In recent times, a global trend has caught fire which offers outdoor enthusiasts an upgrade on rest and recreation. This trend has been dubbed glamping – a new word for a new kind of experience, a combination of the word “glamorous camping”.
The beauty of glamping is there’s no tent to pitch, no sleeping bag to unroll, no fire to build. It’s not like camping where your survival is your own. When you’re glamping in a tent, air-stream, pod, igloo, hut, villa, cabin, cube or tree house – glamping is a sure way to experience the great outdoors without giving away luxury.
For those of you who are still dabbling with camping for the first time and want to start off with dipping your toes in cold water first rather than just jumping in whole, you should try glamping! In this edition, we present you with several glamping spots that are not short of fame, sure to give you an authentic taste of the life in the wild without much sacrifice to your creature comforts.
Caravan Serai, Pahang
Caravan Serai is virtually known for being one of the leading glamping sites all of Asia. For all you KL-lites out there, don’t fret, this awesome site is only situated a mere 45 minutes by road from Kuala Lumpur. The site, deep inside a natural forest is a favorite among people who like to have a good dose of luxury when they are out of the trodden path and camping somewhere surrounded by nature. There are many tranquil activities to immerse in – talking a walk through fruit orchards, hills and terrains as well as a river that flows with a pace that is in sync with the environment itself. Here you will find Malaysian hospitality at its best ; the site is perfect for a getaway with family and friends alike, or as a retreat for lovers who are in need for time alone to bond and relax.
Japamala Resort, Pahang
Japamala is mostly described as an ecoluxe resort, a fashionably rustic boutique resort that gathers its fame from the intimacy it generates between man and nature. Tucked away in the wilderness, this resort houses 13 rooms and is hidden amidst 11 acres of lush tropical rainforest. Luxury is what you would feel if you were here – a perfect balance between comfort and nature. Think: Wi-Fi access, DVD players, private pools and espresso machines. A perfect getaway without sacrificing your everyday needs.
Sekeping Serendah, Selangor
Sekeping Serendah is a lovely way to ease into the glamping lifestyle. Again, not too far away from the city, this private retreat is located near the quiet town of Serendah. This agrarian environment takes adopts an open concept which allows you to enjoy the view of the lush green while being comfortably situated in your villa. Enjoy your stay with the numerous activities available: swimming, hiking, exploring local villages, nearby waterfalls and plunge pools. A good way to spring free off your everyday life and networking, this site does not have WiFi nor mobile service so consider yourself warned!
Time Capsule Retreat, Pahang
The Time Capsule Retreat is a family-owned retreat that’s nestled within the lush woodland of Sungai Lembing, overlooking a an enchanting forest reserve so a spectacular view of luscious green is a given. The rooms are made from from 7 x 10-ft concrete pipe cylinders, all equipped with queen-sized beds, plug sockets and air conditioning – the simplest of essentials you would require during such a retreat. Located in the rather obscure town of Kuantan, there is many one can see and experience. Examples are riding on the ATV, visiting the tin mining museum and a few others.
Sailor’s Rest, Pahang
Perched on Malaysia’s Titiwangsa Mountain Range, this homestay-turned-resort is located 600 metres above sea level. To add on to its wow factor, it’s nestled rather neatly in the middle of a tropical jungle which means the cool mountain breezes are a given. This is also a family-owned resort and you will find, to much of your amazement, state-of-the-art tents that come with firm mattresses and comforters, sure to keep you warm and toasty when the night comes. If you suddenly feel like upgrading to a more luxurious form of stay, there is the option of renting chalets and bungalows. Activities to immerse in include waterfall trekking, an fun-filled activity that will reward you with magnificent views, and a chance to laze around the nearby river.