Hotels Open During RMCO Malaysia + Private Pool Villas
Monica Tindall
The excitement (relief) in our home when the announcement was made of the RMCO and that we could cross the border was, shall we say, loud! And, from the number of messages in my inbox, you are all just as happy. Many of you have asked what hotels, resorts and villas are open and will facilities such as pools, beaches, spas and gyms be accessible. You’ve also requested recommendations for accommodation with private pools. So, here’s what I’ve collated so far: a list of villas with private pools in Malaysia, as well as some excellent discounts on hotels and resorts.
Villas with Private Pools Open During RMCO Malaysia
While communal facilities such a pools and spas continue to be closed in most hotels and resorts, an exception is villas with private pools. As they’re not shared with the public, these seem to be the best option for those dying for some laze time on a deck chair, with alternating dips in the pool.
Embun Luxury Villas – Janda Baik
Just a short drive from KL, Embun Luxury Villas in Janda Baik welcome guests back from June 10th 2020 onwards. All private pools in the villas are open. Still, certain areas such as the main swimming pool in the clubhouse and the meeting room facilities remain closed. With complete kitchen facilities in each villa, you can cook for yourself or get in-room dining from their excellent restaurant.
Banjaran Hotsprings – Ipoh
Two hours by road north of Kuala Lumpur is the stunning Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat. With villas containing not only a private pool but also an outdoor jacuzzi filled with natural water from the hot springs, it’s a stay well-worth saving for. While the spa and communal facilities are closed, restaurants are open and room service is also available.
Ambong Pool Villas – Langkawi
Being an island, Langkawi was relatively untouched by Covid-19. Relying on the tourism industry, however, many businesses were negatively impacted. The team at Ambong Pool Villas are more than ready to greet your return. With only nine luxury self-contained private villas, each with its own pool, you can be guaranteed a low-risk stay. Set in a low-density development on a 1.6-hectare forest site, the villas are far apart, and complete privacy is assured. There are no common lifts, corridors, pools or central air-conditioning. Restaurants are large, airy and open. Contactless check-in and check-out can also be done in the villas. Meals can be delivered to the villas (at no extra cost) and be eaten in the comfort and privacy of your own dining area.
More Private Villas in Langkawi
While we haven’t stayed in the villas at the following properties so can’t personally recommend them, we have vacationed in their suites and partaken in the full services of each resort. All have private beaches only accessible via the hotel or water, so make an attractively exclusive scene. The service and facilities of each are top-notch, so we’d expect the villa experience to be similar.
Ritz-Carlton Langkawi – closest to the airport and a set in a stunning jungle setting. Bookings here.
The Danna Langkawi – about a 20-minute drive from the airport neighbouring Telaga Harbour Marina. Book here.
Westin Langkawi – Near the main town of Kuah, the extensive grounds of the Westin Langkawi allow plenty of space to roam and enjoy pretty sea views. Bookings here.
The Datai – one of the most beautiful properties in Malaysia with serious attempts to respect the environment through zero-waste policies and so much more. Reserve here.
Hotels Open During RMCO Kuala Lumpur
Several hotels have opened their doors in Kuala Lumpur with packages to welcome back guests with various inclusions. Check out Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur, Villa Samadhi Kuala Lumpur and Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur.
Hotels Open During RMCO Malaysia
YTL Resorts
YTL Hotels is reopening four of their resorts, Cameron Highlands Resort, Pangkor Laut Resort, The Majestic Malacca and Tanjong Jara from June 19th. They have some excellent one-for-one deals for Malaysian citizens and residents with various inclusions. All beaches and outdoor facilities will be open. Spas remain closed. Gyms can be accessed via a booking schedule. Restaurants will be ensuring social distancing, but for the ultimate in privacy book an estate at Pangkor Laut that comes with your own private pool and chef.
Marriott – 40% Offer – Save Now, Stay Later
Marriott International launches a limited time offer – Save Now, Stay Later – across its portfolio of hotels and resorts in Malaysia as travellers eagerly await the days when they can travel again. The 14-day campaign commenced on June 8th 2020. It will end on June 21st 2020, offering up to 40% savings for suites and up to 30% savings for standard room bookings across all participating hotels for stays from June 8th 2020 till May 31st 2021.
Eastern & Oriental Hotel – Penang
The iconic property, Eastern & Oriental Hotel in Penang has some excellent deals for Malaysian citizens and permanent residents with various inclusions.
Blue Mansion – Penang
Penang’s iconic Blue Mansion (of Crazy Rich Asians fame) has also introduced a Malaysian Residents’ Experience, offering guests accommodation in one of 18 exclusive boutique hotel rooms. Those booking this will also enjoy breakfast delivered to their rooms, complimentary afternoon tea service in the courtyard, sundown cocktails and a guided tour of the 130-year-old mansion. The indigo-hued mansion is known for being ‘feng shui perfect’ in terms of its architecture, and has been in many films and TV series due to its striking and eclectic design and history. Guests may also book twice-daily mansion tours (reduced to a maximum of 12 people), and dine or takeaway from Indigo, their East-meets-West restaurant. Room deals, restaurant and tour bookings can be made at www.cheongfatttzemansion.com.
Sarawak
While Malaysians may travel to and from East and West Malaysia, there are some restrictions for ex-pats. At the moment, I’d only recommend flights for citizens of Malaysia.
Travelling to far-flung destinations may not be possible this summer, so enjoy an ultimate staycation closer to home at Cove 55. An ethnic-inspired hideaway, nestled between the foothills of Mount Santubong and the South China Sea, Cove 55 provides the perfect boutique retreat in a peaceful environment surrounded by the unique nature of Sarawak. Built originally as a holiday home for an Iban family, the sprawling villa is reborn as an intimate escape, housing spacious guest rooms and suites, a cosy library and a brand new fully equipped gym.
A breathtaking 30-metre saltwater pool sits majestically on an expansive overwater deck; the perfect place to float away with a cocktail and marvel as the infinity edge blends seamlessly into the horizon. Guests can satisfy their curiosity for unique flavours at Kechala restaurant, where local favourites and modern culinary techniques combine to create dishes that are truly one-of-a-kind. The newly opened overwater pavilion provides the newest breathtaking location, grab a mat and enjoy some stretching whilst watching the sunrise or just sit and enjoy the sea breeze and spectacular views.
How do you feel about travelling at the moment? Are you ready to hot-foot it out of here and are you still sheltering in place? What hotels open during RMCO in Malaysia or private pool villas do you plan to visit?
Good to know that the hotels are open now. Hope business will pick up soon for the hotels and other businesses.
I would like to visit Banjaran one day!
Supposed to go to Langkawi last month but cancelled due to Covid-19. Need to reshuffle my flight to later date, maybe year end but not sure yet. See how things go.
Love the infinity pool at Embun. Cove 55, been there once but didnt stay overnight.
Sad to read that few hotels in Malaysia are closing down.
Same here, some were closed during the lockdown. Think they’re back in business now and thankfully, didn’t hear of any closing up shop. Sad that some big names, not here, have to call it a day.