One way or another and in varying degrees, the shockwaves of the COVID-19 pandemic are definitely felt by all industries worldwide. Yet, the effects on travel and hospitality are particularly both sudden and intensive.
In Asia, where millions of livelihoods are reliant on tourism, it is indeed a challenging time. Visiting these affected regions once the situation settles is a great way of helping the local communities to recover – not to mention, the beauty of these places and the experiences they offer are all worth a trip.
At this time, it is important for us to stay safe and informed – but let us also stay inspired and not stop dreaming of the better days to come. Here are 4 of Asia’s top destinations for a luxury home rental experience in the future.
Phuket
Thailand’s most popular vacation destination, Phuket is world-renowned for its stunning beaches, picture-perfect islands, and being home to lively nightlife and a vibrant tourism industry. It is no wonder this island is home to a good number of luxury villas. Take your pick from chic, seaside villas to dramatic hilltop properties overlooking the Andaman Sea.
Phuket is also known as one of Asia’s most prominent yachting destinations thanks to its awe-inspiring coastal beauty featuring towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and tropical wildlife. Other popular activities include golfing in one of several world-class golf clubs and spending time in many of the island’s trendy beach clubs.
Some of the best areas to find luxury villas include Kamala – home to the famous millionaire’s mile, and the illustrious Cape Yamu peninsula on the island’s quiet eastern side.
Koh Samui
Still in Thailand, Koh Samui presents a refreshing alternative with its more laid-back and provincial vibe. For anyone looking for a quieter region than Phuket, Koh Samui is definitely the place. It has the old island-feel charm with its fishing villages and unspoiled beaches, but luxury villas abound in every corner.
With considerably less development along its coasts, Samui boasts a wide selection of beachfront villas, allowing guests to experience waking up to the sound of the waves literally just a few steps away from their beds. The island’s interior also conceals a well-preserved tropical woodland featuring hidden waterfalls and a rich population of birds. Nestled high above its hills, luxury vacation homes are also found looking down on the marvelous landscape and the azure waters of the Thailand Gulf.
The region is also known for the natural beauty of its surrounding islands and islets such as the Ang Thong National Marine Park. The neighboring Koh Phangan and Koh Tao too are worth visiting, regarded as one of the country’s most impressive snorkeling and scuba diving destinations.
Bali
The cultural capital of Indonesia and a surfer’s paradise, Bali is everything you can imagine of the perfect Asian getaway. With beautiful beaches everywhere you turn to, hip and happening bars and cafes, and a laidback lifestyle that makes all your worries disappear, Bali is definitely a trip of a lifetime.
Home to numerous private luxury villas, Bali hosts many hilltop havens, clifftop estates, and beachfront hideaways. Many of these villas are infused with Bali’s culture and art, as can be seen in the architecture and interiors of most of these contemporary luxury homes. A signature feature of many Bali villas is its breezy, open-air structure including amazing romantic outdoor garden baths.
Guests are immersed in authentic Balinese experiences with in-villa services and entertainment too, such as spa and wellness treatments as well as cooking and dance lessons. The very island itself is a thriving testament to the people’s cultural heritage and communal way of living. Some of the most significant and popular sites are its fascinating temples and picturesque rice terraces, tediously built by the Balinese people from centuries ago.
Niseko
The Niseko region, located in Japan’s island of Hokkaido, offers an entirely different facet of the Asian holiday experience. Once a humble farming village, the area has evolved into what is now the skiing mecca of Asia.
This famous winter destination is well-beloved for its powdery snow that covers its mountain slopes as well as its naturally occurring hot spring baths or ‘onsens’. Its culinary scene is also gaining recognition with many restaurants featuring rich local produce and the distinct cuisine of northern Japan.
Scattered around the area are Niseko’s luxury chalets that offer warm, cozy, and truly opulent accommodations for winter-loving visitors. Guests are treated with state-of-the-art heating, fireplaces, flat-screen televisions, hi-speed wifi, and stunning mountain views. You may choose between rustic, cottage-style homes or smart-looking properties with a modern minimalist flare.
Silvan Kitma is General Manager of The Private World. The Private World is a villa rentals company offering some the most top-rated luxury vacation home rentals in the world’s top tourist destinations.If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
Silvan Kitma is General Manager of The Private World, a luxury villa rentals company offering an elite collection of holiday homes in Asia’s top tourist destinations. From tropical retreats in Thailand’s Phuket and Koh Samui as well as Bali in Indonesia to lavish holiday chalets in Niseko Japan, these properties offer complete exclusivity and unconventional opulence for travelers. Their offerings include private chefs and top-notch facilities such as gyms, cinemas, spas, and spectacular infinity pools overlooking the beauty of the local region. Though working as a manager, Silvan is also a writer by practice, a musician at heart, a comedian on impulse, and a father of four.
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12 Comments
My gut feeling is that the tourism recovery will begin in Asia. Generally it’s though that the virus is less virulent in hot temperatures and also the Asians with SARS experience and earlier exposure to Coronavirus are probably more likely to take the right precautions to prevent future flare ups. There are a lot of us desperate for a couple of weeks in one of these villas.
I agree with you, we must stay home, but never stop dreaming and getting inspired by amazing luxurious destinations around the world.
When this is over, I will visit Asia for the first time. I’ll have to choose between Bali and Phuket.
Hi Beth. That photo shows Lipa Noi beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It is found on the quiet western coast, far from the crowds of the commercial center.
We’re getting conditioned into hygiene and social distancing. Once the crisis is over people will be wary of crowds. I expect many people will feel more comfortable controlling their social mixing in a villa than in crowded hotels.
I think you are right. I saw some film yesterday of a football crowd and it sent shivers down my spine. The sight of all those people together was scary. To start with I think we are all going to be trying to keep our distances. Villas will be the way forward for many people.
You’re right, tourism will help local communities and that’s a good point to remember when things start to ease and a degree of normality returns. I’ve got a friend living in Phuket at the moment for work and if he gets the choice he’ll stay there forever now, he loves it. I’d like to go one day as I’ve not been anywhere in Asia. Maybe Koh Samui, that’s got a very luxury but chilled vibe to it, and it’s absolutely gorgeous. It sounds silly but I never think of snow and skiing with Asia. I think of beaches, greenery and farmland, big cities, but never skiing, so Niseko is a good region to mention for variety.
You should definitely visit Phuket whenever you get the chance. Southern Thailand is one of the most beautiful areas in the whole region. The best time to go is from November to February. You won’t regret it!
I’m happy to see some of my favorites on this shortlist. I’ve been to Krabi before and Phuket is next up for me whenever I can get back to Thailand. Bali will also be my favorite for all time. It’s one of the most unique and peaceful places you could visit, although it’s highly popular. I think everybody should visit there at least once. The island is bigger than you might think.
I couldn’t agree with this more! I absolutely love Bali. And I also think people should visit there once in their lifetimes. The people are so friendly, and you’re exactly right. The island is much bigger than you might think and there are many places to explore without all the crowded touristy areas.
Whenever I go on a trip, with or without my family, I always prefer staying in a villa rather than in a hotel because villas give you a feeling of home and complete privacy. After this pandemic, hotels and resorts will surely see more guests and maybe I am not ready for more people. I think I will be planning ahead of time and look for a destination that offers an amazing accomodation, exquisite dining experience, and vibrant nightlife. Thailand would be the perfect place for these three things, aside from the Philippines. On the other hand, I see Bali as a place that tourists would prefer if they are looking for a serene place to relax. Either way, these two are great places to visit if you would like to experience the uniqueness of Asia.
These really brought great reminders of previously traveling to Thailand and Bali. The pictures of the Thai coast are absolutely stunning. I can’t wait to be able to visit there again, it’s really one of my favorite places in the world. As well as Bali. It’s been disconcerting to know that Indonesia is still struggling with COVID-19, and I feel for the Balinese people. I hope to go there soon, too. It will be very important to contribute to tourism again in these beautiful countries.
Phuket is also known as one of Asia’s most prominent yachting destinations thanks to its awe-inspiring coastal beauty featuring towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and tropical wildlife. Other popular activities include golfing in one of several world-class golf clubs and spending time in many of the island’s trendy beach clubs.
Phuket is also known as one of Asia’s most prominent yachting destinations thanks to its awe-inspiring coastal beauty featuring towering limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and tropical wildlife. Other popular activities include golfing in one of several world-class golf clubs and spending time in many of the island’s trendy beach clubs.
Some of the best areas to find luxury villas include Kamala – home to the famous millionaire’s mile, and the illustrious Cape Yamu peninsula on the island’s quiet eastern side.
Koh Samui
Still in Thailand, Koh Samui presents a refreshing alternative with its more laid-back and provincial vibe. For anyone looking for a quieter region than Phuket, Koh Samui is definitely the place. It has the old island-feel charm with its fishing villages and unspoiled beaches, but luxury villas abound in every corner.
With considerably less development along its coasts, Samui boasts a wide selection of beachfront villas, allowing guests to experience waking up to the sound of the waves literally just a few steps away from their beds. The island’s interior also conceals a well-preserved tropical woodland featuring hidden waterfalls and a rich population of birds. Nestled high above its hills, luxury vacation homes are also found looking down on the marvelous landscape and the azure waters of the Thailand Gulf.
The region is also known for the natural beauty of its surrounding islands and islets such as the Ang Thong National Marine Park. The neighboring Koh Phangan and Koh Tao too are worth visiting, regarded as one of the country’s most impressive snorkeling and scuba diving destinations.
Bali
The cultural capital of Indonesia and a surfer’s paradise, Bali is everything you can imagine of the perfect Asian getaway. With beautiful beaches everywhere you turn to, hip and happening bars and cafes, and a laidback lifestyle that makes all your worries disappear, Bali is definitely a trip of a lifetime.
Home to numerous private luxury villas, Bali hosts many hilltop havens, clifftop estates, and beachfront hideaways. Many of these villas are infused with Bali’s culture and art, as can be seen in the architecture and interiors of most of these contemporary luxury homes. A signature feature of many Bali villas is its breezy, open-air structure including amazing romantic outdoor garden baths.
Guests are immersed in authentic Balinese experiences with in-villa services and entertainment too, such as spa and wellness treatments as well as cooking and dance lessons. The very island itself is a thriving testament to the people’s cultural heritage and communal way of living. Some of the most significant and popular sites are its fascinating temples and picturesque rice terraces, tediously built by the Balinese people from centuries ago.
Niseko
The Niseko region, located in Japan’s island of Hokkaido, offers an entirely different facet of the Asian holiday experience. Once a humble farming village, the area has evolved into what is now the skiing mecca of Asia.
This famous winter destination is well-beloved for its powdery snow that covers its mountain slopes as well as its naturally occurring hot spring baths or ‘onsens’. Its culinary scene is also gaining recognition with many restaurants featuring rich local produce and the distinct cuisine of northern Japan.
Scattered around the area are Niseko’s luxury chalets that offer warm, cozy, and truly opulent accommodations for winter-loving visitors. Guests are treated with state-of-the-art heating, fireplaces, flat-screen televisions, hi-speed wifi, and stunning mountain views. You may choose between rustic, cottage-style homes or smart-looking properties with a modern minimalist flare.
Silvan Kitma is General Manager of The Private World. The Private World is a villa rentals company offering some the most top-rated luxury vacation home rentals in the world’s top tourist destinations.
If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.
My gut feeling is that the tourism recovery will begin in Asia. Generally it’s though that the virus is less virulent in hot temperatures and also the Asians with SARS experience and earlier exposure to Coronavirus are probably more likely to take the right precautions to prevent future flare ups. There are a lot of us desperate for a couple of weeks in one of these villas.
I agree with you, we must stay home, but never stop dreaming and getting inspired by amazing luxurious destinations around the world.
When this is over, I will visit Asia for the first time. I’ll have to choose between Bali and Phuket.
That first picture for Koh Samui is amazing, great contrasts between beach and sky. I’ve done Phuket, want to do Koh Samui as soon as possible.
Hi Beth. That photo shows Lipa Noi beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It is found on the quiet western coast, far from the crowds of the commercial center.
We’re getting conditioned into hygiene and social distancing. Once the crisis is over people will be wary of crowds. I expect many people will feel more comfortable controlling their social mixing in a villa than in crowded hotels.
I think you are right. I saw some film yesterday of a football crowd and it sent shivers down my spine. The sight of all those people together was scary. To start with I think we are all going to be trying to keep our distances. Villas will be the way forward for many people.
You’re right, tourism will help local communities and that’s a good point to remember when things start to ease and a degree of normality returns. I’ve got a friend living in Phuket at the moment for work and if he gets the choice he’ll stay there forever now, he loves it. I’d like to go one day as I’ve not been anywhere in Asia. Maybe Koh Samui, that’s got a very luxury but chilled vibe to it, and it’s absolutely gorgeous. It sounds silly but I never think of snow and skiing with Asia. I think of beaches, greenery and farmland, big cities, but never skiing, so Niseko is a good region to mention for variety.
You should definitely visit Phuket whenever you get the chance. Southern Thailand is one of the most beautiful areas in the whole region. The best time to go is from November to February. You won’t regret it!
I’m happy to see some of my favorites on this shortlist. I’ve been to Krabi before and Phuket is next up for me whenever I can get back to Thailand. Bali will also be my favorite for all time. It’s one of the most unique and peaceful places you could visit, although it’s highly popular. I think everybody should visit there at least once. The island is bigger than you might think.
I couldn’t agree with this more! I absolutely love Bali. And I also think people should visit there once in their lifetimes. The people are so friendly, and you’re exactly right. The island is much bigger than you might think and there are many places to explore without all the crowded touristy areas.
Whenever I go on a trip, with or without my family, I always prefer staying in a villa rather than in a hotel because villas give you a feeling of home and complete privacy. After this pandemic, hotels and resorts will surely see more guests and maybe I am not ready for more people. I think I will be planning ahead of time and look for a destination that offers an amazing accomodation, exquisite dining experience, and vibrant nightlife. Thailand would be the perfect place for these three things, aside from the Philippines. On the other hand, I see Bali as a place that tourists would prefer if they are looking for a serene place to relax. Either way, these two are great places to visit if you would like to experience the uniqueness of Asia.
These really brought great reminders of previously traveling to Thailand and Bali. The pictures of the Thai coast are absolutely stunning. I can’t wait to be able to visit there again, it’s really one of my favorite places in the world. As well as Bali. It’s been disconcerting to know that Indonesia is still struggling with COVID-19, and I feel for the Balinese people. I hope to go there soon, too. It will be very important to contribute to tourism again in these beautiful countries.