Bawah Reserve, Indonesia
Many resorts impose themselves on their surroundings but this place rightly lets its location take centre stage. And what a stage, standing alone in the middle of the North Natuna Sea – just four hours or around 260km by boat and seaplane from Singapore – this southernmost atoll in Indonesia’s Anambas Archipelago is almost blinding in its tropical beauty.
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Within a designated marine reserve made up of six jungle-festooned islands fringed by bone-white sand, this new resort perfectly captures the essence of barefoot luxury. The 35 canvas and bamboo suites (either beachfront, within the jungle or perched overwater) can be fully opened up to the elements and are pleasingly devoid of modern-day intrusions such as TVs. Instead, you are encouraged to snorkel over teeming reefs, kayak through the surrounding tranquil lagoons or picnic on one of the wild, empty beaches, where your only companions may be the island’s resident monitor lizards.
During construction of their landing jetty, Bawah employed a team of divers to move coral mounts to safety
The shared areas stick to the rustic vibe, artfully designed with bamboo and rocks hewn from the island, such as the spectacular softly pulsing jellyfish-inspired lighting (pictured, above) that bathes you in a multitude of hues in the lofty Treetops restaurant.
Six Senses, Krabey Island, Cambodia
Opened just this month, Six Senses Krabey Island marks the hospitality brand’s first foray into Cambodia. The resort is set on a sprawling private island and features 40 free-standing villas that blend modern creature comforts with the feeling of being outdoors. Each comes with an infinity plunge pool, green roof and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that offer uninterrupted views of the lush jungle surrounds. Much of the resort’s produce is drawn from its on-site organic farm.
Joali Maldives
Located on Muravandhoo, its own private island in the Raa Atoll – one of the largest and deepest atolls in the world – this luxurious resort opened in October and features 73 artwork-adorned overwater and beach villas. What’s more, a rotation of visiting artists will also create exclusive works which will be displayed at the art studio and gallery inside the resort.
To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
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This story originally appeared in the December 2018 issue of SilverKris Magazine
