Heart and Soul: In nature’s embrace


Taking a breather during one of their daily walks near a resort in Melaka. The writer is second from the right. Photos: POLA SINGH

Heart & Soul
Do you have any real-life, heart-warming stories to share with readers? We'd love to hear from you. Please keep your story within 900 words. Photos are optional and should be in JPEG format (file size about 1MB, captioned). There is no payment for stories, and we reserve the right to edit all submissions. Email your story to: lifestyle@thestar.com.my with the subject "Heart and Soul".

Picture a holiday that beckons – a refreshing change, inviting you to reconnect with nature.

Our family escape to the tranquillity of northern Melaka in July 2023 offered just that – a green haven where the city’s chaos faded away, and the embrace of nature took centre stage. It was a new kind of getaway that revitalised our spirit while contributing to the essence of Visit Melaka 2024.

For my Tara Singh family members, all of whom were born and bred in Melaka and now residing in Kuala Lumpur and elsewhere, this retreat felt like a long-awaited homecoming. This unique getaway amidst natural surroundings is a serene oasis waiting to be explored.

Immersed in nature’s delights: Surrounded by vibrant greenery and fruit trees laden with durians, jackfruits, rambutans and mangosteens, our holiday included nature’s finest offerings.

Enjoying some freshly plucked rambutans.
Enjoying some freshly plucked rambutans.

Unparalleled durian feast: As part of the unique package deal during the durian season, there was a complimentary durian feast, which added extra delight to our retreat. Premium quality durians, freshly fallen from the trees, became the centrepiece of our “eat-all-you-can” communal joy. We ate the Musang King variety to our hearts’ content. The durian season itself is an experience, and this feast became the epitome of savouring nature’s bounty.

Beyond the orchard: Our stay at the resort became a canvas for this refreshing change in our holiday routine. It’s about finding a place that is green – a tranquil escape. The resort, featuring a therapeutic salt spa and a private swimming pool, offered a sanctuary where we could unwind and appreciate the beauty around us.

Daily walks and togetherness: We indulged in daily nature walks, discovering the joy of plucking fresh rambutans within arm’s reach. The resort staff led us in good workouts, complete with warm-up exercises, before our invigorating walks. It was a chance to connect with nature, enhance our well-being, and share moments of joy as a family.

The Tara family (the writer is in the middle, front row) at the resort.
The Tara family (the writer is in the middle, front row) at the resort.

To Malaccans residing outside the state: Now is the time to return and contribute to Visit Melaka 2024. Your presence will not only reconnect you with your roots but you will also play a pivotal role in supporting Melaka’s economy. This isn’t just a holiday; it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger, to revive the spirit of Melaka during this special year.

Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 11.12/month

Billed as RM 11.12 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 9.87/month

Billed as RM 118.40 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Living

Contradictheory: The beautiful game is big business
More shelters in the US are making room for four-legged friends
Legendary US steakhouse Smith & Wollensky lives up to its name at first KL outpost
Europe's forests under growing pressure from timber demand and climate change
Living with cats does not worsen asthma in children, study shows
Plantains could be your new best friend, whether baked, fried, or in a curry
How to transform your home into a vacation space with a holiday feeling
Heart And Soul: The romance of routine
Animal rescuer cares for pets and livestock stranded by war in Lebanon
What is 'house wine' and what are the pros and cons of ordering it?

Others Also Read