The allure of the sea is like a siren’s call. Irresistible, it’s within us – our bodies, after all, are made up of almost two-thirds water. Take a dip at one of these overwater resorts.
Thailand
Where are we? Point Yamu by COMO, Phuket
What we love: Less than 30 minutes from Phuket international; less travel time means more time to get into the swim of things, in the pale blue of the Andaman Sea, with private terrace views of Phang Nga Bay. Rooms are a light touch of ocean-inspired turquoise and cool white hues. If you’re up for an outing, the resort has its own private island, a 40-minute cruise away by boat, where you can hang all day at the COMO Beach Club. And, speaking of private, with less than 80 rooms, you may just feel like you own the place.
Sri Lanka
Where are we? The Tri Hotel
What we love? The Tri Hotel Koggala Lake in Galle is nestled in an island promontory, with waterside views, holistic treatments and Sri Lankan cultural experiences on the menu. The push here is sustainability – including living walls and solar power – meets luxury and, with only 10 light-filled suites, it’s hard to get any more luxurious than that. Trilanka.com
Mexico
Where are we? The Rosewood Mayakoba
What we love? It’s rare to find a property that features “overwater bungalows” in North America or the Caribbean, but Rosewood Mayakoba makes the most of its freshwater lagoon by suspending 18 suites over it. The familiarity of Playa del Carmen as a getaway is enticing; the seclusion of the property and the plunge pools inspire serenity.
Myanmar (Burma)
Where are we? Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min
What we love? This emerging destination already has a few heavy hitters in the hotel industry there. Shangri-La has an outpost in Yangon (Rangoon) and Novotel, better known for its business hotels on this side of world, has added a luxury property. Novotel Inle Lake Myat Min features overwater villas that blend the hotel’s mid-century modern architectural aesthetic seamlessly with its natural, lakeside surroundings. Soaker bathtubs, king-sized beds, a living room that’s fit to entertain in, it all encourages lingering.