Exotic destinations in Asia
Maldives – Indian Ocean paradise
Overwater villas, crystal-clear lagoons, coral reefs, luxury island resorts.
Ideal for honeymooners, divers, and travellers seeking barefoot luxury.
Bali, Indonesia – Island of the Gods
Exotic mix of beaches, rice terraces, volcanic mountains, and temples.
Known for luxury resorts, yoga retreats, and vibrant culture.
Bhutan – The Last Shangri-La
Remote Himalayan kingdom with monasteries perched on cliffs (e.g., Tiger’s Nest).
Unique for its Gross National Happiness philosophy and untouched landscapes.
Sri Lanka – Pearl of the Indian Ocean
Exotic mix of golden beaches, lush tea plantations, cultural heritage sites, and wildlife safaris.
Offers both relaxation and adventure.
Palawan, Philippines – Hidden gem of Southeast Asia
Dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, pristine beaches, and underground rivers.
Regularly named one of the world’s most beautiful islands.
Asia is home to an abundance of exotic destinations, each offering travellers an unforgettable experience. Whether the purpose of the journey is spiritual discovery, cultural enrichment, romance, or adventure, Asia promises memories that last a lifetime. The list of exotic destinations highlighted here, is not exhaustive, but these destinations have been chosen for their uniqueness, exclusiveness and blend of breathtaking natural beauty, distinctive landscapes, rich traditions, and the sense of escape they offer from the ordinary.
Situated in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives, the Republic of the Maldives or the Maldive Islands, is an archipelago of about one thousand coral islands that are low-lying and built on coral reefs. Out of the over a thousand Maldives islands, only around 200 islands are inhabited, and about 150 are developed as tourist resorts.
The Maldives location and natural beauty, thanks to its scattered islands surrounded by lagoons and turquoise waters, makes the Maldives world-famous as an exotic holiday destination. Tourism plays a very important role in the economy of the country. The Republic of the Maldives, is the smallest country in Asia and, with about half a million inhabitants, the second least populous country in Asia.
Exotik Traveller is recommending the following top exotic resorts in the Maldives:
Soneva Jani – The Pinnacle of Overwater Luxury in the Maldives
Suspended above a turquoise lagoon in the remote Noonu Atoll, Soneva Jani is celebrated as one of the world’s most breathtaking overwater resorts. Blending dreamlike design, rare privacy, and eco-conscious luxury, it delivers an experience few destinations can rival.
Perfect for couples, honeymooners, and discerning luxury seekers, the resort redefines escapism. Guests can slide directly from their villa into crystal-clear waters, dine in world-class overwater restaurants, or watch a movie under the stars at the iconic Cinema Paradiso. Arrivals begin with a scenic seaplane journey, setting the tone for an unforgettable stay.
Each villa offers sweeping views, absolute seclusion, and an atmosphere of serene tranquillity.
Soneva Jani is also a beacon of sustainability, powered by solar energy, supported by organic gardens, and dedicated to protecting its pristine natural surroundings.
Guests indulge in gourmet dining experiences, from lagoon cellars to private sandbank picnics, while the observatory and stargazing sessions offer magical evenings above the Indian Ocean.
With its rare mix of luxury, nature, and imagination, Soneva Jani stands out not just as a resort, but as an extraordinary journey — an escape into a dream above Maldivian waters.
Naladhu Private Island Maldives is 5-start exotic resort defined by a blend of timeless elegance and barefoot luxury, privacy and personalised service. The attraction of this resort is that it is a private island with only 20 houses, each with a private pool and beach access. Guests are assigned a private butler (Kuwaanu) that assists them on 24/7 basis. The resort operate a no-menu dinning system where guests enjoy customised meals based on their preferences. In terms of where to dine, guests can choose from beach picnics, in-villa feasts, or at the resort’s exclusive restaurant, or the Living Room.
Activities include snorkeling and diving with manta rays and reef fish in the house reef in addition to private yachting, sailing excursions, and deserted island picnics. Wellness is at the heart of the service offered by the resort where guests enjoy in-house spa treatments, yoga, and meditation sessions. The resort technogym-equipped fitness centre for wellness-focused guests. Nearby landmarks include Bodu Hurraa Beach (8 minutes walk), Gulhi Beach and Maafushi Reef. The nearest airport is Male (MLE-Velana Intl.)
Other Maldives resorts
Jumeirah Olhahali Island Maldives is a 5-star Serene island escape with ocean views and spacious villas define your stay on this serene Maldivian island. Delight in exquisite dining options, personalised butler service, and private beach dinners for an unforgettable luxurious getaway. The resort offers full breakfast, full-service spa with an International cuisine restaurant.
Nestled on the shores of the Indian Ocean with pristine white sand and tranquil surroundings, Maxx Royal is a resort that combines luxury and personalised guest service. The resort put emphasis on guests wellness and gastronomy. This resort is ideal for travellers looking for high-end destination in the Maldives.
Barcelo Nasandhura Male is a 4.5 star resort on a white sand beach, equipped with outdoor swimming pool, and 3 restaurants. The resort offers buffet breakfast available, 24-hour airport shuttle service and full-service spa. Nearby landmarks include Hulhumale Ferry Terminal (1-minute walk), Maldives Islamic Centre (9 minutes walk) and Male Fish Market. The nearest airport Male (MLE-Velana Intl.) is 7 minutes drive away.
The Nautilus Maldives is a 5-star serene luxury in Hanifaru Bay. The resort resort features private plunge pools and individually furnished rooms with premium bedding. Guests indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at four on-site restaurants, unwind at the Solasta spa, or enjoy yoga classes at the 24-hour health club.
The Maldives exotic resorts listed in this blog, represent a tiny fraction of all Maldives exotic resorts. Exotic travellers are encouraged to search through Expedia to find deals that are suitable for their needs and budget. There are various ways to save money:
Go through the list of the Maldives exotic resorts
Explore tips on booking cheap flights (scroll to the bottom of this page)
Consider All-inclusive offers and Package holiday options
Bhutan – The Land of the Thunder Dragon
Bhutan is often called “The Last Shangri-La” because it has managed to preserve its culture, environment, and traditions in ways that feel almost untouched by modern times.
Bhutan is also referred to as "The Land of the Thunder Dragon" because of its name in Dzongkha (the national language): “Druk Yul” with "Druk" being the Dragon and "Yul" being the Land. According to legends, thunder is the roar of the dragon, often heard echoing through the Himalayan valleys during fierce storms. The Druk (dragon) is also a national symbol: it appears on the Bhutanese flag, holding jewels that represent wealth and protection.
Bhutan is considered an exotic destination because it offers an authentic and rare mix of pristine Himalayan landscapes, a deeply spiritual Buddhist culture, and a unique approach to happiness and sustainability.
Home to Paro Taktsang, the 17th century cliffside Tiger's Nest Monastery, Bhutan feels mysterious, authentic, and far removed from mass tourism — making it one of the world’s most distinctive travel experiences.
Below are some of the top exotic resorts in Bhutan:
Pemako Thimphu, Bhutan
Paro Taktsang also known as the Taktsang Palphug Monastery and the (Tiger's Nest Monastery) | Nearby resorts
Postcard Dewa Thimphu is a 5-star boutique luxury hotel on the outskirts of Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. The resort is equipped with 15 rooms including 2 ensuite rooms providing guests with a blend of luxury and comfort, privacy, tranquillity and intimacy. The position of the property, in a forest-wrapped mountain setting, gives guests clear views of valleys (Khasadrapchu Valley) and the Wang Chhu River.
The property design and architecture combines local Bhutanese style and motifs with modern comforts: hand-painted murals, local antiques (some from an old monastery), private sit-outs/terraces, natural light, strong use of local textiles and crafts.
In terms of wellness, the resort offers a full service spa with traditional Bhutanese elements (hot stone baths, etc.), meditation & yoga options, heated / temperature-controlled pool, serene surroundings. There are also fitness facilities. Guests can choose from a list of activities including:
Hiking / walks to monasteries nearby (e.g. Nyenzerkha Lhakhang)
Picnic by the riverside (Wang Chhu)
Foraging in forests for native mushrooms/plants
Learning and participating in Bhutanese culture: cooking local dishes, playing indigenous games (archery, Khuru), guided hotel heritage tours
Nearby landmarks include the Clock Tower Square (6 minutes walk away), Changangkha Lhakhang (8 minutes walk away) and Telecom Tower (7 minutes drive away). The nearest airport, Paro Intl. Airport (PBH), is less than an hour drive from the resort.
Spread across two valleys, including the Paro valley and Punakha valley, the COMO Uma resorts are two of the country’s most exclusive and culturally immersive luxury retreats. The resorts boast of stylish design, strong wellness programmes, excellent food (farm to table), striking views, good balance of comfort and local character. COMO Uma Bhutan is exotic because of the cultural immersion and sustainable luxury. This presentation will focus on COMO Uma Paro.
COMO Uma Paro is a 5-star resort nestled on a forested hill overlooking Paro Valley, just 10 minutes from Bhutan’s international airport. With 29 rooms, suites, and villas including the ultra-private COMO Villa, the design and architecture of COMO Uma Paro is a blend of traditional Bhutanese craftsmanship with COMO’s signature minimalist elegance.
In terms of guests wellness, the resort is home to the COMO Shambhala Retreat, offering yoga, meditation, and holistic therapies. There is also an outdoor smimming pool. Breakfast is included in the service offered. Dinning is assured by award-winning Bukhari Restaurant, favoured by Bhutan’s royal family, serves organic Bhutanese and international cuisine. Guests enjoy guided treks to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, archery lessons, butter lamp ceremonies, and cycling tours.
Nearby landmarks include Paro Sunday Market (5 minutes drive), Rinpung Dzong (6 minutes drive), and Bhutan National Museum (7 minutes drive). The nearest airport, Paro Intl. Airport (PBH), is only 5 minutes drive away.
"Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia, in the Eastern Himalayas between China to the north and northwest and India to the south and southeast." - Wikipedia
The landscapes of Bhutan, range from lush subtropical valleys in the south to snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the north. The country is home to dramatic monasteries built on cliffs, pristine forests, and fast-flowing rivers. Over 70% of the country is forested, making it one of the world’s most eco-friendly nations.
Le Méridien Thimphu—a 5-star luxury resort by Marriott International—is centrally located in Thimphu, the capital of the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Blending modern elegance with Bhutanese charm, the resort reflects the signature style of the Le Méridien brand and upholds Marriott’s global standards for service and sophistication.
The property features 78 stylish rooms and suites, each offering mountain or city views. Interiors combine contemporary design with subtle Bhutanese architectural elements, creating a refined urban retreat in the heart of Thimphu.
Guests enjoy access to a range of wellness facilities, including a heated indoor pool, fitness centre, and an on-site spa with four treatment rooms—two designed for couples. Signature therapies include deep-tissue and hot stone massages, aromatherapy, Ayurvedic treatments, and body scrubs, complemented by a steam room and sauna.
For culinary indulgence, the resort offers multiple dining venues:
Latest Recipe – serving international cuisine
Bamboo Chic – specialising in Asian fusion
A chic bar and lounge for handcrafted cocktails and relaxed socialising
Buffet breakfast is also available daily.
To ensure seamless connectivity, the resort provides a 24-hour airport shuttle service to Paro International Airport (PBH), located approximately one hour away.
Guests can enrich their stay with visits to nearby cultural landmarks, including:
Clock Tower Square (1-minute walk)
Telecom Tower (7-minute drive)
Pemako Thimphu (previously known as Taj Tashi), is a 5-star exotic resort that blends Bhutanese heritage with refined luxury, offering guests an immersive and an unforgettable lifetime experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Set against dramatic mountain backdrops, the resort features Dzong-inspired architecture, locally crafted interiors, and curated cultural experiences.
With wellness therapies, gourmet Bhutanese cuisine, and personalised service, Pemako Thimphu delivers a tranquil escape that reflects the mystique and elegance of Bhutan.
The resort is particularly suited for travellers who are looking for a cultural education, luxury, serene exclusivity and rejuvenation through spa therapies, meditation, and tranquil mountain surroundings as well as travellers eager to explore Bhutanese heritage, architecture, and rituals.
Guests expecting high-touch service, elegant interiors, and personalized attention as well as honeymooners, couples, or solo travellers seeking indulgence without crowds, may see Pemako Thimphu as a perfect escape.
What types of activities are available to guests at Pemako Thimphu?
At Pemako Thimphu, guests can enjoy a curated mix of cultural, wellness, and nature-based activities that reflect Bhutan’s serene spirit and rich heritage as outlined below:Cultural Immersion
Visits to landmarks like Tashichho Dzong, Memorial Chorten, and Clock Tower Square
Butter lamp ceremonies, Bhutanese cooking classes
Art and craft workshops
Wellness & Rejuvenation
Spa treatments: hot stone baths, Ayurvedic therapies, deep-tissue massages
Yoga, meditation, steam room, sauna
Nature & Exploration
Hikes, nature walks, birdwatching, photography
Seasonal picnics, outdoor dining
Culinary Experiences
Bhutanese tasting menus, farm-to-table dining
Tea sessions, wine pairings
Private dining with panoramic views
What types of travellers are most suitable for Pemako Thimphu?
Philippines
The Republic of the Philippines (capital city, Manila): an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia consisting of 7,641 islands.
Located in the western Pacific Ocean, the Republic of the Philippines (capital city, Manila), is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia. It consists of 7,641 islands, with a total area of roughly 300,000 square kilometres, which are broadly categorised in three main geographical divisions from north to south: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
"Palawan is an exotic destination situated in the MIMAROPA region of the Philippines, part of the Philippines' Southwestern Luzon administrative grouping."
MIMAROPA, Philippines (Aerial Shot Of Islands) - photo courtesy of pexels
Palawan is situated in the MIMAROPA region of the Philippines.
MIMAROPA stands for Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan, and it's part of the country's Southwestern Luzon administrative grouping.
Palawan is the largest province in this region and is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including El Nido, Coron, and the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
Palawan is an exotic destination famed for its pristine beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear lagoons. Often called the Philippines’ last frontier, it offers untouched natural beauty through places like El Nido, Coron, and the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
With vibrant coral reefs, hidden coves, lush jungles, and rich biodiversity, Palawan blends adventure, serenity, and ecological wonder in one breathtaking escape.
Top 3 Exotic Resorts in Palawan
Amanpulo
Location: Pamalican Island (Cuyo Archipelago), Palawan
Unique Highlights: Ultra-luxury private island, very secluded. Gorgeous casitas and villas (some beachfront, hillside, treetop). Perfect beaches, coral reefs right off the island. Strong wellness & spa options. Access via private flight makes the journey part of the exclusive experience.
Location: Bacuit Bay, El Nido, Palawan
Unique Highlights: Eco-luxury hideaway surrounded by lush forest + beach. Villas with traditional Filipino design and modern comforts. Beautiful white sand beaches, excellent snorkeling and island-hopping from your doorstep. Superb for nature + comfort.
Cauayan Island Resort & Spa
Location: El Nido, Palawan
Unique Highlights: Luxury private island resort with villas that offer lagoon, beachfront and sea-view options. Immersive natural surroundings, great spa, marine life. Very good balance between lush, dramatic scenery and high service.
What makes El Nido Resorts Lagen Island, an exotic destination?
El Nido Resorts Lagen Island is an exotic destination nestled in a lush forest and framed by limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters in Palawan, Philippines. Its secluded setting, eco-luxury design, and rich biodiversity make it a serene escape for nature lovers and refined travellers.
This resort is ideal for is ideal for travellers who value seclusion, sustainability, and natural beauty.
What services are available to guests?
The resort offers beachfront and forest-view accommodations, full-board dining with locally sourced ingredients, wellness spa treatments, marine sports equipment, and sustainable tourism programmes.
The resort also offers airport transfers, guided tours, and personalized concierge services.
What activities can guests undertake during their stay?
Guests enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding to nature hikes, birdwatching, island-hopping, and cultural village visits.
They can also enjoy sunset cruises, beach picnics, and environmental education programmes that highlight the resort’s commitment to conservation.
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