paradise in our backyard

at the end of october, we went on a mini-getaway to the banjaran - a 'wellness' resort in ipoh's backyard, literally. once there, you feel as though you've been transported to another world. there's something quite enchanting and about banjaran. like a lost paradise, but with every creature comfort. part of the reason it's so tranquil and quiet is because it's very exclusive (only 25 villas - and adult only) which makes it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

each villa has it's own plunge pool and jacuzzi so there's no need to leave its privacy to enjoy the hotsprings since it's water is pumped directly to each jacuzzi - but there's so much to explore outside. the resort, beyond the villa is a playground fashioned entirely of elements natural to the site - the hotsprings and limestone caves. if you like water, like me, you'll absolutely fall in love with this place. we spent hours going from cave to hotspring to icy cold tub to naturally heated pool, to cave, to keiko fish pond, to cave, well ... you get the idea. the caves were transformed from their original states into a meditation cave, a crystal cave, a sauna cave, wine cellar, etc. yet detailed sensitively so that they appear 'natural'.

for our stay, we took advantage of the malaysian international gourmet festival pacakge - which included a spa/massage treatment and 6 course dinner w/ wine pairing. stay and dine packages are great because there's no need to drive home after the meal so you can eat and drink to heart's content. and what a superb meal that was. everything consumable is organic as are the spa products and many of the vegetables and herbs are grown on the resort itself. hope that pomelo offers a similar migf package again next year. it was a truly memorable getaway. :D