With balmy temperatures, beautiful beaches, and lush jungles, it’s hard not to feel the romance in the air in Southeast Asia. And with Valentine’s Day right around the corner, now is the perfect time to jet off somewhere exotic with that special someone. We know that no two couples are alike when it comes to travelling styles, so we’ve put together a list of the most romantic getaways in the region for all types of lovebirds. If it’s an intimate escape you’re after, these seductive spots won’t disappoint! (The destinations are not ranked in any particular order).
1. L’Alya, Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam
Perfectly picturesque is just one way to describe L’Alya, a gorgeous resort perched between the clear waters and golden sands of Ninh Van Bay and jungle-cloaked mountains. The secluded villas here semi-open so you can take advantage of the gentle sea breezes, and each has its own private pool. The resort also boasts a serene spa, cabanas along the beach, and a beautiful restaurant with a huge wooden deck where you can soak up epic sunsets.
L’Alya, Tan Thanh Hamlet, Ninh Ich Commune, Ninh Hoa District, Khanh Hoa Province, Viet Nam. p. +84 258 3624 964
2. Capella Ubud, Bali
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to be a colonial explorer, Capella Ubud, Bali is your spot. This unique resort was inspired by European settlers who arrived in Bali in the 1800s, so scattered along the hillside you’ll find gorgeous luxury tents decked out in antique furnishings and sporting private saltwater pools that overlook a ravine. Extra touches include a communal campfire space and an intimate restaurant where you can chat with the chef as he grills you up fresh seafood and meats.
Capella Ubud, Bali, Jl. Raya Dalem, Banjar Triwangsa, Desa Keliki, Kecamatan Tegallalang , Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia. p. +62 361 2091 888
3. Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
Nothing says serenity and seclusion like your own private island escape. You can be as carefree as you like at Song Saa Private Island where spacious eco-chic villas boast private pools, open-air showers, and expansive wooden sundecks. You have your choice of jungle views, access to the pristine private beach, or a villa perched on stilts above a natural reef. Let the staff whip you up gourmet organic meals and pamper you with restorative spa treatments.
Song Saa Private Island, Koh Rong, Cambodia. +855 92 609 488
4. Cauayan Resort, El Nido, Philippines
Just off the northern tip of Palawan is Cauayan, a stunning private island where you’ll find Cauayan Resort. Surrounded by crystal clear aquamarine waters and towering limestone cliffs, this is the perfect base for snorkelling and diving adventures. The resort has its own dive centre where you can arrange trips to fascinating underwater sites that teem with colourful coral gardens and unique marine life. Newbie divers can also take courses to learn the basics.
Cauayan Resort, Cauayan Island, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines 5313. p. ++6391 9587 7350
5. Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand
If you’re familiar with Six Senses, then you know they have a strong commitment to sustainability whilst still offering luxurious five-star experiences. Their resort on Yao Noi is no exception with beautiful villas that blend seamlessly into the limestone cliffs and tropical vegetation, gourmet offerings made with organic ingredients straight from their farm and gardens, and tailored activities that allow guests to interact with the natural environment and locals from the surrounding fishing villages.
Six Senses Yao Noi, 56 Moo 5 Tambol Koh Yao Noi, Amphur Koh Yao, Phang Nga, Thailand 82160. p. +66 7641 8500
*images sourced from respective hotels