JapaMala

Located on Tioman Island, off mainland Malaysia’s East Coast, is the lovely Relais & Chateaux JapaMala Resort. It is the only boutique resort on the island and boasts a stunning location amid 11 acres of lush wilderness flanked by an inviting beach.

The charming accommodation comprises traditional Asian ‘Sarang Villas’ (Sarang means ‘nest’ in Malay) and typical Malay kampung-style Chalets. The indulgent Sea View Sarang has its own private rock pool whilst the split-level Hillside Sarangs have their own plunge pool. Jungle Sarangs have an open-air bathtub and are closer to the beach. The Sea Cliff Chalets offer magnificent views of the South China Sea from their elevated setting or for those seeking a real ‘Tarzan and Jane’ experience, the secluded Tree Top Chalets are hoisted up in the treetops above the jungle canopy.

Rooms are fashionably rustic in style but feature modern amenities such as televisions and DVDs as well as iPod docks. The resort also has a theatre lounge and library, a small swimming pool and a relaxing Spa.

For the more active, snorkelling and scuba diving are available. Tioman Island is blessed with an idyllic archipelago of marine habitats. Sightings of dolphins, manta rays and even whale sharks have been made. Jungle trekking is on offer as well as rock climbing, fishing, kayaking and even surfing during the monsoon season!

The resort has two restaurants, one with a jungle back-drop a stone’s throw from the beach whilst the other on set on stilts over the water.