Dewi Nurjuwita

Whether you’re a visitor planning your very first visit to Singapore, or a Singaporean mapping out a special occasion in the city, choosing a hotel in Singapore is an important (and sometimes overwhelming) task. With so many spectacular stays to choose between – from the world-famous Raffles to new boutique stays like 21 Carpenter – it can be challenging to decide which is best for you. To help you determine which hotel to book for your next visit or staycation, our team of local editors (including Time Out Singapore Editor Cheryl Sekkappan, Regional Content Director for Time Out APAC Nicole-Marie Ng and local writer Dewi Nurjuwita) have tried and tested the city’s top-ranking hotels to determine which are worth your time.The list has been overseen by Winnie Stubbs, Travel and Hotels Editor APAC and self-confessed hotel obsessive. Each hotel has been chosen based on amenities, design and proximity to the city’s highlights – with many hotels on the list within walking distance of the best restaurants and bars in Singapore.Read on for our guide to the very best hotels in Singapore right now. RECOMMENDED: The best Singapore attractions to visitThe best rooftop bars in SingaporeAirport hotels in SingaporeThe best luxury hotels in Singapore At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on to

There’s a new face in the deep at Singapore Oceanarium – and he’s got fins. Hangyodon, Sanrio’s lovable half-fishman, is making a special year-end splash with his first immersive experience in Southeast Asia. From November 28, 2025 to January 4, 2026, Singapore Oceanarium transforms into a mini trail of photo spots, interactive installations and meet-and-greets as Hangyodon marks his 40th anniversary in true aquatic style. Expect a mix of character fun and ocean highlights as you walk through the oceanarium’s different zones.

Singapore's most popular attractions may include a boat-like tower with an infinity pool and two durian-looking domes and other impressive manmade structures but you'll be surprised by the amount of greenery you can find within the city-state (and surrounding offshore islands). The best way to discover this? Hiking.  Put on your best trekking shoes and go on foot to explore these hidden (and not so hidden) trails around the island. But before you get on the best hiking trails in Singapore, it might be best to slap on some sunscreen – and it wouldn't hurt to bring along some mosquito repellent. If you’re looking to soak in the fresh air and stunning scenery while testing your fitness limits, sign up for Singapore T100 and challenge yourself on April 5 and 6 at Marina Bay. RECOMMENDED: The ultimate guide to Singapore's offshore islands and the best secret and hidden parks in Singapore

A beach vacation isn’t truly complete without a blissful massage, and the Island of the Gods is renowned for offering just that. Balinese massage, with its full-body, deep-tissue techniques rooted in traditional healing, is a must-try for any visitor to the island.  Whether you're after rejuvenating body treatments, cutting-edge wellness therapies, or a classic Balinese massage, the island's spa scene delivers a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence. From Seminyak’s Insta-famous spots to hidden sanctuaries perched above Jimbaran Bay, these are the spas where you’ll find the ultimate escape for a radiant, post-vacation glow. READ MORE: Best luxury hotels in Bali and Best cafés in Bali to sip, snack, and soak up the island vibes

When you’re in need of some rest and rejuvenation, a vacation in Bali is always a good idea. But with plenty, and we mean plenty, of accommodation options on the tropical island, where to stay can be a tough decision to make.  These resorts offer the perfect combination of luxury, seclusion, and an authentic island experience. From cliffside sanctuaries with sweeping ocean views to hidden retreats in lesser-known regions like Amed and Northwest Bali, we’ve curated a list of the best ones to consider.  Whether you're after private villas perched high in the mountains, wellness-focused getaways near pristine beaches, or stylish retreats designed for a digital detox, there’s something for every type of traveller. Get ready to discover the ultimate spots for a tropical hideaway on the Island of the Gods. READ MORE: The essential guide to Bali for first-time visitors and The best things to do in Bali

It’s always nice being a tourist in your own city, and treating yourself to a staycation is the best way to get away from the daily grind. Luckily, Singapore is filled with plenty of fantastic hotels to choose from, so it's easy to have that much-needed quick getaway without jetting abroad. From chic boutique hotels, to luxurious heritage accommodations, as well as swanky loft-style spaces, these comfy hotels in Singapore will give you the best night's sleep. Plus, with stellar facilities and amenities like infinity pools, bars, and sleek lounges, you're bound to stay entertained throughout. RECOMMENDED: Best rooftop bars in Singapore and 101 things to do in Singapore

All around the world, trains are back and bigger than ever. From the expansion of night train networks to the resurgence of supremely luxurious rail routes, train travel is proving that alternatives to planes and cars aren’t just greener: they’re often much more enjoyable, too.  When making a list of the best rail journeys in the world, it sort of makes sense that Asia features so heavily. After all, this continent is vast. It’s home to such a mind-bogglingly huge range of cultures and landscapes that it simply cannot help but also be home to an enormous selection of fab train journeys.  So, without further ado, here goes: from luxury hotel rooms on wheels to legendary historical routes, these are the seven best train journeys in Asia.  READ MORE: The most incredible road trips in Asia and The most fascinating historical tours in Asia 

Not to brag, but Singapore has some of the most impressive skylines in the world. And we're home to world-class hotels located in towering, state-of-the-art skyscrapers dreamt up by illustrious architects. Some people may prefer having a staycation at the beach or secluded spots around town; but if you're a city person, you might want to be right in the heart of the action. Book a staycation at one of these hotels right in Singapore's city centre and you'll be a walking distance away from the best art galleries, cocktail bars and restaurants.   RECOMMENDED: The best secluded and quiet hotels in Singapore and the ultimate guide to Singapore's neighbourhoods

If you're a beach person, the best part about living in Southeast Asia is the fact that it is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the world. Just hop onto a plane from Changi Airport and you can get to a tropical paradise. Whether you're a pro surfer, diving enthusiast or just a beach bum, these are the best weekend beach getaways from Singapore.  RECOMMENDED: The best short day trips from Singapore and Weekend travel guide: 48 hours in Nusa Penida

There’s nothing like taking a pause from the daily grind to spend some time with the family. Especially if you've been working from home, both you and the kids may need a change in environment. From farm visits to skydiving, Singapore has a myriad of things you can do with your toddlers, tykes and teens. And why not complete it with a stay at some of the city’s best fam-friendly hotels and resorts? We pick up some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Singapore. With interconnecting rooms, themed lodgings, cool toys and fun activities for the little ones, it'll make for great bonding time for the whole family.  RECOMMENDED: The best kid-friendly activities in Singapore and the best free activities for kids

If you prefer getting away from the crowds this school holidays to spend some quality time with your family, try booking a holiday in a resort destination. Whether you're bonding with your parents or taking the little ones on a vacation, these resorts near Singapore might do the trick.  RECOMMENDED: Last-minute destinations to travel to this Christmas break and the best hiking trails in Johor Bahru

Picture this: You’re on a tropical vacay in Bali, admiring breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean from the hotel pool as you knock down a bottle of Bintang. If your idea of an ideal getaway is a hassle-free stay where every detail is taken care of, then you might want a peek at our curated list of the best luxury hotels in Bali.  Whether you’re seeking the laid-back surf culture of Canggu or a tranquil retreat in Ubud’s jungles, there’s one for every mood. From cutting-edge design to authentic Balinese touches, these stunning hotels offer a mix of modern luxury and cultural immersion that’s truly one of a kind.RECOMMENDED: The best beach clubs in Bali for epic parties by the sea and the 14 most unforgettable beaches in Bali

Nestled near one of Ubud’s many rice fields, Kano Sari Ubud Villas is a fantastic getaway from the hustle and bustle of Ubud’s busy centre. The hotel is a five-minute drive from Ubud Royal Palace and the market, while the Sacred Monkey Forest is a further 10-minute drive away.

Bio-hacking, the practice of optimising your body’s chemistry and physiology to boost energy and vitality, is more than just a wellness trend - it’s a movement. And there’s no better place to experience it than Karma Spa, a state-of-the-art bio-hacking space set against the backdrop of Bali’s breathtaking southern coast. With an infrared sauna, ice bath, ocean shower, and warm soaking pool, you’ll find yourself immersed in one of the most spectacular environments in the world to explore this cutting-edge therapy.

Tamiang Spa offers exceptional value without compromising on quality, making it one of the most affordable yet enriching spa experiences in Bali. With 60-minute massages starting at just Rp 100,000, this unassuming day spa embodies the essence of Ubud. Its treatment rooms, nestled among lush greenery with the soothing scent of incense wafting through the air, create a tranquil escape. The extensive menu features everything from massages and reflexology to healing treatments and facials, all performed with time-honoured techniques and enhanced by Sensatia Botanicals products.

If you're chasing that perfect beach vacation glow, Glo Spa has you sorted. With five locations across Bali - Sanur, Canggu, Echo Beach, Nusa Lembongan, and Seminyak - this trendy spa is a go-to for travellers looking for a mix of indulgence and essential grooming. Along with its signature massages and body treatments, Glo Spa offers an extensive range of beauty services, from manicures and pedicures to waxing, lash and brow tints, lash perms, and spray tans. It’s a true one-stop shop for all your vacation beauty needs. And yes, it's also where you can get that dreamy, sun-kissed balayage for mermaid hair.

Beauty is skin deep, and it rings ever so true at The Sacred River Spa. Located in Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan along the serene banks of the Ayung River, this holistic spa taps into the mystical energy of the river to provide a deeply restorative Balinese experience. Treatments here go beyond the surface, blending spiritual practices with therapeutic massage to bring you into alignment - body, mind, and soul. The goal is simple: to foster harmony within by tuning into the sacred rhythms of nature.

Bodyworks Spa is a Bali icon, and if it hasn’t popped up on your Instagram feed yet, it’s only a matter of time. With its blush-pink walls and Moroccan-inspired arches, this stunning space feels like a slice of Marrakesh in Seminyak. It's no wonder the spa doubles as a popular spot for photoshoots and creative projects. But beyond the picture-perfect setting, Bodyworks is known for its range of indulgent treatments, from rejuvenating massages and facials to more modern therapies like an infrared sauna and ice bath experience.

This boutique spa from New Zealand may be situated right in the heart of Canggu, but once you step inside, the serene vibe sweeps you away. With island beats playing softly, a fully stocked bar, and private treatment rooms tucked within a lush garden, it’s easy to see why it was named Indonesia’s Best Day Spa at the World Spa Awards. Their offerings also extend to other prime Bali locations, including Seminyak, Nusa Lembongan, and Uluwatu.

Picture this: you’re enjoying a relaxing massage with the soothing sound of waves in the background at an Ocean View spa. That’s exactly what you can expect at Senses Spa by La Joya Biu Biu, perched on a cliff's edge in Jimbaran. Offering a range of facial treatments and massages, all of which feature a nourishing base oil blend of sunflower, olive, soya, and virgin coconut oil.

Perched on the slopes of the majestic Mount Agung, Pura Besakih, or the Mother Temple of Bali, is the island’s most revered and ancient spiritual site. This sprawling complex of over 80 temples dates back to 1007 A.D., making it one of the island’s oldest temples. Terraces and stairs ascend to spacious courtyards that lead up to the main spire, symbolising the worshippers’ climb up Mount Meru, an important mountain in Hindu cosmology. This also allows them to ascend closer to the sacred Mount Agung.  At the heart of Besakih Great Temple lies Pura Penataran Agung, Bali's primary place of worship, featuring 22 intricately designed temples. The panoramic mountain views add to the temple's mystique, making it not only a spiritual destination but also a visual spectacle that captures the essence of Bali’s sacred landscape.

If Bali had a poster child, Ulun Danu Bratan would probably be it. This stunning 11-tier pagoda appears to float on the serene waters of Lake Beratan in Bedugul, creating a picture-perfect reflection when water levels rise. Dating back to 1633, the temple is a key site for ceremonies and offerings to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, in honour of Lake Bratan’s vital role as a water source for central Bali’s irrigation. The temple’s architecture, designed in the traditional Balinese Hindu style, features multi-tiered pagodas that rise against a backdrop of vibrant flower beds and towering mountains. The standout is the 11-storey Meru tower, dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort, Parvati.

Tanah Lot, which literally means "Land in the Sea," is home to one of Bali’s most iconic temples. Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop with waves crashing below, it’s the stuff postcard dreams are made of - especially at sunset when the temple is silhouetted against a golden sky. Built in the 16th century by Hindu priest Danghyang Niratha, Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s seven sea temples, said to protect the island from evil spirits. If you’re lucky enough to visit during Odalan (takes place every 210 days), you’ll catch the temple at its liveliest, with rituals coinciding with the Galungan and Kuningan celebrations. And for the superstitious: rumour has it that Tanah Lot is the site of the infamous "Bali curse." If you're thinking of visiting with your significant other, you might want to weigh up the risks… or at least keep the romance on hold. Eat, pray, and proceed with caution!

In the heart of Ubud, Pura Taman Saraswati is a stunning tribute to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, music, wisdom, and arts. The temple's vibrant orange walls are adorned with intricate golden carvings that shimmer in the tropical sun, making it one of the most photogenic spots around.  A lotus pond surrounds the temple, adding to the serenity as you stroll down the path leading to its grand entrance. In fact, this is probably the first thing you’d see when you look up “Ubud” using Instagram’s Geotag function. Besides its photogenic nature, the temple is also an architectural masterpiece. It was built in 1952 under the royal patronage of Prince Tjokorda Gede Agung Sukawati and designed by the legendary Balinese artist Gusti Nyoman Lempad, whose works can be seen all around Ubud.  If you’re up for some culture, Pura Taman Saraswati also hosts nightly Balinese dance performances (except on Fridays) featuring iconic dances like the Legong and Barong.

Tokyo’s Harajuku district is getting a major injection of chaos and colour. Kawaii Monster Land, a new underground amusement park inspired by Japan’s cult kawaii culture, is set to open beneath Takeshita Street on February 13, 2026. And boy, are we excited. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because Kawaii Monster Land builds on the legacy of the much-loved Kawaii Monster Café, which closed in 2021. This new iteration goes bigger and bolder, transforming the concept into a full-scale immersive playground filled with candy-coloured monsters, interactive zones and theatrical set pieces designed for short, high-energy visits. Expect a surreal mix of sweets-inspired installations, game booths, limited-edition merch and live performances led by the park’s resident “Monster Girls”, who guide visitors through the experience. Photograph: Kawaii Monster Land From the moment you enter, it’s a sweet, sweet experience. Guests step through the Magic Spiral Gate, a theatrical entrance layered with LEDs, projection mapping and motion-sensing lights and sound that react in real time. Inside, the experience unfolds across playful zones like the Kawaii Monster Carnival, where stall games, DIY deco stations and quick makeover booths let visitors craft wearable accessories and quite literally join the monster troupe. There’s also the Harajuku Gift Bazaar, stocked with limited-edition plushies, enamel pins, reusable tins and artist collaborations that feel tailor-made for collectors. Fuel come

Rough Guides just dropped its list of the 26 best places to travel in 2026, and Asia is having a very good year. Out of the global shortlist, seven Asian destinations made the cut – with the number one spot going to a destination most of us know (and love) all too well: Bali. The annual list comes from Rough Guides, a name travellers have trusted since the 1980s for its no-nonsense, on-the-ground approach to travel. And unlike trend lists built on hype alone, this one is rooted in data. Rough Guides analysed over 30,000 tailor-made trip enquiries sent to its network of local travel experts around the world, looking closely at where interest is building and how travel habits are shifting for the year ahead. That insight was then cross-checked with feedback from guides who live and work in these destinations. The Asian destinations that made Rough Guides’ 2026 list read like a snapshot of how the region is evolving. Right at the top is Bali, which takes the number one spot in Asia, and third globally. The island’s appeal in 2026 lies in a noticeable shift away from overbuilt hotspots and towards places that prioritise creativity, community, and a lighter footprint. That’s something we experienced firsthand when we checked into Oshom Bali in Nuanu Creative City, a stay that reflects how parts of Bali are repositioning themselves around art, design, and intention rather than volume. Elsewhere, curiosity is spreading beyond the usual circuits, with more travellers venturing into l

India’s aviation scene is quietly gearing up for a shake-up – and it could make planning your 2026 travels a whole lot smoother. Three new airlines – Shankh Air, Al Hind Air and FlyExpress – have just received No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) from India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation. In simple terms, an NOC is the government’s green light for an airline to enter the market, allowing it to move ahead with essentials like securing aircraft, hiring crew and applying for its Air Operator Certificate before selling tickets. Right now, India’s domestic skies are heavily dominated by IndiGo and the Air India Group, which together control more than 90 per cent of the market. These new entrants won’t change that overnight, but they’re expected to add capacity gradually – especially on underserved routes – while tapping into schemes like UDAN, which aims to improve regional connectivity. Here’s what we know so far: Shankh Air, based in Uttar Pradesh, plans to operate out of the upcoming Noida International Airport, with initial routes linking cities like Lucknow, Varanasi and Gorakhpur to major hubs including Delhi and Mumbai. Al Hind Air, backed by a Kerala-based travel group, will start as a regional commuter airline with a small fleet of ATR aircraft. It will then launch direct international routes to Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi in late 2026. FlyExpress, meanwhile, is expected to focus on tier-2 and tier-3 cities, drawing on its promoters’ logistics and cargo experience. For now, a

There’s a new landmark rising above the waters of Penang – and it’s shaped like a turtle. Yes, we’re talking about Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery. Now in its soft-opening phase, this newly opened over-water art gallery at The Light Waterfront is the world’s first of its kind, built as a tribute to the life and works of Lin Xiang Xiong, one of Singapore’s most prolific artists. Photograph: Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery Designed as an eight-storey art museum perched above the sea, the gallery is dedicated to "Art for Peace". While its sculptural exterior turns heads from afar, step inside, and the experience becomes more contemplative. Expect expansive halls, open viewing zones and floor-to-ceiling perspectives framed by Penang’s calm ocean backdrop – a setting that encourages visitors to slow down and reflect. The museum houses four permanent galleries across multiple floors: Story of Xiang Xiong, Story of Nanyang, The Vicissitudes of Life and Story of Nature. Together, they trace over six decades of Professor Lin’s artistic journey, from intimate personal works and vivid depictions of Southeast Asian life to emotionally charged anti-war pieces and serene tributes to the natural world. Adding to the experience is a special exhibition, Picasso and Lin Xiang Xiong: A Dialogue Across Time, which places handpicked works by Pablo Picasso alongside Lin’s to explore how art has long served as a shared visual language for peace across eras shaped by conflict. Beyond exhibitions, the spac

Food is one of the best reasons to travel: it’s the quickest way into a place’s culture, history, and daily rhythms. Condé Nast Traveller (CNT) has just released its Best Places to Eat in 2026 list, rounding up 10 destinations worth plotting a whole trip around. This time, two Asian entries made the cut: Hong Kong and Patan, Nepal. Hong Kong has long been celebrated for one of the world’s most electric food scenes. Cantonese classics share the city with globe-trotting tasting menus, market snacks, and cocktails from some of the most revered bars in Asia – many of which you’ll find mapped out in Time Out Hong Kong’s definitive bar guide. Even with economic pressures and a tough hospitality climate, the city’s appetite for reinvention hasn’t gone anywhere. CNT calls out favourites like the crispy chicken at Dynasty and the char siu at Mott 32. A long-standing reference point is Lung King Heen at the Four Seasons. It’s famously the first Chinese restaurant to earn three Michelin stars, and most recently featured on LaListe’s best restaurants in the world.  Beyond the headline restaurants, it’s the everyday classics that locals keep returning to. A simple bowl of shrimp wonton soup at Mak’s Noodle remains a rite of passage, while bakeries like Bakehouse – which opened its eighth outpost at Peak Tower in late 2025 – and the long-standing Tai Cheong Bakery continue to draw queues for their egg custard tarts. Patan, one of the three ancient royal cities in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley,

Every year, Condé Nast Traveller (CNT) releases its Best Places To Go list – a snapshot of destinations that feel timely, exciting, and on the brink of something bigger. The 2026 edition is described as “a reminder of the paradox that our world is at once very big, and very small”, shaped by intel from writers and editors around the globe tracking everything from emerging food scenes to museum openings and major infrastructure projects. Out of the global list, three Asian destinations stood out: Hong Kong, Udaipur, and Naoshima. Hong Kong earns its spot as a growing cultural hub. In 2026, the West Kowloon Cultural District will expand further with the opening of the WestK Performing Arts Centre, adding three major dance and theatre venues to the precinct. Travel is also getting smoother, with Hong Kong International Airport rolling out upgrades under its three-runway expansion, including improvements to Terminal 2 by mid-2026. Beyond the city, enhanced facilities at hiking favourites like The Peak, Lantau Peak and Tai Mo Shan make it easier to enjoy Hong Kong’s greener side. Read our guide on Hong Kong’s top 10 most photographed hiking trails.  Photograph: Naoshima New Museum of Art Over in Japan, Naoshima – often dubbed the art island – continues its evolution into an open-air gallery where contemporary art, architecture and nature intertwine. The Naoshima New Museum of Art, designed by Tadao Ando and opened in 2025, signals a renewed focus on Asian artists, while upcoming

Cherry blossom season is one of Japan’s most anticipated moments of the year, and if you’re planning a spring trip, it pays to get your timing right. The Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) released its official 2026 cherry blossom forecast on December 18, 2025, outlining expected bloom and full-flower dates across the country. Sakura season is predicted to begin in late March, starting in central Japan before gradually sweeping north. As always, peak bloom is fleeting – usually lasting just a week – so these dates are key for anyone planning flights, accommodation or rail passes. But if you're not planning a trip to Japan anytime soon, read our list of where you can see cherry blossoms in Asia.  Japan cherry blossom forecast 2026 (major cities) Tokyo & Nagoya:Bloom: March 19Full bloom: March 26 (Tokyo), March 28 (Nagoya) Fukuoka & Kochi:Bloom: March 20Full bloom: March 27 (Kochi), March 29 (Fukuoka) Hiroshima: Bloom: March 21 Full bloom: March 30 Osaka & Kyoto:Bloom: March 24Full bloom: March 31 Sendai:Bloom: April 5Full bloom: April 10 Aomori:Bloom: April 19Full bloom: April 22 Sapporo:Bloom: April 28Full bloom: May 1 Full bloom typically lasts just seven to ten days, so keep an eye on updated forecasts as your travel dates approach. Aim for early mornings or weekdays to avoid peak crowds, especially in major cities. For classic hanami spots, Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen offers a calmer experience thanks to its size and variety of trees, while Aomori’s Hirosaki Park delivers

A new cultural heavyweight has landed in Taiwan’s second-largest city. Taichung Green Museumbrary has just opened within the city’s sprawling Central Park, bringing together an art museum and public library under one striking roof. Designed by Japanese firm SANAA in collaboration with Ricky Liu & Associates Architects + Planners, the building is envisioned as “a library in a park and an art museum in a forest”. Dual-layer façades wrapped in aluminium mesh filter light and breeze, while shaded plazas ripple gently into the surrounding greenery. Up on the rooftop “Culture Forest”, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the park and Taichung’s skyline. Photograph: Taichung Green Museumbrary The opening exhibition, A Call of All Beings: See you tomorrow, same time, same place (Dec 13, 2025 to Apr 12, 2026), sets the tone. Drawing from the site’s layered past – once a military base and airport – the show explores entangled relationships between humans, animals, plants and their environments. It’s curated by an international team and brings together more than 70 artists from over 20 nations. The exhibition unfolds across five thematic sections, with works spilling beyond galleries into public spaces throughout the Museumbrary. The museum is also committing to long-term public art, with new commissions set to be added to its shared spaces every two years. Leading the inaugural line-up are works by South Korean artist Haegue Yang and Taiwanese artist Michael Lin, both created sp

The verdict is in. Condé Nast Traveller has revealed its Gold List 2026, spotlighting the very best hotels and resorts across Asia – and, frankly, it’s a strong case for booking that next holiday early. Now in its 32nd year, the Gold List brings together the publication’s editors’ favourite places to stay, sleep, eat and escape, all rigorously vetted by contributors around the world. Each property stands out for different reasons – impeccable service, thoughtful architecture, meals worth travelling for – but they all do one thing exceptionally well. From nature-led retreats to refined city sanctuaries and far-flung hideaways, we’ve picked three standout stays from the Asia list to put firmly on your radar if you’re planning ahead for 2026. Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, Bali, Indonesia This first one needs no introduction. Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape has landed its way onto many of our lists – including the best hotels in Ubud – and it continues to earn its reputation as one of Bali’s most distinctive stays. Set in the unspoiled highlands north of Ubud, the adults-only retreat is built around a bold “no walls, no doors” concept. Its 16 open-air bales (or villas) come with private pools and uninterrupted 180-degree views of jungle and mountain peaks, creating an immersive stay where architecture quietly steps aside and nature takes centre stage.The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, Japan From the wilds of Bali to the calm precision of Japan, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto offers a very different

If you’ve ever romanticised the idea of slow travel – the kind where the journey is very much the point – this one’s worth bookmarking. In 2026, a brand-new luxury rail route is launching across one of the world’s most storied landscapes: the ancient Silk Road. What was the Silk Road? The Silk Road was a vast network of trade routes linking East Asia to the Mediterranean for over a thousand years. Beyond silk and spices, it was a conduit for culture, religion, technology and ideas, shaping civilisations from China to Central Asia and beyond. What is the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express? Launched by Golden Eagle Luxury Trains, the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express is a new private touring train designed to revive that legendary route – minus the ox carts. Expect en-suite cabins, fine dining, live piano music in the bar and an observation carriage decked out in plush sofas and polished wood. It marks the company’s return to China and Central Asia for the first time since 2019. What’s the route and itinerary like? Photograph: Golden Eagle Silk Road Express The headline journey is the 22-day Grand Silk Road, travelling from Beijing to Tashkent via Xi’an, Dunhuang, Kashgar, Samarkand and more, crossing China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. You’ll visit UNESCO-listed sites, ancient cities and dramatic landscapes – from the Gobi Desert to Lake Issyk-Kul – before retreating back to your five-star “hotel on rails”. Shorter options are also available, inc

My friends call me the “Bali expert”. Over the years, this island has become my second home, my escape hatch whenever city life burnout creeps in. I’ve seen Canggu morph from a laid-back surf town to a chaotic cafe sprawl. And yes, I’m that person pointing at random boutiques or cafes while giving unsolicited history lessons: “This literally used to be a padi field.”  So when I got the invite to check out Oshom Bali, tucked on the lesser-known black sands of Nyanyi Beach, I wasn’t expecting anything I hadn’t seen before. But here’s the thing: this wasn’t just another boutique stay with a pool and a yoga shala. It’s the first luxury hotel within Nuanu Creative City, a sprawling, 44-hectare cultural experiment on Bali’s southwest coast. Originally the private residence of Nuanu’s founder, Sergey Solonin, the property has been reimagined by creative director Daisy Angus as an 18-key boutique hotel with moody treehouses, ocean-facing suites, and a design philosophy made to move you. It’s this careful balance between soul and style that sets Oshom apart, and you’ll feel it the moment you walk into your room. Photograph: Oshom Bali The rooms: Like sleeping in an art gallery, but better  The interiors at Oshom Bali pay thoughtful tribute to both art and the island’s natural landscapes. But don’t mistake it for just another stylish stay in Bali. Sure, there’s the requisite lawn with pool and deck chairs, but that’s pretty much where the comparisons end. Oshom Bali feels more like a

The pristine shores of Phuket, Krabi and surrounding islands are popular destinations for Singaporeans looking for a quick getaway pre-pandemic. Now that more tourists are returning to the 'Land of Smiles', here's a new measure you should take note of.  The Thailand government has just proposed a 300-baht ($12) tourism fee that will be imposed on international visitors from April onwards. This will help develop attractions and cover accident insurance for foreigners unable to pay cost themselves said senior officials in a statement last week.  After all, Thailand has been badly hit by a tourism slump during the pandemic, seeing about 200,000 arrivals last year compared to nearly 40 million in 2019.  The tourism fee will be priced in with airline tickets and is part of the government's sustainable tourism plans, said government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana. It adds to a list of requirements for foreign tourists seeking entry to Thailand under the existing Sandbox programmes, which also includes pre-payment for Covid-19 tests, hotel accommodation for quarantine, and having insurance with COVID-19 treatment coverage of at least US$50,000 (S$67,417). Planning your trip to Thailand the minute Singapore resumes its VTL arrangements? Check out these best destinations in Thailand you can travel to on a VTL. Read more: Singapore emerges as the world's most powerful passport – alongside JapanAnnual leave hacks 2022: dates to book to make the most of the public holidays