I have just returned from a trip around Malaysia and have the serious blues….what a stunning country! From the moment you arrive, any contact you have with the locals is just so welcoming and their faces are lit up with genuine smiles. They really can’t do enough to help and are so eager to show off their county, they are very proud people.
As with Borneo, I think that Malaysia is one of those destinations that people don’t really know that much about and are maybe a little hesitant when it gets mentioned to them; but believe me, it exceeded my expectations and then some. I have never seen such gorgeous beaches, luxurious villas or tasted such delicious food…it really does tick all of the boxes for whatever trip your thinking of planning. Along with all of the food, culture, hotels etc the one thing that the Malay people really know how to do well is the very self indulgent spa treatments….the perfect way to end a hard days exploring.
Pangkor Laut has something very unique in their Spa Village which sets them apart from other hotels – The Bath House. Separated from the main part of the village, the treatments here are ideally pre spa treatments and last about 45 minutes. In this time, you are taken through different Asian traditions…on a journey through China, Malaysia, Japan and finishing off in Shanghai. You’ll be dipped into lovely warm baths, rubbed with oils and salts, and you’ll finish feeling thoroughly rejuvenated and ready to embark on a full body Balinese massage…utter bliss.
For those honeymooners out there then the Solace Spa at Gayana Eco Resort, Borneo which is built entirely on over water villas offers the ultimate romantic treatment. All of the Bornean treatments here use natural local products, in keeping with the ‘eco friendly’ attitude of the island.
They have a dedicated couple’s spa treatment room so that you can both have the treatment together. The room itself is draped in tasteful red silk cloths, matched with the dark wood panelling to create a really romantic and intimate feeling. And to top off the whole experience is the warm, bubbling Jacuzzi for your private use.
A short speedboat journey from Gayana Eco Resort takes you to their sister property Bunga Raya. They have really made the most of their surroundings here just like at Gayana and you’ll find all of the villas either dotted around the beach front, or set at different heights up in the jungle.
The Spa at Gayana is in one of the most unique locations I’ve ever seen. After crossing the 
swing bridge to the Spa reception area you begin your consultation whilst sipping sweet Jasmine tea. All of the spa rooms are set at different levels in the hillside giving each one a totally new and unspoilt view. Some of them have outdoor showers so it really feels like you are right in the jungle (it’s OK though – no one can see you apart from the monkeys!).
Once you have had your traditional Bornean treatment, a full body cleanse in the sauna is definitely recommended and after you can stand the heat no longer…take yourself into their ice room and sprinkle yourself with refreshing crushed ice! Leaving this Spa you can’t help but feel like you have a detoxed and utterly pampered body…
I know that picking the ideal destination for a special holiday or a honeymoon can be very daunting, but if you like the sound of somewhere completely relaxing, and all you want to do it to really take time out and be thoroughly looked after and pampered, then Malaysia and Borneo are serious contenders.
