Splendid Isolation. Berjaya Redang Beach Resort offers peace and discretion amid beautiful surroundings.

THE OVERVIEW

Occupying prime beachfront, Berjaya Redang Beach Resort is one of the few world-class properties on Redang Island, a popular diving destination known for its beautiful coral. The resort’s 266 rooms and suites are spread over a series of buildings, including individual chalets for added privacy. All the rooms feature contemporary décor and up-to-the-minute comforts, and a new, all-suite wing was recently completed. 60-9/630-8866; berjayahotels-resorts.com; doubles from US$343. 

THE AREA

Only five minutes away from Redang Airport, but far from everythings else. There’s little reason to venture away from the grounds, which include a spa, tennis courts, two restaurant, a lounge and even a karaoke bar. Take advantage of the property’s idyllic setting amid tropical rain forest and the azure waters of the South China Sea.

THE DESIGN

The resort taps into tradition with its Malay-style chalets featuring dark wood, peaked roofs and carved eaves. The rooms and newer suites, however, are housed in more anonymous-looking modern blocks. Inside, though, the furnishings are far from bland. Well-known Filipino interior designer Antonio “Budji” Layug has created tasteful yet warm spaces by using indigenous materials. The décor also includes elaborate wood carvings done by the resort’s own staff.

THE SERVICE

Quick and courteous, the Berjaya’s staff works hard to meet your every whim, be it a candlelit dinner or a massage on the beach. We were also impressed by the through housekeeping staff, who thoughtfully folded our clothes scattered on the floor, though we wished they were less insistent about hand-delivering the daily fresh fruit platter and cookies (which meant overly enthusiastic doorbell-ringing).

THE PREMIER SUITE

Capacious at 100 square meters, the suite boasts enviable sea views (which you can take in from your private balcony), gleaming hardwood floors and natural-chic furnishings. In-room amenities include two 29-inch LCD TV’s, a DVD player, retro-style ceiling fan and coffee amenities. But the real draw is the stand-alone Jacuzzi by the window, which allows you to soak while contemplating the lovely vistas. One concern: our air conditioner creaked and groaned throughout the night, shattering the overall illusion of serenity.

THE BATHROOM

Everything is designed for couples at the resort, a popular honeymoon spot. And nowhere is that more evident than in the bathroom. The glass shower stall comes with two showerheads, and there are two marbled sinks, with a rattan tray stocked with Aigner toiletries (though no toothbrush) poised between them. There’s no soaking tub, but given the Jacuzzi, we’re not quibbing over that point.   

THE AMENITIES

If you’re staying in a suite, the resort does its utmost to ensure privacy: private check-in area, private gymnasium and even a private breakfast area. Other perks include free Wi-Fi throughtout the resort. The one area where the Berjaya falls short is food. The breakfast choices are limited to American and Continental, and dining at the resort’s two restaurants in an underwhelming experience (though the views almost make up for the lackluster offerings).