In the fast-paced world of smart investments and financial success, it’s easy to overlook the most valuable asset of all – our health. As smart investors, we understand that true wealth goes beyond monetary gains that encompasses our well-being. As they say the first wealth is health. Prioritizing our health is not just a necessity; it is a smart investment strategy that ensures we can enjoy the fruits of our labour.
One way to achieve this is by taking occasional breaks to reduce the stress in our lives. Stress has become an unwelcome companion in our modern lives, negatively impacting our productivity and our health. To combat this and safeguard our well-being, we need to occasionally disconnect from this hectic world and reconnect with nature. The problem is that for most busy executives when work is overflowing and stress building up, they tell themselves that at the end of the year, they would take time to destress. Stress is a silent killer and we do not know when it would kill. There must be a better way to handle stress than just waiting out till the end of the year as for some it might come too late.
It is with this in mind that I decided to explore various places for a short getaway from the hustle bustle of the city and yet not too far away. Recently I found one, Beacon Resort where my family and I spent 3 days 2 nights which was most refreshing, reinvigorating and rejuvenating. I like to share for the benefit of Smartinvestor readers here a great way to destress and reenergise yourself.
Nestled amidst the lush greenery with an exotic ambiance by the riverside, which is only an hour’s drive away from Kuala Lumpur, in Kerling, Tanjung Malim. Beacon Resort offers a scenic tranquil and serene escape from the chaos of everyday life. This resort is a hidden gem tucked away from the bustling city life; its secluded location will allow you to immerse yourself in the true beauty of nature.
From the moment I arrived and shortly after the checked in, I was captivated by the extraordinary service of Dino Goh, the Chief Executive Officer himself who personally drove me and my family in a buggy car for a quick tour of the facilities. His humility, warmth and friendliness won our hearts.
In order not to be overwhelmed by this halo effect, and to have a fair evaluation of this place, I would like to begin by looking at the differentiation factors of this resort.
Hot Spring
Let me start with a one-of-a-kind natural hot spring. I immersed my entire body into this natural spring of geothermal energy-heated water and soaked for almost an hour. I could feel my muscles loosening, the warmth of my blood circulation, and the tinkling of my skin. As a consultant, trainer, and writer, where stress often piles up unnoticeably, it definitely helped me relax and sleep better that night, and the next day I noticed my dry and rough skin was smoother and softer.
The Hydrogen Spa (Hot and Cold)
I opted to try out the hot and cold hydrogen spa on the second day. I spent 15 minutes in the hot hydrogen spa at 40 degrees, followed by 5 minutes in the cold one. That was a long cold and shivering 5 minutes that worked wonders to wake up all my senses. I felt so alive, alert, and fresh all day, and I was flooded with new ideas, which I promptly took down in my digital notepad for my next write-up.
I’ve been told that active oxygens, also known as toxic oxygens, have a high acidity that causes oxidation in our bodies and are overproduced in our environment due to contaminants, chemical materials, infrared rays, stress, and other factors. As a result, our cell membranes are damaged and cells may lose their functions, leading to ageing and a variety of diseases.
I could see what appeared to be hydrogen vapour coming from the pool I was in. I was taught that extremely concentrated hydrogen water penetrates the skin and eliminates active oxygen in the body without causing any negative effects. I was educated on the advantages of rapid scar recovery, less muscle soreness, enhanced hair texture, soothed skin conditions, and boosted immunity.
While there was not enough time to assess all of these benefits, all I could sense after the hot hydrogen spa followed by the cold one was a rejuvenating feeling of my entire body being more relaxed and energised. My skin did seem better and softer after the spa.
Hand Therapy with Aromatherapy
I noticed a huge queue waiting for the Aroma Touch Hand Therapy on the first day as the booking comes with a complimentary 10-minute treatment. This therapy employs 8 of ‘doTerra’s’ strong oils and blends, which are pure and natural aromatic chemicals meticulously derived from plants. The approach is said to relieve stress, inflammation, and improve the immune system.
While I was unable to assess the effects of inflammation reduction and immune system stimulation, I did notice that my fingers were more relaxed and less stiff immediately following this therapy. The aroma of the essential oil was incredibly calming and refreshing, and it lingered with me throughout the day.
Food and Drink
This resort is well-known for its emphasis on healthy eating and wellness. The food is organic and pesticide-free. For example, it has its own thousand island sauce and special Beacon chickens that are fed high quality feed and contain no antibiotics, hormones, or heavy metals – they are even safe to consume for cancer patients.
They come in simple form, like with any healthy food, but are nonetheless pleasant and delightful. A word of caution: don’t walk into the dining hall expecting fine dining, but the food is delicious. Herbal chicken porridge, healthy fried mee and bee hoon, Beacon Seaweed Chicken Soup, seaweed eggs, Radiant’s organic sprouting red beans and green bean soup, and 100% Beacon Chicken Wanton and chemical free fish balls are among the menu offerings. The special meal on the menu upon request is Mookata, which is available for only RM20 per pax.
All of the food offered is of high quality, fresh, and made with halal ingredients. I felt completely privileged to have the opportunity to experience this absolutely revolutionary diet at Beacon Resort, a healthy dining out at a vacation resort for the first time!
The cost of meals and facilities (without lodging)
Individual and corporate packages are available. There are also day trip packages, two-day two-night packages, and three-day two-night packages to suit one’s budget and convenience. For example, for three days and two nights, the package starts at RM316 plus per adult and Rm216 plus per child. Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner are all included in the price.
We rented the White Jasmines with 2 Queen Beds and 2 single additional beds because I was travelling with my family.
Rooms come in a variety of sizes to accommodate everyone’s needs. The accommodation rates range from RM300 plus per night with 1 queen bed for 2 pax to RM660 per night with 1 king bed + 4 single beds with additional beds if required, accommodating up to 10 pax.
Other Amenities
Beacon Resort also offers functional relaxation therapy, sauna detox, fish feeding, with a riverfront view. A great spot to connect with nature while listening to the sounds of the river, birds, and wind, as well as seeing the gorgeous Rajah Brooke Birdwing butterfly flap its multicoloured wings. The adjacent hiking trails and picturesque viewpoints offer plenty of options for exploration and stunning views.
Personnel and Hospitality
The Beacon Resort personnel were the actual highlight of my visit. I was greeted with genuine warmth and hospitality from the moment I checked in. Staff members went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and to make our stay unforgettable. They were always willing to help with any request or inquiry, and they provided helpful ideas for neighbouring sights and activities. Their focus and attention to detail gave a personal touch that made my family and I feel like VIP visitors.
Money’s worth
Beacon Resort provides good value for money when considering the calm surroundings, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional service. While the rates are slightly higher compared to some hotels, the unique experience of being immersed in nature’s beauty and the calm it gives is worth every ringgit. As visitors, we enjoyed our stay and even felt a little virtuous knowing that we are supporting environmentally friendly practises.
Overall Impression
My stay at Beacon Resort was both memorable and transformative. The tranquil setting, attentive staff, and connection to nature all contributed to an amazing getaway. The resort’s commitment to environmental preservation, serving healthy food, and providing a pleasant atmosphere amidst the gorgeous vegetation is genuinely admirable. Beacon Resort is the ideal option for those looking for a calm escape that celebrates nature’s beauty while remaining close to Kuala Lumpur. This resort receives a 5-star rating from me.
Dr Victor SL Tan is the Chief Executive Officer of KL Strategic Change Consulting Group. He is the author of 15 publications, including management books and biographies such as Tan Sri Teh Hong Piow’s Lessons of Success. His book has been inducted into the Malaysia Book of Records, and his organisation has won The BrandLaureate Awards for the consulting firm that has had the greatest positive and profitable influence on organisations.
