Song Saa private island in Cambodia
There’s never a wrong time to plan a romantic beach getaway, especially when you’re planning your escape in Asia. Home to some of the world’s most spectacular sites and breathtaking landscapes, it’s also the region to go for beautiful, relaxing beaches that are significantly more affordable than in other parts of the world.
Though places such as Thailand’s Phuket and Koh Samui or Indonesia’s Bali often get all the credit for Southeast Asia’s attractiveness as a vacation spot, there are a number of spectacular islands and enclaves throughout the region. The following are three of the lesser-known resort areas but each guarantees a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines natural beauty with high-end comfort.
Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia – Though Cambodia is not the first place one considers when conjuring images of sunny beaches, lazy days lounging on the sand with your significant other and romantic evenings with the surf and stars, it has become increasingly popular as a beach destination. At Song Saa Private Island, an exclusive luxury resort, guests are treated to views of the rainforest and a natural, lively coral reef; access to spas and wellness resources and excellent food and drink. The private nature of the resort ensures guests a peaceful, intimate experience where they can tune out from the rest of the world and enjoy Cambodia’s natural beauty in a setting conducive to the ultimate in relaxation.
Long Beach Resort, Vietnam – Another seemingly unlikely beach destination, Vietnam is becoming a gem of the Southeast Asia travel scene. Phu Quoc Island stands out for its uncrowded beaches and the pristine Long Beach Resort makes a tempting getaway destination. In addition to comfortable, elegant rooms and spa services, the resort restaurant serves a range of cuisines, as well as homebrewed beer. The beach outside the resort is regularly maintained and past guests have praised the friendly service and the beauty of the traditional Vietnamese architecture.
Amanpulo, Philippines – Amanpulo Resort on the tiny island of Pamalican in the Philippines is what beach vacation dreams are made of. A piece of perfection, this secluded island resort has been praised for the privacy, excellent services and amenities. Amanpulo guests enjoy no end of opportunities for taking in the beauty of their surroundings, from simply lounging on the beach, to island-hopping cruises, fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving. Novice divers can learn the ropes at the resort’s Dive Centre, no previous experience necessary.
* * * * * *
About the author
Casey Hynes is a writer, editor and amateur photographer based in Beijing, China. After spending a year and a half writing features on Capitol Hill for Roll Call, a daily newspaper in Washington DC, moved to Asia to travel the world and write. She has been published in the Wall Street Journal, Asian Correspondent, Travel Wire Asia, and a number of publications in China. She has a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University. Samples of her work and photography are available at: www.caseyhynes.com.
About Casey Hynes
