Beautiful weddings & idyllic honeymoons at The Haven Resort Hotel & Residences, Ipoh
Her World Brides stylist Michelle Lee took a trip to The Haven Resorts Hotel & Residences in Ipoh, Malaysia, which is a tranquil locale for both a short getaway for weary urbanites and an elegant wedding celebration.
By Michelle Lee -
Surrounded by verdant greenery and limestone karsts, and situated on the edge of a virgin forest, visitors feel a sense of calm and peace upon stepping into the resort. A lake sits in the middle of the compound, just right beside the swimming pools, so couples can revel in the scenery as they take a dip.
In the morning, the air is fresh and crisp, ringing with the calls of resident wildlife that include a wide species of birds, frogs, butterflies, and even monkeys - perfect for nature lovers to take a leisurely stroll.
Image: The Haven Resort & Residences
My one-bedroom abode also had a spacious living room and kitchen. Furnished to resemble cushy residential apartments, each overlooks the lake and towering limestone rocks - a lovely sight to wake up to. Head over to Cuisines, the poolside bar and restaurant, which dishes up an Asian and Western buffet, for a sumptuous breakfast, or whip up your own in the comfort of your own kitchen (there's a supermarket near the hotel).
Image: The Haven Resort & Residences
The well-appointed apartments made for a comfy stay.
Image: The Haven Resort & Residences
For a beautiful and intimate ceremony that overlooks the entire resort, the sheltered Amphitheater located right at the edge of the lake is lovely. One of the best spots within the resort to have your reception is on the grassy lawn behind a magnificent 280 million year-old limestone rock, which can accomodate up to 400 guests. Singapore wedding planner Spellbound Weddings created a magical garden-themed marquee setting with long tables decorated in printed floral tablecloths and lush floral arrangements. Dazzling fairy lights were strung across the transparent marquee, adding a dreamy feel as we tucked into a delectable four-course dinner.
Image: Steve Tan Photography
Spellbound Weddings dreamt up an enchanting tablescape with romantic floral centrepieces in pastel hues, floral tablecloths and crystal accents.
Image: Steve Tan Photography
For the main course: Chargrilled chicken served with baby potatoes and carrots.
The dessert table was housed inside this enchanting igloo-inspired setting.
Image: Steve Tan Photography
The Amphitheatre located by the lake.
Image: The Haven Resort Hotel & Residences
After your wedding and a good sleep-in, venture out of the hotel. Not only is the laidback charm of Ipoh a refreshing change for city-dwellers, the local eats are great too. The town's famous for its salt-baked chicken, chicken noodle soup (especially at Thean Chun restaurant, above), tambun biscuits, and of course, white coffee. Don't forget to visit the popular Concubine Lane located in Old Town, which is a quaint street filled with stalls peddling street food, icy treats and knick knacks. Another popular tourist attraction is the Lost World of Tambun theme park. Taxis can be hard to come by so you can either request for a driver from the hotel, or rely on the Uber app to get you around.
Burps and Giggles, an industrial chic cafe that's part of the hipster enclave around Jalan Sultan Yussuf.