The Aryani - Boutique Resort

I do recommend The Aryani for those who just wanna have a quiet getaway on resort grounds without leaving the place (warning : website doesn't do justice to the place). Aryani is a boutique resort in Kuala Terengganu sitting on land owned by the royal family of the state. It takes about 45 minutes to get there from the airport, cabs are easily flagged down from outside the airport or most of their packages come with free pick-up.

The elevated lobby is right next to the Seria Restaurant and they greet you with a refreshing lemongrass drink and freshly fried keropok lekor while you register. From here, you get a good view of the pool (image above) - which is the central highlight of the resort.

Rooms are all villas and there are only 20 of them in total. All rooms have an outdoor bath and the first time I was there, the upgraded superior room also had a sunken bath! It is a very romantic place but can be a bit quiet at night, so if you're not planning to have babies or hot sex, bring a board game, a book or have music available to fill your time.

They only have one restaurant to cater to your dining needs, their 3D/2N package comes with breakfast and dinner, ala carte items are around RM40-50 if you're not on the package. The local breakfast is delicious! The nasi dagang is really good. Dining options outside are not many and you have to take a taxi out to town or nearby eateries (no restaurants, only local huts). They also provide tea time snacks and coffee and tea making facilities.

Nothing much to do in town either, but go to the local market (pasar) in the heart of town and you can get batik material and sarongs, the ride there is about RM15-20, they don't do meters so don't bother, its all standard.

With a view like that from your room, just stay in and leave only to go to the airport. Best thing to do while in Aryani is to hang out by the pool or go for a spa treatment. I recommend the lulur and milk bath. The jacuzzi overlooks the sea and the setting take you back to good ol kampung atmosphere. Staff is respectful and polite.


Go there to totally relax and unwind.