Anyone who has spent time in Southeast Asia knows that hospitality there has taken some major leaps in recent years.
The massive influx of tourism, infrastructure advancements and strengthening economies have all contributed to a luxury hotel boom that has swept the region. What comes alongside luxury hotels in such a warm climate?
Amazing pools with views to die for.
Here are five of the most beautiful pools you'll find in Southeast Asia, in no particular order.
Alila Uluwatu, Bali
“Perched on limestone cliffs 100 metres above the Indian Ocean, the view is nothing less than picture-perfect–aquamarine ocean vistas and glorious golden sunsets.” That’s how Alila, the hotel portfolio from Singapore, describes its property in Uluwatu, Bali’s surfing paradise. Of course, Bali is known for its luxurious villas and exceptional integration of hospitality with the natural environment, but Alila Uluwatu does things better than just about anyone else. Don’t forget your camera!
W Hong Kong
I always have a tough time deciding where to stay in Hong Kong. When I want to be in the heart of the city, Causeway Bay, I opt for Lanson Place. When I'm looking for something more lavish, I go for the Island Shangri-La. But when I'm looking for pool views, there's only one place I look: The W Hong Kong.
Locally known as The Wet Deck, the W Hong Kong pool sits on the 76th floor rooftop of one of Hong Kong's tallest towers. Plus, there's an added bonus: since the W Hong Kong is in Kowloon, across Victoria Harbor from Hong Kong Island, the view of Hong Kong's skyline is nothing short of exceptional. Catching sunset from the jacuzzi is an experience you'll remember for years to come.
Marina Bay Sands Hotel, Singapore
If you get a thrill from the booming pace of business in Asia, you’ll appreciate the infinity pool atop the five-star Marina Bay Sands Hotel. With unimpeded panoramic views of Marina Bay and Singapore’s sparkling skyline, combined with the hundreds of variegated container cranes filling out a scenic horizon, this pool is guaranteed to make your jaw drop. If you're like me, the container ships parked out in the Indian Ocean are the cherry on top, a stark reminder of how this world-renowned metropolis came to be. There’s no doubt that as far as sheer Wow factor goes, the Marina Bay Sands Hotel’s infinity pool is the most spectacular pool in the world.
Okura Prestige Bangkok
In recent years, Bangkok has become known around the world for the luxe level of its shopping malls, yet alongside these malls comes a collection of luxurious hotels boasting some of the nicest urban pools in the world. One you definitely shouldn't miss is The Okura Prestige Bangkok, whose 25th-floor infinity pool offers wide-sweeping views of one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Whether you find yourself in Bangkok just there to shop or you're a digital nomad living in Thailand, The Okura Prestige Bangkok is worth a trip.
Alila Ubud, Bali
Alila does such a good job creating truly amazing pools that I had to include two of their properties, both in Bali, on the list. The Alila Ubud Hotel, a hillside retreat nestled high up on the edge of Bali’s Ayung River valley, is a majestic exploration of Bali’s central foothills, a seldom-explored part of the island. It’s by far the most secluded of the five pools on this list, which is a large part of its appeal. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway with a pool that still strikes you speechless, Alila Ubud is the place for you.
