Pangkor Laut and Kuala Lumpur

From the moment we checked in with Emirates the holiday of a lifetime started. We were lucky enough to travel business class, which was immensely comfortable and the service was second to none. This was a whirlwind trip so the extra comfort was a huge bonus.

Although not my first time in Asia, this was my first visit to Malaysia, so I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. We touched down in Kuala Lumpur airport and were transferred by luxury minibus to the ferry port for our short crossing over to the private island of Pangkor Laut. Our ferry crossing was at sunset, so the views were simply stunning and we were given a very warm welcome by the hotel staff when we reached the port.

Everything was incredibly well organised and my room was beautiful. After coming from the rather wet and windy West of Ireland everything was so different – the heat (of course!), the sounds (of fruit bats!) and even the residents (we were reminded to lock our doors so the monkey’s couldn’t get into the rooms!). I really had arrived in paradise, and already I knew that this is a place I will go back to.

Why ? Because Pangkor Laut ticks all of the boxes – lush green hills and jungle, a picture perfect beach known as Emerald bay, amazing scenery, world class service, a spa you only dreamt about ( it does exist) and of course fantastic food. It is still close enough to civilization, yet has all the ‘decadence’ you would expect of a private island.

During our two night stay we enjoyed a tour of the island and got to view all of the different rooms types available in this little piece of paradise including the Pavarotti Suite (named after the world renowned Tenor who fell in love with Pangkor Laut), and the luxurious estates so if you are considering a trip to this island please give me a call as I would love to tell you all about it.

We also enjoyed some incredible Malay cuisine as well as a very relaxing and enjoyable afternoon in the Spa Village and a sunset cruise around the island. Alas all too soon we had to leave Pangkor Laut behind!

Next stop Kuala Lumpur and the Ritz Carlton hotel.

The Ritz Carlton is an oasis in this busy city. It has a very central location nearby all of the tourist spots and shopping area, yet when you walk into the hotel a sense of peace and calm prevail.

The hotel fully lives up to its 5* rating, with an excellent spa, pool area, business centre and extremely comfortable rooms, but it’s the staff that make the difference in this hotel – they are very kind and attentive, and it was the little touches (like a monogrammed pillow case!) that really blew me away.

Just seconds from the hotel there are amazing shopping opportunities which are great value! A visit to China town is a must and be ready to barter! The Petronas Towers are a necessity for any visitor and a trip to the observation deck is well worth the entrance fees – the view is breathtaking.

It’s worth taking a tour of the city to take in spots such at the Batu Caves, China town and the majestic Royal Palace. If I was to compare to other Asian cities I have visited, I would have to say that Kuala Lumpur is by far my favourite; the Malay people are very welcoming, the capital is busy but not overwhelming and walking around the city I felt very safe, which is quite unusual to say of a capital city these days.

My trip to Malaysia was not long enough, this is a remarkable country and I will return without a doubt!