"Villa Samadhi has an impeccable pedigree: being the sister hotel of the exclusive JapaMala Resort on Tioman Island, the same architects created this equally stylish city retreat. It’s therefore no surprise that Villa Samadhi nestles comfortably in KL’s embassy district without conforming to its chunky, uniform surroundings. The hideaway takes its name from the Sanskrit word for ‘tranquil’ and, indeed, its thatched pagoda roofs, lush gardens and bamboo screens disguise the outside world with ease.After 2 full days of exploring Kuala Lumpur’s bustling streets - tasting authentic street food at Jalan Alor, marvelling at the Batu Cave temples, bartering for mementoes at the Central Market, and getting lost in the botanic gardens - we were ready to unwind. Happily, Villa Samadhi more than fit the bill. The lagoon pool was impossibly enticing, our suite’s outdoor Jacuzzi tub beckoned, there's a rooftop spa, and we needed to watch the sunset, complimentary cocktail in hand. As incense wafted through the air, interrupted only by mouth-watering smells drifting from the restaurant, we soaked up that A-list celebrity feeling. Highs The smiling staff go above and beyond, and there are lots of little extras (free sunset cocktails)The best of both worlds, total peace and quiet yet ideally placed for exploring KL (you’re within walking distance of the Petronas Towers) Excellent on-site cuisine and a free shuttle service to the hotel’s 3 sister restaurants21 huge rooms with Asian-style décor; honeymooners will love The Loft with its rooftop pool and skyline viewExcursions to the countryside and the elephant sanctuary can be arranged by Travels with Samadhi Lows It’s a romantic couples’ retreat, so no twin rooms and children under 16 aren’t allowedAs with the rest of Malaysia, mosquitos come out in force in the evenings, but repellent is providedThere are just 21 rooms, so it can get booked up a long way in advanceFull payment is required on reservation" - Emily McDonnell
