126 AsiaSpa November/December 2017resident naturalist and longest standing
member of staff, Captain Mok, famed for
colourful stories and his knowledge of
native surrounds. He also takes the morning
sucimurni stretching exercise based on the
seven animal chakras, to begin the day on
a wellness high note.
There’s no shortage of big personalities
at the resort. Breakfast and local speciality
eatery Di Atas Sungei has become known
as the ‘Talking Chef Restaurant’ due to its
gregarious protagonist. Chef Ann does her
rounds, stopping at each table to ask guests
personally what they’re in the mood for
and customising dishes accordingly – most
never even pick up a menu. The concept
takes inspiration from that of a Malay home,
where meals are prepared based on visitors’
preferences.
Food is an important part of local culture
and guests can take part in classes like
Secrets of Malay Kitchen, which is amongI
f you’ve had it with crowds and seek
respite from tourist spots, the east coast
of Malaysia has pristine sand, shady
palms and azure water without the usual
hordes. An introvert’s dream, the four-hour
drive from Kuala Lumpur means it’s the
option for those seriously after a sliver of
solitude, but it’s a picturesque enough route
and much of the time you feel as if you have
the place to yourself.LOCAL SLANT
Evidenced not only by its 17th-century
design inspired by a Malay palace, there’s
an endearing focus on heritage here, which
filters right the way through from authentic
fare to the activities on offer. Morning yoga
classes are distinctly Malaysian, indera
deria, so no downward dogs, influenced
rather by regional animals, including eagles
and turtles; it’s an interesting mishmash
of yoga, tai chi and meditation. Led byTheGreatEscape