Top Luxury Resorts in Southeast Asia

With lush forests, tropical islands, turquoise gulfs, and incredible biodiversity, it’s no wonder that Southeast Asia is a major draw for travelers looking to escape the bustle. Consequently, the region’s abundance of upscale resort hotels creates endless options for a restful getaway.

The World’s Best Awards Survey

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel conducts a survey where readers share their opinions on travel experiences around the globe—including top hotels, resorts, cities, and islands. Hotels receive ratings based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties are classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

Highlights from the Latest Rankings

While the majority of properties on this year’s list are located in Thailand, two exceptional locales in Vietnam and Laos also made the cut. The 34-room Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao, situated in Luang Prabang, Laos, is a boutique hotel that harmoniously blends luxury with history in this UNESCO World Heritage city. One fan described it as “a beautiful, restful, well-situated oasis of peace and serenity,” highlighting its three acres of gardens, an open-air spa, and a freshwater pool. Furthermore, the dramatic setting on a hill offers stunning views, where once, young Laotian princes would come to fly their kites.

In addition, Hoi An, Vietnam, is becoming renowned as a popular beach destination, especially following the recent overhaul of the 100-room Four Seasons Resort the Nam Hai, one of the first notable beach resorts in the region by an international brand. A respondent raved, “It was the most beautiful place I have ever stayed. A superlative experience in every possible way.”

Four Seasons Resorts Stand Out

The Nam Hai wasn’t the only Four Seasons property that impressed readers, as three of the brand’s Thailand resorts in Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui also made the list. In Thailand, winners are evenly divided between beach and island getaways in the south, such as the idyllic Amanpuri in Phuket and the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Conversely, remote retreats in the northern region around the famed Golden Triangle at the borders with Laos and Myanmar are also highlighted. Chiang Rai, featuring properties like Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, and Chiang Mai, home to the stunning 137 Pillars House, are the vibrant centers of action. Thus, it is hardly surprising that this year’s No. 1 property, an 11-year-old resort in one of the region’s most breathtaking destinations, also calls Thailand home.