4 Resorts With Relaxing Pools

Resort Relaxation

It comes as no surprise that all of us are wishing to head back to travelling again – and probably with style! Though it may not be feasible at the moment, pretty sure it’s just a matter of time before we get to do some well-deserved R&R. These are some of the very Instagrammable resort swimming pools that allows for a simple lounge-around, where it’s literally next to – or even in – your own room.

Whether you’re splashing into the crystal clear waters, or just plan to relax with a glass of cocktail in your hand, check out these resort swimming pools that can give you the best of both worlds. And better yet, these are places that allow you to practice social distancing too – much needed for a time like this.

THE SHOREA RETREATS, SEREMBAN, NEGERI SEMBILAN

Nestled in the Berembun Forest Reserve, Seremban – where it boasts unobstructed views of the nature that surrounds it – The Shorea Retreats is a unique boutique eco-resort. The retreat comes with two wings, namely The Shorea Estate and The Shorea Resort, with 8 villas that have two main infinity pools spread across them. Both the pools are facing the verdant and lush rainforest.

The modern Shorea Estate has duplex air-conditioned villas with their own individual pools, while naturally-ventilated wooden villas with open view towards the forest are located at the rustic Shorea Resort. Guests can also cook at their private villas, or go to The Shorea’s Dining Pavilion, which offers an open-concept dining experience.

What makes this resort’s architecture special is that they utilise locally sourced natural materials like recycled timber from the Shorea species, natural slates & stones, as well as reclaimed terracotta roof tiles. These natural materials are not only friendly to nature, but also heightens the locality of the resort within the tropical rainforest.

Why is it Instagram-worthy?

The Shorea Retreats offer absolute privacy.
The Shorea Resort: Maximum of 3 groups of guests;
The Shorea Estate: Maximum of 4 groups of guests in 3 villas, with private pool in front of bedroom/living room (this calls for the perfect photo setting!)

1. Alternatively, small groups of guests can also consider taking the whole Shorea Resort (13 pax) for more privacy.
Operating hours and promotions
2. Open 24/7 with ongoing MCO promotion.
Good-to-know
1. There is the Berembun Forest Reserve nearby which has a lovely stream and guests can also have picnic by the river!

For more information, visit www.theshorea.com | 017 300 5600

THE BANJARAN HOTSPRINGS RETREAT, IPOH, PERAK

A sanctuary where your senses will be soothed is The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, which comes with lush greenery coexisting harmoniously with its inhabitants. This boutique spa resort by Sunway Group offers 45 villas set amidst 260 million-year-old towering Paleozoic limestone hills in a tropical rainforest. It offers natural geothermal hot springs, ancient caves, cascading waterfalls and translucently clear waterways.

Jeff’s Cellar – a remarkable restaurant and wine bar – is also housed here, and is ranked among the nation’s best. Within this vast cavern, guests can sip the world’s finest wines and savour exquisite local and international cuisine, all next to natural water features and with stalactites hanging from the ceiling. Guests are also invited to explore the secluded caves at The Banjaran – like the Crystal Cave and Meditation Cave – which can enhance their spiritual and physical wellbeing.

Capturing Instagram-worthy shots within this abundant rainforest is easy, but also engulf yourself in other details. From natural woods used both for furniture and decoration, lily-filled ponds along the large geothermic lake, to clean and cosy bedsheets that line up across all 45 villas, the perfect getaway can be reimagined. And better yet, Sunway Hotels & Resorts has also implemented the “Sunway Safe Stay” programme so guests are assured the very best and stress-free stay-cays.

Why is it Instagram-worthy?
– Attractions abound like the Geothermal Hot Springs Dipping Pools, Geothermal Heated Swimming Pool, and the Garra Rufa Doctor Fish Pool.
– There are also indoor pools inside each villa.

Operating hours and promotions
– Outdoor pools/facilities open from 7am – 7pm
– For promotions – contact them at 05 210 7777 – because there could be a promotion running on guest’s intended dates

Good-to-know
– Water in plastic bottles is provided, but please avoid them. Mineral water from Ipoh is exported as quality drinking water to the world so there is absolutely no need for single-use plastics.
– Preserved natural environment and built around it instead of clearing the forest and bulldozing the hills.
– Guests also have access to other facilities such as the Thermal Steam Cave, Ice Bath, Meditation Cave, and Crystal Cave.

For more information, visit www.sunwayhotels.com/the-banjaran | 05 210 7777

PANGKOR LAUT RESORT, PANGKOR LAUT ISLAND, LUMUT, PERAK

Surrounded by the glorious rainforest, The Estates at Pangkor Laut Resort conjures up an atmosphere of charm and nostalgia, where it is unfettered and unfenced. The design ethos of The Estates incorporates several elements of bungalow-living, like the carefully planted gardens in front of the pavilions, and the verandah.

These eight picturesque private sanctuaries, situated at the northern part of the island, feature luxurious comforts, housing between one to four bedrooms, separate living and dining pavilions, as well as a private pool with dramatic views; all set across acres of pristine rainforest. Rubble walls are cleverly built-in among the lush secret gardens to ensure total privacy.

Although each of the Estates has their own uniqueness and will have different views from the bedrooms, one similarity they share is providing a quiet and contemplative retreat. The Estates experience is recommended for couples on a honeymoon, families on a holiday and private groups celebrating an occasion.

Why is it Instagram-worthy?
– Estate One, Two and Four are at the beachfront that features a natural marine aquarium at their doorstep, in the form of the cove’s waters
– Estate Five to Nine are seated on hilltops within the lush rainforest and are magnificent examples of living in a colossal natural arboretum

Operating hours and promotions
– Opens all-year round; subject to government restrictions during MCO
– For more information of promotions, log on to https://www.pangkorlautresort.com/special-offers-the-estates-exclusive.html

Good-to-know
– The trees cover all of the buildings, and the rainforest canopy depicts that of a living emerald veil
– A personal butler on call serves every estate and a private chauffeur-driven car is available if anyone decides to venture around the island where a litany of pleasant surprises await at the main resort.
– Each Estate has its own private pool – whether it’s a geometric or an infinity pool.

For more information, visit www.pangkorlautresort.com/the-estates.html | 03 2783 1000

JAPAMALA RESORT, TIOMAN ISLAND, PAHANG

Japamala Resort is designed and built with a philosophy in mind, Samadhi, which means a moment when the mind achieves great stillness – the highest state of meditation. This fashionably rustic eco-luxe resort is nestled among 11 acres of unspoiled wilderness and is built by hand, so rocks were untouched and no two villas are the same.

With materials salvaged from “kampung” (village) houses and cuisine sourced sustainably, there is much to wonder upon this resort. Inside the 16 chalets, sarangs and beachside villas, you’ll find neat and rustic rooms facing the breathtaking seaviews. The outdoor whirlpools and private balcony from the rooms offer a more seclusive experience too – where you’ll find yourself being one with the nature.

Japamala also houses Tamarind Tioman, where you can indulge in a selection of delicious Thai, Indochinese and Malay cuisine, as well as Western cuisine. The addition of Il Tempio that serves hearty Italian delicacies and Mandi Mandi with its refreshing cocktails, you’re sure to have a relaxing getaway that’s a home away from home. Lounge around the pool and tag them in your photos!

Why is it Instagram-worthy?
– Natural spring water used for the pools
– Pools are cemented to provide a more natural and rustic look. No mosaic tiles or tiles of any sort, which adds to beautiful photo-taking opportunities
– Pool built around the environment; no rocks were blasted, rather a pool built around it. Natural rock and elements of the surrounding are part of the pools

Operating hours and promotions
– Operating hours of the pool are from 9:00AM – 10:00PM.
– Resort is open all year round and never closes.
– Current Promotions at JapaMala are Valentines Sweet Escape
Stay Date: 12th Feb – 15th Feb 2021
– Stay 2 Pay 1 – Stay for 2 nights, Pay for 1 night only.
Stay Date: 9th November 2020 – 28th February 2021
– Luxe for Less – Up to 30% off our Best Available Rate
Stay Date: 1st October 2020 – 28th February 2021

Good-to-know
– There are pavilions hanging over the sea and the views from them are fantastic!
– The hearty Italian Restaurant Il Tempio that serves authentic Emilia Romagna cuisine.
– Samadhi Boutique carries a range of house-brand Samadhi Spa products, silver and handmade jewellery, as well as unique Asian antiques

For more information, visit www.japamalaresorts.com | 09 419 7777