Escape to Desaru Santorini: Your Malaysian Dream Getaway
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into the turquoise pools and sun-drenched vibes of Escape to Desaru Santorini: Your Malaysian Dream Getaway! (And, you know, I really hope it actually is a dream. My last "dream getaway" involved a leaky tent and a rogue squirrel. Let's pray this is better.)
First, The Basics (yawn…but necessary):
- Accessibility: Okay, so, let's be real. Accessibility is HUGE. Escape to Desaru has wheelchair accessibility. Now, I don’t need it, but I wholeheartedly appreciate that they're thinking about everyone. Good on ya, Desaru!
- Internet, Internet, Everywhere Internet! Free Wi-Fi? In all rooms? Hallelujah! We're talking Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! This is HUGE. I can't live without the internet. Imagine the thought of unplugging… shudders. Also, there's Internet [LAN] if you're feeling old school. I guess they're covering their bases. Internet services are also provided.
- Cleanliness and Safety: The Covid-19 Tango: They're shouting about Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment, and a whole bunch of other buzzwords. Look, I'm glad they're trying. It's reassuring, but can they actually guarantee a germ-free paradise? Hmm…we'll see.
The Good Stuff: Relaxation, Grub, and Giggles!
- Things to Do and Ways to Unwind: A Spa-tacular Escape?
- The Spa! Okay, now we're talking. Body scrub, Body wrap, Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor]…it's like a spa-themed buffet! I'm a sucker for a pool with a view. I'm imagining myself, a Mai Tai in hand, gazing out over some stunning vista. Pure bliss. If I'm honest, I'm also imagining myself looking ridiculous in a body wrap. But at least my skin might feel amazing afterward!
- For the Love of Food!
- Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A veritable feast of options! A la carte in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant. Whew! That's a mouthful (pun intended). Asian and Western Cuisine, I Love it. I'm very excited for the Happy Hour.
Getting Around (and Other Practical Matters):
- Services and Conveniences: Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center. Basically, they've thought of EVERYTHING.
- Getting Around: Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking.
- For the Kids: Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal. They're covering all the bases. Good for families!
My Opinionated Breakdown:
Okay, so, let's get real. This place sounds amazing on paper. It's got a ton of amenities, and the focus on cleanliness is definitely a plus, especially in the current climate. The spa sounds like heaven. The food options? Chef's kiss.
Here's what really matters to me, and this is where my honest review comes in based on the amenities:
- The View: Is the "pool with a view" actually a view worth drooling over? Because let's be honest, some "views" are just…trees. That’s crucial.
- The Food: A varied selection of restaurants is a good thing. But is the food good? I'm a foodie at heart. I'm hoping there's a chef worth their salt.
- The Ambience and Atmosphere: Ultimately, what will make or break any getaway is the vibe. Is it romantic? Is it fun? Is it relaxing?
- The Little Details: Do they provide nice toiletries? Are the beds comfy? The little things matter!
The "Maybe" Bits:
- The Sanitization Frenzy: It sounds impressive, but is it overkill? I'm all for safety, but I'm also a bit wary of places that feel too sterile. Might make me feel a bit like I'm in a hospital and not a vacation spot.
- Pets Allowed Unavailable…* I'm glad they are being mindful.
Overall, it sounds like Escape to Desaru Santorini is aiming for a truly luxurious experience. The key will be whether they can deliver on the promise of a relaxing getaway that matches (or hopefully surpasses) the glossy brochure. I'm cautiously optimistic.
Okay, here's my offer:
Tired of the Same Old Routine? Escape to Desaru Santorini and Discover Your Malaysian Dream!
- Imagine This: Waking up in a luxurious room with Free Wi-Fi at your fingertips (yes, everywhere!). Picture a delicious buffet breakfast, then a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, followed by a relaxing massage. Ahhh. Bliss!
- Why Desaru Santorini? Because it's not just a hotel. It's an experience! With stunning architecture (I'm assuming, based on the name), breathtaking views (fingers crossed!), and a whole host of amenities, you'll be pampered from the moment you arrive.
- We're Talking:
- Unwind: With a world-class spa offering everything from body scrubs to saunas, you can truly escape the stresses of daily life.
- Feast Your Senses: Indulge in a culinary journey with diverse dining options, from authentic Asian cuisine to international fare. Happy Hour awaits!
- Stay Connected: Free Wi-Fi in every room ensures you can stay in touch (or disconnect completely – your choice!).
- Safety First: Rest assured, they're taking extra precautions to ensure your well-being, with rigorous cleaning protocols and trained staff.
- Limited Time Offer! Book your escape today and receive [Insert a great hook – a free spa treatment, a discount on your stay, a complimentary upgrade, etc.]. But hurry, this offer won't last forever!
- Ready to say YES to your Malaysian Dream? Click here to book your unforgettable getaway at Escape to Desaru Santorini!
Desaru Santorini Dreamin' (and Drowning in Sunscreen): A Messy Itinerary
Okay, okay, let's be honest. I, your humble (and slightly frazzled) travel guide, had GRAND visions for this Desaru trip. Desaru Santorini Style by Joyfully 22A4? Sounds like pure, unadulterated Instagrammable bliss. Think whitewashed walls, azure pools, and me, effortlessly sipping something fruity. Reality? Well, let’s just say it involves far more mosquito bites and existential dread about packing the right swimwear. But hey, that's the fun of it, right? Buckle up, buttercups, because this is not your perfectly curated influencer itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival and Existential Angst (and a Whole Lot of Sunscreen)
1:00 PM - Arrival at Senai International Airport (JHB) – Sigh… the start of the journey.
- Okay, so the flight was delayed. Naturally. My inner control freak almost launched into a full-blown meltdown, but then I remembered I was headed to pretend-Santorini and immediately felt better.. kinda. The airport itself was a sweaty, fluorescent-lit maze. Is it just me, or do airports always feel like they’re designed to test your sanity?
1:30 PM - Grab Car to Desaru Santorini Style (Approx. 1.5 hours) - Road Trip Shenanigans Begin!:
- The Grab driver (bless his soul) got stuck in traffic. And here I am, stuck in traffic. The music was horrendous, but I wasn't complaining. I used that time to watch tiktok and start planning the trip.
3:00 PM - Check-in at Desaru Santorini Style – The White Walls Beckon:
- Finally! The gates are open! The place is cute, no doubt, but "Santorini Style" feels a tad… optimistic. More "Malaysian Poolside with a splash of Greece." Still, the architecture – whitewashed buildings, blue accents, the promise of a pool… it’s got potential. My apartment? Surprisingly spacious! And the view from the balcony? Pretty damn good. Now, the real struggle: unpacking. I did not pack enough space.
3:30 PM - Unpack and Assess the Damage Is there even anything good to wear?:
- The reality of the situation hits. I didn't pack enough outfits. Did I even pack anything that goes well together? The answer is NO. I've packed a lot of stuff, just so I can pack more in my already packed luggage.
4:00 PM - Poolside Reconnaissance - The Pool, The Sun, The Dread..:
- Sunscreen! I forgot the sunscreen! Panic mode activated and headed to the nearest store to buy a whole batch. This took more time. The pool is… crowded. So many families, so many screaming kids (not a judgement, just an observation). Grabbed a spot near the edge, strategically positioned to avoid any potential splash zones. The water feels amazing, though. Took my first dive into the water.
5:00 PM - Sunset Cocktails at the "Pool Bar" (If you can call it that) - Hoping for a Miracle:
- Cocktail? More like a sickly-sweet concoction that tasted suspiciously like cough syrup. The "pool bar" was a tiny shack with a limited menu. I took a few shots and gave up. Watching the sunset that was incredible.
7:00 PM - Dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant (Recommended by the front desk) – Seafood Roulette:
- The restaurant? A bustling, noisy place. The seafood was… okay. A little overcooked. But the company? Absolutely fantastic. My stomach decided to take a turn. It's not that bad but still, it's never fun. The food was not good and felt bad.
8:30 PM - Early Night/Meltdown? - The Day's End:
- Did I mention the mosquito bites? I swear those little vampires are on a feeding frenzy. The constant buzzing… it's driving me insane. Off to bed early, hoping for a mosquito-free slumber. Probably not going to happen.
Day 2: Beach Bliss (and a Near-Disaster Involving Sand)
8:00 AM - Wake Up and Embrace the Sizzling Heat - Sunrise, Sun, Suffer…:
- Woke up to a mosquito bite on my eyelid. Just great. Coffee is essential. Lots and lots of coffee.
9:00 AM - Breakfast - Breakfast Buffet Shenanigans:
- The breakfast buffet… a culinary adventure. The usual suspects: nasi lemak, eggs, toast, and a suspect-looking "fruit salad" that I dared not touch. Overall, the food was alright.
10:00 AM - Beach Day at Desaru Beach - Sand, Sun, and the Ocean Blues:
- Finally, the beach! The sand is powdery soft, the water is a gorgeous turquoise blue… and the sun is INTENSE. I’m talking, "burning your retinas" intense. Applied sunscreen religiously, still somehow managed to get a sunburn.
10:30 AM- Swimming and Surfing - The ocean is calling my name!:
- The waves were good. Got up and surfed for a while. Spent the whole afternoon in the ocean, trying to get the perfect waves.
1:00 PM - Beach Bar Lunch - Drinks and Food!:
- Drinks were good. Food was okay.
4:00 PM - Ice Cream Break - The Ice cold break!:
- Went to eat ice cream, and took a break from the sun
7:00 PM - Night Market Exploration - Dinner and Fun!:
- Found a vibrant night market filled with delicious smells, colorful lanterns, and the delightful chaos of local life. Ate all of the delicious things without regret.
8:30 PM - Late Night Drinks - Let's Chill Out!:
- Went to the bar and chilled out until the night's end.
9:00 PM - Back to the Hotel - Going Home:
- Going back to sleep after a long day!
Day 3: One Last Day - The End of the trip:
8:00 AM - Wake up, get ready - Last Day:
- Woke up for the last time, get ready for my last adventure
9:00 AM - Have the Breakfast Buffet - Last Buffet:
- Had the breakfast buffet's last taste, and spent some time with my family
10:00 AM - Pack for the trip - Getting Packed:
- Getting ready by packing all the essentials
12:00 PM - Check out - Checking Out:
- Checking out the hotel.
1:00 PM - Going to the Airport - Going Home:
- Going home.
Final Thoughts:
This trip wasn't perfect. It wasn't exactly the Instagram-ready fantasy I'd envisioned. There were mosquito bites, questionable cocktails, and moments of utter chaos. But you know what? It was real. It was messy. And it was, in its own delightfully imperfect way, wonderful. This Desaru Santorini Style? Definitely worth the trip, even if it’s more "Malaysian Relaxation" than "Greek Getaway." Would I go back? Absolutely. Just… next time, I'm bringing industrial-strength mosquito repellent and a fully stocked bar.
Now, where's that after-sun lotion…?
Morro Bay's Hidden Gem: Hotel Avisa Awaits!
Escape to Desaru Santorini: Your Malaysian Dream Getaway? (Or Not...) - FAQ
Is Desaru Santorini actually *like* Santorini? Because, let's be honest, my Instagram feed has lied to me before...
Okay, let's get real. The name's a bit… optimistic. I mean, picture this: you’re expecting sparkling Aegean waters, bougainvillea cascading down whitewashed walls, and sunsets that’ll make you weep. What you get is… well, it's Desaru. It’s *inspired* by Santorini, alright? Think "Santorini-themed" with a generous helping of Malaysian charm (and sometimes, a touch of… let's say, ‘imperfect construction’). The buildings are white and blue, yes. There's a pool that's *trying* to channel the vibe. But the sea? It’s more… the South China Sea-adjacent. A bit murkier. Still, for Malaysia, it’s a decent attempt. My initial reaction? Big smile. Followed by a slightly deflated "Oh... okay." Don't go expecting pure Greek perfection, and you won't be disappointed. Think of it as Santorini’s chill, Malaysian cousin who loves a good nasi lemak.
The Accommodation: What's the deal with the rooms? Spoilers, please!
Right, the rooms. This is where things get… interesting. They ARE pretty! Those white walls and blue accents are definitely Instagram-worthy, no question. We went for the family suite, because, you know, kids. Big mistake. Just kidding! It was spacious, but the AC? Oh god, the AC. It was either on full blast (freezing!) or barely there. Ended up sleeping in the living room one night just to escape the arctic blast. And the bathroom… well, the shower drain clogged. Seriously. Luckily, I brought my own plunger because, I'm a travel pro, obviously. (I'm not.) But the balcony? Glorious! Overlooking the pool! Perfect for sipping tea and watching the sun set. If you can ignore the construction noise in the distance, it's pure relaxation. Overall: pretty, functional, and a bit… quirky. Pack a plunger and your sense of humor. Oh, and mosquito repellent.
Food, Glorious Food! What's the dining situation? Is it all just "Santorini-esque" cuisine?
Food! Okay. This is a mixed bag. Yes, there are restaurants *trying* to capture the Santorini vibe. Think Mediterranean-inspired dishes, lots of seafood. But remember, you're in Malaysia. So the food is… Malaysianized. The first night, we went for the "Greek" salad. It was… fine. But the feta cheese? Not quite what you’d get in Greece. More like… local cheese pretending to be feta. And the portion size? Tiny. My husband (who's always hungry, bless him) nearly had a meltdown. Luckily, there are other options. Nearby, you’ll find hawker stalls and local restaurants serving up authentic Malaysian fare. Definitely head out and explore those. We found this brilliant little spot a few kilometers down the road that served the BEST mee goreng. It was so good; I went back there every day after my awful “Greek” breakfast.
The Pool Scene: Is the pool as inviting as it looks in the pictures? Don't sugarcoat it!
The pool… ah, the pool. The main selling point, right? In the photos, it looks incredible: sparkling blue water, sun loungers, umbrellas. And… it *is* beautiful. The design is fantastic, all curves and angles. BUT… here's the thing. It can get *packed*. We went during the school holidays, and it was a war zone. Kids everywhere, splashing, screaming, cannonballing. If you're after a tranquil, zen-like experience, forget it. It's more like a slightly chaotic, but ultimately fun, water park. I did manage to find a quiet corner to read my book for about an hour, before a small child decided my lounger would be perfect for launching his toy boat. So, beautiful? Yes. Relaxing? Maybe not all the time. Go early. Or go late. Or maybe just embrace the chaos. Bring earplugs.
Beaches nearby: Are they worth visiting, or should I just stick to the (potentially crazy) pool?
Desaru Beach is just a stone's throw away, and honestly, it's a highlight. The sand is golden, the waves are gentle (most of the time), and the views are… pretty darn good. It's a proper beach, you know? Not trying to be anything it's not. A bit windy, but the breeze feels amazing, especially after a day sweating around the pool. We built sandcastles (bad ones, but still!), collected seashells, and just generally enjoyed the peace and quiet. My two cents? Definitely head to the beach. It's a totally different experience from the resort, and a much-needed dose of reality (and actual sea!). Pack sunscreen, definitely. And maybe a kite. Just be mindful of the tide – it can come in surprisingly quickly. One minute you’re sunbathing, the next you’re frantically rescuing your towel.
Activities! What is there to *do* besides swimming and eating? (Please say there are things to do!)
Okay, yes, there are things to do! Besides swimming and eating (which, let's be honest, is a large part of the appeal). You can visit the Desaru Fruit Farm (surprisingly fun!), go for a mangrove tour (lots of wildlife!), and take a day trip to the nearby Adventure Waterpark. Which, actually, is really good! Much better than expected. Also, there's a small shopping centre, which is helpful for stocking up on snacks and, you know, emergency plungers. Otherwise, well, there's not a *ton*. This isn’t exactly a party destination. It's more about chilling out, relaxing, and escaping the city rat race. Perfect if you're looking for a slower pace, a digital detox, or some quality time with loved ones. Or just drowning my sorrows in a questionable “Greek” salad, as I did.
Getting there: How do you *actually* get to Desaru Santorini? Is it a nightmare?
Getting there is relatively straightforward. The easiest option is to drive from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. The roads are generally good. The journey from KL takes about 4-5 hours, depending on traffic (which can be a killer). From Singapore, it's much closer, maybe 2-3 hours. Honestly, the drive is fine. Nothing to write home about, except for the sheer number of palm oil plantations you'll see, a stark reminder of the beauty and the resources of Malaysia. There are also buses. And taxis. And maybe, if you're feeling adventurous, you could try hitchhiking (I wouldn’t recommend it). Just pack some snacks and some audiobooks because, you know, Malaysian traffic.
Overall, would you recommend Desaru Santorini? Spill the tea!Around The World Hotels
