Asia offers a plethora of unique and unconventional accommodation experiences; and the further you venture from cookie-cutter hotels, the more enchanting options you'll discover. Ever dreamed of sleeping in a treehouse or a hotel on stilts? What about a stay in a traditional Chinese garden? We've curated seven extraordinary gems where you can live out your fairytale fantasies.
China: Aman Summer Palace
Within the grounds of Beijing’s Aman Summer Palace lies a historic treasure: a traditional Chinese garden that once welcomed esteemed guests of the Empress Dowager Cixi over a century ago. For those yearning to experience life as royalty, this serene garden, located just steps from the East Gate of its namesake UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers Ming Dynasty-inspired accommodations and a profound dedication to traditional Chinese medicine practices.
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Malaysia: JapaMala Resort – A Samadhi Retreats Property
A short flight from Kuala Lumpur lands you on the serene shores of Tioman, home to JapaMala Resort – A Samadhi Retreats Property's tree top chalets. Crafted entirely by hand using traditional wooden tools, the resort was built without cutting down or relocating any trees. With the beach at your doorstep and the sea and jungle as your backyard, mornings here feel straight out of the pages of the Jungle Book.
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Thailand: Keemala
Perched on the edge of Phuket's coastal rainforest, Keemala is hailed for its appeal as an "all pool villa wonderland". Its accommodations are truly exceptional, offering claypot cottages, tent pool villas, tree pool houses, and bird's nest pool villas. The tree pool villas, inspired by the "We-Ha" (Sky) clan who revered the stars and dwelled in elevated abodes, are particularly sought after — giving you the unique experience of being suspended among the trees.
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Macau: The Londoner Hotel, Macau
Imagine yourself enjoying afternoon tea, gazing at Big Ben, and residing in suites personally designed by David Beckham. But instead of being in London, you're at The Londoner Hotel, Macau's replica of the iconic city. Offering a distinctive stay in the gambling capital, this miniaturised British gem is every bit as extravagant as you'd expect from a Macau hotel, touted as the world's first super boutique hotel. Spanning 16 stories on London's legendary Leicester Square, it's a meticulously crafted collection of all things British, in Asia.
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Japan: Private Resort Hotel Renn
Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of Japan's Miyako Island, Private Resort Hotel Renn stands out with its avant-garde design — futuristic glass boxes delicately balanced on stilts. Drawing inspiration from Japanese minimalism, the hotel's architecture is a tribute to the island's natural beauty, ensuring that every glance captures the pristine sea and endless sky. Perched high above the ground, the hotel offers a breathtaking perspective, especially from its rooftops.
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Hong Kong: The Fleming
The Star Ferry is synonymous with Hong Kong's maritime heritage, and The Fleming pays homage to this iconic symbol by transporting guests back to the city's yesteryears with its unique design. Embraced as one of the city's most stylish hotels, it boasts a retro, nautical theme complete with brass light fixtures, deep green tiles, and funky umbrellas that add to its memorable charm. While you can't spend the night on the actual Star Ferry, this hotel offers the closest experience possible — only with added glamour and luxury.
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Singapore: The Warehouse Hotel
Warehouse hotels have become a bit of a thing in big cities, and Singapore has taken due note of this. The Warehouse Hotel is a restored industrial space with a fascinating backstory dating back to 1895, when the area was a hub for secret societies, underground activities, and liquor distilleries. Since its transformation into a hotel in 2017, it has become a beloved retreat known for its historically-detailed rooms and proximity to the vibrant Robertson Quay district. The loft-style design will transport you to the hip lifestyle of a Brooklyn author in New York City.
Book The Warehouse Hotel on the MICHELIN Guide →
You needn’t look far to find bucket list-worthy accommodation options in Asia, be it treehouses, palaces, or warehouse conversions. These unique and unforgettable lodging options can be found throughout the continent, promising travellers an extraordinary stay unlike any other.