TOP 10 ROMANTIC BREAKS IN ASIA

There is nowhere quite as luxurious, intimate or beautiful as the Maldives. Relax with spa treatments in open air pavilions, enjoy deserted island picnics and set sail on a romantic sunset dolphin cruise. For a barefoot luxury paradise Cocoa Island by COMO is hard to beat. You can kickback on the private terrace of your overwater villa, pamper yourself with a signature treatment at the iconic COMO Shambhala spa and catch sunsets by the infinity pool that leads straight out to the beach.

Rise early to observe the saffron-robed monks collecting their daily alms from residents in this Colonial town; drive out to the nearby Kuang Si Waterfalls and take a dip in the numerous turquoise pools; then take a ride on a sunset cruise along the Mekong River and get ready to experience one of the most spectacular sunsets in Asia. Leave your luggage at Belmond La Residence that’s set on the lush hillside of Phou Vao. Swim to the edge of its glamorous infinity pool to get a bird’s eye view of Luang Prabang.

Just a short ride from Manila is the world’s most picturesque island, Palawan. Its white sand beaches are breathtaking and its rich coral reefs are perfect for adventurous water babes to explore. Nestled next to Palawan on its own private island is the resort of Amanpulo. Loved by celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Bill Gates and Beyonce, this five-star resort inspired by island villages gives you the perfect chance to get away from it all.

Indonesia’s remote islands are nothing short of spectacular. Hop aboard a luxury liveaboard and cruise from bay to bay, sailing through some of the best dive sites in the world. From Komodo to Raja Ampat and the untouched Spice Islands, this is Indonesia at its finest. Climb aboard Alexa, which is an exclusive, single cabin sailing yacht offering the epitome of a romantic adventure. Indulge in a fresh seafood barbecue on a deserted island, jump off the boat to swim with Manta rays or pamper yourself with a deep tissue massage out on the deck under the stars.

From charming boutique hotels to genuine, warm and welcoming hospitality; Sri Lanka is paradise for couples on a romantic break. Catch a Colonial train that will whisk you from Colombo to the lush green plantations of the tea country. Then make your way to the beaches on the south coast and spend your days surfing, whale watching or just relaxing by the pool. Scattered across 58 acres of Sri Lankan landscape is the resort of Ulagalla. Enjoy views across rice paddy fields, a beautiful reservoir and relax in one of the private villas that feature a four-poster bed, plunge pool and private terrace.

Found within the Golden Triangle bordering Laos and Myanmar, Chiang Rai is a haven from the rest of touristy Thailand and the perfect escape for those looking to really get away. The Four Seasons Tented Camp is perfect for couples who love nature and appreciate old world charm. Accessible only by boat and located along the Mekong River, this camp is the last word in luxury including large copper bathtubs and outdoor showers.

Leave the high rise behind and visit the picturesque Koh Rong Archipelago in Cambodia. Spy waterfalls in the forest and picturesque beaches covered in rose-coloured sand. Song Saa is the ultimate island getaway in the Koh Rong Archipelago. Spend your days snorkelling among the vibrant reefs under the guidance of your own marine biologist, or indulge in a spa treatment in the midst of the lush island jungle.

Rajasthan is a magnificent melting pot complete with culture, art and rich traditions. Learn about bravery and romance while visiting the magical forts and palaces, enjoy candlelit dinners amidst sand dunes or stay at luxurious heritage hotels filled with royal comforts. Raas provides the perfect romantic hideaway. Enter through the striking stone gate that leads you into a grand courtyard featuring lush gardens and a beautiful pool. Start your day with a relaxing yoga session followed by a morning Jeep safari to Bishnoi village or enjoy an adventurous tuk tuk ride through a maze of colourful markets.

Explore Paro, home to the most beautiful valley in Bhutan and the famous Tiger’s Nest monastery that appears to cling to the rock face. Then head to Punakha, which has white and red rice paddy fields dotted along the banks of the Pho and Mo Chu rivers. Uma Punakha provides the perfect base for a holiday in Bhutan. You can spend the day hiking, white water rafting and cycling, and the evening enjoying a romantic supper on your villa terrace while looking out over the untouched surroundings.

You’ll forget about the bustling streets of Vietnam once you touch down in Vinh Hy Bay. With its mountainous backdrop, white beaches and blue water, you feel light years away from city life. Head to Nui Chua National Park, where a guide can arrange a private picnic; snorkel in the calm deep blue waters along the coast or go hiking through the lush forests. Surrounded by granite cliffs and overlooking Vinh hy Bay and the South China Sea, the beautiful retreat of Amanoi is a must-visit. Relax on your terrace, take a dip in your private pool or dine in the restaurant that comes complete with sea views.