Exclusive luxury stays and unique experiences in Southeast Asia to plan your holiday (2024)

An urban luxury resort that’ll be your private sanctuary amidst ornate interiors, lush greens by the Chao Phraya River and historical attractions, The Siam Hotel in Bangkok makes for a perfect getaway. Harboured by a slew of palaces, temples and museums, this boutique hotel is a relaxing refuge in its own. Its design and architecture infuses the striking Art Deco style with authentic and traditional Thai heritage for a contemporary yet classic setting.

Equally mesmerising are the seven types of suites and villas— Siam Suite, River View Suite, Garden View Suite, Premier Garden View Suite, Premier River View Suite, Courtyard Pool Villa and Riverside Pool Villa; each with amenities and luxuries of its own. The hotel’s unique selection of dining areas include a Bathers Bar (poolside bar), Chon Thai Restaurant, The Story House (thematic dining) and The Pier (riverside open dining).

In-house and nearby attractions: Sunset Cruise, Muay Thai training, Sak Yant tattoos, Pier & Shuttle Cruise Boat, Opium Spa, Hair & Nail Salon, Sight-seeing tours, Tha Kha & Amphawa Floating Market, Ancient Ayutthaya city, Chinatown.

How to reach: You can reach the property through their private shuttle boat, The Siam Cruise, by taking the Exit No. 2 from the BTS station. Reservations for the shuttle can be made at +66 2206 6999 .

Image: Courtesy The Siam Hotel

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Inspired by its surroundings to allow the guests a deep connection with the environment and a sense of serenity is the Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia. Created with a sustainable approach with its design reflecting authentic art and soul, it was built by local artisans who used local and environment-friendly materials. Furnished with all sorts of modern-day luxuries, the resort makes for that perfect, intimate getaway owing to its pristine private beach, spacious villas, spa sanctuaries and calming environs.

The property offers a range of villas for you to choose from for your getaway— Jungle Villas, Ocean Villas, Overwater Villas and a Royal Villa. With scenic views of the lush greens, the unending skies and the clear ocean, each villa is equipped with necessities to ensure you have the most luxurious and comfortable stay. Additionally, their dining experiences at Vista Bar and Restaurant and Driftwood Beach Bar ensure you savour delicacies in a distinctive ambience each time.

In-house and nearby attractions: Spa and wellbeing retreats, snorkelling, sea kayaking, in-villa movie experience, island safari, scuba diving, Buddhist ceremonies, Nature Treasure Hunt.

How to reach: The property can be reached via a 45-minute speedboat ride from Sihanoukville Port or a 30-minute drive from the Sihanoukville International Airport.

Image: Courtesy Song Saa Private Island

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A wholesome fusion of luxury, history and elegance, 137 Pillar House in Chiang Mai is a beautiful boutique property built in teak wood and restored to reflect its true 19th century origins. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the hotel offers a meticulously created personalised and one-of-a-kind stay with ultimate hotel and yacht experiences. From taking initiatives that make a difference in the lives of people to partnering with Elephant Nature Park and incorporating sustainability in their ways and working, the hotel also ensures environment protection wherever possible.

The hotel boasts of an exclusive selection of suites overlooking the idyllic tropical gardens such as Rajah Brooke, East Borneo, D.F. Macfie, William Bain and Louis Leonowens. Each suite is equipped with the most luxurious necessities and a rejuvenating vibe. Further enhancing your stay are the different dining areas like the Palette restaurant, The Dining Room, Jack Bain’s Bar, Afternoon Tea areas and an option of private dining.

In-house and nearby attractions: Yacht Cruise, Nitra Serenity Centre, Historical Day Tours, Old City Half Day Tours, Maiiam Contemporary Art Museum, Wat Chedi Luang, Three Kings Monument, L’éléphant bistro, Woo Café, One Nimman, Vila Cini.

How to reach: 7.5 kilometres by road from the Chiang Mai International Airport

Image: Courtesy 137 Pillars House

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Nestled in the South Cardamom Forest, the largest rainforest in Cambodia that’s a home to endangered animals and plants, is the Shinta Mani Wild. Designed with minimal environmental intervention but luxuriously maximal decor, this property makes for a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Apart from allowing its guests to rejuvenate and live in sync with nature, the resort also allows the guests to help protect and conserve the forest and species and make a difference.

Funding a dedicated Wildlife Alliance ranger station within its property, Shinta Mani Wild has 15 private tents along the riverbank. They are categorised under Wild Tents and Waterfall Tents, with each of them fully equipped with all amenities and luxuries one would need throughout their stay. Each tent is designed and themed distinctively to lend each of its guests a different experience. Not to forget the arrival into the hotel lobby by a 400 metre zipline over forest and a waterfall.

Dining at the property’s Headquarters offers a distinguished experience every time as each meal is carefully prepared by the chefs to introduce the guests to unknown flavours and ingredients picked from the surrounding forests.

In-house and nearby attractions: Expedition boats, hiking, foraging, mountain biking, camera trapping, swimming at The Cistern, picnics at waterfalls, Tenkara Fishing, sundowners, kayaking, butterfly identification, spa.

How to reach: Hotel’s private vehicle and chauffeur service available (included in stay) to and from Phnom Penh Airport and Sihanoukville Airport. Helicopter transfers are also available from anywhere in Cambodia at an additional cost.

Image: Courtesy Shinta Mani Wild

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A beach resort situated in an exclusive location coined Station Zero, the Crimson Resort & Spa is a hideaway resort that offers stunning views of the sun-kissed shores and unending skies. Crafted in natural materials such as sand, wood and stone, this resort is nothing less than a tropical haven for seekers of a quaint and relaxing time in the laps of nature. While the property is fashioned in contemporary architecture with magnificent interiors, the hearty ambience of the Filipino island living elevates the stay. The hotel takes pride in a secluded and pristine white sand beach that’s also used for guest arrivals.

And amidst such dreamlike environs are the hotel’s spacious and luxurious rooms and villas equipped with all modern facilities and a home-like vibe. Their collection of suites include normal or deluxe suites with a plunge pool or view of the sea, Deluxe Premier or Deluxe Hillview suites, a Presidential Villa and a beachfront villa with a plunge pool.

Further elevating your sensory experience is the resort’s array of dining areas like the Saffron Cafe serving international cuisine, the Azure Beach Club and the Mosaic Latin American Grill.

In-house and nearby attractions: Sports and leisure activities, Aum Spa, secluded beach, events pavillion, Crimson Kids’ Club, Pirate Ship, Willy’s Rock, Daytime kayaking, Paraw sailing.

How to reach: Take the Local Bangka Boat from the Caticlan Jetty Port near the Boracay Aiport (MPH).

Image: Courtesy Crimson Resort & Spa

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Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle and steps away from the Petronas Twin towers and KLCC is The RuMa Hotel and Residences. RuMa means home and this hotel will stand true to its name’s meaning as it’ll be that serene sanctuary that one needs amidst the happening and spirited city life. Right from the luxurious rooms and suites to the wholesome and warm ambience of the property, everything is intended to make one feel at home and comforted.

Additionally, the residences are created with an aim to offer privacy in a fully equipped space fashioned with modern interiors and state-of-the art design.

Be it the rooms or the 25-metre outdoor pool and sundeck, the property is designed to offer its guests the breathtaking views of the city’s framed skyline and landmarks. The different dining areas further elevate your stay with their extensive food and drinks spread. While ATAS embraces local flavours in a contemporary fashion, the hotel’s lobby bar and lounge SEVEN is an all-day venue perfect for light meals, refreshments and afternoon tea. Additionally, SANTAI, the pool bar and lounge makes for a great place to lounge about.

In-house and nearby attractions: UR Spa, infinity pool, gym, The Golden Triangle.

How to reach: The hotel is an hour drive away from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Alternatively, you can take the KLIA Express from the Airport to KL Sentral train station or take the Airport coach from the airport bus terminal to KL Sentral to arrive at the hotel.

Image: Courtesy The RuMa Hotel & Residences

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Situated within Siem Reap’s French Quarter amidst top notch dining and shopping area is this hotel that enjoys tranquillity and nature at its best. The hotel offers a diverse collection of rooms and pool villas, each offering a unique, unmatched and unforgettable time. Set in lush private gardens in a spacious make, the exclusive set of 10 villas with pools has each villa overlooking its own garden through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. They are additionally equipped with an outdoor bathtub, rain shower and butlers that are available to cater to all your needs. Whereas, the rooms are located throughout the hotel on different floors with views of the tropical gardens or urban streetscape.

There’s an incredible spread of culinary delights and drinks awaiting its guests at their various dining areas like Baitong (all day dining), Kroya (modern Khmer cuisine), Bensley’s Bar, Bayon Pool Bar and Angkor Pool Bar.

In-house and nearby attractions: Khmer Tonics Spa and Gym, temples of Angkor Wat, small and grand tours, Boeng Mealea and Banteay Srei, Kompong Khleang Floating Village, Kompong Phluk and Flooded Forest Adventure, countryside Oxcart Adventure, Shinta Mani Foundation CSR trip and organic farm, Siem Reap river, old market and Pub Street, Angkor National Museum and Archaeological Park.

How to reach: The Siem Reap International Airport is just seven kilometres away from the hotel.

Image: Courtesy Shinta Mani Angkor

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Amidst lush tropical forests and endless Andaman waters is the beachfront Pimalai Resort and Spa that’s nestled between the serenity and solitude of the neighbouring mountains. Well equipped with modern-day amenities and luxuries are the various rooms and villas that are built on the hotel’s Beachside Estate. They offer stunning views of the beautiful gardens, the bay or the Andaman Sea. The villas, on the other hand, are either located 60 to 80 metres above sea level or by the beach to lend you picturesque views of the skies and the ocean.

While the Pimalai Spa makes for a relaxing and rejuvenating sanctuary that offers different treatments for mind, body and soul, the resort’s various restaurants and bars situated at the lower part and hillside lend a distinctive experience depending on the season. The Ray Talay Beach Bar and Restaurant specialises in Thai and international seafood whereas the Seven Seas restaurant follows a western approach. While the Spice and Rice restaurant serves authentic Thai food, the Banyan Tree Poolside Cafe is perfect for light meals and snacks.

In-house and nearby attractions: Spa, beach activities, island excursions, scuba diving in Koh Lanta, Thai cooking class, fitness, yoga and Muay Thai, mangrove tour, private beach dinner.

How to reach: The resort provides a complimentary roundtrip Krabi Airport transfer and from anywhere in Koh Lanta for all its guests. Inform them in advance with your arrival and departure flight details.

Image: Courtesy Pimalai Resort & Spa

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A boutique hotel in central Bangkok, Kimpton Maa-Lai is a contemporary and edgy property that’s nothing like the ordinary. It’s an urban retreat that’s surrounded by lush greens and drenched in modernity as it’s built atop the Langsuan Road by Lumphini Park. The hotel imbibes the city’s energy and charisma into its design which adds to its understated effervescence with a distinguished spirit. Inclusive of 131 serviced residences, the hotel has 362 rooms that are acquainted with stylish facilities.

While the pool overlooking the Langsuan oasis and the rejuvenating spa will enrich your stay, the hotel’s pet-friendly privileges would also ensure a leisurely time for your fur balls. It’s selection of state-of-the-art dining areas include Craft (pet-friendly cafe and bar), Stock.Room (a grocerant to shop groceries, enjoy delicacies or even cook one), Ms.Jigger (co*cktail bar) and Bar.Yard (tropical rooftop bar). The icing on the cake is how Bangkok’s some of the topmost attractions are in a close proximity to the property.

In-house and nearby attractions: Amaranth Spa by Harnn, Gym, Infinity pool, Chinatown, Sunset at Wat Arun, Khao Yai National Park, Pak Klong Talad Flower Market.

How to reach: From Suvarnabhumi International Airport, it is 45 to 60 minutes drive, subject to traffic. You can also take the Airport Link to Phaya Thai BTS Station to Chit Lom Station (Exit No. 4). From the Don Muang International Airport, it is a 30 to 45 minutes drive, subject to traffic.

Image: Courtesy Kimpton Maa-Lai

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Meaning “I Live Again” in Latin, REVĪVŌ is situated between the hills of Nusa Dua in South Bali and specialises in wellness and transformational health experiences. The resort promises an unforgettable retreat experience that aims at offering a unique journey that combines holistic treatments and mindfulness practices alongside spa, Pilates, yoga and meditation. If ultimate rejuvenation and revitalisation is what you’re looking for, this resort should be on your wishlist.

Surrounded by the Indian ocean and dense tropical rainforest, the resort houses 16 Balinese-style suites, each equipped with a sunken bathtub and shower, garden views and outdoor dining facilities within either a private garden, a private pool or a private courtyard.

In-house and nearby attractions: REMISSIŌ Spa treatments, MOVEŌ fitness centre, NŪTRIŌ restaurant and bar, El Aleph cruise

How to reach: The resort is 13.6 kilometres from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS); approximately a 30-minute drive away.

Image: Courtesy REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort, Bali, Indonesia

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If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, whether for business or some leisure time, 137 Pillars Suites and Residences in Bangkok would make for a great choice. Offering a blend of Thai traditionalism and modernity through their rooms, cuisines and experiences, this boutique property ensures an upscale time spent in everything luxe. Acquainted with the some of the best amenities and panoramic views, their suites, named after royal periods in Thai history include Sukhothai Suite, Ayutthaya Suite, Thonburi Suite and Rattanakosin Suite.

Whereas, their residences offering comfort, connectivity and convenience include the Executive Studio Residence, one bedroom residence and Executive one bedroom and two bedrooms residences. Offering a host of flavoursome delicacies and drinks spanning distinctive menus are the dining areas such as the Bangkok Trading Post with a casual bistro-like ambience, fine dining restaurant Nimitr, Jack Bain’s Bar, Baan Borneo Club, Marble Bar and a private dining service.

In-house and nearby attractions: Nitra Serenity Centre, 137 Pillars Louie Tour, Museum of Contemporary Art, Central: The Original Store, Norse Republic, Emquartier, Jim Thompson Art Centre, Jodd Fairs, Queen Sirikit Silk Museum, Chinatown, Chatuchak Weekend Market, Siam Walking Street, Richard Koh Fine Art, The Grand Palace, Subhashok Arts Centre.

How to reach: The easiest way to reach the property from the Suvarnabhumi Airport is by road (28.1 kilometres).

Image: Courtesy 137 Pillars Suites & Residences

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Sindhorn Kempinski is a five-star luxury Hotel in Bangkok that offers tranquility amidst the bustling city. It’s a hidden gem, a discrete sanctuary that’ll be your private and rejuvenating escape. This wellness hotel creates a relaxing haven for the mind and body right in the centre of Bangkok while fully embracing sustainability wherever possible. Its lavish suites and rooms are immersed in luxury and let you indulge in the finest of facilities and modish interiors. The spaces span across various executive club, grand premier and grand deluxe rooms and suites along with royal and presidential suites.

Much like their rooms, their distinguished restaurants and bars enjoy an exotic aura and extensive menus. Flourish (all-day dining), Firefly Bar, all-day dining Lobby Lounge, Ki Izakaya restaurant and Berthold Delikatesssen (a deli and European-style cafe) offer experiential dining.

In-house and nearby attractions: Wellness spa, yoga centre, Bangkok Fashion Centre, Destinare, Lumphini Park, Museums and Galleries, local markets, shopping malls, heritage sites.

How to reach: The hotel can easily be reached by car or taxis, the BTS Skytrain and other modes of public transportation.

Image: Courtesy Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel

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If phu*ket is on your travel bucket list then The Pavilions Hotels and Resorts is what you should be bookmarking right away. Surrounded by white sand beaches, a clear and vast ocean and hefty greens, the hotel is situated atop one of the highest points of the island. It makes for a tranquil and rejuvenating escape that’s perfect for unwinding and simply revelling in the beauty of nature. The resort offers a spectacular combination of adventure experiences and relaxation to ensure you have the best stay ever.

Its many rooms and villas make for a vast yet intimate sanctuary that’ll be your escape from the outside world. From tropical and garden view suites to pet-friendly suites, each room comes equipped with amenities to ensure you have a comfortable stay. Similarly, each villa comes with its own set of features and different views of the environs that elevate your stay a notch above. The property also boasts of different dining spaces like the Don Vito restaurant, 360 Bar, Don Vito bar, Firefly Pool and restaurant and exclusive in-villa dining experiences.

In-house and nearby attractions: Spa, juice bar, pool, yoga and fitness centre, personalised journeys that include experiences such as floating breakfast, private picnic at Banana Beach and in-villa barbecue, The Green Elephant Sanctuary, Thai cooking class.

How to reach: Short 45-minute flight from Koh Samui by Bangkok Airways or a four-hour drive and ferry ride up to the resort.

Image: Courtesy The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts

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A five-star oasis in downtown Bangkok promising an indulgent time during your stay, JW Marriott is renowned for its modern spaces luxury that spoils you. With Bangkok views blending in with the property’s spectacular design finished off with five-star perks, your stay is going to be nothing short of extraordinary. Crafted in a balance of traditional Thai elements and modern architectural finesse, each room speaks of the Thai grandeur and contemporary opulence. Furnished to a tee, the rooms are ideal for both business and leisure tourists.

The hotel takes pride in housing nine restaurants and bars that offer a massive range of delicacies to leave you spoilt for choices. Hop into the JW Cafe or the Bangkok Baking Company for a wholesome share of freshly-baked savouries or dine at their varied restaurants like Tsu Japanese restaurant, Man Ho Chinese restaurant, Nami Teppanyaki Steakhouse and New York Steakhouse. Desire sipping on some co*cktails? The Manhattan Bar, Lobby Lounge and Sake Bar would ensure to enjoy some of the best drinks.

In-house and nearby attractions: Fitness Centre, Health Club & Spa, Siam Paragon, Central World, Bangkok Old Town, Erawan Shrine, Benjakitti Forest Park.

How to reach: The hotel is easily accessible from the BTS Skytrain. It is 26.2 kilometres away the Suvarnabhumi Airport and 24.4 kilometres from the Don Mueang International Airport.

Image: Courtesy JW Marriott

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