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 restaurants
- 21 huge rooms with Asian-style décor; honeymooners will love The Loft with its rooftop pool and skyline view
- Excursions 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 allowed
- As with the rest of Malaysia, mosquitos come out in force in the evenings, but repellent is provided
- There are just 21 rooms, so it can get booked up a long way in advance
- Full payment is required on reservation
Best time to go
Kuala Lumpur is 30-35 degrees year-round; we visited in August and experienced overcast mornings, bright, sunny afternoons, the occasional tropical downpour, and hot nights. Peak season is over the festive period, when the hotel gets booked up months in advance. If you plan to visit the east coast, too, avoid November-February as this is monsoon season.
Our top tips
For spectacular views of the Petronas Towers, visit award-winning 33rd-floor Skybar. It's very hip, with an extensive cocktail list and swimming pool centepiece. Call ahead and book one of the cushioned window-side booths to ensure drinks to remember.
Location
Villa Samadhi is located in the embassy district of central Kuala Lumpur, within walking distance of the Petronas Towers.
By Air:
Fly into Kuala Lumpur International Airport (70km).
To take a taxi to Villa Samadhi, buy a fixed price voucher from inside the terminal. Alternatively, take the KLIA Express train direct to KL Sentral (30 minutes). From there you can take the the monorail to Ampang Park (a 5-minute walk from the hotel) or hop in a taxi.
Getting Around
Many sights are also accessible by foot and Villa Samadhi is 5 minutes from the nearest monorail, which will whisk you around the rest of the city. The hotel also offers a free shuttle service to nearby restaurants and attractions (on request, subject to availability).
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Malaysia and getting around
Airports:
- Kuala Lumpur International 70.0 km KUL
Other:
- Beach 90.0 km
- Shops 4.0 km
- Restaurant 1.0 km