The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi

The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, is located on the southwest coast of Langkawi, surrounded by mangroves and in close proximity to the Seven Wells Waterfall and bustling markets.

Built to blend in with its natural setting, the rooms, suites and villas are inspired by local architecture and indigenous arts and crafts. They are effortlessly stylish and supremely spacious, with 52-inch LCD TVs and hi-tech entertainment systems, comfortable signature Ritz-Carlton beds, marble bathrooms and private balconies or terraces overlooking the rainforest and the sea. The suites have separate living areas, while the one to three-bedroom villas come with their own private pools and spectacular beachfront or overwater settings.

There are several restaurants to choose from, as well as oceanfront bars where you'll want to linger a while over a cocktail or two. Feast on traditional Malay cuisine at the Langkawi Kitchen, or tuck into fresh seafood at Chinese restaurant Hai Yan, perched at the water's edge. In the evening, have a cocktail or two at the Beach Grill. 

The hotel also has no less than three pools - one is an adults-only infinity pool, while another is perfect for children. There's also a blissful overwater spa, with a hammam and a relaxation area, or if you prefer to be more active there is a gym as well as tennis courts.

Relax on the private beach, browse the night markets, go on jungle walks and treks through the rice fields with expert guides, and visit the pretty Seven Wells Waterfall, which is just 6km away and is a popular hiking and swimming spot - it is named after its seven natural pools at different levels.

Meanwhile, you can also immerse yourself in local culture by discovering arts and crafts such as batik and jewelry, finding out about age-old myths and legends and learning about the graceful moves of ancient Malay warriors.