Editor picks – 20 destinations and luxury hotels in Asia that should be in your bucket list



16. Krabi – Thailand
Surrounded by splashing sea waves, astounding coral reefs and lush green islands, this destination is beyond one’s imagination but within one’s reach. When on a Thailand Tour, a visit to Krabi Islands is a must as it spells beauty like no other island. Krabi islands are an ideal destination for adventures and activities like scuba diving, swimming and snorkelling. Western restaurants are omnipresent, as are gift shops that all sell the same old trinkets. Nestled along the Krabi River a short ride from the Andaman coast, the city is home to 25,000 people who produce great food to go with a long-standing clutch of cheap guesthouses and traveller services. Unlike Ao Nang, the touristic hot spot some 15 km to the north, Krabi town retains a colourful local personality that’s not overshadowed by the traveller scene. The most popular spot for an evening meal is this market near the Khong Kha pier. Do not miss the Night Market or Phi Phi Island nearby.

Where to stay – Phulay Bay a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a luxurious resort nestled on the picturesque Krabi coastline. A tranquil oasis constructed in the traditional Thai style, the resort offers 54 one-bedroom suites and villas set against a backdrop of tropical gardens and the Andaman Sea. The units are graciously decorated in Thai style and offer ocean views. The amenities in all villas include a private plunge pool. Enjoy a pampering at the resort’s spa and sample a delicious range of dishes from the in-hotel restaurants.

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15. Dubai – U.A.E.
Man-made islands, towering skyscrapers and artificial ski-slopes… This is city of the revolutionary era. In contrast to the conventional and accustomed tones of the Middle East, Dubai is an outburst of modernistic hues and futuristic concepts. Boasting a cluster of stylish restaurants and chic cafes featuring world-class cuisines, Dubai’s culinary experience is a delight for food connoisseurs. Feast your eyes with a gorgeous view of Dubai from the 124th floor of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower. Shopaholics, empty your wallets in the 1200 swanky shops in Dubai mall, the world’s largest shopping mall. If you have packed a bikini for your trip, sunbathe on the white-sandy beaches forming Dubai’s glittering coastline. Who said trendy and dashing is exclusively for luxury malls and fine eateries, the Armani hotel conceptualized by Giorgio Armani towers in the city centre. Premium designers and renowned architects have collaborated with builders to gestate plush hotels and beach-kissing resorts. Adventure-lovers and scenic-admirers, we’ve found a retreat for you – Dune bash through the sandy deserts and cherish the photographic red sunset in the far-off horizon. With its spectacular entertainment and ever-changing skyline, Dubai never fails to surprise you.

Where to stay – Helipads. Duplex designer suites. Hermes Toiletries. These are only few of the extravagant features that you explore in the world’s most luxurious hotel, Burj Al Arab. A 7 star property, built on one of Dubai’s crystal white beaches, designed in a set-sail silhouette. For your culinary experience, feast on the nine in house restaurants and bars and luxuriate in the 4 swimming pools – it doesn’t stop there. There’s a fleet of white Rolls Royce’s on the forecourt and dancing fountains in the foyer, and fireworks launch from the bridge to announce the arrival of VVIPs, need we say more?

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