O

nce known as the Pearl of the Orient, Penang has the rain forest–fringed beaches, sun-dappled horizon, and delicate breezes you’d expect from a destination worthy of such an epithet. The sea really is the color of shimmering sapphires; the distant hills do sparkle like emeralds. The Shangri-La Rasa Sayang also shines, in its way, another jewel in Malaysia’s burgeoning luxury tourism crown. Imagine a diamond in the rough — if your idea of “rough” includes three swimming pools, 30 landscaped acres, and unfettered access to the soft sands and warm waves at the famed Batu Ferringi beaches. Let’s just say it’s all quite dazzling.

Taken from a Malay folk song, the phrase rasa sayang loosely translates as “a feeling of love,” but it might just as easily mean “a feeling of relaxation.” Ample rooms open onto either a lush landscape or lively seascape. Suites include private verandas, parlors, flatscreen TVs, and special stationery. All use materials that typify indigenous Minangkabau style, including cotton, wood, and bright satins and nylons. Bathrooms come with extra towels — a not-to-be-underappreciated amenity. Depending on which of the two wings you’re staying in, you might also get comped drinks/meals and/or butler service.

Penang’s largest spa specializes in traditional Chinese and Malaysian treatments, which seek to adjust the balance of your yin and yang. Consider booking one of the eleven private spa villas. If you’d rather be out and about, jungle treks, rides on banana boats or in canoes, and other water adventures can be arranged, and the exclusive, executive golf course is close by. Yoga on the rocks, anyone?

How to get there:

Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa is located 45 minutes’ drive from Penang International Airport (PEN).