South East Asia may not be the first region many people think of when considering a luxury getaway, but with some of the most incredible beaches, beautiful sea, friendly and amenable locals, and luxurious and opulent hotels and resorts to stay, it should be installed as one of the most desirable regions on any list.
Destinations like Thailand and Indonesia have become well known as backpacking destinations, with it almost being considered a rite of passage for some students and young adults to spend weeks or months in these countries. Local food and local accommodation can be extremely inexpensive, if you stick to the backpacking route, but if you want something more upmarket and more expensive, then you can easily find your ideal holiday destination.
One of the primary reasons that holidays in South East Asia appeal to a lot of people is the perfect combination of stunning beaches and great weather. Southern Thailand, along with the recently developed islands in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Coast offer relative peace as well as a degree of luxury that you certainly won’t find in the hostels of Bangkok and Chiang Mai. This makes them a beneficial choice for luxury travellers using providers like Wexas Limited to arrange their holiday.
Thailand isn’t the only country in South East Asia that includes large numbers of islands; in fact, they are dotted all around the region, and while some do remain uninhabited or are not set up for tourism at all, others have been developed for decades and some have only been recently developed. These recently developed islands tend not to be as busy, can offer luxury accommodation at surprisingly low prices, and there are some that offer total exclusivity and privacy.
If you prefer your luxury holidays to include at least some local culture, then Vietnam has a selection of culturally rich cities that are well worth a visit. Travel by private junk in Halong Bay, sail on sampan down the Makong Delta, and see the amazing temples and sites of Siem Reap and Saigon. Vietnamese cuisine is also a delight, although you should ensure that you know exactly what you are buying if you buy from street vendors and local restaurants.
For tranquillity, Cambodia is arguably the best choice. The South Coast is home to traditional fishing villages, inexpensive local markets that are a feast for the eyes, the taste buds, and the olfactory senses. Boutique beaches can also be found on the Southern Coast, and these are not only akin to tropical paradise beaches, but they are unspoilt and ideal for a romantic break.