Pangkor Laut Resort needs no further introduction. Set on a 300-acre island surrounded by unspoilt rainforest and mountainous islands on the horizon, it’s exactly what it promises – private, tranquil and sophisticated.  Here’s a take on the island from the perspectives of a planner’s eyes … and feet.

My trip to the private island was all very spontaneous. I had to head over for a tour of the place and making it a short holiday was naturally a tempting option.When planning a destination wedding, the most important things to do, first thing on the list, is a thorough site inspection. We’ll need to walk through the physical locations in order to understand the complete flow of how guests will experience getting around the specific destination, activities, transportation, convenience of logistical arrangements and so forth. My journey on the speedboat to my secluded hideaway for the next three days took 30 minutes. The sea was rough and for a moment, I wondered if we would capsize. The staff onboard were very attentive. When they noticed that we got a bit wet, the driver immediately stopped the boat and asked his partner to hand over some towels to us. It is a simple gesture like this that sets Pangkor Laut Resort a class above the rest, and that’s even before you stepped onto the island!

I spent my day luxuriating at the infinity pool and taking short naps on my day bed. Going on holiday with me is no fun unless you enjoy sleeping as much as I do. I think sleep is the ultimate luxury!  To not have a clue about time, no laptop or beeping reminders from my phone. No music or phone calls. Just being present with nature and daydreaming to the mesmerizing sound of lapping waves. Just so blissful….  

The ocean had a nostalgic effect on me. They say that swimming is like riding a bike.  You’ll never forget how to swim. Despite being a swimmer throughout my entire childhood and teenage years, I got a bit scared about dipping into the sea. I wasn’t afraid of not knowing how to swim or float, but about not having the stamina to find my way back to shore! I loved the raw, salty taste of the ocean on my lips. The smell of the intoxicating ocean breeze that filled the air everywhere I went. The sand in between my toes. The ocean was so alive.

Speaking of sand, I collected a jar of sand for Jean-Paul and Jauharina. Will be sending this via courier all the way to Holland. Since they’d be getting married on Emerald Bay, it’ll be really meaningful to have some sand from Emerald Bay to be used as part of their custom-designed wedding rings. Cool, isn’t it?!

I like this area at Chapman’s Bar. The surrounding trees form nice, natural canopies and give the place some character as compared to the beach.

We came back in the evening to observe sun set time. They don’t have the prettiest view of the sunset though and too quickly, it turned to dusk. Nonetheless, the tranquility of the place is simply hypnotic.

 My choice of contingency venue in case of bad weather.

I ended my stay with a pampering session at the famed Spa Village. The bath experience was interesting. I like how they themed the interior of the spa setting according to the rituals.  I won’t say too much on this, you’ll need to go in with a blank canvas picture in your mind. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy your session as each step is an experience in itself, a journey of discovery that is both relaxing and rejuvenating.