The Danna Langkawi, Malaysia

We had a lovely holiday and found lots to praise here. We booked our trip last minute (over the peak, Christmas/NY period), and admittedly, the Danna wasn’t our first choice. Based on initial impressions, my review would have been a 4 star rating, but within a couple of days of our week long stay we had developed a real affection for, and appreciation of, all that the Danna does so well. An enormous part of this was thanks to the wonderful staff. They are simply fabulous - so warm, gracious, efficient, attentive and relentlessly accommodating. There is a genuine desire to provide guests with a great experience, and on the rare occasion this fell short, the concern to put right, was palpable. We found the hotel to be well managed and that by and large, everything worked, with departments in harmonious synchrony. The reception team were helpful, efficient, and prompt in their responses to pre-stay emails, and F and B staff, outstanding. The Danna is a fine looking, faux colonial building, with a large, infinity pool and delightful strip of white sand beach. The only downside is the presence of jellyfish. On the other side of the property, there is a rather shabby looking marina. Having toured around Langkawi during our stay, we felt there were nicer parts of the island, particularly to the north. The upside of the location is the close proximity to the airport and to the Skycab and Skybridge attractions. Bedrooms are generously proportioned and well fitted out. The bed was supremely comfortable, the shower really powerful, the bath products upscale (Jo Loves) and the WIFI, stable. Housekeeping did a top job, were generous in replenishing water, and we looked forward to the chocolate treats which appeared most nights. The hotel has some lovely communal areas, the lobby and bar in particular, have grandeur and fine furnishings. But other parts, hotel corridors for example, have been finished to a lower standard. The gym is a reasonable size, with a pleasant outlook, but in contrast to the tip top cleanliness of all other areas, didn't appear to have had a sweep during the 3 consecutive days we visited it. Restaurants - we had our first dinner in the Sino-Malay restaurant 'Straits and Co' where food was good and service delightful, but the ambience was close to zero. This room is too brightly lit, with naff furnishings that give it the feel of a cafe. We booked the Bubbly Sunday Brunch, a buffet, served from 1130am till 3pm, arriving at 2pm. We were a bit disappointed with the limited selection, and that the buffet wasn't kept fully refreshed till the close of play. Service was faultless though. The main restaurant Planters, also lacked atmosphere, despite the hotel being at full capacity. It's a large room, quite functional in design, and again, too brightly lit. They really need to look into installing some mood lighting to create a more desirable environment. However, once we'd learned the ropes, we got into the habit of booking one of the handful of gorgeous outside tables, overlooking the pool. Dining in this setting transformed the experience of dinner for us. Food in Planters (a la carte), was superb, ditto the service. Our favourite eatery was 'The Terrace', their Italian restaurant, a dining space with a bit more style to it, alongside an attractive outdoor terrace. And you guessed it - fantastic service. Breakfast was a terrific international buffet spread with live egg stations, supplemented by a choice of freshly cooked, table served dishes - and help-yourself fizz (bravo!!). Service again, was exemplary. There was only one occasion when this wasn't the case. Unusually, they appeared to short staffed one evening, and we were left way too long between courses. My old grump of a husband felt the need to mention it (I felt like he'd kicked the cat), and the angst of the waiters was clear to see. A senior bod was quick to follow up, and even to check on us the next morning at breakfast. We found the ethos of customer satisfaction to be deeply embedded. They care. Another triumph was the fabulous evening put on for New Years Eve. On this occasion, the buffet was a terrific spread with an array of oysters and other fine seafood, followed up by an enticing offer of international dishes and free flowing drinks. The entertainment was great, the lighting and beach setting beautiful, and the atmosphere, elegant, lively and fun. A very memorable evening - which only served to further consolidate our affection and appreciation of The Danna. Well done all.

Beautiful hotel, right on the beach. Hit and miss with the service at restaurants and spa but otherwise a lovely holiday. There were great events such as a NYE buffet with entertainment and a great evening on a Sunday when there was a buffet outside and live entertainment. That was the best evening for us. Great room, very spacious and cleaned well.

Ideal location, beautiful hotel. I am impressed with an amazing staff and services. Everything was top notch - breakfast with a live piano music, courteous services around the hotel, New Year gala presentation, food.

Stunning hotel in a colonial style, what you’d expect from the Luxury hotel group. I stayed with my husband and tweens for 3 nights in a one bed villa which I would recommend. They were absolutely fantastic, I had to pinch myself, I felt so lucky to be in one. We had a huge pool all to ourselves and a gate at the bottom that opened up to the beach. The food was brilliant, 3 restaurants to choose from and if you had a du bed by the pool you could press a button for waiter service. As we were in a suite we had a concierge on WhatsApp. We stayed for New Year’s Eve and the Danna know how to throw a party! Singers, magicians! No expense spared with the food! The resort is situated in the north, and if you want variety, I’d recommend staying for a couple of nights at their sister hotel tanjun rhu as this resort has a spectacular beach. If you are going to Langkawi then you won’t be disappointed at either of these properties. Also if you want to get out & about, use the grab app for cheap taxis! Enjoy!!!

Absolutely stunning hotel and without question the best we’ve ever stayed in. The Danna is flawless from start to finish — exceptional service where nothing is too much trouble, a truly beautiful setting, and an atmosphere of relaxed luxury that makes it feel incredibly special. The food is outstanding across the hotel, with every meal feeling like a treat. From the moment we arrived we felt completely looked after, and it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave. An unforgettable stay and one we can’t wait to repeat.