Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape – Indonesia
In the three years since it opened, Buahan, the hotelier’s first property billed as a Banyan Tree Escape, opened, it has proved itself a true original: cicada alarm calls, baths illuminated by fireflies, volcanic views from bed. The location in Taro village, an area where 30-metre-tall coconut palms, mango, tamarind and papaya trees, oversized cashew and cacao nuts, streaming vanilla vines and honey-dripping beehives intermingle, is thought by locals to be the literal centre of the universe. Stone stairs lead to a four-room spa for Balinese massages, a sacred waterfall for energy-cleansing blessings, and 16 open-air pool villas (bales) built without walls or doors. From $728 –Lee Cobaj
Cape Weligama – Sri Lanka
Perched on a clifftop in the Southern Riviera of Sri Lanka, Cape Weligama is fresh from a makeover. There’s a shiny new beach club, a new kids’ club and eight additional interconnecting family suites beside the family pool. Meanwhile, grown-ups will love the infinity pool that sweeps around the headland. The all-day menu at The Atlas keeps everyone happy (try the salt-crusted barramundi fillet), or treat yourself to Tableau, a live cooking experience held on the cliff’s edge. The revamped bar, The Society, serves up inspired tipples within candlelit nooks. When it’s time for bed, retire to one of the 39 gargantuan terra-cotta-tiled suites and villas, which feature marine-inspired interiors. Wake up to a floating breakfast in your pool and a choice of numerous activities, from herbal massages in the Balinese spa to whale watching. From $667 –Harriet Compston
