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A homely setting makes for an inviting welcome to Casa del Mar.
Dear Friends,

Welcome to our Summer Issue 2012!
Sitting by the sunny seaside lounge of Casa del Mar, I’m delightfully taking to task writing another issue for our e-newsletters readers. There have been more milestones and events happening here at your Home by the Sea. For those who have visited us before, you will never be far from our hearts when we celebrate the joy of being on a tropical island. And for those who have yet to discover the beauty of Casa del Mar, read on as we share our memories and introduce to you our staffs, and maybe one day you will be part of the magic. Happy reading…
Yours truly,
Tom Blachere
General Manager
Peek-a-boo
What better way to show you our newly renovated room and facilities but with breathtaking 360 panoramic view. See the morning and night scenes at the click of your fingertips. Please click here to embark the virtual journey to Casa del Mar~Langkawi, at the comfort of your living room.
You said Yummy?

That’s because Chef Zainal and his dedicated team have reinvented the menus. Start off your day with home-made croissants and “chocolatines”, as well as yogurts, jams, breads, cold cuts and salads. We have also included more vegetarian and gluten free items for the breakfast.

For lunch, why not try the Salmon & Leek Quiche, Mix Garden salad with house dressing, Chilled Gazpacho with Pesto. There are also light lunches available, for dining at the sun lounger by the pool or on the beach.

The new dinner menu features new dishes in the continuity of what Casa is known for: fusion Mediterranean cuisine.
Some of the popular dishes are still available, such as Beef Rendang w. Malaysian Spices accompanied with Local Greens.


Rajes and her spa remedy…
Meet Rajes, one of the pioneers at Casa del Mar since the hotel opened in July 2001. Her magical spa remedy is popular amongst the guests. Together with the team of therapists – Ari, Leena and Hani, rest assured their hands will soothe your tired muscles. You’ll also benefit from Rajes’ extensive knowledge in traditional herbs and natural ingredients; Rajes would like to share her recipe- popular homemade ginger tea, a concoction you’ll enjoy at the lounge after each therapy session. By the way, Rajes is also an excellent cook, but this is another story!

Please click here to see the recipe of Rajes’ delicious Ginger Tea.

Magical moments…
It was one of those perfect sunny day; soft breeze blowing with fluffy clouds like white beds of cottons nestled atop the skies.
There was a young couple staying with us for over a week, a few days into their stay, the gentleman booked our seven-course degustation dinner with wine pairing on the beach, he has revealed his plan to us -- proposing to his girlfriend during the dinner.

We were very excited, and felt honoured as we will be part the sweet memories in the couple's lifetime.

The gentleman asked if we could keep the all-important ring as it would be too obvious if it was kept in his pocket. Soon, the entire team at the restaurant was buzzed and roles were assigned for the dinner. The meal went very well and the happy couple went on to have a short stroll under the romantic moonlight on the beach. When dessert was served (and possibly the sweetest dessert experience they had), Azura brought him the ring on a white covered tray, presented with her signature smile. With batted breathe and intense emotions, all restaurant staffs were watching from afar as the precious moments of the real-life drama unfolded. When she fell into his arms crying with joy, our staffs and managers couldn’t hold back their tears too…  What a wonderful scene!


No News No Shoes – Rihiveli Beach Resort Maldives
I want to take this opportunity to share with you one of our sister hotel - Rihiveli Beach Resort Maldives, an island paradise with exceptional setting, environment and people that I fell in love with about 20 years ago.

I have started my career in one of the best diving destinations on earth – Maldives. After 10 years of sailing among the 19 atolls, I had the opportunity to work at Rihiveli Beach Resort.

The name is a combination of two local words. 'Rihi' means shiny and silver, while 'veli' refers to the sand and beach. As the tide goes down, the sand banks appear to rise from the sea. Reflecting the changing light of day, the powdery white sand takes on a silvery glow as it shimmers in the sun's rays – and thus, the name Rihiveli.

Located on the South Atoll of Maldives, far from the throngs of tourists and stresses of urban living, the resort is private and peaceful, just an hour away by speed boat from the airport. The resort is a group of three islands, the main island has 48 thatched roof bungalows, the other two island are uninhabited – – Sunrise Island and Birds Island, you can swim across the lagoon or walk in the shallow lagoon to reach both islands. Unlike other branded luxurious high end resorts, Rihiveli kept the essential of what is needed for a sun-kissed holiday, and you have the luxury to “unplug” from the modern digital world and listen only to your body rhythm. Most of the water sports, activities and excursions are complimentary, meals and laundry are inclusive in the full board package.
Even though it is not an all-inclusive resort (drinks are extras) everything is set and organized so you can do whatever you like whenever you like. What matter the most? People you meet, the incredible staff (pretty much like Casa del Mar) and other guests, a simple fresh grilled fish in the Sunrise Island, the dolphins and other wild encounters…
I have been lucky to live and lead this piece of heaven for seven years and sincerely there is no other place in the Maldives I would go to for my holidays…

Please click here to find out more.
Hpaper Online
The online version of the quarterly printed publication by HPL Hotels & Resorts, this site covers broad topics like fashion, retail, gastronomy and design with a focused regionalist perspective. A concise companion if you like to be out and about, soaking in the local landscape. Please read more about Hpaper, or click here to subscribe.
Gili Lankanfushi Maldives
On 1 July, we welcome a new addition to the HPL family – Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives. At this upmarket boutique resort, eco-luxury is taken to new heights. Hidden away on the private island of Lankanfushi, in a lagoon on North Malé Atoll, lie 45 over-water villas surrounded by abundant marine life. Life by the water’s edge is best experienced with the private water garden, open-air bathroom and rooftop deck featured in all villas. For the ultimate in seclusion, indulge in the seven Crusoe Residences or the exclusive Private Reserve, accessible only by private boat. With nature being the main draw here, much effort has been taken to preserve the environment, all while providing the modern day luxuries you would expect at the finest resorts.
Read more about Gili Lankanfushi Maldives and follow on
Expatriate Lifestyle’s Best of Malaysia Awards is open for nominations
One of the finalist hotels competing for Best Weekend Break, Best Beach Resort and Best Romantic Stay award in Malaysia, please click here to cast your vote for Casa del Mar.

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