--- A Malaysian Sabbatical, Laterally A Malaysian Sabbatical, Laterally A Malaysian Sabbatical, Laterally ---

Because I’ve always wanted to...

Journey key:

A. Malacca B. Kuala Lumpur

C. Ipoh D. Penang

E. Langkawi

F. Kuching G. The Batang Ai Lake

Peninsula H. Gaya Island

I. Kota Kinabalu J. Sepilok

K. Kinabatangan

L. Danum Valley M. Redang Island

Day 21 - Sepilok - Orang-Utans & Sun Bears. Sepilok Nature Resort.

Day 22 - Journey to Kinabatangan & Proboscis Monkeys. Kinabatangan Lodge.

Day 23 - Journey to Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley. Borneo Rainforest

Lodge.

Day 24 - Rainforest Walks & Suspension Bridges. Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Day 25 - Return to Kota Kinabalu. Le Meridian Hotel/KK or Hotel Majestic/KL.

Day 26 - Journey to Redang Island. The Taaras.

Day 27 - Beach at leisure. The Taaras.

Day 28 - Beach at leisure. The Taaras.

Day 29 - Depart for the UK.

In a Nutshell... Day 1 - Arrival in Malaysia & transfer to Malacca. Majestic Hotel Malacca.

Day 2 - Malacca City Tour. Majestic Hotel Malacca.

Day 3 - Journey to Kuala Lumpur. Villa Samadhi.

Day 4 - City Tour & Sunset Drinks. Villa Samadhi.

Day 5 - Journey to Ipoh. The Banjaran.

Day 6 - Taiping Sightseeing & 4x4 Ride. The Banjaran.

Day 7 - At Leisure, Ipoh. The Banjaran.

Day 8 - Journey to Penang. Seven Terraces.

Day 9 - Cycling Penang. Seven Terraces.

Day 10 - Fly to Langkawi. Four Seasons Langkawi.

Day 11 - Beach. Four Seasons Langkawi.

Day 12 - Beach & Cable Car Ride. Four Seasons Langkawi.

Day 13 - Journey to Kuching, Borneo. The Ranee Boutique Hotel.

Day 14 - Journey to The Batang Ai Lake Peninsula. Longhouse at Batang Ai.

Day 15 - Batang Ai Lake Peninsula. Longhouse at Batang Ai.

Day 16 - Journey to Bunga Raya Island Resort. Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.

Day 17 - On the Beach. Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.

Day 18 - On the Beach. Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.

Day 19 - On the Beach. Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.

Day 20 - Speedboat to Kota Kinabalu & North Borneo Railway. Le Meridian.

Malaysia... Malaysia is a land of hidden charms and allure that you will definitely find hard to resist. Prepare yourself for a journey through this country’s string of wonders spread across a

combination of fascinating landscapes. Separated into two distinct parts (Peninsula Malaysia and East Malaysia) over 13 states, travel on an adventure to uncover the secrets

behind cosmopolitan cities, diverse cultures and people to stunning natural beauty from tranquil highland retreats all the way down to pristine beaches and islands. Experience the length and breadth of luxury and adventure with the boundless possibilities of Malaysia.

Flights...

Date Airline & Flight

Number From Departs To Arrives Class

DAY 0 TBC LONDON TBC MALAYSIA

(VIA SINGAPORE) -

(DAY1) TBC

DAY 10 TBC PENANG TBC LANGKAWI TBC TBC

DAY 13 TBC LANGKAWI TBC KUCHING TBC TBC

DAY 16 TBC KUCHING TBC KOTA KINABALU TBC TBC

DAY 22 TBC KOTA KINABALU TBC SANDAKAN TBC TBC

DAY 26 TBC LAHAD DATU TBC

KOTA KINABALU OR

KUALA LUMPUR (depending on routing)

TBC TBC

Day 27 TBC

KOTA KINABALU OR

KUALA LUMPUR (depending on routing)

TBC REDANG ISLAND TBC TBC

DAY 30 TBC REDANG ISLAND TBC KUALA LUMPUR TBC TBC

Day 30 TBC KUALA LUMPUR TBC LONDON

(VIA SINGAPORE) TBC TBC

Your Recommended Itinerary...

Day 1 - Arrival in Malaysia & transfer to Malacca On arrival in Kuala Lumpur you will be welcomed by a laterallife representative

and driven to Malacca for your 2 night stay (approx. 2hrs).

The historic city of Malacca is steeped in a rich tapestry of multicultural influences

reflected in its heritage architecture, diverse lifestyles and eclectic cuisine. Found-ed centuries ago by a Sumatran prince, Malacca grew to become a powerful sul-

tanate and the centre of the lucrative spice trade, visited by Arab, Tamil and Chi-nese merchants and subjected to dominance by the Portuguese, Dutch and Brit-

ish in turn. Each left their mark, creating the unique and enduring allure of the

city today.

Located on the banks of the river which in yesteryear teemed with Chinese junks and spice-laden vessels from all over the world, The Majestic Malacca provides a

glimpse into the splendid saga of an extraordinary empire. The Majestic Malacca

is an integral part of Malacca's colourful history. The original serene mansion, dating back to the 1920's, remains at the heart of the hotel, whilst a new building

has been created, mirroring the original architecture, to house 54 spacious rooms and suites.

This evening enjoy an introductory guided walk through the bustling weekend

night market. Take a stroll to Jonkers walk, a food night market which comes to

life when street vendors set up selling all sorts of local Nonya delicacies.

Accommodation: Majestic Hotel Malacca. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 2 - Malacca City Tour Today enjoy a walk around historical Malacca, the only state and city in Malaysia

to have been ruled by three different colonial powers. Today the city is a desig-nated UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit sites such as A’Famosa Fort, Jonker

Street, Stadthuys, St. Paul's Church and the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum.

This evening take a boat ride along the river and enjoy a traditional dinner of Ba-

ba Nyonya food at Nancy’s Kitchen.

Accommodation: Majestic Hotel Malacca. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 3 - Journey to Kuala Lumpur

This morning after breakfast transfer by car to Kuala Lumpur (approx. 2 hrs).

The appeal of this nation’s capital city cannot be denied. Be immediately struck by South-east Asia’s tallest building stamping its mark on the iconic Kuala Lumpur

city skyline. A mesmerizing blend of old and new, the city’s dynamism is reflected

within its offerings; stroll through cultural enclaves, take in historical sites and landmarks that dot the city centre and enjoy yourself amongst modern day at-

tractions. Take a short drive out of town and uncover the calmness of the city’s countryside or immerse in the thrills and excitement of famous theme parks

amidst unique backdrops.

This afternoon enjoy afternoon tea in The elegant Tea Lounge in the Hotel Majes-

tic. Cosy arrays of comfortable arm chairs provide the perfect setting for an Eng-lish Afternoon Tea with a Malaysian twist.

Accommodation: Villa Samadhi.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 4 - City Tour & Sunset Drinks

Start the day with a morning tour of Kuala Lumpur, which includes taking a lift to the top of the famous Petronas Towers and a stop at the railway station to see its

East meets West architecture. Finish at Central Market where you can browse the countless stores.

This afternoon is at leisure. You may like to head to the famous shopping district at Suria KLCC Mall.

This evening enjoy sunset drinks at the Sky Lounge in the Maya Hotel with its

stunning view of the Petronas Towers.

Accommodation: Villa Samadhi.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 5 - Journey to Ipoh

This morning, drive to Ipoh for your 3 night stay (approx. 2.5 hrs). On route visit the Royal Selangor Pewter Centre.

Founded in 1885, Royal Selangor is the world’s foremost name in quality pewter,

a brand synonymous with design and craftsmanship. In the hands of our skilled craftspeople, this versatile alloy of tin, copper and antimony is transformed into

an endless variety of home-ware and gifts sold in more than twenty countries

around the world. The Visitor Centre takes you back over a hundred years to the founding of Royal Selangor and its inextricable link with the history of Malaysia,

to the present day as the world’s largest pewter maker and its expansion into

gold and sterling silver. During your visit you can try your hand at making your own creation of pewter.

Arrive later this afternoon at the Banjaran, one of Malaysia’s lesser known re-

treats.

Accommodation: The Banjaran (Note min age is 12 years).

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 6 - Taiping Sightseeing & 4x4 Ride Today drive to Taiping (approx. 30 mins) for a morning of sightseeing. Taiping

dates back to the 1870s and during the 19th Century became famous for its tin

mining activities. Taiping has some historical buildings, a famous zoo and the beautiful Taiping Lake Gardens. Stroll through the lake gardens before taking a

4x4 ride (mostly old Land Rovers) up Butik Larut (Maxwell Hill) for fantastic views of the lowlands below. This spot is a former British hill station to escape the heat.

Enjoy a picnic at the top before returning to Ipoh.

Accommodation: The Banjaran.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 7 - At Leisure, Ipoh Today you are at leisure at The Banjaran. Explore Ipoh on your own accord or

enjoy relaxing in the hot springs in The Banjaran.

Accommodation: The Banjaran.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 8 - Journey to Penang

This morning you will be driven to Georgetown, the capital of Penang (approx. 1.5 hrs). A 13km bridge gives you access to Penang, a large developed island.

Georgetown, the capital of Penang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both old

and new, this historical town has a fun vibe with numerous street markets, food

stalls, bars and restaurants to choose from and some truly beautifully preserved buildings.

This evening begin your exploration of historic Georgetown with a stroll through

the food markets.

Accommodation: Seven Terraces.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 9 - Cycling Penang

The old world charm and deep rooted history that earned this state’s capital city Georgetown its status as one of UNESCO internationally recognized World Heritage

Sites is testament of the appeal of Malaysia’s only island state. As quoted from UNESCO, be prepared to explore by bike one of the most “complete surviving city

centres on the Straits of Malacca” that “holds unique architectural and cultural

townscape without parallel anywhere in East and Southeast Asia.” Together with its mouth-watering culinary mix, stretch of beaches and major attractions across

the island, enjoy a multisensory experience that lives up to its name as “The Pearl of The Orient”.

A visit to Penang isn’t complete without a visit to the beautifully preserved and re-

stored Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion which also now serves as a small hotel – see

www.cheongfatttzemansion.com

Accommodation: Seven Terraces. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 10 - Fly to Langkawi Today you will be transferred to the airport in good time to check-in for your flight

to Langkawi. On arrival you will be welcomed by a laterallife representative and transferred to the Four Seasons for your 3 night stay.

The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the beach.

One of only four inhabited islands in an archipelago of 99 islands in the Andaman Sea, Langkawi is a nature-lover’s dream – relished for its equatorial climate, tropi-

cal flora and fauna, and clear emerald waters. Two-thirds of the island’s dramatic mountainous landscape is covered with rainforest, while vibrant coral reefs lie just

off shore.

Once a haven for pirates, Langkawi’s intriguing cultural and ethnic diversity can be

traced back to its days as a centre for Chinese, Indian and Arab traders. In a spec-tacular setting on Langkawi’s northern cape, Four Seasons Resort Langkawi offers

easy access to discoveries on land and at sea, from bird watching, snorkelling and

diving to jungle trekking, golf and island-hopping tours.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Langkawi. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 11 - Beach

Spend your day at leisure on the beach. This evening go for dinner at Temple Tree

at Bon Ton which has one of the best restaurants on the island - www.bontonresort.com.my.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Langkawi.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 12 - Beach & Cable Car Ride

This afternoon take an exhilarating ride on the cable car to enjoy the stunning sight of Langkawi from above. Comprised of 3 stations, the Cable Car enables

visitors to enjoy 360 degree views of Langkawi from 708m above sea level. At the highest station, enjoy a drink in the café as the sun goes down, cross the Sky-

Bridge (which ranks among the world’s longest curve suspension bridge at 125m

in length) and send a post card using the specially placed post box!

Accommodation: Four Seasons Langkawi. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 13 - Journey to Kuching, Borneo

Today you will be transferred to the airport in good time to check-in for your

flight to Kuching. On arrival you will be met by a laterallife representative and transferred to your hotel for your overnight stay.

If time permits, head to the Sarawak Cultural Village, a short drive away from

Kuching where you get to interact and learn about the various tribal cultures of

Borneo from witnessing the different types of homes and architecture to local food delicacies to traditions such as blowpipe hunting, weaving and birds-nest

breeding.

This evening go for a walk along the river around Kuching and dine with the lo-cals at Top Spot.

Malaysian Borneo: Unwind on the third largest island on Earth, where the other side of Malaysia can

be found (East Malaysia). Here, where the states of Sabah and Sarawak are found, you’ll be greeted by a part of the country that is renowned for its natural

beauty and endless adventure opportunities; scale hills and mountains, traverse

lush green rainforests, navigate the open seas and be in awe of the idyllic land-scape. Yet amongst all these, delight yourself further by meeting the indigenous

villages and keepers of the land and come in close contact with intriguing nature and animals that will be sure to amaze you.

Note, should you wish to stay another night in Kuching, we will arrange a visit to the Semenggoh Nature Reserve to see the orang-utans and visit to the Long

House community at Annah Rais. This is a good option if you prefer not to em-bark on the longer journey to Batang Ai as described below.

Accommodation: The Ranee Boutique Hotel.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 14 - Journey to The Batang Ai Lake Peninsula

Today’s adventure combines a 3 hour drive and a 15 minute boat ride to get to the resort. Batang Ai National Park is only a 2-hour boat ride away. This after-

noon set out on a guided nature walk to experience the canopy walkway in the nearby rainforest.

Set on the edge of the world’s most ancient rainforest on the mystical island of Borneo, the Batang Ai Longhouse Resort is a self-contained haven on 20 hectares

on the shores of the Batang Ai Lake peninsula, 275 km from the city of Kuching and is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest just waiting to be explored.

Whilst here there are plenty of things to do:

Explore life beneath the canopy as you take a guided nature walk through the

surrounding rainforest with the resident naturalist.

Thrill-seekers may want to embark on more difficult walks like the one along

an old smugglers’ trail, or shoot the rapids on the longboat river safari. Alternatively, you can visit the neighbouring exotic Iban longhouses and dis-

cover the unique simplicity of a rich cultural heritage combined with ancient

human skulls hanging from the rafters. You’ll learn how to use a blowpipe and

there will be a performance of the warrior dance. For something more relaxing, take an early morning walk with the resident

naturalist, fish at the jetty, picnic by a waterfall, luxuriate by the pool or simp-

ly sit back, relax and enjoy the most breath-taking sunset.

Accommodation: Longhouse at Batang Ai.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 15 - Batang Ai Lake Peninsula Today choose from a variety of activities as mentioned above.

Accommodation: Longhouse at Batang Ai. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 16 - Journey to Bunga Raya Island Resort

Today you will be transferred back to the airport in Kuching in good time to check

-in for your flight to Kota Kinabalu (note depending on flight schedules a night back in Kuching may be required). On arrival you will be welcomed and trans-

ferred to the marina to board a speed boat to Pulau Gaya, for your 4 night stay at Bunga Raya Island Resort.

Accommodation: Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 17 - On the Beach

Today you are at leisure. You may like to relax on the beach or enjoy some of the activities on offer here: kayak; explore mangroves; catch a sight of Hornbills; trek

through thick jungles bursting with butterflies, birds, cicadas, and endless flora; dive into the ocean or sunbathe afloat its waters.

Accommodation: Bunga Raya Resort & Spa. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 18 - On the Beach

At leisure.

Accommodation: Bunga Raya Resort & Spa.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 19 - On the Beach At leisure.

Accommodation: Bunga Raya Resort & Spa. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 20 - Speedboat to Kota Kinabalu & North Borneo Railway

Take a speedboat back to Kota Kinabalu and head straight to the North Borneo railway station. Set off on an historic route by steam train (Wednesdays & Satur-

days). The small steam train and carriages are a delight and the train follows a

historic route via Beaufort. Carriages have a/c and there is a typical lunch served on board. On route you pass through countryside and local villages via parts of

the coast.

This afternoon is at your leisure to wander around Kota Kinabalu.

Note, KK (as it is known locally) is also a base for treks up SE Asia’s highest

mountain – Mount Kinabalu at just over 4,000m above sea level. If you want to climb this, we can arrange stays in local lodging which is very basic. Alternatively

you may choose to spend a day hiking the lower trails of Mount Kinabalu which

go as high as 3,200m above sea level.

Accommodation: Le Meridian. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 21 - Sepilok - Orang-Utans & Sun Bears

This morning take a short flight from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan, the gateway to the Sepilok Nature Reserve. From here transfer (approx. 20 minutes) to Sepilok

where the animal sanctuaries/rehabilitation centres and tourist attractions are located.

Begin by visiting the Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre: this professionally run centre is run with the interests of the wildlife in mind with sincere volunteers

and guides all around for impartial advice. Start with a short video presentation and ‘sponsor a baby orang-utan’ request. Then head to the viewing platform area

to see the rangers call the orang-utans and other wildlife for feeding time. It seems that you are almost guaranteed to see a few orang-utans here, along with

many macaques and other monkeys vying for fruit. Note – a special access view-

point with one way glass windows is due to open for the nursery part of the cen-tre. Until then private viewing can be arranged on request.

Next visit the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre, a new small enclosure to

care for rescued bears, which is located just next door. Small sun bears are

strapped in tiny cages in Vietnam and China, hooked up to an IV that pumps bile from their gallbladders – a delicacy, apparently! This centre is new and still a

work in progress but you get to see these cute animals with razor sharp claws.

Accommodation: Sepilok Nature Resort. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 22 - Journey to Kinabatangan & Proboscis Monkeys Depart today and transfer from Sepilok through Sandakan to the water’s edge of

the Sulu Sea (approx. 50 minutes). From here it is a 1 hour approx. boat ride firstly on the Sulu Sea then on the river to Abai Lodge on the lower River Kinaba-

tangan – look out for wild pygmy elephants grazing in fields close to the river

banks! Stop for lunch at Abai Lodge.

After lunch it is around an hour from Abai Lodge to Kinabatangan by river boat.

Kinabatangan Lodge – is a typical Bornean nature lodge with spacious, fan-cooled

chalets, simple bathrooms, very friendly staff and decent food for a rainforest buffet. Located on the river, close to a small tributary of the river of the same

name, it is 99% guaranteed to see proboscis monkeys.

This afternoon, head out by river boat to view proboscis monkeys as well as ma-caques, hornbills, monitor lizards, kingfisher, cormorant, crocodiles, snakes and

spiders of all shapes, colours and sizes.

Accommodation: Kinabatangan Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 23 - Journey to Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley

Today’s journey takes you to the remote Danum Valley. You are driven around 2 hours on a paved road to Lahad Datu town, where the office of Borneo Rainforest

Lodge is located. Change vehicles and continue the journey in a new SUV on the 2.5 hour journey through the Danum Valley to the lodge. About half the trip is on

a non-paved road but really it is not that bad at all; the scenery is beautiful and

truly remote as you drive into the million acre preserve, protected by the govern-ment.

Expect a warm welcome in the plush rainforest lobby before heading upstairs to

the bar area which is open on all sides to take in the views of the river. Service here is really very good and your local guide will introduce you to the lodge and

activities on offer. The food is buffet style but considering the remoteness of the

location is very good indeed with a good selection of Asian and Western, there is even apple crumble!

Accommodation: Borneo Rainforest Lodge.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 24 - Rainforest Walks & Suspension Bridges

Activities are focused on jungle treks/walks of differing lengths, vistas and fitness levels. The canopy walkway is a great experience and stretches about 300m and

up to 27m. Night safari drives provide a completely different perspective as you seek out sambar deer, mouse deer, small loris, flying squirrel, civet, tarsiers and

more. Night walks are also possible but not recommended if you are squeamish

as the focus is on insects, snakes and spiders!

Our favourite hike takes you to the ‘Valley view point’ which is challenging but manageable for most fitness levels and on the way back you stop by a small wa-

terfall and natural Jacuzzi to cool off and enjoy a private lunch. Note you may

consider spending 3 nights at this lodge.

Accommodation: Borneo Rainforest Lodge. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 25 - Return to Kota Kinabalu Today you are driven back to Lahad Datu where you’ll board a short flight to Kota

Kinabalu or Kuala Lumpur for an overnight stay.

Note routing will be subject to flight schedules on the particular date.

Accommodation: Le Meridian Hotel/KK or Hotel Majestic/KL.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 26 - Journey to Redang Island

Transfer to the airport this morning for a flight to Redang Island. Spend your final few days at the family-friendly Taaras resort which has an idyllic setting on one of

East Malaysia’s most beautiful bays. Snorkelling, diving, swimming and host of other water-sports and island activities are possible if you are feeling active.

The Malaysians call this Island ‘Pulau Redang’ which is thought to be because of the Redang tree that once grew here as well as it’s literal meaning as ‘a stop-over

place’; perhaps long ago to take refuge from pirates on the trade routes between India and China. Redang is located 45km off the coast of Kuala Terengganu and

is the largest (6km by 7km) among a group of Islands dotting the north east coast of Malaysia and surrounded by the South China Sea. The Island is blessed

with crystal clear waters housing numerous dive sites and some amazing as well

as abundant marine life. The coral collection is generally excellent all year but can be influenced from time to time by weather and sea conditions. As part of the

surrounding waters there are designated conservation sites as well as a protected Marine Park (including a turtle sanctuary) actively protected by the Malaysian

Government.

‘The Taaras’ is a luxurious beach property, tucked away in a quiet location on

Redang Island. It provides contemporary, barefoot luxury and is comprised of 183 stylish suites and rooms, as well as a stunning five bedroom Private Villa

perched high up on the cliff overlooking the ocean and resort below.

Accommodation: The Taaras.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 27 - Beach at leisure Today you are at leisure to do as you please. Relax on the beach or enjoy the

numerous activities on offer. Things to do include: The Taaras Spa; diving; Jungle

Trekking; Tennis (Outdoor); Cooking Class; Island Tour; Turtle watching by glass bottom boat; and Sea sports such as snorkelling (day or night), parasailing, wind-

surfing, fishing trip, island hopping, banana boat, paddle boat, canoe/kayak, boat charters and boogie boards.

Accommodation: The Taaras. Meals: Breakfast.

Day 28 - Beach at leisure

At leisure.

Accommodation: The Taaras.

Meals: Breakfast.

Day 29 - Depart for the UK

Today you begin your journey home with a flight to KL, connecting with an on-ward flight to the UK.

Note: if flying via Singapore, consider an extension of 2-3 nights with fine dining,

a traditional tea house ceremony, shopping on Orchard Road, some creative

sightseeing at Gardens by the Bay, theme parks and one of the best zoos and aquariums in the region.

If staying in Singapore we recommend the following:

New Majestic - www.newmajestichotel.com

The Fullerton or Fullerton Bay Hotels – www.fullertonhotel.com/default-en.html www.fullertonbayhotel.com

- - - - -

Laterally sleeping...

Majestic Hotel, Malacca.

Located on the banks of the river which in yesteryear teemed with Chinese junks and spice-laden vessels from all over the world, The Majestic Malacca provides a glimpse

into the splendid saga of an extraordinary empire and today the hotel represents an integral part of Malacca's colourful history. The original serene mansion dating back to

the 1920s, remains at the heart of the hotel, whilst a new building has been created,

mirroring the original style and traditional feel inside to house 54 spacious rooms and suites. Facilities include a small outdoor pool, mini-gym and a gourmet restaurant in

the old wing.

Villa Samadhi, Kuala Lumpur.

Located in a quiet residential neighbourhood in Kuala Lumpur’s embassy district, Villa Samadhi provides a quiet retreat from the bustling malls and markets of Malaysia’s

capital. Samadhi consists of 21 contemporary Asian-inspired rooms, spanning from 600 to over 2000 square-foot of living space. The moon shaped pool backs on to

many of the rooms in the main building and just behind is a small dining area where

breakfast is served. In the evenings, the roof top bar is a wonderful secret spot to enjoy an early cocktail and KL’s colourful skyline before heading out to dinner.

The Banjaran, Ipoh.

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is nestled in a 16 acre valley, cradled by 260 million year old towering limestone hills, lush rainforest, rejuvenating geothermal hot springs,

natural caves and cascading waterfalls. 25 sumptuous Garden and Water villas, a pampering Spa and Wellness Centre and a host of retreat experiences combine for

ultimate seclusion. Also of note is the magnificent Jeff’s Cellar, the owner’s wine col-

lection and bar set within a limestone cave. Savour a wide range of organic and rare wines in a setting where ethereal lighting, intimate cave interiors and natural water

features present a whole new encounter and indulgence.

Seven Terraces, Penang.

A converted row of seven, 19th Century Anglo Chinese terraces, in one of Penang’s finest and most intact heritage streets, is The Seven Terraces hotel. Comprised of only

18 suites, it is just a few minutes’ walk to all Penang’s major historical sights. The suites surround an elegant Chinese granite courtyard with beds of frangipani set

between tall wooden columns and walkways. Some suites have their own outdoor

decks with views of the Georgian Church. Facilities include a generous pool, Asian fu-sion dining room, full bar and exquisitely furnished reception. The hotel offers the per-

fect sanctuary but within a stone’s throw of the bustle and hawker markets for which Penang is so famous.

...sleeping Laterally

Four Seasons, Langkawi.

A beautiful beach facing resort with great architecture and lush green gardens. The Four Seasons is comprised of 91 villas and pavilions and is bordered by lush rainfor-

est and cliffs. Family friendly, it is ideally situated for exploring Langkawi and enjoy-ing its stunning beaches. Tanjung Rhu which is another popular beach, is nearby.

The Ranee Boutique Hotel, Kuching.

Stylishly rebuilt from two traditional 19th century shophouses and ingeniously adapted to modern standards, The Ranee Boutique Hotel is a real gem. The property

consists of 24 spacious suites, varying in size and theme, but all full of character. The two top floor suites have a private terrace and river view. There is also a reading

lounge with a well-stocked bookshelf and a great ground-floor café-deli.

Longhouse at Batang Ai, Batang Ai Lake Peninsula.

Set on the edge of the world’s most ancient rainforest on the mystical island of Bor-neo is the Batang Ai Longhouse Resort. The Hilton managed resort is a self-contained

haven on 20 hectares of the Batang Ai Lake peninsula, 275 km from the city of Ku-ching and is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. You can choose to stay in the

Longhouse Style accommodation, a native Borneo timber room, or opt for a two-

storey Duplex Suite, for more space and comfort.

Bunga Raya Resort & Spa, Pulau Gaya.

Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious jewel set on a coral reef island just off the coast of Borneo. A secluded island hideaway of 48 timbered villas, the resort is

tucked away on a tranquil and hidden bay framed by crescent shaped white sand beach on one side and the centuries old virgin jungle on the other. There are two

restaurants and a gorgeous infinity pool area which backs onto the beach. Access is

by a short 25 minute boat ride from Kota Kinabalu.

Laterally sleeping...

Le Meridian, Kota Kinabalu.

Le Méridien Kota Kinabalu is well situated for enjoying the city’s sites and retail, dining and entertainment options. With four restaurants and bars you are spoilt for choice.

The roof top pool and accompanying roof bar with views over the South China Sea and nearby little islands is the perfect spot for sundowners.

Sepilok Nature Resort, Sepilok.

Hidden amongst a veritable treasure trove of tropical plants, grasses, huge trees and spectacular orchids in bloom, the quaint bungalows of the Sepilok Nature Resort are

within walking distance of the world-famous Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve, precious home of the last wild Orang-Utans of Northern Borneo. Combining rich traditional style

with contemporary jungle comfort, Sepilok Nature Resort’s beautiful grounds are dom-

inated by a central lake-pond, which you overlook as you dine.

Kinabatangan Lodge, Kinabatangan.

The Kinabatangan River, Malaysia’s second longest river, is one of the most exciting and easily accessible places to explore the rich biodiversity of Sabah. The lower Kina-

batangan offers an incredible opportunity to see a large range of wildlife including Borneo’s unique proboscis monkeys, the wild Orang Utan, Bornean Pygmy elephants,

crocodiles, otters, sun bears, wild cats and countless rare and beautiful birds such as

hornbills and the Oriental Darter. Accessible by either road or river, Kinabatangan Lodge is comprised of 33 rooms, all connected by wooden jetties.

Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Danum Valley. Nestled on the riverbank, in Sabah’s largest protected lowland rainforest, Borneo Rain-

forest Lodge has only 31 villas with either forest or river views. The bar/lounge/restaurant area is open on all sides to take in the views of the river in front. This pris-

tine rainforest is also home to more than 340 bird species, 124 different mammals, 72

types of reptile, 56 species of Amphibians and a staggering 200 species of plants per hectare.

...sleeping Laterally

Hotel Majestic, Kuala Lumpur.

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur includes the original Hotel Majestic which is docu-mented as a national heritage site. This colonial structure was built in 1932 and be-

came one of the great hotels of Kuala Lumpur in its time. A true heritage classic land-mark hotel, it is a short drive away from the shopping zone. Divided between a new

and old wing, the new wing has an excellent restaurant and at lunchtime, the gour-

met buffet is well worth a stop. Rooms in the new wing are fresh, modern yet tradi-tional, light and inviting and very spacious with a mix of views. Rooms in the old wing

are ‘heritage suites’ with mixed layouts and sizes. Old wing suites also have butler service. Facilities at the Hotel Majestic include an outdoor pool, a Truefitt & Hill Bar-

bers, snooker room, cigar room and bar, an orchid house and a wonderful afternoon tea room and adjacent café.

The Taaras, Redang Island.

The Taaras is a luxurious beach property, tucked away on Redang Island, just off the unspoilt East Coast of Malaysia. Providing contemporary, barefoot luxury, it is com-

prised of 183 stylish suites and rooms, as well as a stunning five bedroom Private Villa perched high up on the cliff overlooking the ocean and resort below.

Laterally Thinking...

Teh Tarik

Teh tarik is recognised by the Malaysian Government as part of the food and bever-age heritage of Malaysia and is considered by some as the national drink of Malaysia.

Literally meaning ‘pulled tea’ it gains its name from the preparation process in which the ingredients (black tea and condensed milk) are poured between two beakers

from a height. The result? A delicious frothy beverage at perfect drinking tempera-

ture!

Orangutans

In Malay, the word ‘Orangutan’ means 'person of the forest' - stemming from the words ‘orang' meaning people and ‘hutan' which translates as forest. Orang-utans are

currently only found in the rainforests of Borneo (Malaysia) and Sumatra (Indonesia). One of the most intelligent primates, it has been suggested that there could be dis-

tinct cultures within populations. However, unlike other great apes they are surpris-

ingly solitary, with males being found mainly alone and females often with only one or two young. This is thought to be due to their high calorific needs (which comes

mainly from fruit) or the lack of predators they face (humans). Considered to be en-dangered as a result of human activities such as poaching and habitat destruction,

there are numerous conservation and rehabilitation organisations that are dedicated to protecting them.