The summer holidays are just around the corner, and for those who still haven’t booked their getaways, we've picked out five new resorts in Asia-Pacific for your consideration:
Chen Sea Resort by Centara Boutique Collection, Vietnam
The boutique property, with just 36 villas, is located on the emerging resort island of Phu Quoc. It offers several recreational features, including an ocean-facing swimming pool, tennis courts and a 22-foot sail boat to explore the coast.
Most unique element: There are 12 private pool and Jacuzzi villas, which were originally timber houses in the port city of Hoi An and have been shipped to the island to be incorporated into hotel. All villas have a private terrace and either a private Jacuzzi or an outdoor pool.
Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, Maldives
Situated 400km south of the capital city of Malé on the Gaafu Alifu Atoll island, this idyllic all-suites resort features 38 villas and suites: 22 on the main island and 16 over-the-water villas in their own exclusive "water village", providing more seclusion and exclusivity from the main island. The property also offers the Talise Spa (with an over water gym and treatment rooms), an infinity pool on the main island, and sports facilities like snorkelling and windsurfing.
Most unique element: All guests enjoy Jumeirah's well-known signature elements such as personal butlers and private swimming pools, while those in the Water Village will have a personal chef at their beck and call.
www.jumeirah.com/en/Hotels-and-Resorts/Destinations/Maldives
Napasai Koh Samui, Thailand
After an extensive refurbishment, this 69-room resort has recently reopened with new water features. The project entailed shutting down the property to remove underwater rocks and dead coral to "create" a lagoon and form a new marine life sanctuary. During low tide, the attraction allows guests to snorkel or walk around, providing a closer look at the marine life.
Most unique element: The underwater reserve is the resort’s most appealing feature and showcases a sensitively enhanced ecosystem.
St Regis Lhasa, Tibet
This 122-room property takes guests on a spiritual journey with its prime location opposite the chief residence of the Dalai Lama – Potala Palace – and locally inspired amenities that will touch the soul. The resort's design was inspired by the Sera Monastery built in the early 15th century that is reflected in the crimson details, pagoda-style roofs and a selection of local art. Tea-tasting sessions are conducted in the Tea Room and Tibetan style massages at Iridium Spa.
Most unique element: The ornate gold-tiled indoor swimming pool that shimmers in the sunlight as well as the Meditation Garden where guests can regroup with yoga, meditation or pilates.
www.starwoodhotels.com/stregis
W Retreat and Spa Bali Seminyak
The W brand has come to Bali, where it combines its signature hip and cool attitude with the fabled local culture. The 237-room resort boasts several stand-out features, incuding a vibrant, bright pink entrance and the glamorous Ice Bar.
Most unique element: The "Words" area provides guests with a tranquil space to enjoy the library stocked with Bali-inspired books, DVDs and magazines for those wishing some mental stimulation during their break.
www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels
Alisha Haridasani and Rachael Ho
