A honeymoon is one of the most cherished kinds of holidays as it signals the beginning of a new journey for two people who will always look fondly back on it.
We got married in November 2009 and along with a great wedding I also wanted a perfect honeymoon. While I had help from family and friends for the wedding I felt the honeymoon was a private affair and a responsibility I could not entrust anyone with.
The planning started with looking for the perfect location. I would sit down every evening to do some research and see what matched our requirements. As practicing Muslims we wanted easy access to Halal meat and did not want the trouble of searching for restaurants as we’re both fond of trying out new cuisines. The romantics in us also wanted picturesque beaches for long strolls on at night, the tourist in us wanted some scenery, fun and adventure, city and night life and of course somewhere with good shopping.
Malaysia was one place that ticked all the boxes so we happily began travel arrangements. We decided on a nine-day itinerary with five nights in Kuala Lumpur (KL) and four nights in stunning Langkawi.
Our journey began with a seven-hour plane ride. We reached KL International airport with lots of expectations and even the airport did not disappoint us. It was modern and spoke volumes of Malaysian hospitality. We then took a 45- minute taxi ride to Berjaya Times Square hotel. We chose it because it was close to shopping and the vibrant district of Bukit Bintang, had a monorail attached to it, a mall with a theme park and offered a fabulous rate for a suite.
View from our suite at Berjaya Times Square. Pic: Sana Pervez.
The shopaholic in me started the tour with a visit to Berjaya Times Square. I found some amazing bargains. Next we explored Bukit Bintang, which was a world in itself with great malls that were full of life. The atmosphere was great with fabulous street performances and wonderful Christmas decorations.
Lovely Festive Decorations in the Mall. Pic: Sana Pervez.
Our favourite was the Mega Mall where we were excited to find most brands at cheaper prices. Other places we visited included the Petronas Towers, KL Tower, The Blue Mosque, KL Bird Park and KL Butterfly Park. The two parks were a treat to visit on a rainy day when the gardens seemed so green. Another must do in KL is the night Fireflies tour – definitely the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World.’
Amazingly Refreshing and Beautiful Butterfly Park.jpg. Pic: Arif Afzal.
We left KL sadly with heavy hearts and heavier bags and headed to Langkawi for much needed rest and relaxation. We stayed at a boutique resort called Casa Del Mar, which was the highlight of our trip. We were welcomed with lemon drinks, fresh towels, a bouquet and fabulous chocolates in the room. The room was always stocked with amazing goodies.
We had a sea front room with the best views. We loved waking up to the sight of clear blue water and blue skies. The GM left personalized letters welcoming us for our honeymoon. Another great initiative by the Australian couple who ran the hotel was to invite all the guests to the bar for free drinks. Even here they were attentive to our needs as Muslims and we were provided non-alcoholic beverages. We chatted happily with other guests and met local business people.
Beautiful Casa Del Mar from the sea.jpg. Pic: Sana Pervez.
In Langkawi things to do included the Cable Car, where we also got our caricatures made, island-hopping tours, water sports, bat cave tours and sampling the amazing street food. Overall we were impressed with the clarity of the water and how perfect Langkawi was for honeymooners.
Our hotel also arranged a cast away picnic for us on a private island. When we arrived the staff put up a private tent for us to relax and enjoy the serene and calm waters.
Cast Away Picnic by Casa Del Mar on a private Island. Pic: Sana Pervez.
On our last day we had a spa at the hotel and the most relaxing massage ever which prepped us for the long flight back home. It was a fabulous trip and we met some lovely people whom we’re still in touch with. One day we hope to visit again as there is still so much left of Malaysia to see.
