Asia is hot.
Not just in a ‘it’s-to-die-for’ way but also in a ‘watch-the-mercury-rising’ kind of way. The steamy climate can make even the most seasoned traveller reach for the nearest cold cocktail to cool down.
Nothing wrong with that…
But why not combine it with a relaxing swim for the ultimate afternoon of indulgence?
Grab your finest swimwear and slide into the Top 5 Hotel Swimming Pools in Asia.
Amankila – Bali
The name says it all – Amankila (‘peaceful hill’). This series of luxury villas are connected by raised walkways that wind their way through the fangipani and bougainvillea and down to the hotel beach club. A sun trap during the day and beautifully lit at night this three-tiered pool is haven from the crowds that can over run Bali in high season. Overlooking the Lombok Strait – seclusion never felt so good. www.amanresorts.com
Anantara Villas – Maldives
You have to be doing something quite special to pull people away from the Indian Ocean – the Anantara Kihavah Villas manage to pull it off. This 49 metre swimming pool lays claim to being the longest on the islands’ and is surrounded by gently curving coconut palms at one side and the crystal clear lagoon of the Baa Atoll to the other. Pull up a lounge chair, order a sundowner and watch the dolphins play. www.anantara.com
Le Meridien – Koh Samui
Is it the large infinity pool overlooking the gentle waves of Lamai Beach, the oversized floating armchairs or the incredible cocktails that make this island oasis a must-visit for us? They are all great but the feature that really grabbed us? Underwater music. With a DJ spinning the steel wheels this hotel is the perfect place to while away a sunny afternoon as you listen to chilled out beats both out and under the water. www.starwoodhotels.com
Marina Bay Sands – Singapore
There are few hotels in the world that have garnered as much attention as this mega-casino resort in Singapore. Even fewer have justified the hype. The Marina Bay Sands has managed to meet expectation with delivery. The infinity pool stretching across three 55-storey towers has greatly helped the cause. The size of three Olympic swimming pools this haven in the sky offers unparalleled city views and some of the best pool parties in town. www.marinabaysands.com
Ubud Hanging Gardens – Bali
Arguably this stunning property is a series of beautiful swimming pools with an accompanying hotel. Few residences are so synonomous with the water-based offering than this hillside paradise. Each of the 38 luxury villas has its own private pool that overlooks the surrounding valley. With such an exquisite location it is hard to drag yourself away from the sun lounger and take advantage of some of the best shopping in Bali. www.ubudhanginggardens.com
Katherine Roper is Experience Director at boutique experience company mraristotle.com and has a guilty penchant for strawberry daiqiuri.
