JUNE / JULY 2015 | 59 With shimmering cerulean waters and near-limitless selection of palm-fringed white-sand beaches, it is little wonder that investors continue to look east in their search of paradise. For decades now, Asia has perfected its own brand of wish-fulfilment for visitors seeking to realise their holiday fantasies. Southeast Asia, in particular, has come a long way since the early years of its travel industry when the main demographic was intrepid Western hippies and accommodation was rarely more sophisticated than a rustic wooden shack. Nowadays, countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and more recently, Vietnam and Cambodia, can ably cater to the most demanding of investors, with sumptuous properties ranging from secluded island hideaways to palatial residences with easy access to first-class restaurants and highly developed transport infrastructure. Investors who are as keen on powder snow as granules of sand are equally well catered for. Japan has come into its own as a winter-sports destination, with the legendarily consistent supply of fresh snow in the northern island of Hokkaido matched by an ever-expanding portfolio of après-ski options. For those in search of the ultimate bolthole, meanwhile, the Maldives continues to seduce with its brand of barefoot luxury. With cutting-edge architecture and increasingly daring design concepts defining the new breed of Asian resort residences, the difficulty is no longer finding a suitable property – it is choosing the right one. This also makes the task of selecting the region’s outstanding resort residences more arduous by the year. But after much deliberation and adherence to a strict criteria, the Property Report editorial team is finally ready to present Asia’s 15 Best Resort Residences 2015.
Transcript
JUNE / JULY 2015 | 59
With shimmering cerulean waters and near-limitless selection of palm-fringed white-sand beaches, it is little wonder that investors continue to look east in their search of paradise.
For decades now, Asia has perfected its own brand of wish-fulfilment for visitors seeking to realise their holiday fantasies. Southeast Asia, in particular, has come a long way since the early years of its travel industry when the main demographic was intrepid Western hippies and accommodation was rarely more sophisticated than a rustic wooden shack.
Nowadays, countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and more recently, Vietnam and Cambodia, can ably cater to the most demanding of investors, with sumptuous properties ranging from secluded island hideaways to palatial residences with easy access to first-class restaurants and highly developed transport infrastructure.
Investors who are as keen on powder snow as granules of sand are equally well catered for. Japan has come into its own as a winter-sports destination, with the legendarily consistent supply of fresh snow in the northern island of Hokkaido matched by an ever-expanding portfolio of après-ski options.
For those in search of the ultimate bolthole, meanwhile, the Maldives continues to seduce with its brand of barefoot luxury.
With cutting-edge architecture and increasingly daring design concepts defining the new breed of Asian resort residences, the difficulty is no longer finding a suitable property – it is choosing the right one.
This also makes the task of selecting the region’s outstanding resort residences more arduous by the year. But after much deliberation and adherence to a strict criteria, the Property Report editorial team is finally ready to present Asia’s 15 Best Resort Residences 2015.
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WHERE IS IT?Its islands and beaches may not be as famous as those in neighbouring Thailand, but Cambodia’s paradisiacal en-claves are equally alluring. Particularly pristine are the string of islands near the bustling beach town of Sihanoukville on the country’s south coast. Among these is Koh Russey, an unspoiled haven that is a mere 15-minute speedboat ride to the amenities and transport links of the mainland.
WHAT’S THE STORY?With a projected completion date of 2016, Alila Villas is one of the most exciting developments in Cambodia. Envisaged as a low-density villa community infused with Khmer culture, the project also adheres to strict international sustainability and environmental standards.
Alila Villas Koh Russey
LOOKS LIKEThe development encompasses a range of properties spanning one- to four-bedroom villas. Despite this variety, the entire hotel and villa project has a low building density of only 15 percent to total site, resulting in an abundance of natural and landscaped green spaces, and underlining the ecological credentials of the project. Singaporean architect Chioh-Hui Goh has utilised local materials and traditional craftsmanship throughout his design.
DOWNTIMEFacilities include a beachfront swimming pool as well as an ocean-facing spa. There are plentiful entertainment options including two restaurants serving international and Khmer cuisine as well as a variety of bars.
X-FACTOROne-bedroom villas have a vantage point at 27 metres above sea level ensuring amazing vistas of the surrounding scenery.
WHY INVEST?Booming interest in Cambodia means that demand outweighs supply, especially for a unique island development such as this. A 6 percent yield for five years on one-bedroom villas is guaranteed, while the competitive entry prices maximise chances of capital appreciation in the future.
WHERE IS IT?Thailand’s biggest island, Phuket, is long established as one of the jewels in the Kingdom’s tourism crown. Famed the world over for its white-sand beaches, fabulous resorts and buzzing nightlife, the destination remains as attractive as ever to those seeking a healthy dose of pure indulgence. Located near the village of Kamala, Andara Phuket enjoys one of the best situations on the paradise island.
WHAT’S THE STORY?The roots of the project lie in Hong Kong’s happening Lan Kwai Fong district where magnate Allan Zeman built his business empire. After constructing his dream holiday home in Phuket, Zeman saw the potential for the island as a high-end location for a second home. The result was Andara Resort & Villas, which has proved hugely popular with investors since opening in 2008.
LOOKS LIKELaid out along the start of an elevated stretch of road, known locally as “millionaires’ mile”, the property commands outstanding views of the Andaman Sea and is just a short walk from Kamala’s expansive beach. Its spacious villas and suites are generously appointed with a judicious selection of Thai art and sculpture. Stunning ocean vistas complete an alluring package.
DOWNTIMEWith the azure waters of the Andaman Sea just a stone’s throw away options for water bound fun are limitless. In addition to sailing, diving, snorkelling and paddle boarding, the resort has plenty of on-site diversions including its Silk restaurant as well as the luxury Andara Spa.
Andara Resort & Villas
X-FACTORKamala is a diver’s paradise with excellent dive sites just a short boat ride away.
WHY INVEST?Investors can use their property as a permanent or semi-permanent residence or they can take advantage of a Leaseback arrangement whereby the property is placed in a rental program, allowing owners 60-days per year usage of the property.
WHERE IS IT?The most famous beach enclave on the island of Penang is Batu Ferringhi, but just as appealing are the white sands and cerulean waters at Teluk Bahang – home to this ambitious new development. Penang, of course, is long established as one of Malaysia’s most appealing destinations. Away from the paradise beaches, the island boasts attractions aplenty from the heritage architecture of its capital Georgetown to its famed culinary scene.WHAT’S THE STORY?
Due for completion by the end of 2017, this is the first resort development in Malaysia to be managed by the Banyan Tree group, under its Angsana brand. Utilising the talents of local and international design, architecture and landscaping firms, the property is inspired by 1930s Straits architecture as well Penang’s Peranakan heritage.
LOOKS LIKENaturally, given the property’s prime beachfront location, the Andaman Sea is key to the appeal here. The indoor-outdoor main lobby takes full advantage of the oceanfront location while each of the suites have direct beach access as well as panoramic views of the water. Forested hills, meanwhile, provide a lush backdrop. The property’s architecture carries traces of Penang’s rich history and luxurious suites are both spacious and generously appointed.DOWNTIME
Angsana Teluk Bahang
Three dining venues and two bars including a specialty restaurant, a sports bar and a beach club cater to the entertainment needs of investors. There are also two infinity pools, a spa and a yoga pavilion.
X-FACTORThe development integrates best practices in green building and adheres to the principles of EarthCheck Sustainable Design Standards – an Australian founded global standard geared towards sustainable tourism.
WHY INVEST?The property offers sale and leaseback opportunities when units are managed by the hotel. Projections show that unit yields have estimated returns of 5-7 percent.
WHERE IS IT?The premier tourist destination in the Philippines, Boracay is fabled for its powder-soft white-sand beaches, multiple possibilities for water-sports and pulsating nightlife. Aqua Boracay by YOO is located on the eastern side of the island on unspoiled Bulabog Beach, famous as a kite-surfing destination but attracting a fraction of the traffic of the beaches on the island’s west coast.
WHAT’S THE STORY?Billed as Boracay’s first branded residence, Aqua Boracay by YOO is the most ambitious project to date by property developer Aqua Boracay, helmed by Italian-born chairman Marco Biggiogero. The development is chiefly characterised by its luxurious amenities and world-class design by YOO, a London-based interior design firm founded by Philippe Starck and property magnate John Hitchcox. Construction on the project is slated to be completed in 2016.
LOOKS LIKEBuilding on its association with design maestro Philippe Starck, YOO Studio has won world renown for its innovative approach. Boracay’s idyllic setting is the key inspiration for the design of Aqua Boracay by YOO. The property’s diamond-shaped buildings ensure that each apartment enjoys a view of the ocean while natural materials are used exclusively throughout the resort. DOWNTIME
A centrepiece swimming pool comprises a lap pool, adult pool and children’s pool while other facilities and amenities include an on-site water sports centre, a restaurant and a private day spa.
X-FACTORFurnishings are by designer Vito Selma who has a passion for using locally sourced wood to carve amazing pieces with geometric lines.
WHY INVEST?As a way of attracting foreign buyers, Aqua Boracay lets investors purchase units in their own name and buyers will receive an official tax declaration for their purchase. The developer also offers in-house financing of up to 50 percent with various payment schemes that work up to a mortgage period of five years.
WHERE IS IT?The south of Bali is by far the island’s most visited area – and with good reason. Denpasar, Bali’s capital and main transport hub, is located here, as is the greater Kuta area, which also encompasses the beach havens of Seminyak and Legian. Further south is the resort town of Jimbaran, home to the AYANA Residences. Once a sleepy fishing village, the town is known as the “Beverly Hills of Bali” due to its high-rolling reputation and plush resorts.
WHAT’S THE STORY?Adjacent to the award-winning AYANA Resort and Spa Bali, this project is slated for completion in 2015 and will consist of a select number of luxury apartments and villas as well as an expansive club house with swimming pools, fitness centre, mini-cinema, jogging trails and even pet-grooming facilities. Unique in that it is one of the first residential developments in Bali to be fully integrated with a five-star resort, the project offers the largest living space of any luxury residences in Bali.
LOOKS LIKEFor its design AYANA Residences has stuck with the formula that was so successful at AYANA Resort and Spa with architecture by leading firm WATG, landscaping by St Legere and interiors by P49 Design. Architecture draws from Balinese temples and traditional homes with local materials used throughout. The Balinese philosophy of balance, scale and proportion is evident throughout with high ceilings, open living areas and generous floor-to-ceiling windows.
DOWNTIMEThe project’s clubhouse – named after the Indian emperor Ashoka – boasts two swimming pools, a state of the art fitness centre, library, 10-seat cinema and pet grooming facilities.
X-FACTORThe sprawling botanical gardens include a bamboo plantation to collect rainwater. Other features include water fountains and chic pond ornaments created from recycled glass by Japanese artist Seiki Torige.
WHY INVEST?There are no restrictions to the usage rights of owners, foreign ownership structures are available and the developers promise world-class property management.
WHERE IS IT?If a Southeast Asian destination could truly be described as “hot” right now it would probably be the Gili Islands. Posited languidly in the blue seas to the north of Lombok, the three Gili islands – Meno, Air and Trawangan – are car-free visions of paradise. Gili Meno is regarded as the most laid back of the three and offers exceptional value for money.
WHAT’S THE STORY?Although not due for completion until 2016, Bask has already picked up several awards. Billing itself as a “new concept in contemporary island living”, the resort/beach club/villa development was spearheaded by George Gorrow, an award-winning creative director who has previously worked with clients such as DJ Steve Aoiki and Black Eyed Peas main-man will.i.am. He has created a contemporary aesthetic that takes inspiration from local fishing villas with their thatched roofs and bamboo frames.
Bask Gili Meno
X-FACTORThe resort’s most remarkable feature is Nest – an underwater art installation by Jason de Claires designed to attract and foster marine life.
WHY INVEST?Prices on Gili Meno are up to three times cheaper than on neighbouring Gili Trawangan, while 100–year-leases are available for foreigners. The resort is currently offering early bird discounts on selected villas and guaranteed net returns of 7.5 percent for the first two years.
LOOKS LIKEOpen plan architecture and use of sustainable materials is a feature of the resort. The interior design combines a neutral palette with streamlined, contemporary fixtures with design features including retractable glass walls and flat garden roofs.
DOWNTIMEBASK boasts a restaurant led by five-star chef Dan Moran and a 93-seat beach bar with daybeds and private and communal beach beds. The resort also has a 35-metre-long central infinity pool, lakeside spa, gym and wellness centre as well as glass-bottomed paddleboards.
WHERE IS IT?Koh Samui has been in the tourism business longer than almost any other Thai island. Familiarity, however, has not dulled the charms of this perennial crowd pleaser. In fact, the island has matured as a destination and has diversified its product to ensure it stays ahead of the game. Tucked away at the north end of Lamai Beach, Beach Republic The Residences enjoys glorious seclusion yet is just a short hop from the facilities of Lamai town.
WHAT’S THE STORY?You don’t leave Thailand behind, of course, when you pass through the gates of Beach Republic The Residences, but the property has forged its own unique identity since opening in 2008. Styled as an independent estate, the resort has a unique feel and culture of its own, marrying the exoticism of the Orient with a contemporary and hip Mediterranean beach lifestyle.
LOOKS LIKEThe property’s collection of private pool villas and penthouses are in keeping with the overall vibe of understated Mediterranean sophistication. All of the sleek and airy villas have their own private, chemical-free, salt water pool while villas also have the advantage of their own private walled garden.
DOWNTIMEThe centrepiece of the property is its sumptuous Ocean Club, a beachfront oasis with oversized day beds and private cabanas fronting ocean-facing infinity edge pools. The resort’s restaurant has won several awards while other highlights include the Samui branch of Whisgars, a fine whisky and cigar lounge.
Beach Republic The Residences
X-FACTORThe grand Ocean Club is the venue for some of Samui’s best parties. Meanwhile, the resort’s spa has the island’s largest herbal steam room.
WHY INVEST?Owners have the option of using their time or participating in the Beach Republic rental pool and guaranteed returns of about 6 percent for three to five years are offered with certain purchases.
WHERE IS IT?Overshadowed somewhat by neighbouring Penang, the Malaysian state of Perak, especially its capital Ipoh, has many thing going for it. As well as being the gateway to the stunning uplands of the Cameron Highlands, the city is one of the country’s most diverse and culturally rich. It is also well known as one of Malaysia’s culinary hotspots while its surrounding landscapes are rich in natural beauty.
WHAT’S THE STORY?The Haven Lakeside Residences has become a favourite of investors looking for a green holiday home. Conceived by developers The Haven Sdn Bhd, the project incorporates a host of energy-saving initiatives such as solar panels and building design that maximises the cooling effect of natural breeze. Healthy “green” living is a constant throughout the development. Other amenities include a 600-metre jogging track around a pristine lake and yoga and meditation decks.
LOOKS LIKESurrounded by pristine rainforest and misty peaks, the development is blessed with ample scenic splendour. What’s more, it makes the absolute most of its bucolic location. A calm lake provides an arresting focal point while clean lines and contemporary design typify residences. The development has won great acclaim for its eco-friendly credentials and solar panels airy interiors that capitalise on the natural breeze are prime examples of this green philosophy.
DOWNTIMEWhile fitness fanatics may want to hit the running track, other facilities are geared more towards relaxation. These include a five-level, 60-metre sea-horse shaped swimming pool with a poolside bar and restaurant.
X FACTORNot many resorts can boast of being situated next to virgin rainforest while being only 15-minutes away from the centre of a major city.
WHY INVEST?Malaysia carries a host of benefits ranging from lifestyle advantages to attractive prices and steady growth. As a relatively unheralded destination, Ipoh is especially good value currently. The property itself guarantees buyers a 6 percent annual return for the first three years and 7 percent for a further two years, based on lease agreements.
WHERE IS IT?Some of the best skiing in the world can be found on the Japanese island of Hokkaido. Of its resorts, Niseko is widely regarded as one of the best for on- and off-piste action with a wide variety of options for entertainment and relaxation complementing its sports facilities.
WHAT’S THE STORY?Situated at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri, the new townhouses at Kasara Niseko Village are taking luxury in the resort to a new level. Launched under Malaysian hotel group YTL’s new Kasara brand, the eight townhouses are at the heart of the growing resort village. Guests at the townhouses will benefit from an all-encompassing Japanese ski experience with instructors and local experts on hand to provide tips and mountain orientation.
LOOKS LIKEAs you would expect, Japanese cultural and architectural influences are strong here. The townhouses don’t go all out on the Asian feel, however. Instead they can be described as comfortably Western with a Japanese influence. Each house features contemporary furnishings, a traditional tatami room, shoji screens, lush fur throws and natural materials.
DOWNTIMENiseko is not just a place for the ski crazy. During summer, two championship golf courses provide distraction while guests have access to the gym and the onsen (hot springs) at Hilton Niseko Village and The Greenleaf Niseko Village.
X-FACTORGuests staying at the townhouses enjoy bespoke services and priority privileges at the resort including early morning access to hidden powder stashes by local Niseko Village experts.
WHY INVEST?Hokkaido is fast becoming the hottest destination in the lucrative ski market. With planned après ski including ventures by Michelin-starred chefs and luxury retail and entertainment developments as well as new direct flights to Hokkaido from other Asian cities, there has never been a better time to invest.
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The Ocean Villas @ Danang Beach Resort
WHERE IS IT?With its fantastic location on the world-famous East Beach and its modern infrastructure and investor-friendly environment, Danang has Vietnam’s highest standard of living. Throw into the equation two championship golf courses – one of which, Danang Golf Club, is immediately adjacent to The Ocean Villas – and the nearby heritage town of Hoi An and you can see why buyers are flocking to this part of the central coast.
WHAT’S THE STORY?Developed by Vinaliving, the property arm of asset management firm Vinacapital, The Ocean Villas has established itself as one of Vietnam’s premier resort residences. The villa-only development is notable for its selection of well-appointed properties, with each villa boasting its own private pool and garden along with kitchen and laundry facilities, making it ideal for families and big groups. Leisure – especially golf – is a particular strong point with Danang Golf Club recognised as one of Asia’s best layouts.
LOOKS LIKEThere are no outlandish design bells and whistles here. The emphasis is on solid, but contemporary, architecture and interiors with a nod to Vietnamese influence in the signature red-pitched roofs of terracotta tiles. Expansive windows and concertina doors further enhance the airy feel of the villas.
DOWNTIMEThere’s no shortage of options for relaxation. Golfers will love the Greg Norman-designed course at Danang Golf Club. Onsite leisure options, meanwhile, include a beach club with associated 25-metre ocean front swimming pool, tennis courts and a fine dining restaurant.
X-FACTORThe main draw is undoubtedly the Danang Golf Club. The Greg Norman layout is widely recognised as one of the best in Vietnam, and indeed in all of Asia.
WHY INVEST?Danang is a thriving city with the best infrastructure in Vietnam; a fantastic coastal location with one of the world’s best beaches on the doorstep; championship golf courses and UNESCO-listed Hoi An are among the attractions.
WHERE IS IT?As well as being one of Thailand’s longest established holiday islands, Koh Samui is also among the classiest in the Kingdom. Resisting the temptation to market itself squarely at mass-market tourism, Samui has stepped things up a notch and is home to a liberal sprinkling of unrivalled resorts, spas and destination restaurants. Samujana is located in the epicentre of the action just minutes from the island’s international airport.
WHAT’S THE STORY?Conceptualised as a fusion of high architectural ideals as well as exemplary personalised service for both villa owners and guests, Samujana has been one of the most eagerly anticipated projects on Koh Samui. Aimed at the highest level of the market, the development’s villas range from three to a whopping eight bedrooms, all of which command spectacular sea views over the Gulf of Thailand.
LOOKS LIKESamui’s inherent beauty is the star of the show, but the award-winning architecture of Gary Fell of Gfab Architects ensures it is a close run thing. Using the natural topography of the site to full effect, Fell has incorporated natural features such as mature trees and rock formations into either the living areas, the gardens or the pools imbuing each villa with unique individualism.
Samujana
DOWNTIMEWith all villas featuring TV lounges, infinity edge private pools and state-of-the-art sound systems, there’s no call to venture very far. Communal facilities, however, include an all weather floodlit tennis court and direct beach access.
X-FACTORThe most luxurious villas feature private Jacuzzis, fully equipped gyms, gas BBQ grills, pool tables, games rooms and yoga or massage salas.
WHY INVEST?Perfectly poised on a coral cove and just minutes from Koh Samui’s international airport and the hotspots of Chaweng and Choengmon, Samujana is ideally located, offering the benefits of a luxury resort along with the flexibility of home ownership. In terms of rental yield, if an owner agrees to rent the villa out over the key peak periods they could expect to receive an average return of at least 5 percent.
WHERE IS IT?Strewn like a carelessly emptied bag of pearls across the Indian Ocean, the Maldives are long established as one of the world’s most magical holiday destinations. The countless tiny islets that constitute the nation house a number of luxuriant resorts and Soneva Fushi – located on one of the bigger islands in the country – is one of the finest.
LOOKS LIKE…Paradise, plain and simple. Villas all have an indoor-outdoor feel, with garden bathrooms and outdoor seating areas. Interiors, meanwhile, are rustic chic with wood and crisp cottons. There is no communal pool on the island, so investors would be wise to splash out on a villa with a private seawater pool.
Soneva Fushi Resort
WHAT’S THE STORY?One of the best regarded of the high-end resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi is the ultimate in barefoot luxury. The development’s 55 luxury villas or private residences are tucked away amidst dense foliage within touching distance of a pristine, Biosphere UNESCO-protected coral reef.
X-FACTORIf beachfront dining is insufficiently special the resort can organise a private dining nook on the island’s sandbank.
WHY INVEST?With its unique “one island, one resort” hotel infrastructure and easy accessibility from international hubs, the Maldives continues to capture the imagination of investors. With visitor arrivals growing steadily the nation is poised to remain one of the world’s most popular destinations.
DOWNTIMEGastronomes and bon vivants will find plenty to love about Soneva Fushi’s selection of bars and restaurants, which specialise in everything from heady cocktails to beachfront banquets. There’s no communal pool, but all villas have beach access while the indulgent Six Senses Spa is regarded as one of the finest in the Maldives.
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WHERE IS IT?Although just a couple of hours from Bangkok by road, Khao Yai is a world removed from Thailand’s often-manic capital. Toscana Valley is located just outside the national park, but the rolling surrounds and incorporated leisure facilities make it ideal for fans of the great outdoors.
Toscana Valley
WHAT’S THE STORY?Khao Yai itself is a colourful riot of notes from around Europe with stone-clad English influenced resorts rubbing shoulders with grand chateaux surrounded by vineyards. The laid-back lifestyle of Tuscany is the chief inspiration for Toscana Valley, with Italian touches including a quaint “Town Square” as well as Italian-themed cafes and dining options. The exclusive development is due for completion in 2016.
LOOKS LIKETaking inspiration from rural Tuscany, the development strives to create a village feel. Stone, brick, wood and terracotta roofs have been incorporated to follow the Tuscan theme.
DOWNTIME
The centrepiece of the development is its championship golf course, designed by renowned architect Bob McFarland. Equally notable is the palatial clubhouse, influenced by Villa Cenami Mansi, in the Tuscan city of Lucca. Facilities here include an Italian restaurant and an expansive veranda with panoramic views of the surrounding splendour.
X-FACTORThe development’s “Town Square” replicates the feel of an Italian piazza with outlets including everything from a florist shop to a gourmet grocery store.
WHY INVEST?Journey times to Bangkok are set to be cut even further by the construction of a new motorway, making it simple to combine big city amenities with an accessible country retreat.
WHERE IS IT?With its lush forested interior and string of pristine beaches, Koh Samui has always been something of a glamour girl. Therefore it comes as little surprise to see the island adding to its Hollywood appeal through a number of new top-end developments. One of these is uniQue, which luxuriates in its location on the island’s popular northeast tip.
WHAT’S THE STORYDue for completion by the end of 2016, this boutique villa development encompasses 40 spacious (average size: 150 sqm) properties on a prime elevated chunk of land near popular Chaweng Beach. With the soft sands and blue waters just 250 metres away and villas boasting incredible 180-degree views, the project looks set to become one of the most prestigious addresses on the island.
LOOKS LIKEWith contemporary design and best-in-class construction quality, the villas at Unique Samui will be the last word in luxury. The project site is at an elevation of between 45 and 75 metres, which means that the ocean views over the shimmering Gulf of Thailand will be a central selling point.
DOWNTIMEA large swimming pool, along with attached restaurant and bar, will be the focal point of the development. There will also be an exclusive air-conditioned restaurant as well as a state of the art gym and steam/sauna.
X-FACTORThe Gulf of Thailand is the star of the show due to the expansive 180-degree views from all villas.
WHY INVEST?With easy access to the international airport as well as Koh Samui’s main ferry piers; transport links could not be better. Nearby Chaweng is one of the island’s most developed beaches with plenty of modern conveniences and entertainment options.
WHERE IS IT?In many ways, Bali is the holiday destination that has it all. Feted for its immense beauty and deep-rooted Hindu/Animist culture, the little island near the geographical heart of the Indonesian archipelago attracts a steady flowing stream of visitors looking to sample its heady ambrosia. The island’s most exclusive beach enclave, Seminyak, is home to Bali’s hippest boutiques, eclectic galleries, restaurants and clubs.
WHAT’S THE STORY?Opened in 2011, the W Retreat & Spa Bali - Seminyak is in keeping with the brand’s cutting-edge contemporary ethos. The resort showcases distinctive architecture and interior design that fuses the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bali with bold designs and textures. Complementing the property’s design chops are its enviable range of leisure facilities and dining and drinking options that include WooBar, a three-story beach bar and concept restaurants such as Fire, a casual grill venue featuring a dramatic open kitchen.
LOOKS LIKE
Renowned firms SCDA Architects and AB Concept and Poole Associates Private Limited were responsible for the architecture and interior design of the property. The resort was built to a “conceal and reveal” concept inspired by the mysticism of Bali with each space allowing guests to mix and mingle or remain unseen as they escape to their own retreats.
DOWNTIMEVillas are equipped with state-of-the-art BOSE sound systems along with other amenities. Owners can use all the resort facilities including its swimming pools, gym, spa and library.
X-FACTOR The resort’s most impressive feature is its WET swimming pool, which is inspired by Bali’s famous rice terraces.
WHY INVEST?Bali’s popularity is as strong as ever with international and domestic arrivals increasing by up to 15 percent each year.
