Don’t worry about cash and credit cards — all-inclusive options at these resorts mean that once you make the payment, you won’t have to take your wallet out for the rest of your stay so all that’s left to do is have fun.
#1 Howie’s Homestay, Chiang Mai
The name may be misleading — this is no simple homestay. Instead, the sprawling estate is beautifully designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley to host luxury-loving travellers. With only 4 guest rooms (all with superb views of the lush surroundings), it’s only able to accommodate one group of guests at a time, so you’re guaranteed privacy and undivided attention when you need it. And as exclusive guests of the property, the owners can personally suggest and arrange tours and daily excursions — even teach you how to cook local dishes like a pro!
What’s included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, return airport transfers, in-residence mini bar, laundry service (except dry cleaning) and unlimited fresh tropical fruits.
#2 Cocoa Island by COMO, Maldives
Only 35 minutes speedboat ride away from Male, this luxury resort features 33 overwater suites and villas, all boasting ace views of endless blue sea. Winner of this year’s Maldives’ Boutique Resort in the World Travel Awards, the resort’s villas are uniquely inspired by the local fishermen dhoni boats using New Zealand pine with Kajan thatched roofs and chic blue and white decor that brings in the sea, sand and sky into every room.
What’s included: Along with morning and sunset yoga classes, free breakfast is always included, but upon check-in, guests can request to upgrade to half-board or full-board packages, the latter includes lunch and dinner. Also complimentary are aqua therapy sessions, guided snorkeling and fish feeding.
#3 Soneva Fushi, Maldives
Soneva Fushi’s philosophy is simple: no news, no shoes. So unplug those gadgets, kick off your shoes and enjoy laid back luxury at its best — the environmentally-friendly resort has 55 luxurious villas, all decorated with chic furnishings, organic cotton sheets and plush beds to rest yourself on after a long day of sunbathing on the white sandy beaches or exploring the vibrant reef life. Guests can pick their own meals from the organic garden, enjoy a movie at the outdoor Cinema Paradiso and hang out with eagle rays and dolphins at the over-water sunset bar. At night, spot a shooting star (and make a wish!) at the resort’s world-class observatory!
What’s included: Buffet breakfast is complimentary and guests can choose to pay as they go or opt for the all-inclusive rates that covers lunch and dinner, as well as selected water activities. Feeling peckish? The tasting room next to the main bar serves artisanal chocolates, gourmet ice creams, cheeses and charcuterie all day.
#4 Jeeva Beloam Beach Camp, Lombok
Live off the grid in style — luxe nomads with a love for nature and wilderness will love the exclusivity and simplicity that come together in perfect harmony at Jeeva Beloam. Dubbed the ‘Soul of Beloam’, 11 standalone beachfront huts come with basic hotel facilities while 55 hectares of lush wilderness are just steps away, so guests are encouraged to connect with nature. Take a dip in the private cove also known as the ‘sea pool’, go for nature walks through Tanjung Ringgit, catch some waves at the nearby Ekas Bay — or do nothing but bask in the sun on the beachfront daybeds.
What’s included: Rate includes breakfast, lunch and dinner for two and outdoor activities that include snorkeling, kayaking, trekking, bicycling and return airport transfer.
#5 Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge, Tanzania
With only 20 luxury suites set amid 50 acres of Tanzanian bush in the Ngorongoro volcanic landscape, guests can rest assured that their experiences are private and exclusive — with unobstructed views of the landscape, no less. Located a short drive away from the world’s largest unbroken caldera that is the Ngorongoro Crater, the site is said to have the most dense concentration of wildlife in Africa so you’re sure to spot wild animals in their natural habitat.
What’s included: The rates include buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner at the resort’s main restaurants as well as snacks and refreshments served throughout the day (perfect for snacking after a swim!). There are also daily activities, sun beds and beach umbrellas for guests to enjoy.
Are you all in?
