We’re all busy with our lives but it’s nice to daydream—an island far away, your own villa with a lap pool, and even a couple of new swimsuits you’ve been coveting. Well then, call The Luxe Nomad your fairy godmother of travel because we’ve got the remedy: overwater villas that are just so darn gorgeous and calling to you.
#1 Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
Think ‘overwater villa’ and here you are: the Maldives. The first ever over-water villa in the Middle East are right here in this resort. Inspired by Thai design, the villas are located in the crescent of the iconic Palm Jumeirah, against a backdrop of the sun melting into a sky of orange and blue. The overwater villas feature glass panel floors where you can watch marine life whizz by under your feet.
#2 Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia
Here’s a real deal with a pretty sweet steal: a whole private island all to yourself, with all-inclusive meals and activities. That’s right ladies and gents, The twin islands; Koh Ouen and Koh Bong of Cambodia, known locally as Song Saa (meaning ‘The Sweethearts’ in Khmer—how adorable) are every bit spectacular as you’d expect. Spend the day kayaking, sailing, or snorkelling, and at night, watch a movie at the beachside cinema under the stars.
#3 Cocoa Island by COMO, Maldives
Maldives is perceived to be a honeymoon haven, but we have to disagree. Inspired by local dhoni boats, villas are built from New Zealand pine wood, triumphed by white-on-white interiors. Cocoa Island features an infinity-edge swimming pool, open-air yoga pavilion, hydrotherapy pool, and their signature COMO Shambhala Spa. For dining choices, Ufaa Restaurant serves the freshest seafood but there’s nothing quite like a candlelit beach dinner.
#4 El Nido Resorts Lagen Island, Philippines
Lagen island seems to have it all: limestone cliff views, 20 diving spots, eco tours, and a sky full of stars. And nestled between a lush four-hectare forest and a calm, shallow lagoon is El Nido, one of the finest stays in the Philippines. The overwater villas have teak floors and recycled timbre furnishings to preserve the Filipino charm. Beyond that, guests also have access to private beach clubs at Dibuluan and Entalula Islands.
#5 Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia
Propped along the emerald green seas in Pangkor island, the resort seems to almost blend into the jungle surroundings. Villas are traditional yet modern, with rattan furniture, ambient lighting and fresh white flowers. The resort is equipped with facilities like tennis and squash courts, a fully-equipped gym and two swimming pools. Sore bodies post-workout are welcomed into the award-winning Spa Village with a menu of treatments inspired by spas from China, Japan, India, Thailand, Bali and Malaysia itself.
Take your pick.
