OUR HANDPICKED SELECTION OF BOUTIQUE AND LUXURY HOTELS IN SOUTH-EAST ASIA

Amankila, Bali, Indonesia

Standing sentry on a hillside overlooking the cobalt-blue Lombok Strait on Bali's east coast, this is a wonderful place to unwind. Every aspect of the resort makes the most of those views and it's easy to while away days under a pagoda at the edge of the tiered network of infinity pools, on a lounger on the private black-sand beach, or aboard a boat among colourful, tropical fish and coral.

Away from the water's edge, walkways wind through the trees to a series of suitesm designed like thatched Balinese beach huts. Each of the one-bedroom treehouses with treetop terraces feels more like a private home than a private hotel room. The two-bedroom suite has private butler service and its own pool. Dining options range from a private picnic platform in the jungle to poolside tables serving traditional cuisine.

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Bali, Indonesia

Inspired by a village layout, this all-villa beach retreat is arranged into seven small 'villages' each headed by a welcoming Village Chief. Amid 14 hectares of tropical gardens casading down to the ocean and three-mile Jimbaran Beach, its contemporary pool villas are modelled on a Balinese home and richly decorated with artworks, textiles and handcrafted furniture.

Dive into the bay, with exclusive water activities, ride the waves with TropicSurf, and connect to the vibrant pulse of Bali's historic fishing community. Discover the island's cultural heritage through on-site artist workshops and take a tour of the resort's historic temple and shrines with high priest Aji Ngurah. Hone expert skills with Chef Kris at Jimbaran Bay Cooking Academy, embrace the beach lifestyle and Modern Asian cuisine of chic Sundara, restore the spirit at The Healing Village Spa, or venture out for Seminyak's nightlife.

Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Bali, Indonesia

Surrounded by the Ayung River, verdant rice paddles and ancient temples in Ubud, this is a serene retreat for holistic getaway. One to three-bedroom villas have a garden, pool and outdoor shower, and the two suites have a patio and views of rice paddles and forest. Whether staying in a villa or suite, 24-hour butler service comes as standard.

This resort's signature bamboo restaurant has nine romantic cocoons in touching distance of the river, providing a tropical backdrop for its Mediterranean-European menu. Sawah Terrace serves more casual Asian dishes, while the pool bar entices guests with juiceology and tea mixology. The Mandalan Spa offers wellness programmes as well as a yoga pavilion, meditation temple and on-site healers.

One&Only, Desaru Coast, Malaysia

Nestled on the south-eastern shoreline of Malaysia, between lush rainforests and South China Sea, One&Only Desaru Coast is a spectacular tropical retreat. The resort is spread across 128 acres of unspoilt nature and flanked by a secluded 1.5 kilometre stretch of pristine sands - imagine the views from the hotel's 56-metre Infinity Pool! 

This dazzling gem is waiting to be discovered. The hotel's private sanctuaries offer exceptional levels of seclusion and generous space to relax and entertain. Guests can embark on incredible adventures through unique landscapes and crystal seas, discovering wildlife and cultural wonders. Surrender completely as One&Only Desaru Coast illuminates secrets of the East like never before.

Awaken your mind, body and soul at the first Chenot Spa in Asia; experience a revolutionary scientific and holistic approach to health and wellness like never before. Extending beyond the spa and woven into every element of your stay, bespoke programmes including tailored nutritional menus, fitness schedules, targeted spa treatments and stress relieving activities are designed according to individual needs.

Layan Residences by Anantara, Phuket, Thailand

Perched on a secluded strip of Phuket's west coast, these chic Asian-style residences offer generous seaside views. Ranging from three to seven bedrooms, each has a private 21-metre infinity pool, live-in butler and outdoor shower.

Beachfront-facing Sala Layan restaurant serves an Italian menu as impressive as the sunsets and Dee Piee keeps things traditionally Thai, best enjoyed on a day bed. Forget tables altogether with poolside snacks and personalised cocktails from the bar, or dine right on the sand or in your villas for a more intimate experience. When feasting isn't on the cards, guests can take part in yoga and tai chi sessions, discover Phuket Old Town by taking the shuttle bus, or spend the day testing out the treatments in the spa or getting active in the gym.

The Naka Island, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, Thailand

Those in search of the ultimate family or romantic getaway will be more than satisfied with this resort and spa, on an isolated island. Specialising in creating the utmost intimate experience, this resort can only be accessed via speed boat. Villas are scattered throughout the lush coconut grove, complete with outdoor soaking tubs and pools, providing a peaceful- and private- retreat.

Taking advantage of the sublime surroundings, resort activities include high-energy options such as kayaking, paddle-boarding, windsurfing and biking. Downtime can be spent at the Spa Naka, offering revitalising treatments in tranquil surroundings, or in an invigorating yoga class. After active days, dinner at Tonsai, the contemporary Thai restaurant, is a welcome treat.

Six Senses, Koh Samui, Thailand

With direct access to the beach, this resort sits on the tip of Samui island, sloping down to the sea. Many of the villas concealed within the grounds have private pools and impressive views of the Gulf of Thailand. The balmy days can be filled with spa treatments, yoga by sunset, jungle exploration, catamaran excursions and diving sessions. Children will be kept just as entertained with everything from coconut painting to bowling.

Dining is a serious affair and the resort is renowned for its restaurants - with one jutting out over the waters and the other set up in the hills, the backdrops will impress as much as the cuisine. Under the changing sky, guests can feast Thai and international dishes that include fresh ingredients from the gardens.

Vana Belle, a Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui, Thailand

Fulfilling all romantic images of crystal-clear waters and endless stretches of soft sand, this resort is set amid a hillside forest with vast views of the Gulf of Thailand. Those in search of unforgettable family fun or an intimate escape will be enthralled by inspiring activities and dreamy secluded spots scattered throughout the grounds.

Suites are located on the hillside, while free-standing villas are hidden in the tropical gardens. All rooms feature a private pool and outdoor terrace, and guests staying in the top categories have access to a 24-hour butler service. The Luxury Collection signature Concierge will recommend rare and indigenous island experiences and the spa uses Thai mythology for treatment inspiration, Dining can be enjoyed right on the beach, or on the hillside overlooking the bay at the four restaurants and bars.

Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand

From airport pick-up in a chauffeur-driven limousine, to arrival in this riverside residence, home comforts align perfectly with extravagant excellence. As the sun rises over the water, breakfast can be enjoyed in the tropical gardens before lounging by the pool, exploring cultural gems or indulging in a treatment at the spa. Opulent rooms and suites with marble bathrooms and expansive windows offers alternative spaces to unwind.