News That Matters

A Short Escape to Paradise REDANG ISLAND

AFTER A FEW BUSINESS DAYS IN SINGAPORE, I THOUGHT I’D GO OFF AND FIND A QUIET LITTLE BACKWATER TO TAKE A BREAK AND I KNEW JUST THE PLACE. I TOOK A FLIGHT FROM SINGAPORE TO KUALA LUMPUR CONTINUING ON TO KUALA TERENGGANU ON THE EAST COAST OF THE MALAYSIAN PENINSULA. FROM THERE I TOOK A FERRY ACROSS TO REDANG ISLAND.

EI had heard about this place but had never been and, as I stepped foot ashore, I knew the things I had been told were true. I was welcomed by a calm tropical ambience and a captivating beauty that seeps into your soul whispering the relaxing sounds of lapping waves and gentle sea breezes into your ear.

In recent years the Island has become increasingly popular amongst global travellers due to its natural beauty. Redang Island is, in fact, an archipelago comprising of 9 small islands all within a protected area known as the Terengganu Marine Park.

The first unusual thing you notice about Redang Island is that there aren’t any roads apart from the road from the airport; there is no land transport to get you from one place to another. But not to worry, a boat service is arranged by the resort providing transportation around the islands.

The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort comes highly recommended with it’s 190 stylish and well-equipped suites and rooms overlooking lush gardens and the gorgeous blue ocean. If you would rather stay in a villa, the resort has a private five-bedroom cliff top villa with an infinity pool giving unrivalled views out over the bay and its surroundings. To make sure guests have a pleasant stay, the resort is fully appointed with five-star amenities including four very enjoyable restaurants & bars; there is the Taaras Spa & Gym, outdoor swimming pools and other activities including water sports and cooking classes.

During the day it is good to simply soak up the sun and enjoy the clear blue skies, the powdery white sandy beach, the crystal clear water and the sounds of waves crashing on the beach. The island is also ideal for scuba diving, swimming and snorkelling with excellent visibility and coral reefs that are home to teeming marine life such as shoals of bright coloured tropical fish, black tip reef sharks, cuttlefish and turtles.

But then, finally, there is the crowning moment of the day, a time to sit with a cool drink and watch the amazing sunsets that have an incredible ability to put life into perspective, to calm your mind and
nurture your soul.

This was indeed an unforgettable holiday experience and, even though it was very short, the memory of this island will always stay with me.