Thinking of heading to Asia for your next getaway? Thankfully, the days of roughing it in a backpacker’s hostel in this part of the world are long gone, and today, Asia is home to countless luxury destinations and resorts – great news for the discerning traveller who enjoys the finer things in life, and doesn’t want to compromise on those home comforts.
If you’re ready to get planning that epic trip, then rest assured that you will be well-catered for on this culturally-rich and beautiful continent – and to help you choose a destination that offers just the right mix of opulence and enjoyment, we’ve rounded up five of the very best for lavish sunshine getaways in Asia.
Dubai
Famed for its extravagant way of doing things, Dubai is a destination that sheer decadence at every turn. Awash with luxury designer shops, towering high-end hotels and incredibly expensive restaurants, it’s hard to imagine anywhere else coming close.
Visitors to Dubai can enjoy an exclusive dinner atop he iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel, right on its famous helipad – when it comes to memorable meals, it doesn’t get much better than this.
The world’s richest race – the Dubai World Cup at the Meydan Racecourse, is a not-to-be-missed event, while guests can also rub shoulders with royalty at the Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge.
Thailand
Known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, Thailand is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia, and with its strong cultural background and diverse natural attractions – from beautiful islands and pristine, white-sand beaches, to breath-taking mountains and more, it’s not hard to work out why. If you are looking to escape the gloomy UK winter, then this is the perfect place to go.
One of the most luxurious destinations in the country has to be the island of Phuket, with its spectacular sunsets, glorious beaches and the warmest hospitality of locals. The nation’s largest island and also one of its most visited, Phuket offers some truly epic luxury accommodation options, from ocean-front penthouses and private luxury villas to spectacular Thai golf resorts. Head to Surin or Kamala – two of the richest areas of the island – for the very finest money can buy.
Relax on the beaches, unwind at one of Thailand’s famous luxury spas, and immerse yourself in nature for a truly restorative break.
Sri Lanka
Once famously described by Marco Polo as one of the finest islands in the world, Sri Lanka has a rich history dating back thousands of years. A place of true natural beauty, there is so much to see and do here – from luxuriating on picture-perfect beaches to exploring the jungles, tea plantations and temples.
Best of all, you don’t have to compromise on an ounce of luxury while doing so. In the beautiful city of Kandy, in the Central Province, some of the country’s very finest hotels can be found – from the family-friendly Elephant Stables, which offers a combination of heritage experience and contemporary design, to Taylors Hill – a stunning 150-year-old former British planter’s home nestled among tea plantations and rolling hills in the highlands above.
Going on a luxury holiday to Sri Lanka could be the best decision you ever make – and is bound to be an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more.
Hong Kong
With its iconic skyline and traditional fishing boats lining the bay, Hong Kong is a vibrant city offering a glamorous backdrop against which to enjoy a luxury getaway. A fusion of Chinese tradition, colonial history and an utterly modern way of living, it’s a fast-paced place which boasts numerous high-end hotels – many with their own rooftop pools and incredible views over the city.
Take a boat ride after sunset to enjoy the nightly light shows which illuminate the cityscape, and are best viewed from the water – or, if you’re feeling particularly flush, then why not charter your own?
With over 70 Michelin Star restaurants, Hong Kong is truly a foodie’s paradise, with something to suit all tastes and influences taken from around the world. For the crème-de-la-crème, try Fang Fang, Amber, Arcane, Ta Vie or Lung King Heen – the first Chinese restaurant in the world to be awarded three Michelin stars.
Japan
Speaking of great foodie destinations, Japan is second to none – and its vibrant capital city, Tokyo, is home to the largest number of Michelin starred restaurants in the world.
Often dubbed ‘The Land of the Rising Sun’, Tokyo is an adrenalin-fuelled experience and an assault on all the senses – but if one thing is for sure, it’s that this place knows how to do luxury.
The ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ martini at the Ritz Carlton is a must if you’re looking for an opulent drink in an equally opulent spot. One of the priciest drinks in the entire world, it has a lot to live up to – but, coming complete with a live serenade and a one-carat diamond in the glass, we’d say it’s a pretty safe bet.
If you are struggling to pick just one destination to visit, then why not embark on a luxury train journey around Japan? You can see our recommendations here.
