LOCATED off the East Coast of Malaysia, on the beautiful island of Redang, is Berjaya Hotels & Resorts most prized possession, The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort.
The resort was recently recognised as a 2020 Travellers' Choice Award winner by TripAdvisor, placing it in the top 10 per cent of hospitality businesses around the globe.
Set amidst Mother Nature's most natural creations — powdery white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and tropical rainforest — the resort houses 158 stylish suites and rooms, and a five-bedroom private villa on the cliff overlooking the ocean and resort.
More than just an enchanting getaway, the resort not only promotes Malaysia's name globally, but also works with local fishermen to create awareness about caring for the ocean.
Berjaya Group founder Tan Sri Vincent Tan is concerned about marine life, especially of turtles and the beautiful coral reefs in the sea.
The resort houses a Sea Turtle Research Unit lab, which provides conservation and educates guests on the plight of the sea turtle.
The lab is managed by a team of scientists and trained research assistants from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT).
"Redang Island is one of the most recognised islands in the world. It is an enchanting tropical paradise, and an extraordinary island,".
"The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort is very strategically located. We have clear sea water and white beaches facing our resort," said Tan.
Tan says the Taaras experience will provide an unforgettable and meaningful experience for visitors coming from all over the world.
The resort is also working hard to maintain the coral reefs.
"Our staff help to ensure the cleanliness and make sure the fishermen do not discard their nets into the water. We are also working hard to educate the fishing folk not to throw their garbage into the sea, because this will kill the marine life," he added.
"Pulau Redang is one of the best islands in the world. We are working hard to upgrade the resort. We also have plans to create a village for visitors to feel the atmosphere here."
The Taaras Beach & SPA Resort promises a perfect holiday, coupled with luxury and beauty.
Visitors will have close-to-nature experiences as the island provides tranquil scenery and natural beauty, such as the sunset, and blue and clear sea.
Among the traditional activities on Redang Island is snorkelling which is available at several locations. Visitors can also swim among the beautiful marine life, including turtles.
The turtles in the sea near The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort are friendly, even with those who snorkel.
It would indeed be a lifetime experience at the five-star resort. The less adventurous can choose an idyllic walk among the fauna and flora nearby.
The private beach provides a spectacular tropical backdrop that is perfect for weddings, or even business or social gatherings.
Visitors can get adventurous on a wide range of water and land sport activities such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, beach yoga, cruising and much more.
Tan visits the property quite often to make sure everything is in order. He often mingles with visitors and obliges guests with selfies.
It is this personal touch that is key to the success of The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort.
He also paid tribute to the staff of The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort, whom he said were the lifeline of the resort.
The staff have been doing an excellent job in ensuring that visitors returned home with fond memories of the island.
The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort general manager Pravir Mishra welcomes and greets all the visitors to make sure they are checked in smoothly, and follows up to ensure they have an enjoyable stay.
"We have a private beach in the bay which is protected against waves. You can swim among the turtles in the sea close to the beach, and with coral reefs on the other side," said Pravir.
Having worked at some of the most talked-about resorts in Mauritius, Seychelles and Sri Lanka, he believes that no other resort comes close to the charm of The Taaras.
"I have not seen a private beach quite as incredible as this at The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort," he added.
Even the guests agree. Pravir has even challenged his guests to prove him wrong, and in the two years he had been with the resort, he has not had a single complaint.
"We are extremely honored to receive such a renowned award by TripAdvisor. We also thank our guests for their confidence in us, thus having us recognised for our services and contributions towards the tourism industry. Despite it being a challenging year for the tourism industry, this gives us an added boost to strive for continuous excellence in years to come," said Pravir.
Getting here
To get to The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort you have the option of self-driving, commercial flight to Kuala Terengganu or direct flight to Redang island.
For those who are self-driving, set your GPS for Merang waterfront jetty or Syahbandar jetty. Parking is available, if needed. The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort can provide a private boat transfer, or if you prefer, take the public ferry to the Redang jetty.
For those who prefer to fly, Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia provide commercial flights to Kuala Terengganu. From Kuala Terengganu, take the land transfer to the Merang Jetty where you can take a speed boat or charter boat to the Redang Kampung Jetty.
You can also take a direct flight via Berjaya Air to Redang island on a ATR 42-500 from Subang Airport.
For more information, visit www.thetaaras.com.
The author is a freelance writer