This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, on April 8, 2016.

The stunning setting of the Langkawi archipelago is the venue of the first ever St Regis property in Malaysia, which is now open for business. Located in the heart of natural paradise, this new hotel is fringed by a 600m white sand beach overlooking the emerald green waters of a 100,000-sq m swimmable lagoon that integrates seamlessly with the Andaman Sea.

With interiors designed by G A Design and architecture by renowned firm Gensler, the hotel channels a classical contemporary aesthetic. A vision of elegant island living, guests are welcomed into a dreamlike atmosphere where each moment thoughtfully blends indoor spaces with the outdoors. The resort’s mansion house infuses European and Middle Eastern influences with a subtle colour palette of soft blues and beiges, playing up the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Islamic arches, mashrabiya-inspired screens and large private courtyards embrace the design’s axial symmetry, giving way to a garden oasis populated with date palms, allamanda and bougainvillea. 

The St Regis Langkawi is the first all-suite luxury resort in the archipelago, with four private overwater villas and 85 luxuriously-appointed suites. Each suite is distinct in design with bold accent hues and imaginative paintings by esteemed local artists. All suites offer expansive, unobstructed views of the sea from spacious terraces.

The hotel also includes six distinct restaurant and bar venues, including Kayuputi, which serves Asian-inspired haute cuisine, while modern French cuisine infused with Asian and Middle Eastern flavours is served at L’Orangerie alongside spectacular views of the Andaman Sea and the lush rainforest. The Gourmand Deli crafts a generous selection of fresh, homemade breads and pastries, as well as a selection of refreshing iced teas infused with local herbs and spices.  

Keeping in line with the island’s draw as a retreat and getaway, the St Regis signature Iridium Spa enables guests to indulge in a range of specialty massages and well-being treatments in a tranquil and inviting environment. 

With over 1,000 sq m of private event space, including an exquisite outdoor wedding pavilion inspired by Moorish design, a pre-function area, and six meeting and event venues, the hotel is the ideal setting for both grand events and  intimate gatherings. 

For more information, please visit www.stregis.com/langkawi.