Way out east

Tabitha Lasley reveals the most striking boltholes in South East Asia

Six Senses Hideaway, Samui, Thailand
Why go there The Ana Mandara has gained a reputation as the go-to place for restorative spa therapies, and has welcomed everyone from royals to Michael Schumacher through its doors.
What you get Lovely, light-filled rooms and split-level suites decked out in polished woods and two restaurants including Dining on the Rocks, recently rated by the local society magazine as the best restaurant on the island. The real draw here, though, is the Hideaway Spa, which is consistently named among the world’s finest.
The water factor There’s a huge infinity pool that overlooks the ocean, and most villas get their own private pools and outdoor showers, with breathtaking sea views.
Worth leaving the hotel for Bophut, a tiny, tranquil fishing village next to the beach is charming. Or see the imposing Big Buddah, the iconic gold statue that overlooks the sea nearby.

The Dusit Resort Hua Hin, Thailand
Why go there Originally the Thai Royal Family’s summer residence, Hua Hin is still a pristine pocket of forest, clear blue water and heavenly beaches. This pagoda-inspired Dusit Resort is a 15-minute ride from Hua Hin town, perfect for peace-seekers.
What you get The resort is known for its serenity but also offers a range of activities for the restless such as water sports, a well-equipped gym, horse riding, tennis and squash. A massage in the garden organised by the resort’s spa is recommended.
The water factor The resort’s private beach is small but wonderful. If you don’t fancy getting sand between your toes, there’s the stunning pool with idyllic views.
Worth leaving the hotel for Tee off at the championship Hua Hin golf course, a 10-minute drive from the hotel.

The Datai, Malaysia
Why go there The largest island in the Adaman Sea archipelago, Langkawi is the new Bali: immaculate sweeps of white sand, emerald waters and blissful seclusion. And the Datai is one of the best resorts here.
What you get A modern oriental resort that feels like the only place on earth when you’re there – mainly because it is surrounded by dense jungle. Oversized rooms have locally crafted wood, sunken baths and rainfall showers. Corner and end suites have the best views.
The water factor Perched on Langkawi’s northwest coast, the resort overlooks the Bay of Pantao – the island’s best beach. There are two enormous swimming pools that overlook the surrounding forest. Be anti-social and opt for an outlying villa and you’ll be rewarded with your own plunge pool and Jacuzzi.
Worth leaving the hotel for Take a cable car to the top of Guning Mat Cincong for spectacular views of the island. Or head south to the Palau Payor Marine Park to spot barracuda, grouper and black-tip sharks.

Sofitel Metropole, Hanoi
Why go there With its broad boulevards and old-colonial façades, the romantic Vietnamese city of Hanoi bears more than a passing resemblance to Paris. The Sofitel is indicative of this kind of architecture with its stylish stamp of French governance.
What you get A historic hotel that dates back to 1901, the decadently furnished rooms are reminiscent of a bygone era. Ask for the historic wing that overlooks Hanoi’s French quarter. Foodwise, choose from local specialities at Spice Garden or French cuisine at Le Beaulieu, which is famous for its top-notch brunches.
The water factor There’s a large, outdoor pool housed in the interior courtyard.
Worth leaving the hotel for Hanoi is steeped in history and there’s plenty to see. Visit one of the city’s 500 Buddhist temples, its 15 lakes or the Old Quarter – a maze of quaint, winding streets where you can pick up cut-price jade and porcelain.

The Sarojin, Khao Lak, Thailand
Why go there An hour north of Phuket, Khao Lak is a tropical haven of virgin rainforests and peaceful, pale sands. Since opening a few years ago, this intimate little resort has bagged a brace of awards, and was recently named Asia’s best boutique hotel.
What you get Small but perfectly formed, the Sarojin has 56 rooms. There are also two restaurants, a croquet lawn and a spa which offers herbal treatments such as the signature Siamese body wrap. Ask the concierge about couple-friendly day trips such as the Champagne-aided excursion to the nearby jungle.
The water factor Aside from the adjacent Andaman Sea, there’s an onyx infinity pool with three draped pool pavilions that rise like islands above the water. The 14 pool residences have their own plunge pools, while the Sarojin suites have outdoor pools set in stone.
Worth leaving the hotel for Charter the hotel’s yacht, The Lady Sarojin, and explore the nearby Similian islands.

The Legian, Seminyak, Bali
Why go there Situated on Bali’s south coast, not far from up-for-it Kuta, Seminyak is a world away and one of Bali’s chicest quarters. The perennially popular Legian combines the warmth of traditional Balinese architecture with all the contemporary comforts of a five-star resort.
What you get The kind of seamless service that comes from years of experience. The award-winning spa has a wonderful range of must-try Indonesian treatments. Guests looking to up the opulent ante can book into The Club – one of the hotel’s 10 villas, which come complete with teak-terraced verandas, flower-filled plunge pools and your own personal butler.
The water factor The two-tiered pool overlooks the hotel’s own private beach. The Club’s villas each have their own turquoise-tiled pools and hot tubs so huge they take a good 45 minutes to fill.
Worth leaving the hotel for Venture out to discover the excellent restaurants in the area such as Hu’u Jalan Petitenget Gagak No.1 (+62 361 736-443).

Getting there
For more information about organising a holiday to Bali, Malaysia, Thailand, China or Vietnam, contact Airtours, tel. +44 (0)870 900 8639 quoting ‘Recline’ or visit airtours.co.uk or MyTravel at www.mytravel.com