I was just back a while ago from Tanjong Jara Resort, Terengganu and shortly after the trip, I discovered about the Tanjong Jara RM799 RESIDENT PACKAGE which I quickly shared HERE.
After that, I found out about the Bali one – Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali, another Summer Holiday Special from YTL Hotels.
I toyed with the idea of going Bali since I never been there, but the recent Europe trip was exhausting enough. Besides, Pangkor was more affordable as no extra cost will be incurred for flights and at the same time I can explore some Ipoh delicacies like dim sum and re-visit Julie again for desserts . I love her designer breakfast at Indulgence Restaurant & Living, Ipoh.
This is such a good deal for Malaysian and Singaporean residents (expats included!) . For RM2068, this was my 3D2N holiday at the beautiful Pangkor Laut Resort by YTL. :DD
Access the booking page at: http://www.pangkorlautresort.com/packages/residents-package.htm
A quick comparison of the Resident Package and the usual is below. I took weekdays in an effort to save cost.
Standard Rate: RM1,900 (Hill Villa – 3 days 2 nights).
Resident’s Package: RM 2068 (Hill Villa – 3 days 2 nights from Tuesday to Thursday)
Ok, hold your horses and don’t jump at me just yet. Yes, at a glance it may seem that the usual package is cheaper. HOWEVER, the difference is ONLY RM168. The Resident Package includes the following:
From two nights’ accommodation:
• Daily meals for every night of stay consisting of:
– Breakfasts at Feast Village (this is similar for both the usual and the Resident Package)
– 2-course lunches at Royal Bay Beach Club or Chapman’s Bar
– Set dinners at Uncle Lim’s Kitchen (trust me, Uncle Lim’s was superb! ) or Feast Village
– Complimentary coffee, tea and mineral water served during meals
• Return scheduled boat transfers from Marina Island Pangkor
Complimentary activity:
• Jungle Walk with Resident Naturalist
So yes, think about it. All those meals will cost a bomb if it wasn’t covered under the package. So all in all, paying about RM2000, you don’t have to worry about anything else during your stay.
Yes, not worry and just have fun like I did! 🙂
If you do not already know, Pangkor Laut Resort is ONE RESORT, ONE ISLAND. So basically there is not other option to dine other than in their F & B outlets on the island itself.
So what did I do during my stay? 😀
And so the story begins…
To access Pangkor Laut Resort, every guest leaves via a speedboat or a chartered boat service via Marina Island Jetty in Lumut, Perak. Another option is via helicopters, but frankly, you wouldn’t want to consider that as the bill runs along the lines of RM13 – 20K per trip.
Marina Island Jetty.
This is the fully air conditioned lounge where you will wait in absolute comfort for the departure time of the speed boat. It has WIFI (powered by YES 4G – this is a property of YTL after all) and complimentary drinks were served throughout the day. Your luggage are taken of as the staff will assist you to load them onto the boat. They even park your car at the designated carpark and then return your car key to you. Parking is RM10/night.
The ride was smooth and really speedy, thanks to the powerful, efficient dual-engine speedboat.
Barely 20 minutes later, we rested our eyes on the first sight of the resort. I craned my neck to see if the elusive crystal clear waters that I’ve longed for is here; but at first sight the waters around the resort was a pleasant green but certainly not crystal clear. Though disappointed, I brushed that thought aside and focused on the resort instead.
A warm welcome greeted us at the jetty and all of us were quickly ushered to the lobby. Cold towels were handed out and a dedicated resort personnel briefed each guest individually about the resort and its surroundings, their accommodation (Hill Villa, Spa Villa, etc), the F & B outlets available before being escorting them to their chosen villa.
Below: The Garden Villa at the front, Hill Villa in the background.
At the villa, we were given a quick tour and thereafter we were left to settle in.
Below: Entrance to our villa!
I got to “work” immediately; capturing a quick video of the villa and the necessary shots before our luggage crashed the place! 🙂
The Hill Villa is perched on higher grounds amidst the rain of the island and offer spectacular views of the island and beyond. Housed in double-storey units, the villas on the ground floor feature a huge bathtub in a private open courtyard while the bathrooms in the villas on the first floor open out to the rainforest.
Mine was the one on the ground floor so I had this! 🙂
Magnificent isn’t it? A ‘mini” pool right “outside” our villa. :DD
In theme with nature, each unit is built with natural resources with wood being the main component.
“Welcome Rebecca”.…my, I truly value such personal touches! 😀
I loved the balcony, which extended out to quite a huge space. From there, the island stretched out in the distance, offering panoramic view of the sea and sky.
It’s actually big enough to throw in a personal sun-tanning corner!
Similarly to Tanjong Jara, certain features in the suite are provided in twos, such as the vanity table and wardrobe.
As expected, all necessary shower amenities are provided. The products are similar to the ones in Tanjong Jara so I’m guessing it’s same across all the resorts! 🙂
View from the balcony.
Daytime.
Night time.
I rushed to lunch shortly after as my spa appointment was booked for 3pm. Lunch was at one of the F & B outlets here; The Royal Beach Bay Club, which offers a mix of international and local cuisine.
Speaking from a personal but general observation derived from my stay; the restaurants at Pangkor Laut Resort focuses primarily on local cuisine; though you may find a few Westernised items dotting the menu. That’s with the exception of the Japanese bar (Jamu Bar) and Fisherman Cove, which offers Japanese and Western Grill, fresh seafood and Italian cuisine respectively.
I guess the reason for that is to cater for the international tourists who no doubt would prefer to have a taste of our local delicacies when they are here in Malaysia.
Anyhow, there were a large percentage of locals and Singaporeans during my visit on the first week of June; much contributed by the school holidays. So Pangkor Laut Resort is popular with the locals as well; and in realizing that, YTL’s Resident Package offer aims to make Pangkor Laut Resort accessible to this market.
Here’s my lunch; in my usual sequence of order; starting with a salad followed by some meat.
I decided to try something local – Soto Ayam!
The strawberry milkshake turned out to be my favourite item here! I blame it on my sweet tooth and the sweltering heat. 🙂
I spent the next 4 hours being coddled by the resident therapist of Spa Village in one of the most indulgent spa session ever; so ethereal it was that it deserves an entire post of its own. If you think the Spa Village experience I had at Tanjong Jara was exquisite, wait till you see my pictures of my “Royal Secrets of Puteri Lindungan Bulan” session here at the Pangkor Laut Resort! 🙂
Note: Spa Village experience is not included in the Resident Package.
After being spoiled rotten at Spa Village, it was dinner time. If you remember, all dinners are complimentary as part of the Resident Package. The first night we had dinner at Uncle Lim’s Kitchen; a restaurant whose specialty are Nyonya and Hock Chew, home-cooked style cuisines. The chef at helm was apparently the No. 001 staff of Pangkor Laut Resort (or was it YTL?). Oh my memory! 🙁
Since it’s under the Resident Package, there were a set amount of dishes that you may order.
As an example, for 2 pax the order would be 1 appetiser, 3 dishes from the main sections of seafood, vegetables or meat and finally 2 desserts. Any additional drinks other than water is subject to additional charges.
Uncle Lim’s Aromatic Style.
Steamed on banana leaves with lemongrass, imparting a delicious fragrance – our signature favourite RM100 (Est +-300gm) Fillet. Whole (+-800gm). RM140.
Asparagus with Scallops RM70.
Duck Spring Rolls RM60.
Tender roast duck slices, crunchy cucumber, sticky-sweet plum saucce and scallions in a soft flour wrap.
Oyster Omelette – – a perennial hock chew favourite!
RM60. Fresh plump oysters cooked omelette -style with scallions and sliced red onions.
Banana Fritters RM25.
Sweet local deep-fried until golden, served with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.
Avocado Cream with Citrus Pearls RM25.
Chilled cream of fresh avocado topped with orange flavoured tapioca pearls.
Since this is not an individual food post but rather one that covers the full Resident Package, I’ll skip my usual lengthy food descriptions alright?
In summary, I enjoyed dinner immensely and Uncle Lim is a superb chef!
The seabass was moist and flaky. I was served a perfect dish of crunchy asparagus & sweet scallops. Same sentiments applies for the oyster omelette; which was non- oily with fat oysters within its folds. I think I might actually prefer this over the Penang one! *gasp* :DD
So, I’ll reiterate; go for the Resident Package.
Having all meals covered during your stay is really worth the price paid. Just imagine if you’re paying for dinner on a separate bill!
After the excellent dinner, I went for a walk in the hope of shedding some added pounds. The sea breeze, the tranquility and the vibe of the whole island is so soothing. Strolling around the island, my roving eyes caught a number of spellbinding sights; such as this.
I got a few good shots of myself too! 🙂
Ohh…finally some time with a chick-lit! I do really miss reading an actual book!
The next day I woke up early for a jog on the beach. I love my runs but running in the city can be such a pain. Traffic, safety, undulating pavements and the populated air aren’t factors for an enjoyable heart-thumping satisfactory jog, but crisp sea breeze, chilly air and emerald green waves certainly was! 🙂
Breakfast was at Feast Village and yes, it does look similar to the Feast Village we have in Starhill, KL.
These little packets of nasi lemak wrapped in banana leaf really aims to bring the Malaysian experience to the guests! 🙂
I inhaled the fragrant banana leaf infused nasi lemak and tucked in heartily! 😀
BREADS!!
There were copious amount of fruits, salads and fresh juices.
Another favourite; dim sum. These were sesame seeds coated glutinous rice balls filled with lotus paste, made fresh on the spot.
Chappati and roti canai/pratha were prepared by order as well.
Below: The assortment of chutneys, dhall and curries. All aromatic and appetising.
I couldn’t resist! 😀
Fried noodles. Take your pick and the chef will cook it per your request.
The westerners in me opted for the cereals.
And pancakes and waffles! Sorry, waffle was devoured before a picture was taken and as you can see, I was already working my way through the pancakes! 😛
Stuffed, I’m now ready to explore the island further. The Resident Package includes a Guided Jungle Trek with the Resident Naturalist, which was rather educational.
Plants, flowers, seeds, animals and the surroundings of Pangkor Laut Resort was explained. For example, this was a fossil (SERIOUS!); albeit a plant one, which grew under the stone.
Lunch was at Chapman Bar, which sits on Emerald Bay and serves light lunches daily, including sandwiches, traditional satay, salads and seafood dishes. A variety of beverages are served throughout the day, including beers and wines, all a short walk or a languid wave from your beach chair.
Now, what should I eat?
Chilling while waiting for my lunch.
PART 2 –> Lunch at Chapman’s , beach photoshoot, dinner, yoga, nature walk and more! 🙂
NOTE:
My post serves as a a “guide” to anyone who’s thinking of booking a Resident Package so everyone can understand what’s involved from a first hand perspective. :DD
Terms and conditions:
- Package is applicable to Malaysian and Singaporean residents, including its expatriates. Proof of resident identification must be presented upon check-in. Failing which, the daily prevailing rate at check-in will be strictly enforced.
- Rates quoted are in Ringgit Malaysia (MYR) and subject to prevailing service charge and government taxes.
- Package is based on full prepayment and is not refundable, with a limit to five rooms available per day.
- Package is valid for individual bookings, not group bookings.
- A minimum stay of two nights is required.
- Daily meals included in the package consist of:
– Two breakfasts at Feast Village
– Two 2-course lunches at Royal Bay Beach Club or Chapman’s Bar
– Two set dinners at Uncle Lim’s Kitchen or Feast Village - Maximum of two adults and one child below 12 years old in the Hill, Garden and Beach Villas.
- Sea and Spa Villas can only accommodate two persons above 16 years old.
- Package is subject to availability and prices are subject to change without prior notice.
- All activities, spa treatments and private dining experiences are subject to availability and weather conditions.
PLR… My favourite place. Also an unforgettable holiday for me too!! 🙂
Seems that PLR does leave many beautiful memories for those who visited.
Well, that’s what a holiday should be and a resort should do! 🙂
Jealous! I’m Taiwan citizen 🙁
Awww.. But if you’re in Msia you should still check out the YTL resorts – Cameron Highlands, MElaka, Tg Jara (I think you’ll love this one!) and of cos Pangkor Laut Resort! Prices fluctuates according to season so you might find a period at a bargain 🙂
Wow! And you’re in Taiwan now! Before this Europe…and Marina Bay Sands, and ..well, looks like it’s local hols only for me. Will ask hubby to check this out. 2nd honeymoon overdue! 🙂
Oh 2nd honeymoon! This is perfect! Or do check out Tg Jara too Liz!
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Lovely place, I Love the food so much, will going back there soon.
Love the food?? Which restaurant?
The place is superb that’s for sure 🙂 But I love Tg Jara the best.
Whaa.. look like you really having fun there ya.. it’s really a nice place to go kan..
Any plan for revisit?
Revisit?? Maybe! But for now I got many more NEW places to explore! HEhe..it’s the travel disease I tell ya!
You really portrayed your experience in a personal yet wonderful way. Thanks becky. Will check this out if my leave is approved.
Oh I do hope your leave gets approved then! 😀
Thanks Harry for the supportive words! Yay!
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