Perched on the edge of a dramatic outcrop in Tangalle on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, the 5-star Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort is exactly what its name implies. Nestled within 22 acres of coconut plantation and dotted with sustainable rice paddies, golden beachfront, and a mangrove stream, its natural beauty can be discovered offshore with a surfing excursion or with the help of the resident Nature Guru on a guided walk. Some of the spoils you can look forward to include resort movie nights, twice daily yoga sessions, complimentary in-resort tuk tuk or bicycles, and a luxury chauffeur service when you want to explore.

Tucked away on a private island within the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll, the luxurious Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives is characterised by swaying palms and crystal-clear lagoon blessed with magnificent natural coral reefs. Just a half-hour seaplane transfer from Male will unfold you onto the sugar-soft sands of this barefoot luxury resort with its choice of stand-alone beach villas and overwater villas perched above the calm waters of the lagoon. The hardest choice will be deciding whether to pick a sunrise or sunset view.  The best part? A stay at this 5-star resort can be as active or as relaxed as you wish – spend your days indulging in the comprehensive water sports on offer, from snorkelling trips to sunset fishing, or simply let it all go and treat yourself to holistic spa treatments at the indulgent Akiri Spa by Mandara. 

Indulge in a stay at Heritage Awali Golf And Spa Resort where everything is included. One of the leading All Inclusive hotels in Mauritius, this 5-star resort on the edge of a nature reserve with 2,500 hectares of protected parkland even includes French champagne and premium imported alcohol as standard. Delightfully family-friendly, the resort has a complimentary baby corner, a kids’ club and a teens club and includes a free spa treatment at the Seven Colours Spa per stay for both adults and children. Spend your days relaxing on the lagoon-facing beach, sipping cocktails at the beach club or taking up a new hobby with the extensive list of complimentary land and water sports included. 

Perched above the village of Anacapri on Capri, Jumeirah Capri Palace blends refined Mediterranean elegance with artistic sophistication. The hotel, surrounded by manicured gardens, vaulted-ceiling interiors and its private “White Museum” collection of contemporary art, offers panoramic views over the Gulf of Naples, intimate suites and a serene wellness environment. With two Michelin-starred dining options, a renowned medical spa, and easy access to island pleasures, it’s a refined retreat for travellers seeking both culture and classic Italian dolce-vita luxury.

The low-rise Mediterranean-style Ritz-Carlton Dubai sets itself apart from its high-rise neighbours on the enviable Jumeirah Beach. With a more intimate feel, this colonial-style resort is characterised by a massive marble lobby with a tinkling fountain, crystal chandeliers and spiralling double staircases built to impress. Outside, landscaped gardens and no less than pools await to beckon you into hours of leisure time. But if you can tear yourself away from your sun lounger – complete with pool waiter service – you can take advantage of the retail and dining temptations of the vibrant JBR Walk less than a minute away or the free shuttle service to the Mall of the Emirates. 

Enveloped by palm groves and lush ferns refreshed by a natural stream, Tanjong Jara Resort boasts a remote location on Malaysia’s eastern coast. Influenced by the authentic architecture of 17th-century Malay palaces, this 5-star resort tucked within a quiet crescent cove has been granted the notable Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Within its 42 tropical acres, every single room has a view of the South China Sea or manicured gardens. Days can be spent snorkelling and diving the nearby Tenggol Island in season, known for its extraordinary corals, and frequent visits from sea turtles and black-tipped reef sharks, relaxing poolside or unwinding at the luxury award-winning spa. A daily schedule of activities from craft lessons to guided walks through the herb garden has something for everyone.