kampung-styled chalets on stilts sit. While these chalets offer the most fascinating ocean views of the emerald South China Sea, those hidden up in the forested canopy are truly hoisted into the treetops to allow a life of uninterrupted pleasure.

JapaMala Resort is characterized by a striking blend of exotic Malay and Asian architecture and interior designs. For utmost privacy, rooms are tucked away secretly in their own little retreat. The Jungle Sarang Villas (meaning 'nests' in Malay) and chalets are designed for total comfort. Imagine the simplicity of the traditional living space adorned with a modern chic. Enjoy the luxurious open space each offers. From big open-air bathtubs at the edge of the jungle and showers divided only by glass, to the wide futon-ed reading verandahs perched high in the trees or above the ocean. Another worthy fact to note is that no matter which room you may choose to stay in, you can't escape the sound of waves lapping the beach. The intense closeness to nature is seemingly the primary emphasis of this resort.

While all are well-appointed with modern amenities such as air-condition, fan, hot water shower, mini bar and TV/DVD system, the Sarang villas are bejeweled with a few more special features. This include an outdoor pebbled bath tub, a cosy 'attic-like' reading loft with a view of the distant sea, an in-room lounge area with a day bed and a large lanai for private outdoor dining or to receive spa therapies. The Spaya Spa is scheduled to operate only by 2006, nevertheless each room is bestowed a basic in-house spa kit which guests may take home. Eventually, an array of Asian treatments will be available.

Whether a long or short stay, good food shares the importance of a comfortable environment in making a vacation memorable. At Tamarind Terrace, guests can expect to relish a gastronomic palate of comfort food - fine Thai and Indo-Chinese cuisine, as well as a limited variety of Western favorites for guests from around the world. Tamarind Terrace, which is built on the beach, sets an ambience which resembles its award-wining sister-restaurants in KL (Tamarind Hill and Tamarind Springs). Regular romantic beach barbeques under the star-studded sky promise to set anyone in a quixotic mood.

The focus in preserving its surrounding nature is also evident in the way the rooms were structured; all were designed and built around the resort's natural landscape. Therefore not one tree was sacrificed in the course of construction. Contained within an undoubtedly wealthy bio-diversity of tropical wildlife, JapaMala Resort takes pride as friends of nature by practicing 'responsible tourism' - preserving wildlife habitats, conserving natural resources and creating jobs for the local community.

On a perfect day, the sun would cast its light upon the crystal-clear green water which then illuminates the beachfront lagoon like a sparkling gem. That, is virtually impossible to resist. The inviting call for underwater explorers and those who merely desire a rejuvenating dip should however, always ring a reminder for sun protection.

There are beach pavilions that offer comfortable shade for sunbathing and a soothing setting for drinks by sundown. Adjacent to the pavilions is an audio-visual lounge. Built over a big water-lily pond by the seaside, it's not only designed to support seminars and corporate sessions of all kinds but also a cozy satellite-TV lounge by nightfall.

The other fun things to do include exploring adjacent beaches and sites by sea kayaks, go fishing during the day or night or tread the trails to neighboring villages through the jungle. A four-day scuba diving certification course is possible with JapaMala's dive operators. And for those who truly seek ultimate indulgence, enjoy a gourmet picnic on a deserted beach with your spouse or on-board a cruise. Sunset cruises and private day trips can also be organized.

A small resort with the virgin jungle forming the background and dancing waves rippling at the beachfront, JapaMala welcomes those who admire mother-nature and those who seek comfort being surrounded by this naturalistic state. This resort is hence the promise of a true nature paradise.