Pangkor Island Beach Resort (Part 1)

The cheeky morning rays peeked through the curtains as my hated radio alarm clock blah-ed noisily … shattering the serenity of the otherwise tranquil Saturday morning. I turned to my left as SY indolently opened her eyes. We greeted each other with lazy smiles, got up and prepared for our trip.

Bags all packed, we had breakkie at a nearby coffee shop. I had a fulfilling plate of Malaysians’ staple nasi lemak while SY satisfied herself with some claypot egg noodles. Bellies filled, we began our journey. Heading towards Bidor, we cruised steadily along the North South Highway. Chatting about practically everything under the sun with fine weather and smooth traffic, we soon reached the Bidor interchange and exited the highway. From then on, it was a relaxing drive to Lumut passing by lots of scenic greens. From palm oil and rubber estates to lush green paddy fields … it was all very pleasing to the eyes.

Upon arrival at the Lumut jetty, we parked the car at a multi storey parking building before lugging our baggage to the jetty. There we checked in at the Pangkor Island Beach Resort’s counter and waited to board our ferry. At 2pm, we happily hopped onto our transport to the island only to discover two large groups already in it. Apparently, Citibank and Hewlett Packard were both having excursions to the same resort. Damnit! So much for a peaceful getaway.

The ferry’s air conditioner wasn’t working initially and only came on mid way through our journey. It wasn’t that bad though as it was only a 30 minute ride. Furthermore, the sea gods must be in a jolly mood as the waters weren’t choppy at all.

Arriving at the resort’s jetty at the island, we jumped onto the awaiting mini bus and took a 5 minute drive to the resort itself. There, we were joyfully greeted by the hotel’s staff and a 3 piece band decked in very authentic beach clothing. It exuded a very tropical island feel. Me like! :) Cold rose syrup juice was also served to quench the thirst from all that traveling under the scorching afternoon sun. *Gulp gulp gulp*

Service was prompt and excellent. Before we knew it, we were already ushered into our lavish sea facing room. The resort is indeed beautiful. Tall coconut trees being lullabied by the cool bayou breeze, the hypnotic sound of lapping waves gently caressing the soft white sands, children laughing, running and splashing merrily in the big blue pool … a li’ll piece of heaven by my standards.

Our room was splendid too. The king sized bed sits majestically on brown earthly tiles. Lush white pillows and soft thick duvets ever so inviting for one to jump onto them and dream your way to Lalaland. The bathroom is HUGE. Marbled washbasin, a shower area and a bathtub filled up the space pretty tastefully. The live green plant provided a nice touch to the entire setting. The hotel is also generous with their towels providing separately, both bathing towels and beach towels.

Standing at the balcony, one is rewarded with the panaromic regal view of the Straits of Malacca. The emerald waters meeting the sapphire skies at the horizon, I was once again humbled by the sheer beauty and extravagance of God’s creation. One must however note to lock the door opening to the balcony for resident monkeys are known to intrude and ransack your room, searching and taking whatever items then deem valuable. We experienced it first hand when two of such buggers came and roughly try to open the door from the outside.

We had lunch at the coffee house facing the sea. It was a disappointment to begin with. Service was slow and our orders of Malaysian Fried Rice and Chicken Burger … well, lets just day I’ve had better … MUCH MUCH BETTER.

After lunch, we toured the resort grounds. There a mini golf course as well as a spa for those wanting to rejuvenate their tired mind and bodies. There are two swimming pools altogether and also a pool bar that is actually open. SY and I shared a fresh coconut and it even came with a li’ll umbrella. :)

Come evening, we strolled hand in hand by the beach … whispering sweet nothings every now and then. The evening wind lightly blowing through your hair, the skies above radiating in a perfect blend of orange and pinkish hue … it really was like a scene picked out of a romance novel. Later on, the calling from the sea was too great to resist … we splashed around like kids and later on … we allowed the incoming waves to ‘pound’ our backs resulting in a very very good massage. What else can one ask for when you have Mother Nature doubling as your personal masseuse. :P

We showered and got ready for dinner. SY was expecting us to head down and join the rest of the guests for a BBQ dinner but I had something else planned. Something special …

(to be continued)