What makes a St. Regis hotel so special? Is it the meticulous attention to detail, the undeniable elegance which permeates throughout, or the enviable locations which set them apart? We can only assume that it is a fusion of all three, for the St. Regis difference is not that simple to quantify.
St. Regis all began over 100 years ago with the St. Regis New York. It was here that cherished traditions such as fresh flowers, afternoon tea service and midnight supper were formed under the watchful eye of Lady Astor. This legacy has been carried through to each hotel in various corners of the globe, embracing you through their doors with the promise of uncompromising elegance and bespoke service. For evidence of this, look no further than the St. Regis Butler Service, featured at every single one of the St. Regis hotels across the world. We will be taking you on a journey of select properties in Asia, starting with Langkawi in Malaysia and ending with Bali in Indonesia, stopping off at two city gems in-between.
The St. Regis Langkawi
An archipelago of 99 islands in Malaysia’s west coast, Langkawi, known by locals as the “Jewel of Kedah”, is a tropical paradise with a tranquil ambience that will leave you breathless. Nestled in a secluded cove, The St. Regis Langkawi echoes the laid-back vibe with its collection of chic suites and villas; some of which are delicately placed above the turquoise Andaman Sea. If not staying at one of these serenely-located retreats, you may find yourself high amid the lush tropical forest, unwinding in your deep-soaking tub or out on your wrap-around terrace with sublime panoramic views.
Venturing out from your suite or villa, take a dip in the inviting swimmable lagoon or pick a lounger by the infinity pool and bask in the island idyll. Stroll along the pristine beach lined by palm trees, returning for an indulgent treatment at the spa; a sanctuary for the senses, where your only distraction is the soothing sound of flowing water. Head to one of two gourmet restaurants: Kayuputi – set over-water and serving Asian-inspired haute cuisine, and L’Orangerie – offering an open kitchen and panoramic rainforest views. Following your decadent meal, allow the sophisticated St. Regis Bar to tempt you in for a classic cocktail.
The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur
In this modern capital city filled with soaring skyscrapers and sprawling shopping malls, find an opulent residence where modern day glamour is fused with old world elegance. The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur is situated in KL Sentral, meaning after your time-honoured St. Regis Afternoon Tea ritual at The Drawing Room, you may find yourself strolling through the lovely Lake Gardens, or at heritage landmarks such as the National Museum and House of Parliament, or even taking in the heady heights of the Petronas Twin Towers.
After filling your boots with all that Kuala Lumpur has to offer, the spa will provide a welcome retreat upon your return. This is where St. Regis show their penchant for meticulous and discreet service, with your butler and dedicated staff working together to bring virtually every whim to fruition. Pampered to the extreme, you may just want to sample some of the delicious cuisine on offer here; with six different restaurants, bars and lounges, you won’t be short of options. Treat your taste buds at Taka by Sushi Saito, headed by three Michelin-starred Chef Takashi Saito, and end your night with a drink at the atmospheric rooftop lounge.
The St. Regis Bangkok
Another vibrant capital city, Bangkok should be an absolute must on the list of places to visit. This truly is a world of contrasts and allure, where one moment you are admiring treasures such as the 14th-century Emerald Buddha, and the other you are getting lost in gigantic shopping malls or practicing t'ai chi under the shade of a tree in Lumphini Park. Immersed in the centre of it all, The St. Regis Bangkok offers an ultra-luxurious base from which to launch your discoveries, with the refuge of Elemis Spa helping you to rejuvenate ahead of your next escapade.
The hotel epitomises the essence of St. Regis with its impeccable service, sumptuous accommodations and timeless traditions along with the trademark St. Regis butler. If feeling particularly royal, then make the two-storey penthouse your palatial residence; the views from the infinity pool are truly astounding. Dining at the hotel is an epicurean adventure, with cuisine ranging from the Japanese delights of Zuma to the authentic Italian fare of Jojo.
The St. Regis Bali
The St. Regis Bali: a magical resort for a magical destination. Set on pristine beachfront in Nusa Dua, the resort invites you to relax, rejuvenate and re-charge. Let the tranquil vibe wash over you as you swim out in the cool blue lagoon, its waters too tempting to resist. Try your hand at kayaking, windsurfing, deep-sea diving or one of many more activities at the water sports centre, or simply fall in love with the Remède Spa and its ridiculously-indulgent treatments. This is the paradise of your dreams and even lounging on the beach all day would not feel like a moment wasted.
A place of such beauty needs accommodation to match. Meet The St. Regis Bali’s extraordinary suites, villas and residences; each of which features handcrafted Balinese art, marble bathrooms and outdoor living space. As to be expected from a St. Regis, the dining options at the resort are as exquisite as they are varied; ranging from the beachside Kayuputi with is Asian-inspired haute cuisine, to the intimate Dulang restaurant serving authentic Indonesian fare.
With their elegance, long-standing tradition and renowned service, the St. Regis around the whole of Asia are a match for made in heaven everyone!
