AVILLION PORT DICKSON
A Tranquil Escapade
BY HIRANMAYII AWLI MOHANAN
Sprawling over 23 acres of coastal area and the Straits of Malacca is an award-winning, five-star beach resort, Avillion Port Dickson. Not only does it have 240 exquisitely designed accommodation ranging from chalets to villas, it offers a chance to break free from mundane existence in the city. The architecture of this resort captures the charm of an Old World Malay fishing village while merging it with modern opulence, allowing guests to revel in comfort and splendour. Located an hour away from KL, it acts as a sanctuary, rendering guests an escapade or a honeymoon destination. This huge estate caters to honeymooners and families alike, boasting various categories of chalets and villas from the premium water chalets to the two-bedroom water villas as well as a host of activities that ensure a fun-filled vacation. Walking into the heart of this resort, one can discern that it purveys guests an escapade into nature. Besides the sea, the estate is covered in verdant flora and fauna. During our stay, we encountered peahens and peacock roaming about the area in their glory, squirrels jumping about from tree to tree and a huge monitor lizard perusing the shore.
PREMIUM WATER CHALET
We stayed in a premium water chalet and we can honestly say it broke our hearts when it was time to leave. While its aesthetics emanated a kampung feel, the interior said otherwise. The chalet is a fusion of old-meets-new with contemporary amenities such as a pangkin day bed, a four-poster bed, and a bathtub to dust the cobwebs of the day. The open shower, on the other hand, is a romantic experience of its own, allowing guests to bathe under the open skies and be one with mother nature. The acme of the room, however, is undoubtedly the breathtaking sweeping view of the Straits of Melaka and contrary to popular belief, the water is clean and clear. When dusk loomed, we sat at the private balcony and basked in the saltwater air and watched the sun dip into the horizon. It was the perfect end to a pefect day. Alternatively, fishing enthusiasts would be happy to know that they can rent a fishing rod with bait and fish from the comfort of their own room.
ACTIVITIES
Complemented by a karaoke and bar, as well as back-to-nature recreational facilities like Pet Farm, Orchid Hut, Spice Garden and Plant-a-Tree corner, Avillion Port Dickson is a family-friendly resort. Besides a family pool with Jacuzzi that adjoins the kids’ wading pool, there is also an enclosed adults-only pool for privacy and quiet relaxation. Alternatively, guests can have fun with beach and water sports activities at Riau beach. Catch the sunset from the beautiful cabanas placed around the resort. We work hard every day, so it’s essential that we pamper ourselves on vacation at aVi Spa, Malaysia’s first floating spa built on a glass-and-timber pavilion. At this spa, rejuvenate yourselves with their high-touch, low-technology, Peranakan-inspired spa treatments that guarantee you walk on cloud nine after.
DINING
One can never go hungry at Avillion Port Dickson as it has three restaurants under their roof. Should you get hungry at 2am, fret not because this hotel’s 24- hour dining restaurant, Village Court will satiate your hunger. Like a child, we were in awe and excited at the prospect of an abundant spread that awaited us, featuring a variety of cuisines.
THE VERTE
Be it Sunday brunch or dinner, The Verte is a casual, laidback eatery that offers scrumptious food and an array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages against a view of the resort and sea. We highly recommend the Portuguese Baked Sea Bass with Blue Pea Rice. P/S: It’s a great spot to catch a game of football or any sports for thqt matter.
CROW’S NEST
Set in a contemporary design featuring special timber and rattan furniture with high teak wood ceiling, the design of this dual-level restaurant is a reflection of the rich Malaysian culture. It connects back to the architecture that inspired its name, Crow’s Nest, the highest watch point of a ship. Helmed by assistant manager, Ema and her team of esteemed chefs and servers, you can expect a gastronomic experience like none other. We left our palates in the hands of Ema who recommended their infamous Caesar salad with smoked salmon, nasi goreng kampung, sea white prawns fried with chilli paste with anchovies and finally, for dessert, Phyllo Cannoli, a traditional Italian dessert.
AVI LOUNGE
It comes as no surprise that Avi Lounge has won architectural awards as it stands magnificent, with a Minangkabau-like roof and a circular lounge that overlooks the sea. This spot not only offers serenity, but it also grants you a spectacular setting for picture taking. Premium Water Chalet guests are granted free access to the lounge so we took it upon ourselves to bask in the milieu with a libation in hand and indulge in a plethora of canapes while waiting for the sun to paint the skies orange.