For centuries, Damai, on the northwest coast of Borneo, has been a magnet for all kinds of travellers. Its history is rich with tales of wealthy merchants, romantic adventurers, explorers and pirates.

Today, Damai attracts travellers of a different kind – holidaymakers looking for peace and seclusion in an idyllic setting on the shores of a tropical sea, surrounded by the rainforest-clad slopes of Mount Santubong.

However, Damai, about 40 minutes’ drive from Kuching, the capital of Sarawak, offers visitors far more than peace and seclusion. Think international-class resort, glorious sun and sea, an award-winning world-class ‘living museum’, an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course (the first in Malaysia), an adventure in the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and a host of recreational and sightseeing opportunities.

It’s all here at the Damai Beach Resort set on Teluk Bandung’s sandy beach facing the South China Sea and nestled within the world’s oldest tropical rainforest. Its outstanding architecture is one of harmonious variations modelled on a fishing-village theme.

Days are often too short to experience all the activities the resort offers. Tropical nights are no less intense, with cultural shows and theme events such as the mysterious Headhunters’ Night and Hawaiian Luau. The resort is a window to many experiences – a highland retreat, beach paradise and the ultimate rainforest living experience.

Fancy having breakfast in the rainforest or in the mountains with a clear view of the South China Sea? You can also get close to nature by cruising along the mangrove swamp, and watch brilliant firefly colonies. At sea, you may spot dolphins and turtles. These are a fraction of what Damai Beach Resort offers.

With its many retreat packages and close proximity to local attractions like the famous ‘living museum’ of South East Asia, Sarawak Cultural Village, Bako National Park and Satang Island, there is plenty of choice for things to see and do.

For the golf enthusiast, the Damai Golf Retreat package is a must. Together with the Damai Golf and Country Club, the resort offers a package with unlimited golfing on an Arnold Palmer-designed course surrounded by a breathtaking view of the ocean and lush rainforest. Its Mountain 9 and Ocean 9 offer a spectacular golfing contrast. It was named Best Golf Course in Sabah and Sarawak in 2005-06.

Nature lovers will love the Damai Nature Retreat packages. They include scheduled trips to the Bako National Park and Semenggoh Orang Utan Sanctuary, as well as dolphin and turtle watching.

For those in search of relaxation and holistic wellness, the Damai Spa Indulgence Retreat and Damai Holistic Wellness Retreat packages are a must-try. With spa treatments based on ancient secrets of the Ledang Spa, customized personal fitness activities, all natural meals and registered naturopaths, you can be on a journey towards total relaxation and rejuvenation.

Busy executives will enjoy the Damai Executive Time-Out Retreat and Damai Ultimate Escapade Retreat packages. With activities such as golf, spa sessions and water sports, they go a long way in renewing one’s zest.

For details: http://www.damaibeachresort.com