2015-06-11

THE WESTIN LANGKAWI RESORT & SPA @ A Heavenly Hideaway


As most beaches are public access with hordes of interlopers to deal with, The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa is beautifully situated on a private stretch of beachfront and such a location is a rarity on Langkawi Island. With the priority in providing their guests with a memorable experience and unforgettable stay, mylifestylenews checks in to experience the stated hospitality…….


The spacious lower lobby


Since the resort had been receiving numerous acclaims to be the best hotel in Langkawi in many different categories, the resort had been upgraded their rooms in order to upkeep the standard since the last work was done backed in years. As you have gathered, the word ‘heavenly’ is a key focus in their branding and we would concur on most points that it can be a heavenly experience.


Contemporary ambience and decor in the hotel foyer


We were met on arrival at the airport for our quick transfer to the resort, but there was a surprising lack of brand contact and standards, the car unmarked with hotel logo showing any identity, yet without any greetings and conversation throughout the entire journey. So, our heavenly experience didn’t get off to a great start.


The stylish mini cooper and the BMW motorcycle are for rent......in style.


The Minangkabau inspired design roof & ocean view rooms with balcony


On arriving at the resort reception, we experienced service that fell short of our expectation, the check-in was lacking of warmth and without any single word or phrase about being welcome. Even we told her about our airport transfer experience, the replied and responsibilities went to the third party car hired company with a unknown giggle to end the conversation. We began to feel that this did not augur well for our stay ahead and reserve the benefit of doubts – Heavenly.


However, our Premium Ocean View Room put paid to any further concerns, as it is a perfect introduction to the resort, with fabulous views and of a very generous size of 48sqm and a private balcony overlooking the spectacular view of the Andaman Sea. It also has large windows affording views of the lush greenery of the gardens, so you have vistas to constantly enjoy. The room has clearly been designed to help guests stay productive and connected, with a sleek ergonomic work station, but it is not all work and no play, the relaxation part is also well looked after.


The tranquil décor is enhanced by neutral-toned furniture and uplifting tropic-inspired artwork, all illuminated by a power-saving LED lighting system. The colour scheme is dominated by the use of white, befitting such a hot climate and creating a spacious, airy and light feeling, plus there are some pops of bright colours to give some counterpoint to all the neutral tones and dazzling whites.The Heavenly Bed is just that, giving you one of the best night sleeps you will have in a hotel, having an exclusive pillow-top mattress, so providing blissful beginnings and ends to each day in Langkawi.


Room with a view overlooking the scenic Andaman sea


Separated from the bedroom by an elegant design frosted glass wall, the contemporary style bathroom features tile floors, but this was one area that was looking a little tired, if we may say, but it has a ‘heavenly’ shower experience - a huge rain-shower bay with a stress-melting shower massage to boost circulation and the Westin exclusive White Tea aloe amenities.



Beautiful landscaping around the heavenly resort.



This resort is very spread out and can surprise you with all the different areas in which to enjoy your much needed rest and relaxation. To leave the stress of city-life behind, you can find true renewal on the long 500 metre stretch of private beach, take a guided nature hike, have a smashing game of tennis or chill out with a swim or a spa treatment.


The resort is not short of places to swim with four different types and sizes of swimming pools. Each invites you to take a refreshing dip or relax on one of the sun lounges under the shade of the umbrella, while maybe soaking in the beach and ocean views.



The Westin has an array of signature programmes which are all centred around the concept of wellness: healthy food choices, a heavenly restful night’s sleep, re-energize at a great gym, The Heavenly Spa By Westin offering peaceful healing and relaxation.


Sunset at The Langkawi Resort & Spa


There are a number of options for dining, but the key one is Seasonal Tastes Restaurant, as this is the all day dining and in addition to covering all the international food choices you expect from this brand for a wide-ranging breakfast, it has a focus on Italian cuisine in the evening and we were very much enjoying what the menu has to offer for dinner.


Simplicity is the key, so we opted for a set menu to try out the standard and we were not disappointed. A baby spinach and sun-dried tomato salad dressed in red vinegar, capers and parmesan cheese was our starter and whetted our appetite. Next was a butternut pumpkin soup with Arborio rice and the flavor was the essence of a ripe pumpkin with the rice adding a little more depth to the texture.


 The highlight was the grilled Australian tenderloin of beef accompanied by baby potatoes, steamed vegetables and served with a rosemary butter sauce. The meat was cooked to perfection and the tenderness meant the knife just sliced through it without any trouble and the char grilled flavor was delectable.


Lastly, a decadent end to the evening, with a freshly baked warm chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream. The dessert was divine and probably tipped us over the edge with feeling so sated, but you only live once, so a little over indulgence is not such a bad thing and we enjoyed every morsel served to us.


A well spread International and Asia breakfast selection.


The Long Table


A night view from the top of the hotel lobby bar and he swimming pool view by night.


Check out was underwhelming, as we were not being asked on how our stay was, but that aside, we enjoyed the hotel and the resort amenities. Although we expected a more ‘wow’ element from this resort, but maybe they want to be an understated resort destination.  What one has to recognize is that a brand is only as good as its people and consistency is the key to elevate a brand from good or great to “heavenly” and we thought it fair to say up front that not all is consistent. Nevertheless, if an international resort brand is what you are looking for, you will not be disappointed. 


Tried & Tested:
Location: 4.5/5
Ambience: 3.5/5
Design & Decor: 3.5/5
Food & Beverage: 4/5 
Room Amenities: 3/5
Housekeeping: 2.5/5
Service: 2.5/5

Highlights:
Heavenly Spa By Westin
Private Beach & choice of swimming pools

Flaws:
Service
Housekeeping

Jalan Pantai Dato Syed Omar
Kedah Langkawi
Malaysia
Tel: +6 04 960 8888

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