Be honest: ever since movement restrictions were lifted and Malaysia moved into the endemic phase, sites such as Agoda, Booking.com and Airbnb have taken up permanent residence in your browsing history, haven’t they? Don’t worry – you’re not alone!
Here’s a selection of tried-and-tested vacation spots by the team at makchic, who have all been bitten by the travel bug and can’t wait for their next break with their loved ones.
Outside of Kuala Lumpur
1. Puncak Rimba, Bentong
Lush, peaceful, and only an hour and a half away from KL, this large property with a river running through it boasts beautiful traditional accommodation inspired by kampung living – only they make it luxe, with some of the rooms even having their own hot tubs!
While guests share the common areas and amenities such as the game room, river, and swimming pool at the top of the hill, the ample space ensures privacy for each family. You can even use their buggy service to go from one place to another.
The hospitality and friendliness of the owners is the key reason to keep returning for family staycations. Highlights include:
- the Insta-worthy surroundings that makes many couples choose this place as wedding venue;
- a beautiful saltwater infinity pool, overlooking lush greenery;
- a clean and shallow river for safe dipping;
- farm animals, such as ducks and chickens, on the property that the kids can pet;
- setup help with barbecue dinners, so you don’t have to spend ages getting the fire started!
Here’s a tip: bring lots of snacks and drinks for the kids, as the venue isn’t close to shops for you to pop out to. The nasi lemak served for breakfast is delicious but may be a tad too spicy for the little ones.
For more information, check out Puncak Rimba on Facebook and Instagram.
2. Templer Park Rainforest Retreat, Rawang
Nestled in lush greenery, the Templer Park Rainforest Retreat offers a relaxing getaway for families, spread out over a large area with a lovely view of the rainforest and golf course. The best part is, this green retreat is only a 30-minute drive from KL.
Spend time in the al-fresco living area, playing board games, hula hooping in the garden, or dipping in the pool. A simple breakfast is provided, and there are DIY BBQ and full kitchen facilities available.
To cool off, visit the nearby Kanching Eco Forest Park with its seven tiers of waterfalls!
Find out more via its website and Facebook profile.
3. Tiger Rock, Pangkor Island
Tucked away on Pulau Pangkor is a hidden gem of a holiday retreat: an artist’s hideaway filled with colour, creativity, and an abiding respect for nature.
The private home of artist Rebecca Duckett-Wilkinson and her husband, David Wilkinson, Tiger Rock is chock-a-block with character – from its quirky interiors and gorgeous murals painted by Duckett-Wilkinson herself, to the treehouse-like construction of the retreat’s unique accommodation, all built around natural rock formations and the surrounding flora and fauna.
Guests may opt to stay at the Main House and make full use of Tiger Rock’s stunning saltwater swimming pool. Mr Mohan, the caretaker, will go above and beyond to ensure you enjoy your stay, and will even take you on a tour of the island and share local secrets.
When it comes to food, Ms Bavanni’s mouthwatering menu each day will make it difficult for you to leave the premises, with its range of impeccable local cuisine made with only the freshest of ingredients.
Tempted? Find out more by visiting Tiger Rock’s website and Facebook profile.
In KL
1. The Westin KL
If you fancy a staycation for yourself or with a family member who needs some pampering, the Westin KL may just do the trick.
The Westin Heavenly Beds always make for a great night’s sleep, and if you bring your children along, the outdoor pool is decently sized and nicely shaded.
The best part is the hotel’s location right in front of Pavilion KL, which means you can engage in some leisurely retail therapy or window shopping at any time and still come back for a midday snooze. For a really restful stay and good service, this hotel is worth a visit.
Visit the Westin KL website here, as well as its Facebook page.
2 The Majestic Hotel
Charming and quaint, The Majestic offers a sweet staycation for those who just want to stay put and enjoy spacious, comfortable rooms. The friendly staff are good with children, making this perfect for young families.
Enjoy the different dining options here, such as the Colonial Café and Contango. The hotel is also close to family attractions like the Bird Park, Butterfly Park and Lake Gardens, so this is a great place to base yourself if you want to explore these destinations with the kids and come back to comfort within a few minutes’ drive.
Learn more by visiting its website and Facebook profile.
3. The Chow Kit
Fancy lying in on super-comfy hotel beds, enjoying a great hotel breakfast, bingeing on your favourite TV shows, and basically doing nothing? The Chow Kit is the perfect choice.
With triple-glazed windows that provide top-notch insulation, you won’t be disturbed by any noise. The televisions allow you to cast your devices so you can truly stay in bed and Netflix and chill, while the hotel’s bespoke essential-oil toiletries and fluffy towels make for a luxurious shower experience.
Check out the Chow Kit’s intimate collection of local artwork, curated specially for the hotel – just download the PDF guide from its website and it’s a self-guided art walk. If you’re feeling adventurous, Chinatown and Jalan Yap Ah Shek are just a short stroll away.
Find out more via its website and Facebook profile.
4. KLoe Hotel
You can truly feel the love and passion the owners, Ping Ho and Cheryl Samad, have poured into this beautiful property. Gorgeous Instagrammable features abound at this boutique hotel, providing an unashamed celebration of local craftsmanship in its furniture and artwork.
Choose from any of the five bespoke spaces available, including one specially designed for book lovers, the “Room to Read”. With the literary selection curated by a local independent bookstore, you can spend some quiet me-time curled up with a good book and coffee.
The KLoe’s location allows you to sample the best the city has to offer – but you don’t need to head far to refuel, with the Monroe restaurant serving contemporary western cuisine, and fantastic coffee at the Lucky Coffee Bar.
It’s all in the details, and KLoe is perfect for those looking for something a little different with the cozy touches of home.
Keen on a relaxing getaway at the KLoe? Visit its website and Facebook page for more info.
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This article was written by the team at makchic, a Malaysian-based online site for chic, curious, and spirited parents. makchic and has been providing trustworthy and authentic family-related content since 2013. For diverse stories of parenthood that inform, support, and uplift all families, visit makchic.com and follow them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.