All our destinations at Kenwood Travel promise something unique. From the urban glamour of the Middle East and the family fun of Florida to the casual vibes of the Caribbean and the island bliss of the Indian Ocean, there’s somewhere for everyone. Turning our attentions to the Far East we find all of the above, plus a discernible sense of spirituality, romance and adventure. Undeniable beachfront beauty, luscious landscapes and captivating wildlife await you in Thailand, Borneo, Bali, Vietnam and the Philippines where you can escape in the true meaning of the word. In the Far East you can adjust the tempo of modern life to a slower setting with ancient meditative and wellness traditions that promote inner peace, calm and stillness. If you imagine yourself embarking upon an awe-inspiring journey that will live long in the memory, read on for a look at our Best Far East Resorts Off The Beaten Track, and take the road less travelled.
The fruit orchards and swaying palm trees of the mountain forests cascade to the golden shoreline where Avani Quy Nhon – the beachfront resort and spa of your dreams – sits in secluded tranquillity. Understated, modern styling first grabs your attention as you begin to take in the finer details that define this secluded Vietnamese hideaway. Bask in the sun with a cocktail to hand and tropical birdsong in earshot on the kilometre-long private beach. Seek sensory harmony and lifestyle classes at the award-winning spa. Sit down to dinner at the cliffside restaurant and drink in the sweeping ocean views before savouring expertly crafted cuisine from the four corners of the world.
Fruit orchards and swaying palm trees
‘Asia reimagined’ are the buzzwords around here. It’s a concept that aims to represent all that is special about South East Asia in one deluxe package. And it works – The Sanchaya is both an authentic destination in itself and a base from which to further explore this part of the world. And what a stunning part of the world it is: the Indonesian island of Bintan is adored by savvy travellers for its cream coloured sands, lush green mangrove trees and sapphire-blue ocean. Look out for silver leaf monkeys and dolphins in their respective habitats. Miraculously, this hidden-away world is only 45 minutes by ferry from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Terminal, yet manages to invoke a spirit of secluded adventure. Villa accommodation here is bespoke and takes design references from Bintan’s regional art, history and cultural legacy. Walking into your villa is akin to stepping into the island’s past, superimposed with modern touches such as HiFi Bang & Olufsen TVs and in-room iPads. It’s the perfect marriage between the aesthetic considerations drawn from the island’s native beauty and the high-end mod cons that enhance our experience and make our holidays that bit more connected and comfortable.
A ‘hidden-away’ world
Ko Ko Mo Gili Trawangan – Gili Islands
The Gilli Islands, located off the northwest shoulder of Lombok, Indonesia, are characterised by their long, unspoilt beaches and clear blue waters. Formed from coral, they support a diverse marine habitat that attracts both giant turtles and scuba divers alike. Gilli Trawangan itself boasts pristine white sands, lively nightlife and the added bonus of being pollution-free due to its non-motorised-transport policy. This charming little island is home to the excellent Ko Ko Mo Resort where chic sophistication defines a laid back way of life; an idea that is achieved through thoughtful extras like private plunge pools. Its idyllic location comprises tranquil coconut groves and a private beachfront and, because Ko Ko Mo sits just on the edge of the island’s main strip, you remain close to the vibrant social scene while benefiting from the quiet pace central to the resort. A five-star dining programme complements Ko Ko Mo’s luxury credentials: witness an eclectic selection of Asia’s finest fare dished up at The Restaurant accompanied by a connoisseur’s wine list. Oysters freshly shucked, Peking Duck and Strawberry Dacquoise are some of the highlights to look forward to. Why not enjoy them on the beach beneath the stars?
Take a nightime dip in your private plunge pool
El Nido Miniloc Island – Philippines
Palawan, an island province of the Philippines, boasts some of the longest stretches of unspoilt beach on Earth. It is worth visiting Palawan for its wildlife alone – the marine reserves and kaleidoscopic reefs are teeming with vibrant tropical fish. One of the most spellbinding places in Palawan is El Nido on the northern tip of the island. El Nido is quite simply a picture perfect destination; limestone cliffs, dense jungle and dreamlike beaches await visitors. Miniloc Island is located just off El Nido’s coast. It is the ultimate place to get away from the stresses of everyday life and indulge your senses. Guests are encouraged to completely immerse themselves in their surroundings with help from thatched accommodations fitted with genuine Filipino materials. With an eye on seamlessly blending with its environment El Nido Miniloc Island Resort boasts world class sustainable dining which can be served to you on the beach. During your stay you can also take advantage of guided eco tours around the 45 islets surrounding the resort as well as numerous stunning dive sites. For total relaxation be sure to check out the diverse range of international face and body treatments at the resort’s own spa.
Get away from the stresses of everyday life
Song Saa Private Island – Cambodia
The islands that surround Cambodia are truly breathtaking. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, most of the islands have remained untouched by human hands and are home to dense rainforest and colourful marine life. Song Saa Private Island is perfectly nestled among these island gems and offers guests their own individual slice of paradise. The resort is actually set over two islands, Koh Ouen and Koh Bong, known locally as Song Saa, which in the Khmer language means ‘The Sweethearts’. All of the resort’s 27 villas are perfectly designed for intimacy while offering unhindered views of the spectacular jungle and ocean that frames Song Saa. Inside each villa you will find an impressive array of facilities. These include oversize baths, beds decadently draped in Ploh Linen, bespoke furniture and infinity pools that effortlessly melt away into the surrounding South China Sea. Song Saa Private Island offers a unique spa experience within its Sanctuaries. Here guests can indulge in local and international treatments that are tailored to individual needs via a prior consultation with the resort’s Head of Wellness.
That’s why they’re called infinity pools
Soneva Kiri – Koh Kood By Six Senses, Thailand
Located on the island paradise of Koh Kood and just 80km from Thailand’s mainland, Soneva Kiri is a largely untouched tropical getaway with year round sunshine and waters that really must be seen to be believed. Soneva Kiri has adopted a unique philosophy which they rather charmingly call ‘No News, No Shoes.’ While by no means mandatory, guests are invited to leave their shoes and gadgets in a bag from the moment they arrive in order to easily transport themselves back to a time when life was untroubled by 24 hour news and worldwide connectivity. A stay at this resort would not be complete without a Treepod Dining experience; this lets you enjoy a delicious meal while you are suspended in the tree canopy overlooking the beautiful beaches that surround the island. The resort’s Six Senses Spa meanwhile will transport you to spiritual Nirvana with a host of massages and treatments devised by leading visiting practitioners Lorenzo Becchi and Christopher Freeland.
Untouched tropical getaway
Bali is another Far East destination that promises unforgettable experiences you simply won’t find anywhere else. From its ancient temples and endless beaches to its rice terraces and enchanting history, this is a small island with a big personality. Take a look at our flash sale for exclusive deals on unmissable summer breaks to Bali.
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