Destinations: Asia & The Pacific

Explore Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts destinations in Asia and The Pacific.

Love Brings Everyone Together: Luxury Villa Holidays Around the World

Posted on by Kelly Neubeiser

There’s nothing like celebrating holidays around the world. It’s a way to reconnect with family and friends somewhere new and surprising, or to continue to make lifelong memories together in a place you’ve visited and grown to love. And with every detail being taken care of by Four Seasons, what better gift to yourself and your loved ones than a luxury villa?

Take your holiday to new heights by checking into a Four Seasons luxury villa. Each awe-inspiring villa is an inviting blend of unrivalled amenities and design that offers memorable experiences across the globe. From views of rare wildlife from your infinity pool in the Serengeti to private beachfronts in the Maldives, these villas bring the gift of travel to your front door.

Paradise for Two in Bora Bora and Mauritius

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A stunning palette of blues and greens, Bora Bora is a lovers’ paradise where turquoise waters kiss white sand beaches and tropical lagoons beckon. Admire all that this intoxicating destination has to offer from the One-Bedroom Deluxe Fenua Beachfront Villa at Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. On a secluded beach featuring stunning views of Mount Otemanu, this spacious villa is the ideal place for couples looking to reconnect and recharge.

Find shade under towering coconut trees at your private pool. Or, after exploring the area on helicopter rides and exciting water excursions, retreat to a heavenly king-sized bed. Polynesian-inspired décor sets the scene for your island escape, and an oversized tub is the perfect place for a quiet hour—alone or together.

Bora Bora isn’t the only island escape that makes a perfect trip for two. The renovated Sanctuary Pool Villas at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita offer seclusion in a romantic setting.

Admire the lush private gardens and spread out in the roomy outdoor living and dining area, with enough space for four. Relax in your private, heated plunge pool, or read a book outdoors in the serene setting of your poolside daybed. From the beachfront Sanctuary Beach Pool Villa, take a stroll on the sand and look for tropical marine life. Watch the sun rise over the lagoon from the Sanctuary Ocean Pool Villa.

When it’s time to venture out, enjoy easy access to the beach, the Resort’s pools and its on-site activities, such as waterskiing, snorkelling and cycling.

Be Charmed by Marrakech

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Boasting four bedrooms, four marble bathrooms, traditional handcrafted Moroccan furnishings, spacious living areas, a private garden and an expansive pool, the exquisite Royal Villa at Four Seasons Resort Marrakech is the solution to a cultural holiday with friends. On a private compound, the villa offers plenty of space and comfort to host and entertain close friends for a world-class Moroccan getaway. Venture from the elegant villa to the Resort’s lush gardens to take in an unforgettable sunset over the Atlas Mountains.

Beyond the Resort, captivating Marrakech beckons with vibrant souks, centuries-old landmarks and authentic dining experiences. Witness snake charmers and acrobats in the Medina’s bustling Jemaa el Fna city square before returning to the Royal Villa for a private poolside dinner party.

The Hole-in-one Villa in Punta Mita

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For many, golfing is a way of life. Fairways are second homes, and terms like birdie and bogey have a place in everyday conversation. Gather your fellow golf enthusiasts and embark on a trip for the love of the game to Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita.

Book your group stay in the Coral Beach Home, the hole-in-one of holiday villas. With access to the Resort’s world-class courses, the villa, designed with Mexico’s rich regional style in mind, provides all the comforts of home amid stunning views of the Riviera Nayarit.

After a gourmet breakfast at the villa, make your way to either of the Resort’s two Jack Nicklaus–designed courses, where you can master challenging holes set against panoramic Pacific views. Tee off on the Bahia Golf Course, with its rolling fairways and greens, or sink a putt on the world’s only natural island green on the 81-hectare (200-acre) Pacifico Golf Course. Afterwards, discuss swings and strokes while relaxing on the villa’s private beach or soak sore muscles in its an ocean-facing freeform pool.

Detox and Recharge (Yourself) in Hangzhou

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In need of a digital detox from overflowing inboxes and endless video calls? Travel to the calming shores of West Lake in Hangzhou, China, where you can recharge yourself rather than your devices for a change. Lined with ancient temples and pagodas, serene forests and seasonal blooms, the lake is an inspiring blend of natural beauty and Chinese culture – the perfect place to forget any digital woes.

The best place to enjoy Hangzhou’s most enchanting attraction is from the magnificent Presidential Villa at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake. This exclusive hideaway is ideal for those needing a secluded retreat from the buzzing working world, whether it’s a large family or a group of friends or colleagues. A private main entrance leads to the three-floor, Jiangnan-style villa, where three spacious bedrooms, modern comforts and landscaped gardens create the landscape for a worry-free holiday.

Sip on drinks from the villa’s elegant private bar, then settle in for a movie in the massive theatre room. If cycling West Lake isn’t appealing, get active at the villa’s personal gym or swim laps in the indoor swimming pool. After whichever activity you choose, spend a quiet hour in the sauna or venture to the Hotel Spa for a signature treatment inspired by Chinese tradition.

Connect with Nature in the Serengeti 

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Families or friends with an insatiable desire for adventure should set out on a Tanzanian getaway to Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti. Here, embark on one of the Lodge’s air- or land-based safari experiences and witness the myriad animals at home in sprawling Serengeti National Park.

After an exhilarating day in the bush, come home to the grand Presidential Villa and reminisce on the sightings of the day from the villa’s private infinity-edge pool; views of a standalone watering hole mean you’re likely to spot more animals as they come to quench their thirst.

With three bedrooms, a full kitchen and a private gym, the authentic, thatched-roof villa provides ample space for large families or groups of friends to sprawl out and admire the rolling savannah. An exciting home base for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the villa also features around-the-clock butler service, ensuring your travelling companions’ needs are met.

Good Times for All in Koh Samui and the Maldives

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The most memorable vacations are spent with family and loved ones. For an escape with younger kids, head to the Family Pool Villa at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Little ones will love splashing around in the private infinity pool, and separate sleeping areas for children ensure a peaceful stay for parents in this Thai paradise.

Explore the Resort’s beach together for a sun-filled afternoon, or try one of the Resort’s family-friendly activities, which include cooking classes and beach sports and games. Kid-friendly spa treatments or the exciting Muay Thai for Kids programme will entertain little ones as you enjoy some adult fun: Take a private cruise to explore the Gulf of Thailand or enjoy a romantic picnic for two on a secluded beach.

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If you’re travelling with older children, consider a teenager-proof holiday to the Maldives. Stationed in the Two-Bedroom Oceanfront Bungalow with Pool at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, you and your family are just steps from new discoveries sure to keep teens interested and engaged.

In addition to the bungalow’s separated living areas, private pool and exclusive beachfront, older kids will also love the Resort’s action-packed activities. After waking up to ocean views at the bungalow, come face to face with aquatic animals at the Marine Discovery Centre or free-dive with rare manta rays. At the Water Sports Centre, there’s plenty of fun to be had windsurfing, snorkelling or kayaking, but it’s the revolutionary X-Jetblades and Hydro foils that will get adrenaline pumping and hearts racing.

Take Time with Friends in Bali

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There’s always time in your demanding schedule for a getaway with friends, and Indonesia’s most beautiful island is an ideal destination for your next much-needed retreat. Replenish and relax with a stay at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, home to a wealth of wellness offerings and the glamorous Two-Bedroom Royal Villa.

Step into your own island fantasy and enjoy lush gardens and an expansive pool just steps from the sea, as well as unmatched views of Jimbaran Bay from your sun terrace. Catch up over dinner made in your kitchen by a private chef, lounge around the villa’s expansive open-air space and lose yourself in the allure of Bali.

Venture outside the villa for some morning fun with the Play Eat Love combination that starts with a tennis game on the Resort’s world-class hard court followed by breakfast in the Spa Garden and a full body massage to cool down. For a more low-key activity, opt for the Nourish Your Spirit afternoon tea package that starts with a two-hour spa treatment before an exquisite three-tiered afternoon tea. Either way, you and your friends will end the day feeling detoxified and rejuvenated.

Trade the spa rooms for the sands of Jimbaran Bay during a night out at Sundara, Bali’s most chic hangout, which boasts handcrafted cocktails, music and glowing fire pits.

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Four Seasons Hangzhou at West Lake

4 Land Adventures to Try on Holiday

Posted on by Matthew Long

From driving the gold-tipped dunes of Doha to riding elephants through the jungles of Thailand, these activity holidays offer even the most seasoned traveller an adventure to remember.

“Adventure travel” is a term that’s thrown around a lot, but at its heart it is any extraordinary travel experience that surprises, delights or pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Some heart-pumping adventures take you up in the air while others are based in the water, but many can be enjoyed with your feet firmly planted on the ground—trekking across the Tanzanian savannah or racing across a desert landscape channelling your inner Lawrence of Arabia. Four Seasons hotels and resorts around the world offer a variety of active pursuits, including these five exciting ways to experience Tanzania, Doha, Lisbon, Thailand and Vail on terra firma.

Set out on safari in Tanzania


Four Seasons Serengeti Masai Walking Safari

Track rare animals through a “camera trap” and observe native plants during an expert-led walking safari, one of the many options for exploring the bush at Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti.

Live the dream of tromping through the bush, observing nature’s most exclusive animals at Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti. Here, there are several ways to delve into safari adventure and track the Big Five, including game drives aboard SUVs and forays on foot led by expert naturalists and local Maasai people.

For the ultimate experience, visit the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera, the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. There you’ll spend time in the best game-viewing location in all of Africa, looking for the endangered black rhino and learning about local life for the Maasai people.

Finally, enjoy bush dining at its finest with a gourmet meal prepared on the savannah as Maasai warriors guard the camp.

Go off-roading in Doha


Doha Sand Dunes

Master the curves and turns of the Arabian Desert’s towering sand dunes—some rising over 40 metres (131 feet)—through a tour arranged by Four Seasons Hotel Doha. Photography courtesy Joshua Wanyama

Photography courtesy Joshua Wanyama

Hold on to your hat as your SUV drives through astonishing dunes around Doha, their dramatic dips and steep slopes making for adrenaline-surging lifts and falls. This is the quintessential experience for anyone visiting Qatar, so be sure to spend a day out with the expert driver who will give you the overland thrill of your life.

Not only is this an exciting ride, it’s a photogenic one as well. Shutterbugs will have plenty of chances to capture the beautiful vistas that only a desert landscape can provide. Set up the escape via Four Seasons Hotel Doha, where you can arrange a gourmet packed lunch to enjoy on the dunes and a relaxing spa treatment upon return to the Hotel.

Tour Lisbon by vintage motorcycle


Lisbon Photography Vintage Motorcycle Sidecar Tour

A  motorcycle tour from Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon offers the chance to capture the storied beauty of Europe’s second-oldest capital city.

Photography courtesy Cheryl Howard

With your camera in tow, strap on a motorcycle helmet and get ready for an exhilarating four-hour photography tour of Lisbon as you’ve never experienced it before. Through a special partnership with Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon, you’ll join a professional photographer on a fast-paced tour of Portugal’s historic capital by vintage motorcycle.

Slide into the sidecar, or climb behind your expert driver, and cruise down cobblestone streets and around leafy squares to discover the city’s most spectacular miradouros (lookout points): the 11th-century Castelo de São Jorge, the medieval alleys of Alfama, the bohemian Bairro Alto, the elegant Chiado district. At each stop, you’ll get professional insight of framing shots, capturing evocative scenes and working with Lisbon’s beautiful natural light. Once you have your shot, hop back on the bike for a scenic (and speedy) drive to the next attraction.


Explore the rugged wilderness in Vail


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Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail can arrange a challenging expedition to one of the area’s eponymous “fourteeners,” Mount of the Holy Cross, named for its distinguishable cross at the summit’s middle.

Photography courtesy Maria Arsenlis

The allure of the Colorado Rockies, with its soaring peaks and abundant wildlife, has been calling to adventurers seeking activity holidays for generations. Don’t just look at the natural splendour that surrounds you in Vail—head out and become a part of it with the Hike a Fourteener Extraordinary Experience.

At Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail, join the Hike a Fourteener expedition into the Rockies and spend two luxurious but adventurous days in the Colorado wilderness climbing up a famous “fourteener”—one of the mountain peaks that exceed 14,000 feet (4,250 metres). Accompanied by sturdy llamas, you’ll enjoy gourmet meals and renowned Four Seasons services while ascending to the top of the mountains, a daunting but worthwhile endeavour.

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Tips for Travelling With Teens

Posted on by Talon Windwalker

My teenaged son Stevie and I have been slowly travelling the world since 2011. We left the U.S. and adopted a nomadic lifestyle because I wanted to infuse more life into our everyday living. After working in health care for a few decades, I began to notice a common theme from people near the end of their lives—regret. I decided I didn’t want to live a life full of regrets, and it was important to me to instil this spirit in my child.

As any parent with kids over the age of 10 knows, there is a difference between travelling with a younger child and doing so with a teen. When they’re 9 years old, everything is magical and exciting. At 13, things that used to really interest my son, for example, elicit little more than a shoulder shrug.

Fortunately, over the last four-plus years spent travelling from Asia to South America and beyond, our relationship has become quite strong. We tend to function as a team, and my son rarely hears the typical (and sometimes ineffective) reasoning of “I’m the parent, that’s why,” when it comes to our travel decisions.

Here, I’ve gathered some of my best tips and tricks for pulling off an excellent vacation with teenagers and making the most of your time together. A family holiday helps ensure you’ll get quality time and make good memories, but it will take some extra effort. From itinerary planning to packing to using travel to train your teens for their independent future, here are some of the things I’ve learned as a globetrotting parent.

Involve your teen in trip planning

Eiffel Tower, Paris, France (L); Pantheon Interior, Rome (R)

Involving your teen in trip planning is key. My son and I recently collaborated on mapping out a trip to Europe, during which we went to Paris for my birthday and then visited a place on his list: the Pantheon in Rome. Photography courtesy Eustaquio Santimano and Gary Ullah

Even though your son or daughter will likely respond with a casual “whatever,” it’s important to include them in the trip planning process. Just like adults, teens want to be heard. And the more they’re involved in the early stages, the more likely they will be engaged and the less likely they are to complain during the trip.

This is also a great opportunity for kids to learn about compromise. My son and I discuss locations, things to do, costs, methods of transportation and so on. In fact, he usually picks our next destination himself. If either one of us has a particular interest, then we pay attention to that as well during the planning phase. For instance, this year we celebrated my birthday in Paris, and when we were in Rome, we made a point of visiting the Pantheon because it had been featured in one of my son’s favourite video games.

Use packing to teach accountability

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Let teens be in charge of packing their own bags; it teaches accountability and the importance of planning ahead.

So many parents pack for their teen in a panic: What if they forget their toothbrush, their underwear, their iPad? But part of growing up is learning accountability. Will the world really end if they have to buy a new toothbrush or, heaven forbid, endure a morning with bad breath? (I see the self-proclaimed control freaks wincing at this notion.)

On the other hand, my son has a tendency to forget important items, which often ends up causing both of us some frustration. Packing is a great time to teach your teen the value of planning and generating lists. Sit down with your kid and have him or her come up with a packing list. That way, things don’t get left behind and travel days are much less stressful.

When they want to pack too much, just remind them they are in control of their bag, which means they will be carrying it through the airport, lugging it to the car, and pulling it into the hotel. If you are flying, make sure they understand that bags need to be under a specific weight. If they need to make adjustments, it’s better to let them make those decisions. It’s all part of the growing up.

Plan for downtime

Downtime is crucial for teens, even on holiday. They may want to hang out in the room all day, which means you can make the most of hotel amenities, such as the contemporary Australian cuisine at Mode Kitchen & Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney.

Downtime is crucial for teens, even on holiday. They may want to hang out in the room all day, which means you can make the most of hotel amenities, such as contemporary Australian cuisine at Mode Kitchen & Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney.When travelling with teens to a new place, there is an incredibly strong temptation to rush about and not miss anything. However, a jam-packed day of sight-seeing just doesn’t work for teens.

Most teenagers sporadically get into hermit moods when they need their space. You may want to spend time together, but your child will be happier with some time alone during the journey—or at least time when they aren’t constantly on the move.

When my son and I have had an all-day excursion or a few days with a lot of movement, I make sure to follow that up with a lazy day. Sometimes this means he stays in the hotel to relax while I go out exploring on my own, and other times I hang in the room with him, or we spend some time at the pool. On some lazy days, I’ll even order delivery or room service. At Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, for example, I certainly didn’t mind spending a day relaxing by the pool and sampling the fresh flavours at Mode Kitchen & Bar.

Deal with screen time

Teenager on the phone

Fact: Teens are glued to their phones. Give a lesson in compromise by working with your teen to decide when and where screen time is appropriate while on vacation.

It can get frustrating always looking at your teenager’s face over some sort of electronic device. On holiday, some parents encourage their kids to leave their electronics at home. But I’ve found this is another opportunity to teach compromise.

Work out periods of time when screen time is acceptable. On the airplane, the train and long bus rides, why not let them disappear into their devices? It will make getting their attention much easier later on. For gamers, work with them to come up with times like these that are a win-win for everyone.

After all, it is their holiday as much as yours, and you’re never going to convince them to ditch the digital world entirely.

Photograph like a teen

Talon Windwalker scuba diving on vacation with his teenage son

I involve my son (pictured here diving with me) in all facets of travel. As a result, we tend to function as a team and have explored much of the world together. Photography courtesy Talon Windwalker

Your child may take 20 selfies in five minutes, but that doesn’t mean they will pose graciously for you when you want a family picture. Usually the first few times will be met with cooperation, but after that, expect “the look.”

If you have a surly teen, try to restrict the number of photos you take with them. Make sure they are really worthwhile shots, in worthwhile locations. Alternatively, you can invite them to join you in a selfie. This works better than other methods because they understand the value of selfies in social media, and generally are happy to lend their cool factor to your profile. It is even easier to capture a photo with your teen if you have them take the photo with their own device, allowing them to edit and post it on their own social channels.

Avoid repetition

Four Seasons Florence

On occasion, let your teen hang out at the hotel while you go out exploring. The rooms at Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, for example, are incredibly comfortable and can be a cultural experience all their own.

Teens don’t always share our penchant for history and culture. After spending a lot of time in South America with Stevie, I began to hear “More ruins?” in an exasperated tone. In Thailand, it was “Another temple?” After a few months in Europe—“I’m tired of churches and castles.”

Again, this is where compromise comes into play. If we spend a day doing mostly things I’m interested in, the next is all about him. While visiting Ecuador, we spent one day visiting cathedrals, churches, cemeteries and local markets—not exactly riveting attractions to a teen. The next day was his, and he opted for a lazy day, which meant we didn’t see the outside of our hotel room. At Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, he stayed at the historic hotel while I went out to see the sights. Other times, he will tag along and hang out outside the “boring” church/castle/temple while I go exploring.

Compromise with food

Paris Cuisine for Adult & Teen: Verjus Bar à Vins’ Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich topped with fresh cabbage salad (L); Frenchie to Go Hot Dog (R)

Don’t stress if your teen is not as eager to try new foods as you are. Even hamburgers and hot dogs can turn into memorable meals when ordered in other countries. Photography courtesy Verjus Bar à Vins (L); Photography Virginie Garnier (R)

For many adults, one of the joys of travelling is experiencing new food. Any time I’m heading to France, I dream of the fabulous wine, baguettes, cheese and crêpes. When looking at a menu with items such as tongue tacos, however, my son will sigh and tell people, “My dad will eat almost anything.”

Most of the time he can find something to satisfy his finicky appetite, but sometimes he just wants something that is familiar. While watching your teen eat macaroni and cheese in Thailand may make your inner foodie weep, give the kid a break and withhold that “but-you-can-get-that-at-home” plea on occasion.

It kills me when we’re in Paris, looking over a menu offering such tasty items as grilled stingray wing, and he picks a hamburger—but at least we can both enjoy the meal. Luckily, most places usually manage to add a local interpretation of even the simplest things, such as adding gourmet cheese or fresh bread to a hot dog.

Expect post-trip abandonment

Travelling with Teenagers

Teenagers may run off to spend time with their friends once you return home, but they’ll always cherish the times you spent travelling together. Photography courtesy Thinkstock

Don’t take it personally when you return home and your teen quickly puts distance between you—it doesn’t mean they didn’t enjoy the journey. At this age, their world revolves around their peers. It’s all part of stretching their wings as they prepare to leave the nest.

I’ve had plenty of lovely talks with college-age adults who reminisce about how they complained almost non-stop during family vacations, but add that those times remain some of their favourite family memories.

Someday your kids will thank you. It may not be until they’re 23, but it will happen.

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Concierge

Water Adventures Around the World From Four Seasons

Posted on by Matthew Long

Earth is often referred to as “the blue planet” for its oceans, yet humans spend most of their time of terra firma. Get out onto the blue side with these aquatic adventures designed to offer the best water-sports holidays from Hawaii to the Maldives.

Modern-day thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies know that life-changing adventures can be found both on and off solid ground. With hotels and resorts located in some of the most remarkable aquatic landscapes around the world, Four Seasons can expose venturesome travellers to some of the most inspiring (and unusual) marine adventures around – from “flying” underwater in Hawaii to spearfishing for octopus in Mexico.

Meet manta rays in Hualalai

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The waters around Four Seasons Resort Hualalai are home to a variety of creatures – green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, manta rays, reef fish, corals and more. Learn more about the island’s marine life with a private interaction with Kainalu, the Resort’s resident spotted eagle ray who lives in King’s Pond among over 90 different species of fish. Feed him shrimp and mussels as you get an in-depth understanding of his habits, history and species. Looking for a more adventurous marine expereince? “Fly” through the waters around the Resort with the Subwing watersport board as a boat pulls you along.

Catch your next meal in Mexico

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Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, México, brings new meaning to the concept “hook and cook.” Through the Resort’s new Octopus Catch & Cook programme, guests embark on a thrilling culinary experience that includes diving and spearfishing.

After arriving by boat in Bahía de Banderas—an underwater wonderland where stingrays, tropical fish and even dolphins mingle in colourful coral reefs and underwater caves—guests will free-dive in search of octopus. Back at the Resort, an expert chef helps prepare a variety of signature dishes with the freshly caught prize. A delicious three-course lunch of octopus salad, grilled octopus and dessert rounds out the afternoon.

Defy gravity in the Maldives

Four Seasons Maldives X JetBlades

Strap on the X-JetBlades in the Maldives to enjoy the water like a bird of prey, hovering over the waves and moving in all directions like the Rocketeer.

For the ultimate aquatic adventure, thrill-seekers need look no further than Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa. The Resort’s Water Sports Centre provides action-packed activities for all ages, from wakeboarding to shark safaris. Get your adrenaline pumping from new heights when you try the X-JetPacks. Equipped with the latest hydro-flight technology, these jetpacks enable the brave to fly freely through the air in any directions and dive as far as 5 metres (16 feet) below the surface. Expert tips and training will even have you mastering tricks and turns before your session ends.

Glide through the ocean in Bora Bora

Bora Bora Underwater Turtles and Fish

Move gracefully through the calm, life-filled waters of Bora Bora on a Seabob, taking in the fish, turtles and plant life that populate these warm waters. Photography courtesy Marc Carveo

A French Polynesian paradise, Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora also helps guests experience the island’s natural adventures, from sport fishing to shark feeding. Explore the beauty of the South Pacific below the surface during a submarine scooter dive: The Seabob is a motorised device that allows you to glide through Bora Bora’s colourful lagoons, mastering the curves and turns of the ocean’s bottom along the way. Exotic fish and other marine life linger nearby as you enjoy a fast-paced underwater ride. Surfacing periodically, then going under for as long as you can hold your breath, you’ll be immersed in a high-speed world, enjoying the sea with dolphin-like agility.

Try yoga on the water in Maui

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Yogis know that the practice of yoga requires mental and physical strength. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea puts a contemporary spin on this ancient art with its latest wellness offering, Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Yoga.

Island views create an idyllic backdrop as you paddle out into warm tropical waters for the latest water challenge. During each morning class, you’ll use the ocean’s calming waves to steady your breathing, focus your mind and test your body’s strengths with poses suited for any skill level. “Practicing yoga on the water demands an increased focus,” says SUP Yoga instructor and expert Amber Lee. A true test of balance and flexibility, SUP Yoga is designed for fitness fanatics and adventure-seekers alike.

Additional reporting for this story done by Kelly Neubeiser.

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The Best Golf Courses in Asia: From Singapore to Shenzhen

Posted on by Larry Olmsted

Golfers travelling throughout the West often take it for granted that luxury resorts offer access to quality golf courses, an amenity as common in some regions as spas or swimming pools. But this has not been the case in many parts of the world—until now.

Golf is booming in areas relatively new to the sport, especially across Asia. According to the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, an organization known globally as the keepers of the game, there are more courses currently under development and construction in Asia than in any other continent—207 of them, in fact. China and South Korea are seeing the fastest growth, with the latter especially notable for the rapid proliferation of cutting-edge indoor golf simulators in addition to conventional courses.

With the golf boom in full swing (pun intended), we’ve found the best golf courses in Asia for lovers of the game from beginner to pro.

Seaside perfection in Hong Kong: The Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club 

It was originally envisioned in the mid-1960s, but it took architects over a decade to transform a rocky, hilly site into the Clearwater Bay Country Club.

Originally envisioned in the mid-1960s, it took architects over a decade to transform a rocky, hilly site in Hong Kong into the Clearwater Bay Country Club. Photography courtesy The Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club

There are several good golf clubs in Hong Kong, but The Clearwater Bay Club is the most dramatic. Sometimes called “Hong Kong’s Pebble Beach,” thanks to its unrivalled seaside location on a fishhook-shaped peninsula jutting into Clearwater Bay, it’s worth a visit for the views alone.

Most of the highest-ranked courses in Asia are located along this coast, and for good reason. The setting led Asian Golf Monthly to name The Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club the best course in Hong Kong, while Golf Digest picked two of the holes—the third and 14th—for its list of the 38 best in all of China. The club has more than 3,000 international members from all over the globe, and though the course was built in 1982, it just underwent a renovation of all the greens and is in better shape than ever. It lies roughly a half hour from Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, and the Concierge would be happy to assist in arranging a tee time.

With rocks and water guarding the right side of the course, the third hole at Clearwater Bay is one of the most picturesque and demanding in Asia.

With rocks and water guarding the right side of the course, the third hole at Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club in Hong Kong is one of the most picturesque and demanding in Asia. Photography courtesy Tomo Bystedt

The most scenic course in Malaysia: The Els Club Teluk Datai in Langkawi 

One of the most stunning courses in the world, the 6,750-yard course at The Els Club Teluk Datai meanders through centuries-old rain forest down to turquoise waters.

One of the most stunning courses in the world, the 6,750-yard course at The Els Club Teluk Datai meanders through centuries-old rain forest down to turquoise waters. Photography courtesy Els Club Malaysia

Four-time major winner Ernie Els has quietly carved out a niche as one of the world’s best players-turned-designers, with courses around the globe. He recently launched a line of even higher-end golf facilities, the Els Clubs, which reflect his personal taste in everything from clubhouse style to menu. (There are three so far.)

Set within an 8,000-acre (3,200-hectare) nature preserve, The Els Club Teluk Datai was named by the World Golf Awards as Malaysia’s most scenic course immediately upon opening. It runs through ancient rain forest and down to the very edge of the Andaman Sea, where the penultimate hole is the course signature, a par-3 across a rocky ocean inlet.

The course features an abundance of tropical flora, teems with monkeys and is managed by Troon Golf, a worldwide leader in luxury golf service and course maintenance. Carts are included in green fees, and caddies are available as an option. The Concierge at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi is happy to arrange tee times.

The best golf course in Indonesia: Nirwana Bali Golf Club

Flanked by the rolling surf of the Indian Ocean, the 13th hole at Nirwana Bali Golf Club is deceptively difficult.

Flanked by the rolling surf of the Indian Ocean, the 13th hole at Nirwana Bali Golf Club is deceptively difficult. Photography courtesy Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort

To give the top-ranked course in Indonesia a real sense of place, star designer and golf legend Greg Norman used rice paddies for the rough and set three holes on a clifftop overlooking the Indian Ocean. The signature seventh does not merely play across crashing surf, but is also uniquely framed by one of the most important temples on the island, Tanah Lot, rising from a hillside behind the green.

Besides rice paddies, the course includes streams, jungle and ravines, running down to the beach and up to the cliffs. It is one of just 10 courses in all of Asia ranked in the world’s Top 100 by Golf Digest. Caddies help first-time visitors navigate the gorgeous layout, and many players immediately book a second round upon finishing. Located an hour south of Four Season Resort Bali at Sayan, this course is well worth the drive.

Designed by pros in Shenzhen: Mission Hills Shenzhen Golf Club

Mission Hills Shenzhen Golf Club Clubhouse

The 300,00-square-foot Mission Hills Shenzhen Golf Club Clubhouse is the nerve centre of the Mission Hills complex, featuring a pro golf apparel shop, dining facilities, lounges, a foot reflexology centre and a spa. Photography courtesy Mission Hills Golf Club

Bigger is not always better, but at one of the world’s largest golf resorts, Mission Hills in Shenzhen, it is. There are seven world-class courses by top architects and champions here, all within easy reach of Four Seasons Hotel Shenzhen, or as an overnight trip from Hong Kong. Designers include Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Vijay Singh, Jumbo Ozaki, Nick Faldo, Ernie Els and the first Chinese golfer ever to compete at the Masters, Zhang Lianwei.

The Nicklaus-designed World Cup Course, a daunting near–7,300 yards, was the first in China to be accredited by the US PGA Tour to hold major international professional competitions. Tiger Woods to Greg Norman have competed here, and the course hosted the 1995 41st World Cup of Golf.

Among recreational golfers, the Faldo course has proved the most popular at the complex, thanks to its signature island green hole and a secluded location apart from the others. Caddies are available on all Mission Hills courses, and all 2,500 of them happen to be women. Book a tee time through the Concierge at the Hotel, the ideal hub for exploring golf in southern China. 

History and prestige in Japan: Tokyo Golf Club

Tokyo Golf Club Aerial - Course & Bunkers - Hole #17

Alison-designed courses such as the Tokyo Golf Club are noted for their vast, irregularly shaped bunkers dug well below the surface of small, elevated greens. Photography courtesy Tokyo Golf Club

Japan has more courses than any country in Asia, but this is the capital’s oldest and most prestigious club, dating back over a century. With a classic parkland design, its immaculate fairways are flanked by towering red oaks and feature deep, intimidating bunkers. Though it’s not long, there is more than enough challenge here, and the course regularly hosts the Japan Open and Japanese Amateur.

It was originally designed by Scottish Golden Age legend Charles Alison, but his routing was torn up during World War II, and the course was rebuilt differently, with the daunting “Alison bunkers” included to honour the creator’s original layout and style. Located in Sayama, just over an hour from Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, it’s among the most convenient of all the Tokyo area courses.

Highest ranked course in Singapore: Sentosa Golf Club

Sentosa Golf Club

With its trademark mounds, undulating terrain, and two mammoth lakes, the Serapong Course at Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore is a truly unique golfing experience. Photography courtesy Sentosa Golf Club

The highest-ranked course in the nation and site of the annual Barclays Singapore Open, Sentosa’s Serapong Course is that rare bird, a beautiful oceanfront golf course that is also very easy to reach from the city centre, just 20 minutes from Four Seasons Hotel Singapore.

Renovations for the tournament have stretched it into a 7,300-yard monster from the back, so it is very important to choose the right tees, especially since there are also plenty of water hazards, deep bunkers and undulating fairways. But players who can remain humble when choosing where to play from are rewarded with a fantastic course that plays right to the water’s edge, with dramatic views across to the city’s modern skyline. There are lagoons and inlets throughout, and visitors are constantly reminded they are playing golf on an island. They are also pampered, with a full-service clubhouse, optional caddies and a member-for-a-day experience at Singapore’s premier golf club.

Rain or shine tee time in South Korea: Golf Experience

TrackMan Radar Range

The easy-to-use TrackMan Radar Range is a self-service gaming and practice bay for both indoor and outdoor facilities, and available at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. Photography courtesy Chris McEniry courtesy TrackMan Golf

South Korea has become the world leader in the use of high-tech indoor golf simulators, and the newest one is the Golf Experience at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, which brings the world’s greatest courses to life in the beating heart of the vibrant city.

The facility includes five state-of-the-art 3-D hitting screens, each of which combines high-definition footage of iconic courses with the ultra-precise accuracy of the TrackMan, a radar launch monitor derived from military missile tracking technology that is widely considered best in class. The TrackMan reads the spin rate, angle and velocity of the ball coming off the club to compute exactly how far and with what path it would travel in the real world, and moves the player down the virtual fairways accordingly. This is real golf, with full swings and real balls, taken inside, on the 10th floor of the new Hotel. The technology is fun, but it can also be used very effectively for lessons, equipment fitting, posture and alignment, or to test clubs with instant and accurate data feedback.

Designed by golf royalty: Lotus Hill Golf Resort, Guangzhou

Bernhard Langer, Designer of the Course at Lotus Hill Golf Resort in Guangzhou

In 1986 Bernhard Langer, who designed the Lotus Hill Golf Resort in Guangzhou, became the sport’s first player to be officially ranked No. 1. Photography courtesy Keith Allison

This course was designed by Bernhard Langer, the first player ever to be ranked No. 1 in the world, a two-time Masters champion and five-time senior major winner. He does relatively few golf course designs and is known for being very hands-on, and this is one of his best—a parkland routing situated in the Pearl River Delta that manages to include water, in the form of lakes, ponds and creeks, on all but one of its 18 holes.

It features an exciting and memorable three-hole finish, including the signature island green par-3 17th, unlike all others in golf thanks to a massive cliff-like rock formation that towers over the putting surface. With a full-service clubhouse and caddies, Lotus Hill offers a first-rate outing that is only an hour’s drive from Four Seasons Hotel Guangzhou.

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