At the very least, the resort is well designed and moreover, the hospitality is amazing. In my mini-research, this building was used to be a Sheraton property. The majority of the building was designed by a well-known architect firm from Malaysia, GDP in 1996. Over the year, this building have gone through numbers of major refurbishment until it became The Westin Langkawi in the present. Without any "outdated" impression, this hotel shows a good example of timeless design.

The Westin Langkawi is located in the outskirt of Kuah Town. Kuah literally means "gravy" that originated from a folklore of how two giants fought and spilled a cup of gravy that resulted in the creation of this area. Kuah itself is located on the southeastern side of Langkawi and the resort was built almost on the southeastern cape of the island. Unlike Pantai Cenang—the busier area of Langkawi—the location of this property is more laid back with a not-so-attractive stretch of private beach. While the beach was not that enjoyable, it was the view of the emerging small islands that captivated me while staying here.

As I mentioned before, the resort is an old building, hence, low ceiling spaces are a usual sight as I wander around. Nevertheless, the interior design was made to maximize the feeling of spaciousness through the color and furniture choices. It is also clearly visible that The Westin Langkawi, similar to other Westin properties—for instance The Westin Jakarta I visited recently—boasts the use of natural patterns for the furnishing and decorations, in this case, coral is the main theme.

While I was checking-in, the receptionist offered me SPG membership. To this date, I think this was one of the best hospitality membership ever. To make it short, SPG has 2000+ hotels all around the world under this single brand. Moreover, since 2016, SPG merged with Marriott and became the largest hotel chain in the world. Beside gaining points through our stays, by joining SPG, I could also earn points by using Uber application (click here for more information).

Lobby and lounge area of The Westin Langkawi

We walked quite a distance to reach our room which was located at one end of the resort's wing. As this is an old building, it seems that green building concepts are impossible to be adapted. The corridor leading us to the rooms are fully air-conditioned without any natural lighting available, which is peculiar for a tropical resort building.

Premium Partial Ocean View Room - The Westin Langkawi
I booked the Premium Garden View Room through a third party travel agent with a deal-breaking price. After we reached the room, I realized that we received a Partial Ocean View Room instead. An upgrade which, sadly, could not be enjoyed because of the dull weather. Measured at 52 square meters, The Premium Room in this hotel is not at all cramped. We truly love the balcony and the possible indulgence if it were a clear day with blue skies. The use of coral as the main pattern—for instance the paintings above the Heavenly Bed—is even more subtle in the guest room. Combined with aging wood floor and ceiling fan, this hotel room gave me the tropical escape mood!



While I was researching for The Westin Langkawi before staying here, I acknowledged that the bathroom was not refurbished into a luxurious full marble bathroom as Westin properties usually do. Instead, it was as if I were transported into a mere 3 or 4 star hotel bathroom. For your own consideration, do note that the glass partition on the side of the bathtub is transparent to an extent, which, to some people, might be a huge consideration for staying here.

Surprisingly basic bathroom

I always try to find a resort with a beautiful spot to take sunrise or sunset photos. The Westin Langkawi sure knows how to spoil photographers by providing that very spot—Float—a jetty functioning as a private dining space. Whenever it is vacant, hotel guests are allowed to walk down to the end of the jetty to see the expansive view of the Andaman Sea with Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Tuba, and Pulau Bumbon Besar as the foreground. This was the perfect spot to admire the beauty of those unique island formation, especially when a perfect weather follows. This very spot is also a perfect location to enjoy sunset, which I didn't have the chance to.

Float  - The Westin Langkawi

To make up for two days of bad weather, we decided to spend the last evening enjoying a buffet dinner in Seasonal Tastes restaurant. On that evening, the theme of the buffet was Asian cuisine. I could not elaborate how amazing the buffet spread was! Grilled salmon, beef and lamb chops, shabu-shabu, fried rice, dim sum, and so much more that it is impossible for me to mention each dish served. I only remembered that I was so full and satisfied that evening as all of the dish were super tasty!

Asian Nights at Seasonal Tastes Restaurant

On the last day of our stay in The Westin Langkawi, it was a miracle that the sun shined on clear blue sky. I quickly finished my breakfast to have more time to enjoy this resort in its prime weather. I started wandering around the resort from this beautiful circular stair that led me to the lobby area.


It was on the last day that I could fully appreciate the beautifully designed lobby. I adore the contemporary hanging lamp with the shape of random tubular shapes that reminds me of staghorn coral. The ambiance of the sea and the beach are further emphasized by the color tone of the throw pillows, sofa lounge, and the carpets.

Lounges at The Westin Langkawi

Behind the lobby area, a semi outdoor space called the Breeze Lounge captivated me as the vista stretched at the end of the balcony. As I walked pass through the seats, I was mesmerized by the view of the Andaman Sea. It was not the best weather, but this view was so redeeming compared to the last two days!

Breeze Lounge at The Westin Langkawi

Expansive view of the Andaman Sea

Even though The Westin Langkawi was renovated to the latest interior trends, the visible wood structure and local architectural shapes defined the context of this resort. The roofs, especially, resemble Minangkabau multi-leveled gable roofs. It turns out that Minangkabau people have settled in Negeri Sembilan area for quite a long time. No wonder the adaptation of the traditional architecture originated in West Sumatera is possible with apparent modifications.

Locally inspired roof shape of the resort

The Westin Langkawi is a resort of its own kind—far from the crowded Pantai Cenang, yet only a ten-minute-drive away from Kuah where you could find anything else for your convenience. For a moment, I really despise the fact that I could not enjoy this resort in the best weather, but then I realized that only because of two gloomy days I could be grateful for the sunny day! This resort undoubtedly is recommended for those seeking a peaceful stay with many possible activities in the vicinity.