Discover unique oceanfront retreats with pristine beaches and uninterrupted sunrise-to-sunset vistas, all within a five-hour reach
Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort
This treasure island, also known as Pearl Island, is the largest in Vietnam. It has two pristine white beaches and many small bays to explore. Activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and more are endless. After a hectic day out, you can retire to your tropical resort to enjoy ocean views all day. The villas offer a private swimming pool, multi-layered and spacious swimming pools that connect the peninsula’s two beaches, a hill-top Plumeria Spa, Fitness Centre, and enough culinary options to satisfy your cravings.
Travel time: Two to four hours, depending on flight connections from Ho Chi Minh City
See also: From the beach to the bar: Head out for a tropical escape to Nusa Dua
Sailing Club Signature Resort Phu Quoc
Here is another resort to stay in Vietnam — you can also check into this gorgeous resort done in Scandinavian style, which focuses on clean, simple lines, minimalism and functionality without sacrificing beauty. The multi-bedroom villas feature soothing tones, large window frames that allow natural light to flood in, a private pool and a garden. Foodies will enjoy a trip to the gourmet market at Sandals, The Market, and taste some quality food made using only the finest ingredients. This promising resort is truly a “home away from home,” guests can rest assured that it will be an unforgettable tropical vacation experience.
Travel time: Two to four hours, depending on flight connections from Ho Chi Minh City
See also: Unlocking hidden gems in Hong Kong’s North Point
Bawah Reserve, Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia
This is the perfect spot for those looking to get far away from the madding crowd as the resort is perched over the waters and ensconced between exotic flora, fauna and white sandy beaches. Bawah Reserve is embraced by turquoise blue waters, lagoons and coral reefs, and it lies in sheltered seclusion in the remote Anambas Archipelago in Indonesia.
This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is where you can admire the rich forest ecosystem and marine life. Thrill-seekers have many outdoor activities, while the not-so-active can laze and worship the sun. The villas have direct access to the lagoon, perfect for a mid-day snorkel or swim. The alfresco spots, lounge, and dining areas are designed for guests to take in the panoramic views, and integrated wellness areas are refined to ease away everyday stresses, invigorate, and rejuvenate the body and the mind. Bawah Reserve is a natural playground for explorers and a zen sanctuary for idlers.
Travel time: Four hours by ferry to Batam and then a seaplane transfer
Cheval Blanc Randheli, Noonu Atoll, Maldives
Maldives never disappoints as the crystal-blue Indian Ocean beckons with luxury resorts and abundant marine life. Time seems to stop on this idyllic 46-villa haven, where the stunning Maldivian landscape meets modern craftsmanship. Find your stillness and enjoy the ocean and lush gardens at the same resort. Let Cheval Blanc’s cheerful Ambassadeurs take you on a memorable stay filled with surprises and discoveries.
Travel time: Four hours by plane
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Ayana Estate Bali, Indonesia
Combine a sun-seeking vacation with that of wellness at the Ayana Estate in Jimbaran, which is an award recipient in two categories at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia this year. This annual awards programme recognises excellence and honours exceptional brands in the travel and hospitality industry in the Asia Pacific region. The resort is well known for its Spa on the Rocks treatment villas that are located above the Indian Ocean. It is here that you will begin your wellness journey with a wide range of world-class therapies and wellness treatments that soothe the mind, body and soul. Guests can also immerse themselves in the healing properties of the resort’s famous Thalassotherapy pool, enhancing the allure of the spa experience. The combination of exceptional treatments and the serene ambience promises an unmatched pampering experience for every guest.
Travel time: Two hours, 45 minutes by plane
Jumeirah Bali, Indonesia
Perched on a cliff in Uluwatu, this resort offers a wealth of cultural activities to immerse guests in native island life. From making traditional Gebogan and Canang Sari ceremonial offerings to learning common phrases in Bahasa Indonesia, there is a lot to experience. Other activities include a temple visit and blessing ritual that takes place at one of the sacred Dang Kahyangan Hindu temples.
At the resort, guests can join several educational classes, such as a rindik session where they can try their hand at playing Bali’s traditional musical instrument. There is also a cooking class with a Jumeirah chef focusing on healthy, easy-to-make Balinese dishes, a batik-making workshop covering everything from pattern creation using dyes to producing a finished one-of-a-kind masterpiece, and a Balinese dance class for ladies.
Feeling exhausted from these activities? No worries, you can escape for some “me time” and indulge in holistic wellness activities, such as a morning or sunset yoga session. You can also take part in a candle-pouring workshop using natural wax and aromatherapy for a peaceful, meditative experience, or try a session of bayu suci, Bali’s movement meditation that helps build internal energy and promotes flexibility and balance. For those seeking a satisfying workout, there is banyu raga — a series of invigorating pool exercises that are gentle on the joints.
Overall, this resort offers a diverse range of activities to ensure guests have a truly enriching and rejuvenating experience.
Travel time: Two hours, 45 minutes by plane
