Top-Rated Resorts in Asia for 2025: Our Readers’ Picks

Summary:

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi
One&Only Reethi Rah
Capella Ubud
The Oberoi Udaivilas
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort
The Standard, Hua Hin
The Oberoi Amarvilas
Nihi Sumba
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor
Six Senses Yao Noi
Taj Falaknuma Palace
Taj Lake Palace
Alila Villas Uluwatu
Six Senses Con Dao

Now that pandemic-induced lockdowns have mostly been lifted, the best resorts in Asia are once again welcoming visitors. This year’s top scorers, according to the votes of GoTravelDaily readers, all seem to have one thing in common: extraordinary physical settings that offer the feeling of escaping into another world.

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, GoTravelDaily asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

India earned five spots on the list, the most of any country represented. Among them is the Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort (No. 6), a luxurious tented camp that’s a short drive from Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan (famous for its population of tigers). Some readers described it as “a beautiful property with world-class service,” while others praised its “perfect location” and luxurious “tents.”

In Thailand, the newcomer the Standard, Hua Hin (No. 7) has gained quite a following since it opened last December. True to its youthful brand, the 199 guest rooms and villas feature contemporary, minimalist designs. Its expansive pool deck is a popular gathering spot, largely due to the Lido Bar, where a variety of drinks and Thai snacks are served.

Three properties on Bali, Indonesia, also made the list: the Alila Villas Uluwatu (No. 14), Capella Ubud, Bali (No. 3), and Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (No. 5). One reader emphasized that Mandapa “truly represented a Balinese village” due to its scenic location along the Ayung River. Others praised the “human connection” of the staff, highlighting their personalized service as “on another level.” This is considered an ideal sanctuary for relaxation in Ubud.

Additionally, the property that earned the highest scores from readers is the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. Below, find insights from readers about it and which hotels joined it on this year’s list of the best resorts in Asia.

1. Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, South Malé Atoll, Maldives

One reader described it as “unforgettable.” The resort is conveniently located a short ride from the capital city, Malé — the property offers a yacht that can transfer guests directly from the airport to the hotel in just 45 minutes. Guests will discover what one GoTravelDaily reader noted as “the best luxury resort in the Indian Ocean.” An extensive series of overwater bungalows and beachfront villas are linked by wooden pathways stretching over the seemingly endless blue ocean. Each accommodation is surprisingly spacious by conventional standards, with guest villas starting at over 2,500 square feet. Each features its own private pool, wooden deck, and garden. Furthermore, eleven food and beverage outlets offer a diverse range of cuisines, spanning from Shanghainese dishes at Li Long to Australian-inspired barbecue at the Ledge by Dave Pynt, helmed by the chef from the Michelin-starred Burnt Ends in Singapore.

Score: 99.11