Translucent, pristine waters that gently wash onto the white sandy beach of Datai Bay for a sort of blue, watery, front garden to this virgin-rainforest resort. The grand ballroom, six meeting rooms, an enormous lagoon-style swimming pool and an 18-hole golf course wil give you an indication of its size.
Even so, the Andaman is truly a pocket of peace and tranquility, famed for its protective obligation to surrounding natural flora and wildlife.
The Jamu Nature Spa is a white duplex-style pavilion that cuddles up to the hills, giving bountiful views of the Andaman Sea. Each treatment room has two massage beds, a large bathtub, a garden shower and a relaxation terrace. Real-treat seekers can hire out the fabulous Sari Villa, a lavish private villa within the nature spa, complete with jacuzzi and terrace.
The curative combination of rejuvenating influences from the sea, the healing life-force that seems to seep out of the rainforest and divine, drawn-out treatments by the skilled therapists on the outside and more peaceful within.
The Ambience
The grand but not gaudy five-star Andaman hotel has been designed in traditional Malaysian style, which fuses with a good deal of Western finery.
Regular Guests
Honeymooners, families and couples, plus prominent people including South African President Nelson Mandela, French President Jacques Chirac and Formula One racing driver Michael Schumacher.
Treatment Menu
The Spa boasts a modest selection of indulgent treatments, such as exotic body scrubs, warm fragrant baths and traditional and aromatherapy massages.
House Speciality
Despite its name, there is no need to get up early for the Andaman Sunrise package, though you may want to go bed early as it will zonk you out. The four-hour treatment involves aromatherapy or traditional massage, a body scrub and a soak in a healing sea-salt bath, followed by a facial and head massage while gazing out at the Andaman Sea (if you can still keep your eyes open by that stage).
Cuisine
Authentic Mediterranean, Japanese a la carte, teppanyaki, Malaysian curries, Indian tandooris, wood-fired pizzas, light snacks and sandwiches should give you a taste of the diverse choice on offer at the eight restaurants.
Ideal for
People who like nature to be close at hand, or want to explore until they drop and then be massaged back into action. Or for those who, like Mr Schumacher, just need to slow down.
What to pack
Walking Shoes and a video camera to capture images of the chattering leaf monkeys, giant red flying squirrels, tree snakes and the varied birdlife that live here.
Contact
The Andaman Datai Bay
PO Box 94, Jalan Tuluk Datai 07000 Langkawai
Kedah Darul Aman
Malaysia
Tel: +60 4 959 1088
Web: http://www.theandaman.com