If you’re a travel bug who look forward to that exciting yearly trip to a brand new ‘bucket-list’ destination, the year 2020 has been absolutely incredible, hasn’t it. Incredibly frustrating, that is.
The new C-word (damn you, Covid-19) has mauled and reshaped the very fabric of world economy and the lives of pretty much everyone on the planet, effectively changing the way we live. And border closures, needless to say, have immensely impacted the global tourism industry, including Malaysia whose borders have been closed since March.
But, as is the case in general with negative scenarios, there’s always a bright side; all you have to do is look, and you’re bound to find it. For those seeking a respite from the daily grind or in need of a refreshing holiday with the family, there’s no better time to explore the gems that reside in our own backyard! Here we bring you three hand-picked nature stays that are sure to soothe and invigorate the soul and satisfy any budget.
SARANG BY THE BROOK ● Location: Selangor
Less than 70km from Kuala Lumpur city lies an intimate retreat called Sarang By The Brook, set amidst a tropical jungle right at the edge of Kuala Kubu Bharu, a modest town steeped in history and colonial-era nuances. Its location makes the private holiday sanctuary an ideal place to commune with nature and wildlife such as monkeys and various species of birds.
Sarang By The Brook is located about an hour’s drive from KL, providing a comfortable, chilled-out atmosphere for travellers seeking a unique experience; its 12 fully-airconditioned rooms are styled using shipping containers, and comes with amenities such as en-suite bathroom and toiletries.
Along with a 24-hour saltwater swimming pool, there are BBQ facilities for great poolside cookout, private function area, a fully equipped kitchen and 24-hour beverage and bread station. Sports lovers could also catch live sporting programmes via Astro channels.
Nearby activities include jungle-trekking, white water rafting. For those who enjoy waterfalls, check out Chilling Waterfalls, just 13 minutes away. Foodies, meanwhile, could explore the various options in the nearby town.
www.sarangkkb.com
THE SHOREA ● Location: Negeri Sembilan
The Shorea is a boutique eco-resort set in the Berembun Forest Reserve, about 9km from the Seremban town in Negeri Sembilan. The resort’s architecture utilises locally sourced natural materials such as recycled Shorea wood, natural slates and stones, as well as reclaimed terracotta roof tiles; the use of these natural materials heightens the locality of the resort within the tropical rainforest.
The Shorea’s two wings, The Shorea Resort and The Shorea Estate, offer eight villas with 15 rooms that accommodate up to 40 adults. Duplex air-conditioned villas with individual pools are located at the modern Shorea Estate, while naturally ventilated wooden villas with open view towards the forest are located at the rustic Shorea Resort.
Two main infinity pools, both facing the lush rainforest, spread across the two wings. A common dining pavilion at the Shorea Resort provides guests with open-concept dining experience, while the more secluded Estate villas offer a private setting for dinners.
Activities include jungle-trekking and nature walks, with Jeram Toi Waterfalls just 30 minutes away, one of the four major waterfalls in the vicinity.
www.theshorea.com
BORNEO EAGLE RESORT ● Location: Sabah
Remember the first season of the famous reality series TV show Survivor, filmed on the pristine island of Pulau Tiga in Sabah? Here’s your chance to experience the island for yourself with stays at Borneo Eagle Resort, an eco-luxury villa resort, located two hours away from Kota Kinabalu by land, followed by a 30-minute boat ride.
The resort is a stunning hideaway destination blessed with clear azure waters framing a white sandy beach, as well as magnificent coral reefs in the marine reserve. The surrounding lush virgin jungle conceals natural volcanic mud pools, while rugged trails allow guests to capture the raw beauty of the rainforest. Built upon a holistic philosophy, Borneo Eagle Resort offers beautifully appointed villas, some with pools and some with built-in spa facilities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Each of the eye-catching 13 one-bedroom oceanfront villas sits on spacious grounds and boasts exceptional views of the South China Sea – aptly complemented by three F&B outlets to cater to guests.
Besides the three hiking trails leading to the mud pools, guests can choose to kayak, snorkel or dive. The diverse marine life is abundant with clownfish, parrot fish, angel fish, bat fish, different species of starfish and seahorses – even whale sharks if you’re lucky.
www.echoresorts.com
