The open, shaded spaces of the sprawling Ritz Carlton Langkawi’s 49 acre estate is blissfully calm and serene during the day with birds chirping and the occasional screech of a Macaque (monkey species). The lavishness of the 1 million-year-old rainforest keeps the climate quite cool and pleasant, unless you’re caught in a sudden cloudburst, which is still quite an adventure in its own right. But come dusk, the RC Langkawi takes on a different tone of excitement.
Sunset at the Horizon
Start off at sunset at the superbly “ritzy” adult-only, Horizon lounge. Located in a slightly secluded little cove at the south-east of the property, the Horizon Lounge overlooks the gorgeous Andaman Sea. The simple, tasteful and very (very) romantic setting offers yet another infinity pool to relax in and watch the waves while sipping on a cool cocktail or a chilled glass of wine.
“From an angle, the pool meets the ocean forming a spectacle of water flowing against the current. “
The amazing views and tasty Thai-influenced titbits are a perfect way to relax during the evening as the island sun slowly dips below the horizon in a spectacle of colours. The open-air bar, tres comfortable lounge seating from divans to cushy bar stools coupled with soft lighting and great music, makes for a splendid way to ‘chill-out’ and watch the stars come out with your partner or friends. You can even catch a glimpse of the lovely young ladies perform their traditional ‘Dance of thanks to the sea’ across the way on the Ritz’s private beach area in front of the Beach Bar & Grill.
Once you’ve cooled off, relaxed with a few tasty snacks and sipped your cocktail to its fruition, it’s time to head back to your room to freshen up for dinner. That’s just one more adventure to partake in at the RC Langkawi. Next stop – Hai Yan.
Langkawi’s only fine-dine, authentic Chinese restaurant
A short buggy ride led us to the very tip of the Ritz’s estate to their signature restaurant, Hai Yan (pronounced Hai Yen) that sits beside the Ritz Carlton Spa. From the sound and sights of water gushing down the walls behind the sign to the short walk through a warmly lit, canopied walkway to the astounding entrance with a magnificent chandelier.
“Hai Yan sets the mood for a luxurious meal.”
“The Chinese décor gives you an authentic feeling and blends in with exquisite taste and a very classy ambiance.”
The traditional Chinese reds and beige tones with comfortable lighting superbly arranged tables makes for a very charming atmosphere. Our worry was taking a three-month-old into such a classy space, but once again, the gallant staff put those doubts to rest. They fussed over our little Bruce and gave us ample space to enjoy our meal comfortably, and what a meal it was.
We started off with a couple of drinks before moving on a couple of appetizers. If the cocktail menu doesn’t entice, pick a wine from their well-stocked cellar.
We began with the Crispy Tiger Prawns in Wheat Flakes; delicately crisped prawns under a mountain of deliciously sweet-tangy wheat went well with almost everything else we ordered. It was a good way to get the palette racing for what came next.
We dove into the main-course which was Wagyu Beef, cooked to melt-in-your-mouth, pan-fried perfection and served on a bed of Shimeji Mushrooms and Black Truffle. It looked just as good as it tasted.
To supplement the beef we ordered a bowl of sticky rice and a plate of stir-fried mixed mushrooms and veggies with macadamia nuts. The cuisine at Hai Yan is just delectable with rich flavours from the simplest fares.
“When they say it’s crispy, you can expect it to be just that, not crunchy, not soggy, but perfectly crispy.”
When you ask for a medium rare, the meat will be served just, allowing you to savour each morsel without a chewy motion and enjoying every ounce of flavour that comes from combining truffle with a little rice, a sprinkle of wheat flakes and a splendid cut of beef.
We topped off our meal with some Soy Milk Panna Cotta served with three fired dumplings and sesame seeds. It tasted a little like a traditional Indian ‘Ladoo’ that’s served during festivals but a very tangy twist. The Panna Cotta was light and tasty, even for soy.
While the restaurant section is class in a right of its own, on the right side of the reception desk are a couple of far more lavish rooms that’s designed to cater to a large group or family for private dining. A large round table surrounded by eight chairs, sits near the large windows under a gorgeous lantern-styled chandelier.
“Rest assured, you’re going to get first class treatment from everyone at Hai Yan and walk away feeling thoroughly satisfied.”
Make it a point to step out onto the large outside-seating area for a magnificent view of the ocean and balmy sea breezes to further whet your appetite.
And that’s how you can end a perfect day the Ritz Carlton Langkawi; from a relaxing sunset dip in the Horizon’s adult-only infinity pool to a romantic and very authentic Chinese dinner at Hai Yan, the rooms super-comfortable kin-size beds will have you sound asleep and ready for your next adventure at the Ritz!
Where: The Ritz Carlton Langkawi
PO Box 199, Jalan Pantai Kok,
Teluk Nibong Langkawi, KD, 07000, Malaysia
Phone: +60 4-952 4888
Note: The writer was invited by the Ritz Carlton Langkawi but all the opinions expressed herewith are his own.
