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16 August 2012| last updated at 10:42PM

This is the life!

By Teresa Yong-Leong | teresay@nst.com.my

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Awana Porto Malai has a Mediterranean feel, writes Teresa Yong-Leong

IF the stuff of legends and island mystique is your cup of tea, then head for Langkawi which is synonymous with many famous ancient legends and olden day tales.

The most famous of these is about the beautiful Mahsuri who was unjustly accused of adultery by her jealous mother-in-law, Mahura.

Mahsuri was sentenced to public execution by her father-in-law, the chieftain Datuk Karma Jaya. With her dying breath, she cursed the island for seven generations and it was said that white blood gushed from her during her execution, proof of her innocence.

Myth, legend or fantasy, it helps to sell Langkawi as a popular destination today. It is amid this enchanting setting that the Awana Porto Malai is located, on the south-western tip of the island. The resort is surrounded by remarkable sea views and is ideal for getting away from it all for a while.

I imagine I am in a Mediterranean resort although I never set foot in any Mediterranean country. The spacious boardwalk on the waterfront offers fascinating and breathtaking views as well as sights of sea birds. Totally relaxing and magical.

I recall taking a stroll down the boardwalk in the evening with my late mother and brother 15 years ago to admire the magnificent private cruise ships docked at the jetty.

I thought: “This is the life!” Today, sunset cruises are available for those wanting to capture the moments at sea with loved ones and friends.  

Indeed, this is an excellent spot to rev up a jet-ski and many other water sports. Wind-surfing and water-skiing will get your adrenaline pumping. Extreme sport junkies can go on the All Terrain Vehicles along a 50m track.

For those  who prefer more relaxing recreation, there are paddle boats and canoes for hire. Other activities such as island hopping, nature tours, fishing and snorkelling can also be arranged.

At Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa, let the aromatic therapeutic oils and flowers tantalise your sense of smell. The lullaby of Degung Mountain Forest will gently lure you to sleep.

This sanctuary of tranquillity and relaxation offers 13 pampering therapies and treatments that use local herbs and healing oils. Massage treatments include Swedish, Javanese, French and volcanic stone massage with Boro.

FAST FACTS

HOTEL
Awana Porto Malai Langkawi, Pulau Langkawi, Tel: 04-955 5111. Website: www.awana.com.my

MAIN ATTRACTION
The spacious boardwalk on the waterfront.

RATINGS
Three-star, resort hotel.

FIRST IMPRESSION
Relaxing place.  

ROOMS
209 rooms of different categories with  free movie channels and satellite television service.

RATES
Regular room rates range from RM315 to RM4,800 for the presidential suite.

F&B OUTLETS
Lobby Lounge, Seagull Coffee House, Villa Rossi, Zest

FACILITIES
Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa, Grand Ballroom, six meeting rooms and a multi-purpose hall

OVERALL SERVICE
Friendly and warm.

PLACES WITHIN WALKING
DISTANCE
Rock Eagle, a pub-club-disco
 

The Boardwalk conjures images of the Mediterranean region on a summer day

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