Pangkor Laut Resort Estates (Malaysia) is a SLH gem.

Pangkor Laut is a resort on a private island off the west coast of Malaysia. It has a beautiful private beach and the resort has recently undergone a refurbishment.

In my opinion, the only way to visit this resort is booking the 'Estates', which is what we have done after friends and family who have been previously recommended the experience highly. https://www.pangkorlautresort.com/the-estates/

We stayed in Estates 6. The estates are accommodations away from the main resort, obviously still on the island. We chose an estate with 3 villas (3 bedrooms therefore) for 4 adults 2 children. Our estate had 3 jacuzzis, 3 villas, a private pool, a gazebo and dining area. It is not shared with other guests. You have your own 'butler' on call but I prefer the term 'concierge'.

For a large family vacation, the estates at Pangkor Laut is an unbeatable destination. You can eat your choice meal from any of the restaurants at the estates, escaping the busy hotel. Great with kids as we could beach in the morning, head back to wind down and have an easy meal, then enjoy the pool. The attention to detail is immaculate, with your concierge picking your favourites from the breakfast buffet even before you're sat down. Staying the estates means it's all inclusive except for alcohol which is great because we don't drink. Food selection is great and I'm saying this as a local.

The beach is a wonderful tropical beach, shallow to swim in, beautifully clear in the morning and into the early afternoon. It is high tide towards the late afternoon so it becomes a bit choppy but a few were still swimming in the sea.

It is a bit of a challenge to get to. 3.5 hour drive from KL, or fly to Ipoh and drive 2 hours.

It is really a gem. It's no surprise Pavarotti loved this place. I've not been to Intercontinental Danang but for the same offering, Pangkor Laut was less than half the price. Perhaps this is due to the location.