When I travel, I’m not just looking for a place to rest my head. For me, it’s about finding spaces that tell a story, places that feel as though they were made just for me. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of staying in some extraordinary hotels, but these five stand out as my personal picks for 2024. These are the places I’ve experienced myself, where quiet luxury, impeccable service, and thoughtful details came together to create something truly unforgettable.
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Ipoh
Wellness sanctuary set amidst limestone hills with geothermal hot springs.
There’s something undeniably magical about The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat. Tucked away in the outskirts of Ipoh, this sanctuary feels like stepping into another world. Towering limestone hills envelop the property, their rugged beauty creating a sense of calm that immediately washes over you. The retreat itself is spread across 22.7 acres, featuring lush rainforests, geothermal hot springs, and natural caves.
The villas are designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature, but the Grand Garden Villa is where luxury truly peaks. This spacious retreat offers not only a private swimming pool but also a separate geothermal hot tub, making it the perfect spot to relax while soaking up the breathtaking jungle views. Every detail is meticulously crafted, and the exceptional butler service ensures that your every need is met with care and discretion.
Mornings here often began with a peaceful soak in the villa’s geothermal tub, where the mineral-rich waters felt like a natural tonic for the body and soul. For a change of scenery, I explored the thermal steam cave, a natural sauna-like space tucked into the hillside, which was both invigorating and calming.
Dining at Jeff’s Cellar, located inside a 260-million-year-old limestone cave, was one of the most surreal experiences I’ve had. The menu, focused on organic and sustainable ingredients, paired perfectly with the curated wine selection. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an unforgettable moment suspended in time.
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat in Ipoh offers a holistic spa experience inspired by ancient Malay, Chinese, and Indian healing traditions. Guests can enjoy geothermal hot springs, a thermal steam cave, crystal meditation caves, and tailored spa therapies, including massages and antioxidant treatments. With bespoke wellness programmes and serene natural surroundings, the retreat seamlessly integrates relaxation and rejuvenation for a truly transformative experience.
One&Only Desaru Coast, Johor
Beachfront paradise offering oceanfront suites, fine dining, and holistic wellness.
One&Only Desaru Coast redefines what it means to escape. From the moment I arrived, I could tell this place was designed with care, seamlessly blending Malay heritage with modern sophistication. Designed by Kerry Hill Architects, known for their work on Aman resorts, the property reflects understated elegance with clean lines and open spaces that embrace nature.
I stayed in the Ocean Front Junior Suite, which offered panoramic views of the South China Sea. Waking up to the sound of waves and stepping out onto my private terrace to watch the sunrise was pure bliss. Just a short walk away, I found myself standing on the pristine sandy beach, with the sea stretching endlessly before me.
The resort’s culinary offerings are nothing short of spectacular. Hoshi’s sushi was great, pretty decent for a resort. Ember Beach Club by Chef Andrew Walsh, became my go-to spot for relaxed yet refined meals. The grilled lobster paired with ocean views and the sound of crashing waves creates an atmosphere that lingers with you.
The One&Only Spa is another highlight, offering holistic wellness treatments that blend modern science with ancient traditions. I opted for a detoxifying treatment, which left me feeling energised and utterly refreshed. Beyond the spa, the resort also offers curated experiences like mangrove tours and golf at the nearby championship course, ensuring that every guest finds something to love.
88 Armenian, Penang
Boutique heritage hotel blending colonial charm and personalised service.
Penang is known for its vibrant culture, and 88 Armenian captures this spirit beautifully. Located on the iconic Armenian Street in George Town, this boutique hotel is as much a cultural experience as it is a luxurious stay. Housed in a restored pre-war shophouse, the design team paid careful attention to maintaining the building’s heritage charm while incorporating modern comforts.
I stayed in The Mackenzie Suite, a room that epitomises understated luxury. With its high ceilings, elegant bed, and plush furnishings, the suite was the perfect retreat after a day of exploring the city. What truly stood out was the attention to detail, curated local snacks provided daily, calming music that played in the evenings, and an overall sense of serenity. Every corner of the suite reflected thoughtfulness, from the textured finishes to the artful use of light and space.
88 Armenian goes beyond traditional hospitality in thoughtful ways. You can order food from any of George Town’s famous eateries, and when it’s delivered, the staff will even provide tableware and cutlery, setting it up so you can enjoy your meal as if you were dining in a fine restaurant. This level of care makes the hotel feel like a true home away from home.
One of the hotel’s hidden perks is its relationship with Au Jardin, a Michelin-starred restaurant in George Town. The hotel may or may not be able assist with securing a booking at this exclusive dining spot, allowing guests to enjoy some of Penang’s most refined modern European cuisine.
Beyond the hotel’s walls, the vibrant streets of George Town awaited. With 88 Armenian as my base, I spent my days exploring the city’s eclectic mix of hawker stalls, growing coffee culture and colonial architecture. It’s the kind of place where the hotel becomes a part of the destination itself.
Villa Samadhi, Kuala Lumpur
Urban retreat offering rustic-luxe villas and tranquil lagoon pools, minutes from the city.
Kuala Lumpur is a city that’s always buzzing, but Villa Samadhi offers a completely different side to it. Tucked away in a quiet neighbourhood just minutes from the city centre, this urban retreat feels like a well-kept secret. Designed to mimic a tropical hideaway, the property’s rustic-luxe aesthetic incorporates natural materials, water features, and open layouts that create a serene atmosphere.
My room, aptly named the Luxe Sarang, featured polished concrete floors, dark wood furniture, and a private plunge pool on one side and on another, opened directly onto the lagoon-like pool winding through the property. It was the perfect place to unwind with a cup of tea in hand, watching the water shimmer as the sun set.
For dining, the hotel’s sister restaurant, Tamarind Hill, is a must-visit. Tucked away in a heritage house, the restaurant serves up incredible Thai and Burmese cuisine. The green curry, rich and fragrant, paired wonderfully with their signature tamarind cocktail.
What I appreciated most about Villa Samadhi was its balance. It’s close enough to KL’s iconic landmarks, like the Petronas Towers and Bukit Bintang, but far enough to feel like a world apart. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway or a quiet escape, this boutique hotel offers the best of both worlds.
The St. Regis Langkawi
Lavish island escape with impeccable butler service and world-class spa experiences.
If there’s one place that epitomises luxury, it’s The St. Regis Langkawi. Situated on a private cove surrounded by rainforest and the Andaman Sea, the resort is nothing short of breathtaking. Designed by Gensler and WOW Architects, the resort combines Moroccan influences with contemporary luxury.
I stayed in the St. Regis Suite, which offered beachfront access, a private plunge pool, and an incredible level of comfort. Every aspect of the suite was carefully designed to blend luxury with relaxation, and the views of the sea from the terrace were mesmerising.
The St. Regis is known for having the best butler service, and I must say, they’ve perfected it. From unpacking my bags to arranging a my meals, my butler anticipated my every need before I even voiced it. It’s the kind of service that makes you feel truly pampered.
The dining options here are exceptional, with Kayuputi leading the way. Designed by the legendary Bill Bensley, the restaurant is an architectural marvel perched over the Andaman Sea. Its airy, open design, featuring white-washed timbers and panoramic views, creates an atmosphere of serene elegance. The menu combines Asian flavours with modern techniques, all enjoyed as I watched the sun dip below the horizon, a moment that felt almost cinematic.
The St. Regis Spa is another standout feature, offering the best spa experience I’ve encountered, an experience that ends with a bottle of champagne and caviar blinis served while I soaked in a flower bath after the massage. For those who want to explore, the resort can arrange excursions to the nearby UNESCO Geopark, where I kayaked through mangroves and marvelled at Langkawi’s stunning biodiversity.
Why These Hotels Resonate
Each of these hotels offered me something unique, something unforgettable. The Banjaran enveloped me in nature, reminding me of the restorative power of silence. One&Only brought adventure and indulgence together in perfect harmony. 88 Armenian introduced me to Penang’s rich heritage in the most intimate way possible. Villa Samadhi gave me peace in the heart of a bustling city. And The St. Regis Langkawi delivered a level of opulence and service that few places in the world can match.
For those seeking the finest in quiet luxury and personalised experiences, these five hotels are destinations in their own right, offering a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich diversity and hospitality.