Luxury Escapes: A Journey Through Raffles Singapore, Bintan's Beauty and Malaysia's Datai Paradise

Flying in style with Qatar Airways: Edinburgh to Singapore via Doha

One of my favorite airlines has to be Qatar Airways. With multiple daily flights connecting Edinburgh to Doha’s Hamad International Airport, it's always a top choice for a seamless and comfortable journey. After a brief layover in Doha, there's always time to indulge in the airline’s renowned Al Mourjan Business Class lounges. On our most recent trip, we experienced The Garden Lounge for the first time, and it truly elevated the entire travel experience to a new level of sophistication and tranquility.

Thanks to the time difference, we’ll be arriving in Singapore late the following afternoon, where we'll be welcomed by the iconic Raffles Hotel — a destination I've longed to visit. Having explored Singapore several times in the past, we're only staying for a couple of nights before continuing our journey. However, the allure of Raffles and its timeless charm is sure to make this stay extra special.

The iconic Raffles Hotel, often hailed as Singapore's 'Grand Dame,' holds a special place in the city’s rich history. While I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing their famous afternoon tea in the majestic Tiffin Room before, this will be my first time staying at this legendary hotel. We’re looking forward to indulging in the array of world-class restaurants and bars on-site, as well as treating ourselves to some pampering at the spa—especially their VIP bespoke experience in the luxurious GEM Suite.

Singapore highlights:

• Little India

• Chinatown

• Gardens by the Bay

• Singapore Botanic Gardens

• Singapore Art Museum

• National Museum of Singapore

• Clarke Quay

Singapore always offers an endless array of activities, blending vibrant cultures and modern marvels. On a previous trip, we stayed at the iconic Marina Bay Sands, with its stunning tri-tower design next to Gardens by the Bay. Though we may not revisit it this time, it remains a breathtaking part of the city. No matter where you go in Singapore, you’re sure to be surrounded by exceptional shopping, dining and cultural experiences.

From Raffles, it’s just a quick ride to the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, where we’ll embark on an Emerald Class ferry bound for the Indonesian island of Bintan and the stunning Sanchaya resort. Bintan is home to several luxury hotels, including the renowned Banyan Tree, which we also plan to visit. However, the main goal of this leg of our journey is pure relaxation — beachside bliss and poolside lounging, all while indulging in the many amenities this beachfront haven has to offer.

After Bintan, it’s a smooth return ferry ride back to Singapore, followed by a quick trip to the world-renowned Changi International Airport, where we’ll catch our flight to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Upon arrival in KL, we’ll be trying out the KLIA Express VIP service, which includes a seamless train ride into the city and a private taxi straight to our destination—this time, the Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur.

This boutique hotel, with just 55 rooms and suites, occupies the top seven floors of a high-rise tower, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers. I've even secured a private VIP tour of the towers for us, but I’m equally excited to take in their grandeur from Vertigo, the rooftop restaurant at the Banyan Tree. It promises to be an unforgettable dining experience with one of the best views in the city.

Highlights of Kuala Lumpur:

• Petronas Towers

• Batu Caves

• Jalan Alor

• Pavilion Kuala Lumpur (shopping mall)

• Dataran Merdeka (Merdeka Square)

• Royal Museum

• Thean Hou Temple

• Royal Selangor Visitor Centre

Our final stop on this journey is the breathtaking island of Langkawi, located off the northwest coast of Malaysia. Having traveled extensively over the past thirty years, one of my earliest long-haul trips was to Singapore and Langkawi back in 2001. The Datai, our chosen resort for this stay, holds a special place in my heart from that trip. I vividly remember the luxury rainforest villa we stayed in, complete with a private pool, and how truly magical the resort felt.

Now, more than two decades later, I’m beyond excited to return and experience The Datai after its stunning renovation. The updates include beautiful new accommodations, such as additional jungle villas with private pools, as well as one- and two-bedroom beach villas, all designed to elevate the resort’s already impressive offerings.

This week promises to be one of relaxation, but we’ll also take full advantage of The Datai’s four on-site restaurants, the two main pools, gym, spa and the wealth of nature experiences available in this unique rainforest setting. I’ll also be diving deeper into The Datai Pledge—their sustainability initiative—as I write an article for their resort magazine, IKHLAS, reflecting on the changes I've witnessed over the past 23 years.

Highlights of The Datai:

• Massage at the spa

• Journey through the forests (canopy walk)

• Be a beekeeper

• Upcycling workshop at the lab

• A private permaculture garden tour

• Sound healing