Panorama of paradise

Fifteen years ago, I visited Pangkor Laut Resort and came away enamoured of its pristine beaches, secluded bays, glorious sunsets and soothing surroundings. Upscale and pricey, it was the ideal resort for the well-heeled to enjoy a vacation.
Built in 1985 on a private 300-acre island, the wooden villas on stilts was YTL Hotel and Properties’ first venture into luxury resorts. Not only did it win numerous awards and attract many celebrities over the years, the premier resort also paved the way for the company’s global expansion.
On my second trip there recently, I hardly recognised the place. The monkeys, peacocks and monitor lizards still roam freely but so much development has taken place that some of the sense of privacy has disappeared.
The resort is still a rustic enclave providing five-star luxury within a two-million-year-old rainforest. However, in 2001, the resort added the Spa Village, a retreat that offers the healing cultures of the region. The treatments combine physical and spiritual therapy based on four concepts, comprising rejuvenation and longevity, relaxation and stress reduction, detoxification and, last but not least, romance.
Guests can consult with Chinese, Ayurvedic or Malay specialists during their stay. And the 45-minute Bath House experience is a must, even if you don't want to sign up for a massage, which usually comes afterwards.
The experience begins with a footbath in a basin filled with warm, soapy water followed by a foot pounding, a traditional practice enjoyed by the concubines of old China. Next is the Malay bath where guests walk through an artificial waterfall and perhaps rinse their hair out, as was practised in the past in villages.
Then it’s on to the steam pots, where you take your pick of the herbs you’d like to inhale, lean over and breathe in deeply.
I emerged squeaky clean and could have easily dozed off if my therapist Ely from Bali hadn’t gently ushered me into the room for a Balinese massage.
Guests can choose to have their massage done at the pavilion overlooking the sea or in the privacy of the spa rooms. Because the Spa Village only allows guests above 16, the area is quiet. After the massage, you can sit by the infinity pool, which offers a calming view of the sea. Or meditate.
If you want to swim or take a romantic sunset stroll, there is no better place than Emerald Bay. Since it’s located on the other end of the island, the resort provides shuttle buses. Of course, if you’re feeling the need to burn some calories, you can take the 25-minute walk.
Once upon a time, the resort was a favourite spot for honeymooners, especially after the late tenor Luciano Pavarotti fell in love with his sweetheart here. He got married in Europe but often returned to Pangkor Laut Resort for a retreat.
Today, those same honeymooners who walked hand in hand along Emerald Bay, have kids of their own and visit the resort with the whole family for a glance into the past.
From tennis to yoga and taichi classes, the place has enough activities to keep guests of all ages occupied. However, the tranquillity is sometimes marred by loud-speaking guests, screaming children or crying babies.
Food is always a delight at any YTL hotel. While there are numerous restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines, guests have complained about the steep prices on the menu. For example, a plate of dessert comprising three small pieces of local dessert at the Royal Bay Beach Club can set you back RM25 (Bt240). The quality of food, though, is excellent. Everything is cooked to perfection and is delicious. Their mantra: absolute freshness in all the ingredients.
There are many types of villas and suites to choose from, depending on whether guests want to stay in the water or in the midst of the tropical jungle. All are equally comfortable, spacious and tastefully furnished. Named after the world renowned tenor, the Pavarotti Suite is an elegant two-bedroom unit set high on the hill in the rainforest.
For added privacy, guests can choose to stay at one of the eight Estates, where two staff members prepare snacks and refreshments, cook and serve meals and address housekeeping requirements.
The resort has numerous packages for Asian residents and the rates have become more affordable, so do consider popping in for a short break.