There’s camping, and then there’s glamping. It’s the best of both worlds—a glamorous convergence of Mother Nature’s unbridled beauty and the luxury that hospitality hotels have to offer. It’s more than just a nice tent. It’s a unique encounter with nature, as its zeal and ardour emulates an energy like no other, leaving the guest in awe and wonder.
Such an experience doesn’t require much travel. Just within Southeast Asia, an array of glamping sites offer a glimpse deep into the heart of the earth’s cosmos. The region is home to a wealth of captivating scenic wonders and diverse ecosystems. Each glamping spot is no less than a natural extravaganza, with resorts like Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle offering firsthand experiences with towering mountains, cascading waterfalls and extraordinary species in their natural habitats. If your idea of paradise involves the ocean, Amanwana is a cluster of lavish tents dotted along the crystal clear shores of West Nusa Tenggara in Indonesia, home to riveting marine biodiversities.
The glamping experience is a multifaceted one. Aside from enjoying the essence of nature’s untouched surroundings, it also allows one to delve into the destination’s culture and communities, where age-old heritage is typically intertwined with Mother Nature. Capella Ubud, for instance, invites guests to engage in Melukat, a Balinese ritual using water as a spiritual cleanser. Meanwhile, those putting up at at Shinta Mani Wild may experience the art of traditional Khmer healing in a full body massage, using tonics made from medicinal herbs and plants sourced from the surrounding forest. It’s a transformative experience like no other.
Surely, one would be spoilt for choice when it comes to a glamping hideout within the archipelago. Look no further than Vogue Singapore’s guide on the most breathtaking getaways in Southeast Asia to seek out in the wake of everyday life.
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Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is where the adventurer’s spirit comes to life. Surrounded by resplendent natural scenery, the camp is nestled in northern Thailand, bordering Laos and Myanmar. At the Golden Triangle Tent, elegant safari-style interiors furnish your welcome while a private bathtub sits at the outdoor deck as you soak in views of the Ruak River and mountains of Myanmar. Cruise down the Mekong River on-board a traditional long-tail boat and be immersed in the bustling local streets, or delight in Thai delicacies at the Nong Yao restaurant before winding down with a private sundowner, accompanied by the Burma Bar’s eclectic liquor selections.
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Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia
Shinta Mani Wild brings conservation to the forefront of luxury hospitality, situated at the southern border of the Cardamom National Forest. With a keen understanding for the vallley’s idiosyncrasies for minimal intervention, founders Sokoun Chanpreda and Bill Bensley followed nature’s rhythm, meticulously placing each tent along the river valley. The result? The Cambodian Royalty tent, perched over rolling rapids, and the National Geographic tent, which finds itself nestled in a rocky gorge at the base of a waterfall. Trek with the camp’s resident naturalist on nature walks to discover wildlife unique to Cardamom, or follow the chef’s team to source ingredients for a true farm-to-table experience as Shinta Mani offers a fusion of world-class design and conservation through circularity and sustainability.
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Amanwana, Indonesia
Located in Moyo Satonda National Park, Amanwana is the only resort located on Moyo Island. Surrounded by lush jungle views and untamed waterfalls, it’s the ultimate tropical paradise. Divers elite and coast dwellers look no further, for the protected marine park encompasses the best diving and snorkelling sites within the Indonesian archipelago, introducing you to the breathtaking universe below the waves. Spot whale sharks off Saleh Bay, explore pristine reefs or navigate new horizons onboard the Aman yacht for a sunrise cruise. If perhaps you’d rather explore above sea level, journey along a trekking or cycling route to discover cascading limestone pools or witness Komodo dragons in its natural habitat at Komodo National Park. By land or sea, Amanwana promises a retreat of unparalleled tranquillity and comfort.
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Kissing Stars Glamping, Thailand
Think The Cabin In The Woods, sans the horror. Here in Chiang Mai lies a private glass cabin in the heart of the Choeng Doi forest. Flanked by floor-to-ceiling glass windows, the curtains here fall against a lush green backdrop in the day, and starry night skies as dusk falls. When dawn rises and sunlight pores in, the rustic interiors and outdoor bathtub make for a serene oasis. Cosy up to warm blankets and let a film run as you’re cocooned away from the hustle and bustle you’re accustomed to.
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Capella Ubud, Indonesia
Explore Bali through a new lens at Capella Ubud. Set amongst the rainforests in Keliki, Ubud, is a cluster of lavish tents, each accompanied by a private pool. Be mesmerised by the sloping terrains of the forest, as each tent provides an unbridled encounter with nature. Feast your eyes on elevated valley views in the Keliki Valley tent, or fall asleep to rippling waters in the River tent. Be immersed in Balinese culture and heritage through ‘Capella Curates’, whether it be engaging with the local community or discovering new skills. Delve into the intricacies of Keliki painting traditions, hike up to the “top of the world” as the sun breaks through the horizon of Mount Batur, or experience the art of Jamu, a traditional Indonesian health remedy. Put a pause on everyday life, as Capella Ubud leads you in harmony with Mother Nature.
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Tiarasa Escapes, Malaysia
Just a stone’s throw away from the city, Tiarasa Escapes encompasses safari-style tents and treetop villas in the Janda Baik rainforest. For an elevated view of the graceful vistas and fragrant fruit-laden orchards, consider the Treetop Villas built on recycled wood. The interiors are lined with traditional Iban Pua Kumbu fabrics as elegant drapings form the tent exterior, encapsulating a fusion of boho chic with heritage design. Indulge in a bespoke picnic, with a menu crafted by Tiarasa and a personalised experience with a ranger on the seven acre grounds. As the sun begins to set, gather round the communal bonfire for a sumptuous barbecue feast with friends, old and new.
