Dear Readers,
My #TouchseGoesAsia2 / #TGA2 tour's first hotel is a fabulous beachfront
luxury hotel called the Danna Langkawi. This blog post is completely about The
Danna and I guarantee you, it's worth reading, it gives you the feeling as if
you were there yourself. After reading, just close your eyes, listen to the
sound of waves and imagine someone bringing you a cool drink after you just had
an amazing massage... All this a lot more is coming up so get your snacks ready
and start reading - enjoy the ride!
Background...
So, I found this fabulous hotel on Twitter about a year ago. Ever since
that I've been following it on Facebook and Twitter (links at the end of this
introduction). It just had something so appealing about it.
I was meant to go to Langkawi island already on my first #TouchseGoesAsia
tour but had a change of plans and ended up going to Bali instead. However,
this hotel just kept popping into my mind so I decided to do something about
it. I contacted the hotel and set up a meeting with one of its managers in
Kuala Lumpur last October. Ever since then we've kept in touch and finally, at
the end of this year, we managed to set up dates for my visit to this beautiful
hotel, located on a small island of Langkawi, in the western part of Malaysia.
I started my journey on Tuesday night, five to midnight to be exact by
flying from Helsinki, Finland to Singapore by Finnair, and yes, of course, I
flew in business, as you know, like I always say it's the only pleasant way to
fly long-hauls, besides, I wanted to get some rest before my arrival to this
paradise as I didn't want to spend my couple of days sleeping, I'd rather
experience as much as possible. From Singapore, I continued to Kuala Lumpur,
wherein I had to stay overnight at the transit hotel, called Sama Sama. I had
about 5 hrs of sleep and then it was time for one more flight, from Kuala
Lumpur International to Langkawi airport. Finally!
I SEE LANGKAWI!
Already from the plane I was able to tell that I'm approaching a special
place. The island looked so beautiful in the morning sun. I couldn't wait to
get to the first destination of my tour.
I felt so happy after we landed, finally I'm here!
Even everything around the airport looked green and lush, especially when it was early in the morning.
Even everything around the airport looked green and lush, especially when it was early in the morning.
Right after collecting my luggage (once again broken, so I had to go -
again "Lost and Found" office first!), I got out of the terminal and
I found my driver. For security/privacy reasons the hotel does not put their
guests' name for everyone to see. Instead, they kindly ask guests to seek for
their driver from the entrance hall, wherein the driver stands holding a sign
with hotel's name on it. Easy and handy. After that basically, everything I
needed during the next two days was taking care of. I felt like a princess and
I was treated like one. The driver and his colleague were really friendly and during
the drive, they told me things and facts about the island and various areas
while we were driving to the hotel. I filmed half of the drive but
unfortunately, there was some type of technical error with my brand new GoPro
Hero 5 camera and the entire SD card just emptied itself only 4 days later, so
I had no film material left. Luckily I took plenty of photos. (Btw, I returned
that camera to the store as there was an obvious malfunction there, but will
probably get a new sponsored one to replace it.)
ARRIVING AT THE DANNA LANGKAWI
After maybe 20 minutes of driving ( the hotel is located 11 km from the airport), I could tell we were getting closer as I started to see glimpses of the ocean and some quite noble sail boats... The landscape nearby the hotel looked absolutely stunning. The area is called Telaga Harbour Park.
I remember thinking; I've waited for this moment for such a long time! Finally, I see the Danna Langkawi!
I remember thinking; I've waited for this moment for such a long time! Finally, I see the Danna Langkawi!
The building itself is grand, white, colonial
style building, it's been built to look like it's from the colonial era but it's actually relatively new. It's majestic and you
can't help just looking around and just wonder to what's the era I just arrived to.
Everything seems brand new but the colonial vibe is so strong that you can
almost imagine being there.
Overall, the first impression was: Lovely architecture and decor, beautiful
design. Every single detail had been considered to correspond with the rest of
the hotel's style.
I was greeted by Front Desk Manager Jaswinder, who was very kind to assist
me with everything in terms of standard arrival procedure and there even was a
masseur ready to provide arriving guests with a 3-minute quick relaxing
shoulder massage. Can you imagine how attempting that sounds after all that
traveling? However, breakfast at that moment sounded even more attempting so
regretfully I had to refuse. I felt like I really want to take a quick shower
and make it to breakfast as it was still on for an hour. Since I also had a
foot massage booked they said that I can have my massage then I wanted to. so
far everything has been perfect
MY ROOM
Jaswinder kindly escorted me to my room, No. 429, located adjacent to the ocean,
on the 4th floor. My luggage were there already waiting for me.
My first impression of the room was; It's bright, spacious, beautiful, well designed,
elegant, extremely clean (very important for me!), but the most impressing
thing was clearly the view, that was something I probably never forget -
amazing!
Just take a look at it yourselves!
Just take a look at it yourselves!
Room description
The room itself was large, and it had king sized extremely comfy four poster bed with my special request; foam pillows on it. By the way, requesting foam pillows doesn't guarantee that you get them, but in this hotel; no problem at all! Lovely pillows, great quality and for someone like me who travels a lot, a good pillow is extremely important in order to make sure I get a good night sleep.
There's a large TV (which I didn't use at all, no way, not when you have a view like this!), and plenty of TV channels to choose from. There was also a daybed/sofa wherein you could sit and enjoy the fabulous ocean view and enjoy their lovely welcome gifts; biscuits, fruits, delicacies and with tea and coffee making facilities you can make yourself a nice cup of tea. Too bad I have so many food restrictions that I couldn't eat the chocolates nor biscuits as they looked really tasty!
The only thing I felt missing was more sockets by the bed as in most cases people want to charge both their phones and their laptops/tablet computers etc. and preferably within the hands reach from the bed. Further, since their sockets are Malaysian style, it would be handy if they either already upon check-in or when introducing the room asked if the guest perhaps needs an adapter or just simply place one of them into the room. (As the fact is that most guests have just traveled quite a bit and most likely all their chargeable appliances have empty batteries.)
But this was only a very, very minor problem as just a phone call to guest service and in two minutes someone was behind my door and I got two adapters that I was able to use during my visit.
Bathroom
Since I needed to get ready for breakfast, I immediately went to the
bathroom to get freshened up.
There was a small dressing area between the entrance area and bathroom,
which I found quite handy. Not really surprised to find the bathroom area to be
also very well designed, with his and hers sinks (as well as robes and slippers
in the wardrobe).
I've always said that it's great if you have a beautiful
bathroom area but it's even more important that it's also practical and this one was both. I wasn't surprised to notice that even taps were designed to match the hotel's style.
The bathroom had a beautiful bath and a separate shower area, which is
actually very convenient as it's on the backside of the bathroom, which means
that the actual bathroom stays dry even if you take a long hot shower. Again,
small details are something I pay attention to and I loved those large, soft
towels they had. I have long, curly, thick hair (and lots of it!) and in most
cases when I dry my hair, by the time I'm finished, the towel is soaking wet,
but not these towels. Since I've visited over 230 hotels around the world by
now I pay attention to smallest of details and high quality in towels is one of
many.
You are able to enjoy the stunning ocean view even when taking a bath as there is removable dividing wall between the bathroom area and the actual room, I didn't close it once I stayed here, since I was traveling alone and I like open space and light so I kept it open which brought so much more natural light to bathroom area as well.
You are able to enjoy the stunning ocean view even when taking a bath as there is removable dividing wall between the bathroom area and the actual room, I didn't close it once I stayed here, since I was traveling alone and I like open space and light so I kept it open which brought so much more natural light to bathroom area as well.
So, I took a quick shower in this lovely bathroom and got dressed in the
dressing area, went back to the ground floor to get some breakfast, which by
the way sounded so good after traveling for 30 hours!
Oh, one more thing I'd like to mention; there is a hotel directory book in
the room. Many hotels find these old fashioned but I find them, still, very
useful and was happy to find one. It provides you a large variety of
information on the culture, the island and the hotel.
BREAKFAST
Breakfast is being served at The Planter's restaurant on the ground floor. The staff is very attentive and immediately one of the waitress approached me, kindly asked me if I wanted a table inside or outside - this lovely restaurant offers both Al Fresco dining or air conditioned seating.
Well, after spending 1,5 days on planes and airports my choice was pretty
clear; outside, please! I was guided to my table and the moment I sat down was
probably the best feeling in a long, long time! I took a good look around and
felt in peace. I knew I was going to love this place! I had a view to infinity
swimming pool and that lovely, white sandy beach - I've come to paradise!
I was asked for my breakfast beverage preferences. I always carry my own tea so I just asked for a pot of hot water. I also asked for gluten free bread, two fried egg whites (Attn. Only White) and moments later I got exactly what I asked for. Then I went inside to collect my breakfast foods and on my way out I noticed that you can have Champagne as well. YAY!! Mimosa is the best luxury traveler's way to start a day! I know there are many of you that totally agree with me on this one!
Mimosa, great food and this view -
what else can a girl ask for? Right now, well, nothing! It was a perfect
breakfast moment, the sun was shining, birds were singing, excellent service,
very tasty breakfast and two days of this bliss ahead.. oh, yes, I am going to
be one happy girl!
Here are few photos of The Planter's in the evening.
Cafe & Lounge
Here are few photos of The Planter's in the evening.
Cafe & Lounge
After my breakfast, I walked around a bit to get to know the hotel.
While walking around I noticed this beautiful lounge area called The Verandah which was truly elegant; lovely high ceilings, chandeliers, majestic pillars, which is all very colonial style as well, but still extremely stylish and luxurious. There is a bar, cigar bar, a sitting/living area and also an outdoor area so plenty to choose from.
It seemed cozy and yet very elegant, a combination that I appreciate. It's
open only in the evenings, and to be honest, although it looked really
inviting, I would have felt maybe a bit lonely sitting there by myself, but if
I ever get to return to this place with my spouse, I'm sure we will have some
appetizer drinks in this charming bar!The Terrace will be introduced to you later on this blog, as I went there for my last night's dinner.
(Please note that the names of the above mentioned restaurants/cafes are active links, thus, just click the name and you get to the actual website introducing said restaurant.)
While I was wandering around I found some, in my opinion, almost Mediterranean style details here as well, such a nice combination with the colonial style. It's very fresh, despite rich decorations.
THE BEACH AND THE POOL AREA
Next, I went back to my beautiful room to take some photos of this
incredible view. Then I got changed to my beach gears and went for a walk on
the beach. When I got to the beach I turned around to see the entire hotel - WHOA, what a beautiful building!
The beach area was just breathtaking. I was pretty sure I've arrived in paradise
and I never want to leave! I didn't even want to think of the fact that two
days later I'm on my way to next place. No wonder people look so happy here, even those who are working. Who
wouldn't in this kind of environment?!
When you turn on your left on the beach area, there was a little but extremely beautiful marina with lots of
majestic sailboats and also a little, adorable lighthouse. Very nice, relaxing
walk and since I love photographing, a perfect place for me. When you turn to
your right you can see the mountains and on the rights upper corner of the
photo below, you can barely see the destination of the cable car rides. I
didn't even realize at first what it was that I saw but later on, I realized it
and what a joy it was to know that I get an opportunity to actually go there on
the following day!
Love this type of small gestures, it's those little things that add certain
hotels that 6th invisible star in my professional opinion.
After a long trip and lovely breakfast and just relaxing, it was time to go
back to my room and take a nap in that absolutely fantastic four-poster
king-size bed. I slept like a baby! Perfect pillows, linens, and a mattress!
In room dining
After I woke up I realized that it was dinner time already. I was still
quite exhausted after traveling such a long time and there was also a time
difference. So I wanted to test the room service and order something to my
room. Since, sadly, I have quite many food allergies, I was at first having
some difficulties finding something suitable to eat but with some help from the
staff's part, that was organized. I had simply rice, chicken, and vegetables,
which is quite often my first night's choice on my travels so that my stomach
gets used to local food. After I got my dinner delivered and I finished it, I
was ready for a bath and a good night sleep, and what a sleep it was - just perfect!
DAY 2: Adventure &
spa treatment
I woke up the following morning, opened the curtains and again, I was absolutely humbled to have the privilege to watch this incredible view. I was so grateful to have this opportunity and felt so blessed. More than ever before, I want to live as I teach; Life is for living, not just for existing! And this certainly felt like living the life to the fullest!
I went downstairs to get some - again very tasteful breakfast, plenty to
choose from; fresh fruits, local dishes, hot food, cold appetizers, any type of
omelets etc. I couldn't come up with anything that was missing, even the
ambiance was fantastic.
ADVENTURE: Sky cab & Sky bridge
This was the day that I get to overcome my fear of heights! I was so
excited! It was time to go for my Cable Car ride! The hotel had arranged me a
car to take me to the Panorama Langkawi SkyCab.
Unlike many might think, it's a whole lot more than just a cable car ride.
They also have many other attractions and various activities that visitors can
try. You can choose from fun, relaxing, engaging, nature alike, extreme and
captivating activities. For such a small island that's plenty to do.
Link to Panorama Skycab
(Click the above link to open the website)
I chose the Skycab cable car ride because it was something I've never experienced
before, I love photographing views and most importantly; I wanted to win my
fear of heights. This fabulous adventure was kindly offered to my by LADA
(Langkawi Development Authority), for which I'm eternally grateful for, thank
you so much!
Alia, one of the employees with her colleague were my tour guides. They
kindly arranged me to be able to use the VIP services, meaning I didn't have to
wait on the line and we got to choose the newest cable car / Sky cab, which
didn't just have glass walls, but also a glass bottom, which means I was able
to see everything! The sky, the jungle, the ocean, the mountain... and we were
on our way to the top, which is 770 m above sea level! Imagine that, cable car
going straight up, in probably about 65-70 degree angle, which means it's
steep, one of the world's steepest ones I heard!
Finally, we got to the first station, wherein there is a short lift ride to Skybridge. I absolutely wanted to go there. I knew it would huge for me to walk on that bridge due to my fear of heights. But the moment I stepped on that bridge, the beauty of the place just vanished my fears away. That was unlike anything I've ever experienced before. I filmed a lot, walked around, had no fear, I just enjoyed the ambiance, the views, and the tranquility. It was really windy though, but I didn't care, I loved it!
I was almost sad that I had to head back down, but... even though I don't
usually burn in the sun, up there my handbag's handle had wiped all my
sunscreen off my shoulders and I felt them burning so I had no choice but head
down. I spent up there the entire morning and I don't think there's anything I
would have rather done than this! I recommend everyone to try this!
BACK TO THE DANNA
Exploring....
GardenIt had been an exciting morning and since I had had a plenty of sun I felt this was a perfect time to explore the hotel more. I went for a little walk to hotel's stunning courtyard garden, it was as if you had entered into a fairy tale. So peaceful, relaxing, clean and natural. Unless you look up, you couldn't tell that you are actually surrounded by hotel's walls and hotel rooms. Very tranquil and calming place.
Gym
Adjacent to hotel's spa is the fitness center. It was very well equipped
and I would have certainly tried it had I not been physically tired due to all
that traveling. As you can see from the photos below, the view is stunning. I
bet training would even feel easier, lighter and much more fun in such
surroundings in comparison to gyms that don't even have windows, or if they do
they overlook some parking space. (For some reason, many hotels don't understand
that views should be always be used to improve guests' experience, no matter
what the space is.)
I found out that there are bicycles for guests to use. You can ask for car
rental at the front desk. There is an 18-hole golf course for golfers that you
can go to (not in the hotel area!), the concierge can arrange you a horseback
riding excursion either in the jungle or on the beach... You can even order a
picnic basket of your choice for your trips if you want. There isn't much that
they wouldn't do for you. This is what I call full 5-star service!
SUITE AND ROOMS
Royal Imperial Suite
I went back inside and happened to meet up with Redha, Assistant front
office manager so I asked him if the main suite, Royal Imperial Suita was
available and for my good luck it was! So Redha took me to the suite. The
moment I stepped inside I knew it was going to be exceptional. It's huge
lavish, and very well designed, respecting Malayan craftsmanship. It has 600
square sqm, so plenty of space for a family or for example a celebrity with a
small entourage...
It had its own pool on the terrace with fabulous views of the marina. On
top of that, there's in-room gymnasium, steam room, and a Jacuzzi! It had even
its own kitchen. But the coolest thing for me, despite all the lovely
furniture, view, space, and design, was the bathroom and that tree in there -
these unique details are what please me the most in any place, especially in
luxury hotels. It shows that the architect and the designer wanted to think
outside the box and create something different that people would remember.
(I filmed the entire suite, but again, sadly the sd card was destroyed,
thus no film material thereof.)
Below you find photos of the suite and its bathroom, pool, and views.
Room types
The Danna has 5 different rooms and 3 suites (←active link to room types) so plenty to choose from.
My room was Viceroy. Next time (hopefully there will be one) I would love to
stay at Grand Viceroy, only simply because it has a larger balcony with sunbeds
in it and me being quite private person in that respect I would prefer sunbathing
in privacy at least part of my stay (although, there's so many great, fun things to do here that I doubt I'd be sunbathing!).
Other than that I have to say that I'm sure in this hotel any room is fabulous, for sure!
Other than that I have to say that I'm sure in this hotel any room is fabulous, for sure!
Rooms have complimentary WiFi, lovely bathroom with his and hers vanities
and dressing area, separate rainfall shower and bath, pillow selection (foam or
feather), large (I think 42") LCD TV, balcony, in-room safe, minibar and
coffee & tea making facilities.. so basically all you can ask for and, to
be honest, a whole lot more.
RELAXING TIME
Spa
I had my foot massage booked at 5 pm, which was more than welcome after
walking around and traveling only 1 day before for about 30 hours. The spa is
beautiful, very warm, calming blue/purple color pallet, very peaceful ambiance.
When I arrived at the spa, at first I got an information sheet to fill up
and offered some tea before my treatment. The staff was more very eager to
serve and pamper me to their best ability, which I appreciated. Then I was
guided to the treatment room, which by the way had an amazing view of the
marina.
The treatment started with a salt treatment, which my feet LOVED! After
that I was instructed to lay down on my back on the treatment table/bed, thus I
was not able to enjoy the view. But oh boy I did enjoy that massage. It was
probably one of the best massages I've ever had - and trust me, when you travel
around Asia a lot, you've had many. I can't believe how I got so relaxed that I
even fell asleep for a short moment when someone's massaging my feet, as it can
at times, be almost painful, but so enjoyable! When the massage was over, I
felt like I just woke up from the dream that had lasted 12 hrs, I was so
relaxed, and yet felt like rested. Absolutely fantastic experience! If you ever
go to The Danna, make sure you try this, if you don't I say you miss out a lot!
LAST NIGHT: SUNSET & DINNER
I relaxed a bit after my massage and then went to the balcony as I knew the
sun was about to set. And since the hotel overlooks both to beautiful Andaman
sea and those green lush mountains, I knew that the sunset on a clear day is
going to be beautiful, and so it was! I was so happy that I was given a room
that had an opportunity take all these photos from my balcony. Just lovely!
Sunrises and sunsets are really my way to relax, enjoy the moment, be
appreciative of everything I have. Sunrise is a newborn day, full of
expectation and excitement of what's to come, whereas the sunset is that moment
when that day is gone, you never get it back so it's time to be grateful for
it.
I'm going to miss this place so much, I thought when taking those photos,
knowing that it was my last night...
So I had to pack most of my things and get changed as it was dinner time
and there's "smart casual" dress code in restaurants, which I
appreciate in a hotel of 5 stars. It's fun to put on something nice and just
enjoy that warm tropical night, see the stars above you, here the ocean beside
you and have the relaxed ambiance all over you.
It's The Danna's latest addition, modern restaurant that is open both for lunch and dinner, which is, indeed, quite convenient as it's located right next to the pool. The Terrace offers its guests for example fresh seafood, sandwiches, Italian handmade pizzas, which normally I would choose without a doubt but due to my gluten intolerance, I decided to choose their gluten free pasta, which is rarely available, and together with a chef we came up with a dish that was suitable considering all my food restrictions; pasta Gorgonzola and trust me when I tell you, it was absolutely delicious. I still think of it as one of the best meals I've had in a long time! (It was so good I wanted to have it again, right before I leave the following day but didn't have time, unfortunately.)
The Terrace provides you with various options for seating; by the pool, patio, inside with the A/C or just relax on the bean bags on the terrace overlooking the ocean and have a cocktail. I would say their latest restaurant addition is very well executed, service was excellent and food, even better!
Billiard, games & reading rooms
My stomach was so full. I needed to walk around a bit, so I decided to check
out also their billiard and reading rooms. We used to play billiard all the
time on our trips with my spouse so it was kind of "must" to check it
out. However, since I was traveling (like in most cases) solo, I didn't enter,
just took some photos of the place, which by the way looked just like
everything else at The Danna; stylish, warm, well designed, cozy and yet again,
still very luxurious. The billiard (and games) room is on the 1st floor. There
are 8-foot snooker table and a selection of board games. Adjacent to games room
there was a reading room that had some novels and magazines for guests to read.
The view must be wonderful in the daytime as the space overlooks the marina and
the ocean.
So back to my room I went, packed rest of my things, except for a few
things as I wanted to go to the beach for a moment after my breakfast and
before it was time to go to the airport.
TIME TO SAY GOODBYE...
Breakfast was, as expected, perfect. I ate as much as possible as I knew
that I'd be having my next meal in Kuala Lumpur in Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur,
about 8 hours later, which is relatively long time. But not a problem with such
a wonderful variety of foods that they have at The Danna hotel. The only problems
I had were: I was there only for 2 days so I feel like I didn't get to do all
the things I wanted to - and yet, I am so very grateful for those two days, I
will never forget them! The other problem was; there was too much too good food
to eat and too little time (and to little stomach!).
They were, just like everyone else here, sincere, kind, warm and caring. Clearly willing to serve their guests to the extent where guests feel excited when they arrive, pleased and satisfied during the stay and happy and ready to return when they leave.
I now completely understand why The Danna Langkawi has been voted by the visitors, for the last 3 years, to be the best hotel in Malaysia.
Because they know how to make happy guests! I am, due to my expertise and experience in hotel industry as a guest and as a professional, quite a demanding guest and I have to say I find very little to fault in this hotel, it really is 5 stars in every way and I would recommend it to anyone who loves pampering, amazing, breathtaking views, great, fluent service, delicious food, luxurious infinity pool areas and white, sandy beach with panoramic views. If you like the sound of that then this is the place to be!
Please check out links to The Danna here
(Click the above to open the link)
(Click the above to open the link!)
Now it's time for you to start planning your dream vacation at The glorious Danna! Feel free to ask me about it, I'll help you in any way I can. Also, don't be afraid to contact the hotel, I'm sure they will be more than happy to assist you with anything.
Now it's time for you to start planning your dream vacation at The glorious Danna! Feel free to ask me about it, I'll help you in any way I can. Also, don't be afraid to contact the hotel, I'm sure they will be more than happy to assist you with anything.
Wish you all, my dear readers, a very happy, wonderful weekend and week to come, please remember,
the beauty of life is in how you live it; be nice, kind and helpful, smile, be
positive and walk the bright side of the street. Be good and good things happen
to you!
Love and kisses! xoxo!
P.S. If you are wondering why I didn't tell you more about the actual island,
well, this post would have been way too long. You just have to go over there to
find out more yourself! 😊
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