A Taste of Paradise: The St. Regis Langkawi knows the way to the heart (and belly!)
Plotting a trip back as we speak.
Some weekends are for chores and errands, and some weekends are for running away from responsibilities. Just an hour's flight away from KL, The St. Regis Langkawi is an escape closer than you think.
Stepping out of Langkawi International Airport, I could feel how this island has a different energy as one of the top global destinations. The 30-minute ride to the resort took me past its local everyday spots and neighbourhoods, with lush greenery all along the way –raw and unhurried. The driver told me traffic here is rarely busy, so getting around is always smooth and quick. By the time the car pulled up to The St. Regis Langkawi’s palm-lined driveway and the mansion house basking in a warm glow came into view, I knew I was exactly where I wanted to be.
THE WELCOME
Nestled between a mystic rainforest and the turquoise Andaman Sea, The St. Regis Langkawi is a gorgeous example of classical contemporary architecture. The design is heavily influenced by European and Middle Eastern heritage. Rhythmic arches, mashrabiya screens, and a palette of soft blue and warm beiges come together for a serene setting, while the floor-to-ceiling windows bring the mesmerising garden oasis and sunshine in. Check-in was brief and smooth, but I stayed a little longer for the Gamelan live over a welcome drink at the Drawing Room.
THE STAY
With only 4 overwater villas and 85 suites, each with the brand’s signature round-the-clock butler service, The St. Regis Langkawi keeps it exclusive and peaceful. My suite, with a living area, a king bed and a balcony overlooking the sea, felt almost too big just for me (not that I’m complaining), but beyond perfect for a couple or bff vacation.
Somewhere between sun-soaking by the pool and getting ready for dinner, I loved cooling down with an iced coffee in my suite. While it’s well-equipped with a minibar and coffee/tea maker, I really appreciated that freshly brewed coffee was just one text away through the e-butler service. And every evening, the super sweet turndown service set a cosy mood for a restful night in – lights dimmed, curtains drawn, water and slippers by the bedside.
THE GASTRONOMY
First night’s dinner at the over-water Kayuputi Langkawi turned out to be a fun and up-close culinary experience. In conjunction with Chef Unaver V. Unabia and Chef Norazizi Bin Taslim’s Farm to Table Four Hands Dinner menu rollout, guests were treated to a masterclass in the artistry of local cheese and caviar before dinner.
And as the sun began to set, the first dish was presented. Featuring tropical Tanjung Malim caviar, fresh oysters, and Genting lime granita, the amuse-bouche was a bright, refreshing prelude to the flavours ahead. Next, we enjoyed the velvety Foie Gras Mousse glazed with Kedondong glaze, orange jicama, and crispy potato. The following dishes, using Cameron asparagus, Andaman lobster, fresh red mullet, and ethically raised organic Guineafowl, showcased the island’s rich seafood offerings and its commitment to sustainability. Sanchoku Wagyu Beef, accompanied by Beef Wellington and a Boom Grow Salad, was served as the main before we wrapped up with the indulgent Single Origin Kelantan Chocolate Cremeux, made from locally sourced cacao.
I used to believe resort food was just alright, sometimes a bit lacklustre, but The St. Regis Langkawi really turned that around for me. Breakfast and lunch at L’Orangerie offer a fusion of French and Asian flavours, easily satisfying my indecisive cravings; while The Gourmand Deli kept me going back for more with its homemade pastries and selection of teas. Speaking of drinks, The St. Regis Bar, The Decanter wine bar, and The Drawing Room each provide a distinct atmosphere to enjoy a sip, whether alone or over conversation.
THE SPA
Walking into the St. Regis Spa felt like discovering a hidden sanctuary. The wooden-panelled walls, marble accents and chandelier overhead set a warm, refined tone to the space. At the arrival lounge, I settled in to fill out a consultation form and decide the oil recipe for my Urutan Malaysia session. I went for a blend of cinnamon, clove, and black pepper over a coconut oil and pandan base, hoping this anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting concoction would give me a harmony of relaxation and invigoration.
Urutan Malaysia brings together local wellness traditions to rejuvenate the body and mind. To start the 90-minute session, my therapist Nadya had me hold a warm stone in each of my palms. She told me that it helps improve blood circulation and puts the body into a state of relaxation. Next, we did a Chinese Qi Gong breathing practice, followed by an Indian head massage. “In Malaysia, we believe a foot soak before entering the house washes away exhaustion and bad energy,” Nadya explained as she treated my feet to the Malaysian Herbal Foot Soak, prepared with moisturising milk bath, anti-inflammatory rock salt, and relieving torch ginger flower, pandan leaf, and lemon.
The deep tissue full body massage was definitely elevated by Nadya’s attention to detail. She took time to understand how my body was responding, adjusted the strength and focused on my tense spots without me having to say – the warm stones on my shoulders and back were such a thoughtful touch.
THE TAKEAWAY
The St. Regis Langkawi is where I’d love to return for a longer island living with a dear group of family or friends. The suites are comfortably large enough for everyone to hang out but also provide plenty of personal space when you need to unwind. The resort activities are perfect for both me-time and creating memories together too!
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