A Local Paradise Found
A Local Paradise Found!
Discover Santorini's Charm Without Leaving Malaysia
by Tan / 13 March 2025
After much planning, my family and I finally found a weekend when everyone was available. So, we packed our bags and set off on a 2-day, 1-night getaway to Beacon Resort, about 80 KM from Kuala Lumpur.
We arrived at the resort around 2 PM. Following a quick registration, we dropped off our luggage at the lobby. The surroundings were so beautiful that we couldn’t resist taking pictures.
Since it wasn’t check-in time yet, we decided to explore the mini animal farm. The kids who rarely have the opportunity to interact with animals in the city, were beyond excited. Their chatter and laughter filled the air as they interacted with the adorable creatures.
We bought three bottles of animal feed for RM10, letting the little ones experience the joy of feeding animals while taking a well-needed break from their phones. We spotted fluffy white geese, turkeys, guinea fowls, horses, and even pygmy goats. It was an exciting, up-close encounter with animals you don’t normally see.
After the kids had unleashed their energies, we took a break at the White Bar & Cafe. The serene, all-white ambience provides a Santorini-like vibe! We ordered coffee, sat together and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere.
A Dream Vacation: Your Escape to Pure Joy
At 3 PM, we were finally able to check into our rooms. A fleet of buggies arrived to take us and our luggage to the rooms. The kids eagerly anticipated their first glimpse of our accommodations. Along the way, the sound of children exclaiming at the sight of the hot springs and the river near our room.
We arrived at the White Jasmine room. After we dropped off our luggage, it was time for afternoon tea. The food includes fried noodles, organic red bean soup, etc. and my mum’s favourite red bean soup, which she was very impressed with as it was not too sweet at all!
By the time we finished, it was already 4 PM, and it was finally time for the activity we had all been looking forward to—grass sliding! We walked to a grassy slope, grabbed a sledge, and joined the line. We sat in the sledge and followed the instructions given by the staff, and then they gave us a little push, sending us sliding down at thrilling speeds.
Laughter and excited screams filled the air, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. Watching my nephews slide down effortlessly, I felt confident—until it was my turn at the top. Standing at the top, I felt a wave of hesitation, but with no turning back, I took a deep breath, squeezed my eyes shut, and went for it! My family erupted into laughter at my reaction, making the experience even more unforgettable
The fun continued until a gentle rain began to fall, prompting us to seek shelter in the Joyous Castle. The kids enjoyed the mini-games inside, from building sandcastles to playing shooting games. They ran from game to game, immersed in the fun.
As the day faded into night, we returned to our rooms to freshen up for dinner. The highlight of the evening was the Thai Mookata prepared by the resort to satisfy the appetites of our family, the ingredients filling almost the entire table, it is not an exaggeration to say that it was a full banquet!
Our favourite was the spicy, tangy, and addictive Tom Yum soup base. The grilled meats were perfectly juicy and tender, especially the Beacon Chicken, which we had been hearing raves on!
A Moment to Connect With Nature
After dinner, we changed into swimwear and ventured to the hot springs, a haven of relaxation under the starry sky. Nestled within the forest and surrounded by lush greenery, the hot spring pools offered a private and secluded retreat.
The mineral-rich water worked wonders to relieve muscle tension and increase blood circulation. It was just what we needed after an exhausting day.
Just as we were getting comfortable, the rain returned! The drizzle quickly turned into a downpour, forcing us to call for a shuttle to send us back to our rooms.
After freshening up, we gathered in our parents’ spacious room for a heartfelt chat. The laughter and conversations brought us even closer, making the moment truly special.
The next morning at 7 AM, we were ready and waiting in front of the dining area for our guide to take us on a jungle trek. The forest was quiet and peaceful in the morning, with the scent of earth, trees and a hint of grass. The hike lasts about forty minutes, which is not too tiring and wakes up the body sufficiently.
By the time we returned from our walk, breakfast was ready. As we stepped into the dining area, a delightful spread of dishes awaited us—roti canai, porridge, soft-boiled eggs, fruits and more. The meal was both nutritious and flavorful, with the rich, aromatic Herbal Beacon Chicken Porridge being a particular favourite of our parents.
After breakfast, we bought some fish food and proceeded to the pond, feeding fish while enjoying the peacefulness.
After feeding the fish, we continued our journey to the Inki River, where our parents rested in the gazebo and hammocks by the riverbank, while the younger ones couldn’t wait to take off their shoes and socks and step barefoot into the crystal clear water. It was a perfect morning with the refreshing breeze and surroundings.
As the morning drew to a close around 11 AM, it was time to pack up and check out.
We took our luggage to the dining area and enjoyed our last meal at the resort – Sunday’s special: Nasi Lemak. The tangy and spicy sambal paired with the rich curry chicken was the perfect farewell meal!
Before leaving, we stopped by the Beacon Mart, sampled some of their health products and bought two boxes of Beacon Chicken Essence as a gift for our parents.
Finally, we took a family group photo in front of the iconic ivory-white architecture to mark the end of our trip. Although our 2-day, 1-night getaway was short, every moment at this resort allowed us to slow down, cherish family time and experience the purest and simplest joy.
See you again, Beacon Resort!
