Unique hotels around Southeast Asia with treehouse resorts and glamping experiences

While many visit Bali for its sandy white beaches, the other side of this popular island is filled with tea plantations and rice terraces. Bobocabin, in the Kintamani district, is the resort for a much-needed nature retreat. Getting there is an experience in itself, with guests describing it as an “off-road challenge”. It might look like a humble cabin, but it comes with a million dollar view of Batur Lake and Mount Batur. Plus, it’s also cleverly decked out with the latest tech – you can download their app to check into your room, turn on and off the lights, and even order room service. 

A cabin starts from 1,908,000 rupiah (~$170), and comes with a large king-size bed and ensuite bathroom. But if you’re keen for an upgrade, a more deluxe version (2,373,000 rupiah, ~$210) comes with a hot tub with tranquil waterfront views. 

Since it’s home to cascading waterfalls and lush nature, it’s no surprise that Chiang Mai is a top destination for backpackers. But if you’re still looking for a more lavish experience, glamping retreat North Star Valley is right up your alley. These unique bubble domes sit on the peaks of Mae Rim, a mountainous area that’s just under an hour drive from the city centre. You’ll see them as you drive along the snaking trail up the mountain – the green slopes studded with distinctly see-through domes.

Not to worry though, the 15 or so domes are all adequately spaced out for privacy. While a basic dome starts from 3,590 baht (~$140), take the chance to splurge on the special dome that comes with a private dinner for 8,990 baht (~$350). Some domes also come with an outdoor bathtub, but there’s also a shared pool where you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea. 

Capsule hotels don’t have the best rep, but it’s an entirely different story with Time Capsule Retreat. This nature retreat in Pahang, Malaysia comes fitted with cosy capsule-like rooms, with just enough space for a couple looking to spend quality time together. There’s no shortage of things to do here either, since the retreat is just five minutes from the town of Pahang and near the famed rainbow waterfall. 

These capsule rooms (from RM159, ~$48) are made from repurposed concrete pipe cylinders, and come with shared bathroom facilities. Choose between a jungle or garden view. For a larger group or a family vacation, there are also cottage rooms (from RM208, ~$63) with ensuite bathrooms. 

It’s a stretch to term this Shipping Container Hotel a “resort” but in our cramped city, we’ll take anything we can get. Since it’s located in one-north, home to many tech companies and startup offices, it’s not exactly a conventional retreat. But with an alfresco dining area, many will still enjoy whiling away a lazy afternoon at this shipping container hotel. It also has a unique glass-fronted exterior, blending in with the streetscape at all angles. 

The double suite (from $318) comes with an ensuite bathroom, featuring a standalone tub – so you can run a bubble bath while admiring the wall-to-ceiling view of greenery. 

Childhood dreams are made of treehouses and adventurous pretend play. At this luxury resort in Phuket, these lofty dreams come true with treehouse villas, all peeking through a lush rainforest canopy. Although near enough to Kamala Beach and party centre Patong, Keemala maintains its sense of tranquillity with landscaped gardens and wellness packages.

Besides treehouse villas, choose between the likes of clay pool cottages, tent pool villas, and bird’s nest pool villas. Prices start from 17,400 baht (~$675), but it’s well worth it – with rainforest views and monsoon showers, a stay at Keemala makes for a memorable experience. Each villa also comes with its own private pool and outdoor terrace, for you to soak in the fresh air. 

Another Kintamani resort has made our list, since Bali is naturally one of the most picturesque spots in the world. At Sunrise Hill Camp in Kintamani, it’s a glamping experience that’s made extra luxe with a natural hot spring pool. Here, the wooden bathtub is filled with fresh hot spring water that’s heated by the active volcano Mount Batur. You’ll also enjoy panoramic views of Mount Batur and Mount Abung. 

As the resort’s name goes, make sure to rise bright and early to witness the sunrise from your tent – it’s a breathtaking sight. You can also opt for extra activities, ranging from cycling around Mount Batur to trekking through villages. A tent starts from $25, with shared toilets.

While not yet open to the public, these tiny houses on Lazarus Island made quite the stir when they were first announced. These low-carbon tiny homes are indeed tiny, with the largest spanning 170 square feet – that’s less than half the size of a two-room HDB flat. Yet, each of the five cabins are still fully decked out with a bedroom, living area, kitchenette, and outdoor deck. 

Rest easy: your presence on Lazarus Island will have little impact since these eco-friendly cabins are solar powered and come equipped with food waste recycling systems. Promotional rates start from $199, and you can start booking for stays from May 1 onwards.