The pandemic has affected how we choose to vacation, even when the destination is merely domestic. The more sensible of us prefer a place a little more secluded and separated—the fewer and further away the crowd, the better, as close proximity to people still leaves us feeling anxious. Completely by accident, Ambong Pool Villas provide the perfect sanctuary for a vacation in times of COVID.

A private infinity pool overlooking the Andaman Sea

“By luck rather than design, we are in many ways well suited to a post-pandemic world,” says Amran Ahmed, one of the co-founders. “I expect the pandemic to fundamentally change the way we travel. I believe there will be increased demand for smaller properties, with a low density and away from crowds and city centres; market research also tells us that there is increased demand for nature-based activities. This has always been the core of Ambong- Ambong’s values and the pandemic has somewhat reinforced this. Because of this, I am very positive in the long term.”

Kemarong 1-bedroom pool villa

Ambong Pool Villas is made up of nine stand-alone private villas measuring approximately 160 square metres. Opened in 2017 and constructed based on biophilic principles, this low-density property sits tucked away on a hill within the Pantai Tengah rainforest at the southwestern tip of Langkawi island, just 20 minutes from the airport. Every villa here faces either a sunrise or sunset view, framed by forest trees and the azure waters of the Andaman Sea. It’s a postcard-perfect horizon that can be best absorbed from the deck chair or while chilling in the 12-metre long infinity pool that hugs each villa here. Or even from within the villa itself as glass doors grant visual access to the beauty of nature outside.

Kuang 1-bedroom pool villa

But what makes Ambong Pool Villas the ideal getaway is the privacy. Each villa is closed off from its neighbours, ensuring complete isolation and security. Well, from people at least—the occasional long-tailed macaque and its friends might drop in to sit and stare. Then, with room service and even the option to have your spa massages in-villa, there’s no real need to leave this little pocket of paradise throughout your stay.

The Temoyang 1-bedroom pool villa

Still, should you long to step out, the property’s in-house restaurant, Rimba, serves cocktail and cuisine overlooking the Andaman, where the sunset is just breathtaking especially when viewed from its rooftop terrace. Breakfast is served here too if not at the villa, and Rimba also organises Dapoq Rimba cooking classes for guests.

Rimba restaurant

Just down the hill from here is Unkaizan Japanese restaurant, a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant is situated right next to Ambong’s very own Amaala spa, where guests can partake in a complimentary yoga and singing bowl class every Saturday at 11 am. Though not everyone might be inclined to join the class, the spa treatments are not to be missed. Amaala is unique in that it honours the healing traditions of Malaysia’s indigenous tribes, merging indigenous ingredients with modern techniques. A signature treatment is the 220-min Amaala Bejalai Ritual, inspired by the cleansing and blessing rituals of Sarawak’s Iban tribe. It begins with a relaxing foot bath to stimulate blood circulation, then a deep body exfoliation and body wrap followed by an anti-ageing facial using ingredients blended with Frankincense, lavender and clary sage essential oils. Later a face scrub, then a face massage by way of a jade stone. The treatment ends with an invigorating hair and scalp treatment and massage to stimulate hair growth. Wellness—and yes, indulgence—at its best.

Rimba Sky rooftop terrace with the sunset in the horizon

The resort provides free transfers to Unkaizan and Amaala, though walking there takes no more than 10 minutes (and the steep climb up the hill back to Ambong Pool Villas really works them glutes).  

Another big plus point to Ambong Pool Villas is their hospitality. The staff are very warm and accomodating. With only nine villas to look after, they know each guest by name, and thus are attentive to your wants and needs. Case in point, having enjoyed the roasted veggies that accompanied the grilled fish dinner on my first night, the kitchen offered to serve me extra at no additional cost when I ordered it again on my last night.

The walkway leading to Rimba restaurant

And naturally, for assurance, each staff member here is fully vaccinated and their temperatures are checked daily.  Villas are regularly sterilised too. If you’re hoping to recharge and escape the city, April is a quiet month for Ambong Pool Villas.