The Datai

Stunning 5-star resort and spa with impeccably modern, stylish accommodation - perfect for idyllic beach holidays in tropical rainforest surroundings

The Datai stands alone on a long stretch of powdery white-sand beach, carefully tucked into 750 hectares of virgin rainforest. Hordes of chattering monkeys swing around the trees, kingfishers and squirrels fly through the branches, and giant monitor lizards hide among the strangler figs. But this is no jungle camp; it's arguably the best hotel in Malaysia, maybe even in Asia. Its 72 luxurious rooms and 40 secluded villas have all the comforts of a 5-star resort - silky daybeds, Bose sound systems, Molton-Brown toiletries - as well as stunning creeper-framed views across the sea.

This is a place to stay put and be pampered: there's a wonderful open-air spa, a pristine beach with watersports, superb staff who greet you by name, and two pools surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. Indeed, with a choice of superb eateries on site, plus an 18-hole golf course, you need hardly leave - though we do recommend stirring yourself for the fascinating guided nature walks. A sublime place, with many return guests, so book well ahead.

Highs

• Much larger than most i-escape hotels, but the generous layout, forest screening and personal service keep it intimate and special
• The rooms and villas - especially the refurbished ones - are extremely smart, with stunning clean lines
• Beautifully prepared, delicious food and drinks
• Private white-sand beach for snorkelling, swimming and sailing (no motorised watersports allowed)
• Abundant wildlife, protected by a hotel-funded conservation programme
• Exploring Langkawi by mountain bike - it is a quiet and fairly traffic-free island

Lows

• The villas are deep in the forest, so can be dark and damp in rainy season
• Not for those fearful of wildlife: there are loud jungle noises, leeches may attach themselves in rainy season if you're walking in the forest, and you may meet inquisitive monkeys around the terraces and pool
• Steep footpaths from hotel to beach: not for the unfit, but there are electric buggies
• No nightlife hereabouts, though Langkawi town (30-40 mins) has a bit of action
• Seriously pricey, but seriously worth it!
• The golf course is closed for renovation until 2013, but special rates are available for guests at other courses nearby