From a historical hotel next door to Angkor Wat to a UNESCO heritage site with a secret door to Beijing’s Summer Palace, these are some of the most incredible destination hotels in Southeast Asia.
Trisara, Phuket
Located a 25-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, Trisara is a tropical paradise. 63 suites, villas and residences overlooking the Andaman Sea, farm-to-table dining at Michelin-star PRU and the hotel’s signature Jara Spa treatment make for a relaxing stay but the Sunday Jazz Brunch, cruises to surrounding islands and a session with the DDEN digital studio step up the tempo if required.
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Vietnam
Vietnam is a firm favourite weekend getaway from Hong Kong, and the luxurious Nam Hai is the ultimate escape. Set in 35 hectares, the traditionally-designed property is perfectly aligned thanks to a feng shui philosophy that helps guests feel centred as soon as they arrive. Situated on the beach near picturesque Hoi An, it’s perfect for lounging during the day and exploring the city’s famous food and culture at night. Restaurant LaSen’s delicious local cuisine might prompt you to book into their cooking academy so you can learn the chef’s secrets for yourself.
The Siam, Bangkok
If a chic city escape is what you’re after, look no further than one of the 39 suites in this art-deco haven. With king-sized beds that make you never want to leave, and a private river shuttle service for when you do, The Siam is our favourite place to stay in bustling Bangkok. The professional Muay Thai Boxing Ring, ‘Sak Yant’ ancient tattoo service, Curio boutique, Opium Spa and party-perfect atrium make it stand out from the rest.
Aman Summer Palace, Beijing
There’s nowhere quite like Aman Summer Palace from which to explore the cultural sights of Beijing. Guests at the traditional Chinese retreat have private access to the UNESCO Summer Palace through a secret entrance door, and the Forbidden City is a 15-km drive away. Local masters come to the hotel daily to showcase ancient arts such as calligraphy, and regular tea ceremonies are hosted in the Ming-Dynasty inspired property. Excursions to the Great Wall and UNESCO World Heritage sites can be arranged through the resort and are not to be missed.
Raffles, Grand Hotel D’Angkor, Siem Reap
The elegant Grand Hotel D’Angkor is located between the international airport and Angkor Wat making it the perfect base for exploring Siem Reap. French Indochina references are abundant in the hotel, where bedrooms feature claw-footed baths, four poster balcony beds and Cambodian customised linens, providing the perfect respite after cultural excursions. The hotel pool and Restaurant Le Grand are reflective of Royal Khmer culture and are two special features of the historical hotel.
Editor
Dervla Louli
