Iniala Resort
Phuket, Thailand
Iniala Resort
Iniala Resort
Opened to much fanfare in 2014, and already graced with a visit by Kim Kardashian, this place is all about opulence and privacy. Situated on a super quiet beach on the mainland just north of Phuket, there are just three villas and a penthouse, with each of the ten rooms designed by a different international designer. It’s not cheap but you won’t have to worry about spending more during your stay, as rates cover all meals, daily massages and two dinners a week at the on-site restaurant, which just happens to be run by three Michelin-starred chef Eneko Atxa. Villas start at US$2,750 ($3,611) per night.
Ariara Island
Linapacan, Philippines
Ariara Island
Ariara Island
Why settle for a regular beach resort when you can holiday on your very own island? We know of a seculded private island resort spanning 125 acres and surrounded by clear blue waters that lets you do just that. Available for private bookings, it’s lined with plush villas and a full staff of 30 people catering to your every need. For those who like partying with friends, it can sleep up to 18 people in its beach cottages, jungle villas and lodge, with prices starting from US$475 ($624) per person, per night (based on a seven night stay). There’s also a chef on-call and heap of activities from diving to jungle treks. For smaller groups of six to eight people, room rates start from US$715 ($938). Prices include all meals and you can free reign of all their water sports equipment too.
Hanging Gardens Ubud
Bali, Indonesia
Hanging Gardens Ubud
Hanging Gardens Ubud
Sometimes nothing can beat an escape to the country, providing you are surrounded by the very best home comforts. That’s just what this boutique resort offers. Encircled by thick tropical rainforest, the 38 private suites and thatch-roofed villas boast spectacular views over the lush valley, and each has its own pool. The restaurant utilizes local ingredients cooked in the grounds and the spectacular split-level infinity pool is one of the most photographed in the world. Rooms start from US$438 ($575) a night.
The Siam Hotel
Bangkok, Thailand
The Siam
The Siam
Enjoy a city break with a difference at The Siam. Inspired by Art Deco and Thai antiques, a stay at this luxury riverside resort designed by Bill Bensley is like stepping back in time (in a good way). Most of the art and antiques in the 39 rooms, villas and dotted around the four restaurants and spa actually belong to the owners, adding to the authentically retro ambience. On top of the four restaurants on-site, there’s also a cooking school, yoga terrace, Muay Thai boxing ring and a beauty salon. And if you want to explore the city sights, just hop on their exquisite wooden launch to be whisked down river in old world style. Suites start from THB16,730 ($669) a night.
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor
Siem Reap, Cambodia
From the cage elevator in the lobby to the whirring fans overhead, it’s easy to imagine yourself back in 1930s Indochina rather than modern day Cambodia when you stay at this elegant colonial-style hotel. Settle down at one of the opulent old world suites or take a stroll around the 15 acres of French Gardens before settling down for pre-dinner drinks at the famous Elephant Bar. The fact that the majestic and deeply spiritual temple complex of Angkor Wat is a short 8km drive away just adds to the totally unique nature of this destination.
