I recently just returned from trip to Langkawi, Malaysia. An escape from the craziness…just for the weekend. Was strange to have a break on my own, it’s incredible how loud the silence can be! Stayed at this tiny place called Casa del Mar. I wouldn’t normally write about properties. I travel for a living and hotels are always the same. But this place was like being cared for at mums house. If only all resorts could get the formula right. And really, I don’t know what it can’t be done…but these were the little things that made Casa del Mar so memorable:

• Essential oils burning each night I returned to my room
• Scented bookmark on my pillow each night, with a little description of what the oil was and what it was good for
• A library of novels broken down by language – lots of great current titles…and guests encouraged to swap and donate, which they did (and so did I)
• Gorgeous bath products, which they then sell at the spa – really unique, and high quality. None of this manufactured in bulk stuff…
• The most beautiful Australian hosts, that treat you like a welcomed friend to their home (suprisingly they’re not the owners!)
• Incredible food!!!! Best breakfast I’ve eaten at a property…
• Impeccible service
• Free wireless (but not in the room – which is really a blessing when you’re trying to relax). It forced me to read!
• Cocktails that made me start drinking before midday…using every type of tropical fruits you can imagine. The ginger/champagne concoction was a fave.

Langkawi was a great spot – just for wandering up and down the roads, eating the amazing food and drinking the super cheap alcohol (duty free island).  It’s easy enough to jump on a motorbike and scoot around the island. It’s big enough to spend the entire day exploring, and small enough not to get lost. Although as soon as night falls, getting lost becomes easier when the landmarks disappear!

There’s nothing at all in the main city – all the action is in the surrounding little towns. Don’t waste the taxi fare heading in. Massages for a few dollars, beers for under a dollar, incredible culture, warm waters…Langkawi was amazing. Probably time I went back…although perhaps this time with the kids.