The Danna Langkawi

Due to its slightly removed location, The Danna Langkawi, Malaysia has an upscale and relaxed atmosphere. The grounds are lush and well-manicured, the infinity pool is breathtaking, and the oceanfront view is the cherry on top. The design is a mix of colonial and Malaysian which makes for a luxe look with high ceilings, beautiful rooms, and elegant decor. Upon arrival, guests are generally greeted with welcome drinks and shoulder massages, which lets guests know the type of five-pearl stay they are about to enjoy. Customer service is a priority here, but sometimes staff can feel a bit overeager, especially at breakfast. Couples are the main clientele, but with plenty of kid-friendly amenities like a kids' club and pool, families come here too. The hotel opened in December of 2010, and it’s a top hotel in the area, so they’ve been adding to the property. The poolside Terrace opened in 2016 and construction is ongoing at 10 private beach villas, which are expected to be complete in November of 2017. However, this construction can cause some bothersome noise. 

The hotel is located in the Telaga Harbour, a small town with restaurants within walking distance, though not much else. For day adventures, travelers could experience an elephant adventure that’s a four-minute drive away or a 26-minute walk. It takes five minutes by car to reach the beautiful waterfalls of Air Terjun Telaga Tujuh. The popular Cenang Beach is a 22-minute drive away. Travelers could also take the Sky Bridge to Cengang Beach, a cable car with stunning views, which is a five-minute drive from the hotel. It takes 15 minutes by car to reach the Langkawi International Airport. 

Rooms here are tranquil and breezy, with wood accents in floors and furniture, and soft warm colors in reds, whites, and tans. Rooms have varying views of the sea, mountains, marina, or courtyard, and each view is ideal in its own way. Some rooms feature furnished balconies or terraces. Amenities are plenty with flat-screen TVs, kettles or Nespresso machines, minibars, free Wi-Fi, and safes. The Suites have upscale amenities like private hot tubs or plunge pools. The Royal Imperial Suite offers a private pool, gym, steam room, and hot tub. Bathrooms are complete with separate vanities and have separate showers with waterfall showerheads and tubs. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided. Take note that there’s been a few complaints about ants and lizards in rooms, though this is a common occurrence in Malaysia.  

Like many five-pearl properties in the area, The Danna Langkawi, Malaysia focuses on a relaxing stay at the beach. Guests have access to a private beach with cabanas, loungers, and sand volleyball. The hotel’s three-tiered infinity pool is breathtaking and is complemented by a children’s pool, outdoor hot tub, and poolside dining and happy hours throughout the day. Massages and body treatments can be booked at the hotel’s spa, which also has a sauna and a hot tub. The gym is fairly spacious with city views and varying cardio and weight equipment. Free yoga is occasionally offered. 

Dining options are plenty here. There’s a daily free breakfast buffet with hot items and Champagne. Mediterranean and European cuisine is offered at Planter’s, while Straits & Co. is a cute British-Malaysian Cafe. Most dining options take advantage of ocean or pool views, but the Terrace, the hotel’s newest addition, is right next to the pool and has cozy seating and offers seafood, pizza, and small snacks and drinks. Drinks can be had in the Verandah Room and Drawing Room. There’s 24-hour room service. 

Other perks include a kids' club with scheduled activities, a playroom with games, and a babysitter upon request (for a fee). There’s a billiards and game room with a pool table, books, and cozy seating. A boutique offers clothes and souvenirs for sale. The hotel has some meeting spaces, a business center, and free Wi-Fi throughout.