Luxury stays: 6 dreamiest resorts in Southeast Asia
Planning a summer getaway in Southeast Asia? Check out our list of the most luxurious resorts in the region — and get inspired!
Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, Indonesia
Taking place in Buahan, one of Bali’s most untapped enclaves, Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape is an adults only resort with authentic Balinese vibe and romantic ambience, making it the perfect hideaway for couples. The resort and its no-walls, no-doors villas concept offers a unique “Naked Experience” in communion with nature. The 16 wooden villas, each equipped with a copper tub and its own pool, provide guests with a garden sanctuary for meditation, reading, or simply taking a moment to pause and unwind.
Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, reservations-buahan@banyantree.com
Amanjiwo, Indonesia
Amanjiwo overlooks the Unesco World Heritage Site of Borobudur, perfectly placed for exploring the region’s historic and natural attractions, or for simply relaxing in blissful surroundings. Inspired by the 9th-century Buddhist sanctuary of Borobudur, Amanjiwo’s Suites feature four-pillar king-size beds on raised terrazzo platforms, spacious garden terraces, some with private swimming pools, and lounging pavilions. Views include terraced farmland and the Menoreh Hills, or the valley and Borobodur itself.
Amanjiwo, indonesia.res@aman.com
ÀNI, Thailand
ÀNI is a private resort located on one of the most unspoiled islands in Thailand – Koh Yao Noi. The resort offers a perfectly bespoke experience for every guest, creating a sense of freedom and attention to detail beyond luxury. Accommodating up to 20 individuals across the villas and pool suites, the resort is ideally suited to precious family and friend gatherings. A stay at ÀNI is all-inclusive, from every personalised meal and spa treatment, to tailored excursions and kids’ activities, with reservations starting from a minimum of six suites for five nights.
ÀNI, reservations@aniprivateresorts.com
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Cambodia
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, first opened in 1932, is one of the most iconic heritage properties in Southeast Asia. Widely celebrated as La Grande Dame de Angkor, the hotel has been welcoming discerning travellers and famous faces – from Charlie Chaplin to Jackie Kennedy and Michelle Obama – to the historic heart of Cambodia for almost 90 years. The hotel has returned with its refreshed new look this year, offering guests a compelling mix of culture, heritage and charming hospitality. Guests can take part in on-site activities including monk blessings, Angkor Sling masterclasses, botanical and culinary garden tours, and a tour with the hotel’s resident historian.
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, bookus.siemreap@raffles.com
Amansara, Cambodia
Once a residence for guests of the King, Amansara is a masterpiece of 1960’s New Khmer architecture on the edge of Angkor, the former capital city of the Khmer Empire. Harnessed by a tree-lined canopy, the resort’s 24 suites, manicured gardens and hidden lap pool serve as a magnificent backdrop for exploration of Cambodia’s historic riches, where guests have privileged access to the world’s largest temple complex.
Amansara, indonesia.res@aman.com
Azerai Ke Ga Bay, Vietnam
Set amongst 4.5 hectares of verdant gardens, Azerai Ke Ga Bay is located approximately 180km east of Ho Chi Minh City. The resort is a secluded oceanfront retreat, centrally positioned on a sweeping five-kilometre white sand beach. Framed to the east by Hon Ba Island with its historic lighthouse and to the west by soaring sand dunes, the location provides a tranquil setting, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort’s generously appointed rooms offer views of the gardens or private courtyards, and several spacious villas feature private plunge or swimming pools.
Azerai Ke Ga Bay, reservations.kegabay@azerai.com
Read more: 5 quick tropical getaways from Hong Kong