Why You Should Head to These Southeast Asian Islands This Winter

Faced with the prospect of white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ideal surfing spots, why you wouldn’t you want to visit these Southeast Asian islands during the frigid winter months? If you’re seeking the perfect place to relax, look no farther — your destination is in sight.

Manama, Bahrain

Photo via Wikipedia by Francescodeeccher

Natural wealth and a flourishing economy make Bahrain the perfect destination for luxury travelers, even during winter. Inexpensive hotels in Manama start as low as $38, and for around $50 per night, you can stay at the 3-star Imperial Suites Hotel near Bab Al Bahrain, enjoying complimentary Wi-Fi.

Need to stay near the airport? The Mövenpick Hotel sits right across the street, offering rooms starting at $145 per night — complete with airport transfers and brunch.

Sha Tin, Hong Kong

Photo via Wikipedia by Alanmak

Catering to casino and horse racing aficionados as well as Snoopy lovers and shoppers, the busy metropolis of Sha Tin boasts excellent hotel choices during the winter months.

Hotel prices in Sha Tin run about $150 per night but can dip as low as $80 during the off season at the Regal Riverside Hotel, separated by just a short uphill walk from the iconic Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery. However, if you want to be in the middle of Sha Tin’s action, try the mid-range Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong, which can put you near the horse track for about $90 per night.

Cotai, Macau

Image from Wikipedia, by Mimihitam

If you’re looking for an exotic paradise, then you’ve found it. Cotai boasts plenty of exciting activities for couples, solo travelers and adventurous families, with a mix of casinos, beaches and open street markets making for a thrilling destination.

Average prices for luxury hotels in the winter hover around $150 per night, so visit during winter if you’re on a budget. The Venetian Macao Resort runs about $170 per night, and the Sofitel Macau is a bit lower, at about $150 per night. Not surprisingly, the nearer you stay to the beachfront, the more you’ll pay, so choose your lodgings accordingly.

Seminyak, Indonesia

Photo via Wikipedia by Adhi Rachdian

Urban attractions are at a minimum in Seminyak, which instead boasts the natural beauty of beaches and jungles, offset by distinctive architecture.

A minute’s walk will put your feet on the sand when you stay at the Breezes Seminyak Bali Hotel, where rooms are only $99 per night. Or if you’re looking for plush comfort amid natural grandeur, the luxurious Ize Seminyak offers world-class spa treatments and a rooftop pool for around $165 per night.

No matter where you stay, remember that most hotels in Seminyak are nearer the beach than the airport, so plan your arrival and departure with travel time in mind.

Penang, Malaysia

Photo via Wikipedia by Kroisenbrunner

Those who want to explore Asian luxury on a budget need look no farther than Penang, which mixes big-city opportunities with a laid-back small-town ambience. Luxury hotels offer discounts during the winter months, giving you choices of lodgings ranging from mid-range accommodations to full-service luxury for $66 to $90 per night.

The Evergreen Laurel Penang, for example, offers basic amenities and a pool in a central location for around $60 per night, whereas the Four Points by Sheraton Penang offers free Wi-Fi and a relaxing beach bar for about $70 per night. No matter where you choose to stay, be sure to plan ahead for your stay — Penang is always busy!