We spent four nights at the Datai as part of a two centre stay in Langkawi. On arrival, we received a personal and welcoming greeting from Anne, who checked us in. As our room was not ready, we were offered complimentary drinks. It really was no hardship to sit in the bar area and stare at the breathtaking view of the rainforest and emerald sea.
We could not have been more thrilled with our rainforest villa. It was huge, with an enormous, comfortable bed, seating area, massive TV (with an excellent choice of films, sport, and news channels), coffee machine, a mini bar (including beer, water and soft drinks that was restocked daily), and a fruit platter. Our bathroom was equally large, with bath and separate shower and toilet cubicles, together with a dressing area. Complimentary high-quality toiletries were provided, as were dressing gowns and slippers. Our balcony area had chairs and a day bed. Offering a view of the rainforest, we were often joined by inquisitive macaques who sat on the railings, staring at us in the vain hope of finding something to eat. Housekeeping and the turn down service were excellent and we appreciated chef’s nightly sweet treat! We were a little surprised that there were no separate bins for recyclables, but assumed refuse must be sorted by hand. The villa offered a degree of privacy and independence not normally enjoyed in a resort environment, which suited us perfectly.
We enjoyed all the restaurants we visited, but The Gulai House was our favourite, set deep in the rainforest and offering delicious Malaysian cuisine. Each meal starts with a handwashing ritual, just don’t get caught out by Mustafa’s feet washing offer! Lunch in the Beach restaurant was excellent and good value for money. Breakfast lived up to our expectations, with a vast array of hot and cold dishes on offer, including delicious freshly cooked roti.
My husband considered the golf course to be first class and beautifully maintained. He really enjoyed his two rounds of golf. A word of warning however, whilst he was on the green, a troupe of monkeys managed to unzip his golf bag, which was on the buggy, looking for food. Fortunately, all they found was sun cream! Staff at the course were helpful, especially Alfie. I joined my husband on the buggy for his second round and our lunch at the club house was tasty and excellent value for money.
I took two Pilates classes in the open sided seafront pavilion. What a spectacular setting! Ann and Laura both delivered excellent classes, highly recommended.
The morning nature walk is also recommended. We saw a wide variety of wildlife during our walk. Our guide, Barry, was knowledgeable and friendly and we learned a great deal from him about the rainforest and its inhabitants.
Two swimming pools are on offer, one adult only, with plentiful sunbeds and towels. The beach is breathtaking in its beauty. Again, there were ample sunbeds, benefitting from the natural shade of the trees. Whilst we were there, the wonderful staff brought flasks of ice water; complimentary ice cream and a cocktail shot of the day. The sea water was as warm as a bath but unfortunately it was a little too cloudy for snorkelling.
It was easy to get around the resort by summoning a buggy, which usually arrived without delay. The drivers were unfailingly professional and helpful.
We found the Datai to be outstanding in every respect. However, what made the resort stand out, is the level of hospitality offered by the staff. We received a warm and friendly welcome from every member of staff we encountered. Nothing was too much trouble. Many guests come back year after year. We now understand why and hope to be able to emulate them.
We were told that the name Datai (dai tai) means “the place where one can be free.” The Datai certainly lived up to its name. Sincere thanks to all the staff for your outstanding hospitality.
GB