remains a permanent feature, blending in with the surrounding green.