Tatler - Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat
November 2011

A serious new player on Malaysia’s spa scene, set between astonishing fingers of karstic limestone and lime-green tropical vegetation. You’ll find geothermal dipping pools, caves for meditation and crystal therapy (with not a whiff of sulphur). Don’t miss the pool of tootsie-nibbling fish that will handily munch away dead skin -- the most authentic pedicure on the planet. Spa offerings reflect Malaysia’s fusion culture, with the signature treatment including an Indian head massage, Malay Urut body massage with palm oil and Chinese foot therapy. The 25 zen-influenced villas have generous plunge pools, jacuzzis and outdoor slumbering areas. The kitchen’s low-calorie food is super-tasty -- try the chilled beetroot soup and the pomelo salad with shrimp. Be sure to go soon for peace and quiet because, alas, the hotel plans to treble the number of villas and make itself family-friendly.