It’s that time of the year when you are ready to spend some time reflecting on the year gone by. Nothing comes close to sinking into a pool with a refreshing drink in hand and stunning views to match. From mountain-framed plunge pools in the Himalayas to serene hideaways in the Indian Ocean, let’s dive right into the must-visit list.
Valley Views in Bhutan
Tucked in the Punakha Valley of Bhutan, Pemako Punakha is a place where time stands still. Indulge in tranquillity in one of the 21 luxury tented villas that are crafted to immerse you in some R&R. Each villa here has a private temperature-controlled pool that overlooks the river and the rolling hills below. It is the ideal spot to indulge in a hearty floating breakfast in the AM or a dip with your partner in the PM. Inside, you will find the elegance of Serge Ferrari fabrics and the warm glow of copper fixtures, including a vintage copper bathtub that perfectly adds to the Bhutanese aesthetic.
Insider Tip: Hike along an off the beaten path under the shade of pine trees on the way to Jiligang Monastery. The sight of the meandering river below complimented by the chirping of different birds and earthy scents will fade away your tiredness the moment you catch the first glimpse of the monastery.
Unwind in Style in Krabi
After weeks of festive frenzy, it’s time to slow down on the white sands of Krabi in Thailand. Check into the Reserve villa with private pool at Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. After relaxing laps, lounge on the sundeck enjoying the Andaman Sea view. You can also swim in the infinity pool by the Phang Nga Bay. Take the healing a notch higher by learning Batik painting and lotus flower folding at this 3-Michelin Keys resort. Love Thai food? Take a cooking class and learn the ropes. Come home not just rejuvenated but with enriching skills.
Insider Tip: Take a guided session with resident yoga master and mallakhamb expert Himani Pal against the stunning limestone mountains and the Andaman Sea as backdrops. If you are at the property on December 1-4, you can join a series of group sessions and exclusive private classes with Daria Gudkova, a spiritual wellness expert who specializes in sound therapy, crystal meditation sessions, and chakra activation.
Breathtaking Sea of Oman
Shangri-La Al Husn Muscat is the ultimate year-end detox getaway, offering a serene escape just a short flight from major Indian cities. Nestled on a dramatic clifftop, this adults-only retreat is renowned for its exclusive infinity pool, where you can soak up breathtaking views of the Sea of Oman while embracing tranquillity. The resort’s wellness offerings include yoga sessions on the beach, luxurious spa treatments inspired by Omani traditions, and a curated menu of wholesome, fresh cuisine to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Insider Tip: Start your day with a sunrise yoga session on the cliff overlooking the sea or a guided aerial yoga followed by a relaxing spa treatment with locally sourced luban essential oil.
Design Meets Zen in Sri Lanka
With private gardens, plunge pools, and more, this brag-worthy suite in Teardrop Hotels, Lunuganga is made with a love of design and architecture. The Geoffrey Bawa Suite is furnished with a rare collection of original artworks as well as Bawa’s library, making it the best escape to unwind and relax under the hues of greens with a book or two. The suite opens out to a charming private courtyard with a sitting area and a tropical plunge pool under tall palm trees, perfect for those looking for seclusion and privacy.
Insider Tip: Find your zen moment as you explore the whimsical gardens on a guided tour of Lunuganga’s gardens. Learn about Geoffrey Bawa and his extraordinary work as you meander through this living masterpiece – it’s an escape that will clear your mind and spark fresh inspiration.
Island Bliss in Seychelles
Waldorf Astoria, Platte Island is serene sanctuary in Seychelles surrounded by nothing but the ocean and is designed for privacy and comfort. Your days are spent looking out for hawksbill turtles, reef sharks and stingrays or cycling across the island’s airstrip which is also the best place to view the Milky Way on a clear night! Each of the 50 villas here have pools under towering palm trees and direct access to paradise. Inside, they have a nautical theme going on with materials like wood, rope and mosaic tiles used, and the furniture is further accented with blue and green décor that reflect the ocean and surrounding vegetation. In the expansive outdoor hideaway sip on locally crafted beverages in your pool as you are serenaded by the ocean ahead of you.
Insider Tip: Retreat from the everyday and unwind with contemporary and traditional services in one of their six treatment and indulge in a session of Ayur-Abhyanga. This ancient therapy uses medicated herbal oils that are applied to the entire body using rhythmic strokes that stimulate energy points and relieve fatigue and stress and balances the body and mind.
Relaxed Vibe in Ras Al Khaimah
Looking for a short-haul beach getaway to wash off post-festive blues? Ras Al Khaimah is the spot. Located on Al Marjan Island and opening out to the shimmering waters of the Arabian Gulf, the beachfront chalet at Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island is ideal. Kick back and relax in your private pool hidden behind lush greens and overlooking the Gulf.
Insider Tip: Enjoy a brunch or few at Ula, a restaurant that makes you feel right at home. Think long lunches, shimmering sunsets, and if you are up for it then late-night house beats – a place that transports you to where you need to be.
