The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. has opened The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, an oceanfront resort on the Malaysian island Langkawi.
“Set in a tranquil private bay, the resort is surrounded by an ancient jungle, while its beachfront is sheltered by trees and gently lapped by the Andaman Sea. Designed to reflect the beauty and vibrancy of the nearby traditional villages – which are known as Kampongs – The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi incorporates influences from local culture, creating a uniquely luxurious retreat with an authentic touch.”
The resort is Ritz-Carlton’s first in Malaysia, and is designed by Philippe Villeroux of Kuala Lumpur-based Tropical Area Architects. It features 75 guest rooms, 15 suites and 29 villas, and is designed to immerse travellers in the island’s natural ecosystem of the surrounding jungle and local culture. There are four dining venues, each overlooking the Andaman Sea.
And the spa:
“Spa rituals at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Langkawi have been created to restore equilibrium within body, mind and soul with an infusion of traditional local elements. Spa Rituals have been inspired by the indigenous healing and beauty ceremonies practiced by local shamans on the Island for thousands of years. The spa is home to five cocoon-shaped pavilions which float above the sea and have been designed to resemble Malay Bubus or the intricately woven fish traps that have used by local fishermen for centuries. Connected by over-water walkways, each pavilion is surrounded by a circular platform with breathtaking ocean views.”
More highlights:
Health and fitness fanatics, meanwhile, can enjoy a range of active pursuits, including an outdoor tennis court, a fully-equipped gym and an infinity pool, while indoor and outdoor yoga classes offer 180° views of the rainforest. Those looking to explore the area can try deep sea fishing or a sailing adventure through the archipelago of islands, and the on-site private cove provides direct access to the island’s famed diving sites.
At sunrise and sunset, guests can enjoy a contemporary performance of an ancient tarian payang, “a traditional gesture of thanks and respect for the rich bounty of the sea and land.” Guided jungle walks detailing the myths and creatures of the surrounding rainforest, are also on offer. And visitors can experience Langkawi’s vibrant blend of local cultures with a visit to one of the local night markets, offering traditional Malay, Chinese and Indian delicacies and crafts.
Children’s and family activities, such as kite painting, treasure hunts, and nature discovery tours are also available.
Treatments at the spa the Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi include:
mandi bunga inspired ritual
90 minutes
This purifying and restorative full body experience takes inspiration from the Mandi Bunga bathing which originated from Malay royal houses, performed to dispel bad energy – “buang sui” or “buang sial”. Harnessing the benefits of traditional herbs rich in essential oils, and therapeutic flowers to bring about a sense of calm and relaxation. Warm aromatic oils are gently poured over the body and combined with a rhythmical massage which incorporates long warming strokes to soothe tense, aching muscles, rebalance body and mind, and bring about an overall sense of wellbeing.
includes Mandi Bunga foot ritual, oil pouring, rhythmical massage, scalp massage
mystical ocean and earth ritual
120 minutes
Discover Langkawi’s most mystical Island in this mineralizing body experience. Joining in synergy the rich natural treasures of the rainforest and ocean to nurture and nourish the body and mind. Aching muscles are soothed while giving nourishment and regeneration to tired dull lifeless skin, with this relaxing hot stone massage and marine mud wrap experience. Blending century old techniques with indigenous essential oils and heated stones to release tension and induce a deep state of relaxation.
includes Full body exfoliation, marine body wrap, scalp massage, full body massage
lulur hammam experience
120 minutes
Lulur is a Javanese word for “coating of the skin”. A centuries old treatment performed in the palaces of Central Java. A practice that is honored in this body smoothing treatment. Completed in a gentle steam environment, this traditional ritual deeply cleanses and regenerates skin, while the full body foam massage and nourishing marine mud maintain healthy skin and wellbeing. This ancient therapy finishes with a refreshing and a deeply relaxing scalp treatment designed to melt your stresses away.
includes Scrub, foam massage, hair wash and conditioning treatment, mud body mask, steam, body cleanse, full body massage