One of the most underrated pleasures of being a grown-up is having the luxury of a ‘stay-in’ vacation. Adventures and exploration can take a back seat during these retreats. We’ve done some investigating and found a few places to live out your inner Cameron Diaz in The Holiday – if that’s what you’re looking for. From Balinese-inspired boutique resorts to lavish colonial abodes, here are a few of our faves for a ‘stay-in-cation’.
1. Lot 33 Boutique Hotel, Langkawi, Kedah
This elusive Balinese-inspired boutique hotel is situated along Cenang Beach. Lot 33 is the perfect choice for a getaway when you want to spend more time indoors than out. Modern and clean interiors adorned with beautiful artefacts give guests plenty to look at.
As you walk in, you’ll see 33 Bistro & Bar, open to the public and often quite busy. Seven spacious and lavish rooms reside on the hotel’s two floors. The rooms vary from Standard Family Rooms to Executive Suites, including a Deluxe King Room that comes with a jacuzzi. But even the smallest room on the property far exceeds expectations in space, comfort, privacy, and cosy-factor.
Address: Lot 33 Jalan Teluk Baru, Jalan Pantai Tengah, Kampung Tasik Anak, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Contact: +604 952 3562
2. IKAN Residence, Bentong, Pahang
IKAN (the Malay word for ‘fish’) Residence is a tranquil homestay thoughtfully designed in the lush green hills of Kampung Janda Baik. The home’s bright red bricks are easy to spot even when draped in mist during the cooler months. With six bedrooms, a large and fully functioning kitchen, living space, and an outdoor pool, the home comfortably accommodates 18 to 20 guests.
The property includes private parking on the premises for guests, a gym, and an outdoor charcoal BBQ grill. Practically furnished like a home, it’s a great spot to retreat into the clouds for a few days. Their self-check-in process means you have complete privacy and minimal social interaction, so you can unwind and rejuvenate your mind, soul, and body in complete bliss.
Address: 375, Cangkat Tanarimba Tinggi, Tanarimba, Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Contact: +6012 314 4943
3. The Dusky Leaf, Langkawi, Kedah
There’s a reason this cottage is listed as a Guest Favourite on Airbnb, and it’s not just because it’s beautiful – it is also an eco-conscious home. Just a short drive from Cenang and Tengah Beach, The Dusky Leaf adds a tropical spin to the classic A-frame homes. Centred on a paddy field facing Machinchang Mountain, a few nights here make for the perfect stay-in escape.
Imagine rain falling as you sip on a hot cup of tea, bundled up in a throw blanket, and sitting on the patio as you watch the paddy leaves sway in the wind. What a dream it is too, waking up to a morning view of the golden sun-lit paddy fields as cool breezes pass through the cottage. The two bedrooms and two baths here accommodate four guests comfortably.
Address: No 1, Lot 179, Kampung Bukit Lembu, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah
Contact: +6012 610 9500
4. The Log Cabin, Melaka
Let’s pretend we’re in the mountains of Eastern Europe, surrounded by forests and great lakes, as we make our home in an idyllic log cabin. Now, imagine a version of that reality closer to home. Hidden in the forest of a UNESCO World Heritage town, Melaka, aptly named The Log Cabin, is one of the more unique builds in the country.
The cabin’s exterior looks sharp and luxurious yet simple. The interior offers a warm and inviting space that’ll probably have you wanting to stay tucked in all day. However, if you muster up the will to leave your timber-walled sanctuary, hop on an e-scooter and explore the site or dip in their Signature Waterfall Pool.
Address: Lot 2940, Jalan Ayer Keroh, Off, Jalan Plaza Tol, 75450 Ayer Keroh, Melaka
Contact: +6011 6226 5257
5. The Lakehouse, Cameron Highlands, Pahang
Head to the countryside in Cameron Highlands, and you’ll find a charming Tudor-style abode. The Lakehouse hotel sits almost like a jewellery box on a hill surrounded by perfectly trimmed Ixora bushes. Exposed wooden beams, antique furnishings, four-poster beds, fireplaces, and white bistro garden furniture are reminiscent of colonial design, which remains a significant part of many hotels and restaurants in Cameron Highlands.
The hotel also acts as a restaurant, bar, as well as a spa, making it the perfect candidate for a stay-in type holiday. A book by the fireplace or drinks over long conversations as the rain veils the hotel in fog and mist sounds like the dreamiest way to spend time away from home.
Address: 30th Mile, Jalan Ringlet – Sungai Koyan, Sungai Khazanah, 39000 Ringlet, Pahang
Contact: +605 495 6152
6. Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang
First opened in 1885 by the Sarkies Brothers, Eastern & Oriental or E&O, is a heritage hotel in Penang built facing the Andaman Sea. This five-star seafront hotel may embrace British colonial style when it comes to design, but its hospitality is truly Malaysian.
Each suite has its own living space, while upgraded suites have balconies or garden terraces. Guests can choose from five dining options and an old-fashioned bar. Other amenities include a 24-hour gym, spa, sauna, and steam room. It definitely falls on the more luxurious side of the staycation scale, but if you want to spend most, if not all, of your time inside, E&O is a delightful choice.
Address: 10, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Penang
Contact: +604 222 2000
7. Rocky Farm, Ipoh, Perak
Rocky Farm is a unique retreat in the quiet rural surroundings near Simpang Pulai toll in Ipoh. The quirky shell-like buildings look like they fell right out of a storybook! There are 10 themed rooms here, including the Mermaid House, Rocky House, and Japanese House, among others.
Surrounded by the limestone hills of Ipoh, each room has access to a scenic garden. Guests can partake in laid-back activities like fishing in the pond, taking a leisurely stroll in the gardens, or hiking a trail in the nearby forest.
Address: Lot 14884, DAT Pulai Jaya 31300, 3, Pulai Jaya 3, Taman Bersatu, 31300 Ipoh, Perak
Contact: +6012 320 2218
8. Humble Hobbit Home, Kundasang, Sabah
In the modest Malaysian New Zealand, Kundasang, Sabah, lies the Humble Hobbit Home. A fairytale was brought to life by visionaries who wanted to give locals a taste of life in their own Hobbiton. If you’re planning a holiday where you’ll spend more time indoors, why not spend it in a faerie house with a view of the magnificent Mount Kinabalu?
The home accommodates five to six people. The drive up to its location is steep and windy, so make sure to pick up sufficient groceries for your stay. It’s also chilly up here, where temperatures can drop as low as 12°C, so dress warmly! Come nightfall, head to the rock garden for a cookout on the BBQ grill, toast s’mores, and warm up by the fire.
Address: B-Inspired Abode Kg, Jalan Sinisian, 89308 Kundasang, Sabah
Contact: +6011 5580 6617
