5 Inspiring Road Trips to Take Around Asia
By Lifestyle+Travel
Spectacular scenery, smooth stretches of blacktop, winding mountain roads, and dramatic coastal routes—what’s your dream road journey? Discover five unforgettable driving holidays across Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines—easier than ever to explore.
Is there any travel style more empowering than a road trip? With your loved ones by your side and the open highway ahead, your adventure has no limits. Each bend reveals new discoveries, and every hilltop offers a fresh, breathtaking view.
Phuket Road Trip
As the holidays approach, it’s time to pack your bags, take the wheel, and hit the road on an unforgettable journey. Asia is home to some of the most scenic routes in the world—ribbons of pavement that wind through incredible landscapes and open up panoramic vistas.
So, buckle up and get ready! Here’s BWH® Hotels’ guide to the best driving vacations across Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
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1. Drive Across the Sea in Okinawa, Japan
Imagine cruising across a smooth, straight road surrounded by sparkling aquamarine waters. Kaichu Road is a stunning 5km-long bridge and causeway connecting Okinawa’s main island to Henza Island, leading onward to the secluded beaches and bays of Miyagi Island. Begin in Naha and enjoy a dreamy daytime drive with dazzling photo stops along the way.
Where to Stay:
BWH Hotels offers a selection of beachfront accommodations in Okinawa. Best Western Okinawa Kouki Beach is set on a white-sand beach in Nago, with private balconies overlooking the ocean. Best Western Okinawa Onna Beach is a serene, low-rise resort just steps from the soft sand and shallow waters of the island’s sunset coast.
Best Western Okinawa Kouki Beach
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2. From Beaches to Rice Fields in Bali, Indonesia
Bali, the “Island of the Gods,” is perfect for a driving adventure. Leave the coastline behind and journey into the island’s green heart, where tropical jungles and cultural wonders await. After exploring Ubud’s heritage-rich streets, head deeper into the hills past emerald rice paddies, tranquil lakeside temples, and spectacular viewpoints.
Where to Stay:
Best Western Kamala Jimbaran is the ideal base to begin or end your journey, offering an outdoor pool, spa, and romantic restaurant near the beach. In Ubud, Best Western Premier Agung Resort Ubud immerses you in the island’s cultural capital, with two infinity pools, a standout restaurant, and lush natural surroundings.
Uluwatu Temple, Bali
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3. Head South Along Thailand’s Gulf Coast Road
With turquoise seas on one side and jungle-clad hills on the other, Thailand’s Gulf Coast promises a scenic drive like no other. Begin in the royal beach resort town of Hua Hin, then follow the curving coastal road past national parks, hidden beaches, golden temples, and bustling markets. End your trip with a ferry to Koh Samui or continue south to the tropical paradise of Phuket.
Where to Stay:
Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Hua Hin offers a serene beachfront escape with flowing design and lagoon pools, while Best Western Chaweng Samui puts you in the vibrant heart of Koh Samui. In Phuket, choose from three BWH Hotels, including Best Western Patong Beach with its rooftop pool and prime location.
Coastal Road Trip
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4. Explore the Coastal Wonders of Vietnam
With over 3,200 km of coastline, Vietnam is made for road trips. Drive from the vibrant town of Nha Trang through breathtaking beachside landscapes and the dramatic Deo Ca Pass—cut into sheer granite cliffs with ocean views. Alternatively, explore the lush national parks and sparkling seas of Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s idyllic “Pearl Island.”
Where to Stay:
Best Western Premier Marvella Nha Trang features a sky-high infinity pool, spa, and upscale dining—perfect for pre- or post-trip relaxation. On Phu Quoc, Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc offers stylish rooms, suites, and villas, plus a 300-meter-long lagoon pool steps from the beach.
Best Western Premier Marvella Nha Trang
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5. Soak Up Stunning Scenery in Cebu, the Philippines
Cebu is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Venture into the island’s mountainous heart, dotted with gardens, waterfalls, and panoramic lookouts. Then, cruise along the 8.9km Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway—the country’s longest sea bridge—before relaxing on Mactan Island’s white-sand shores.
Where to Stay:
SureStay Plus by Best Western Cebu City offers 63 stylish rooms—including connecting and family options—plus a bright restaurant and free 24-hour parking, making it an excellent stop on your road trip.
Cebu, Philippines
Did you know?
With more than 200 exceptional hotels and resorts across Asia-Pacific, BWH Hotels is your perfect partner for every driving holiday.
For more information and to book, please visit bestwesternasia.com and worldhotels.com.
By Lifestyle+Travel
The Top 5 Must-Do’s in Koh Samui
Known for its tropical charm, Koh Samui has elevated its reputation to a world-class destination, offering an authentic local essence fused with luxury experiences. With endless palm-fringed beaches, lush mountainous rainforests, and a selection of high-end resorts and villas, Koh Samui has everything to fulfill your dream tropical getaway. This laid-back island appeals to travelers of all budgets and offers a wide range of activities for the whole family. Whether you're craving amazing food, charming local markets, island tours, nature activities, or cultural sites, Koh Samui delivers. With so much to explore, it can be hard to plan the perfect itinerary. Here are the top 5 must-do experiences when visiting Koh Samui: 1. Must Taste For lovers of Thai cuisine, fresh seafood is abundant, and local restaurants serve southern specialties alongside beloved classics. Be sure to try Wai-Kua (squid with herbs in coconut milk), Moo-Ko (braised pork belly), and sweet treats like Kanom-Ko (sugar dumplings with young coconut) and Kalame (a Thai caramel-like toffee). Koh Samui is also home to several fine dining restaurants—many recognized by the Michelin Guide—perfect for a memorable holiday meal. 2. Must Try Koh Samui is a premier destination for spa and wellness. Unwind with signature coconut oil treatments, refresh your mind and body, or find inner peace through meditation in stunning natural settings. Samui offers a rejuvenating experience like no other. Animal lovers shouldn't miss the award-winning Koh Samui Elephant Sanctuary, where you can interact with rescued elephants in an ethical and respectful environment. 3. Must Buy Visit OTOP (One Tambon One Product) markets for a unique shopping experience. These local markets offer traditional crafts, handmade goods, Thai snacks, and coconut oil. Supporting OTOP means supporting local communities while discovering authentic cultural products. 4. Must Seek For thrill-seekers, Koh Samui offers plenty of adventure and excitement. Try the Samui Zipline Adventure, embark on a Wild Jungle Safari Tour, or explore iconic attractions like Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, Namuang Waterfall, Buddha’s Magic Garden, and the Big Buddha Temple. 5. Must See Ang Thong National Marine Park is a breathtaking escape just off Koh Samui’s coast, featuring over 40 idyllic islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Hike to the Pha Jan Jarus viewpoint, kayak through hidden lagoons, or snorkel among vibrant marine life. With a bit of luck, you might spot a Bryde’s whale or a southern dusky leaf monkey. How to Get to Koh Samui Koh Samui is accessible by air, bus, and ferry. The fastest and most convenient way to get there from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, or Krabi is by direct flight, with multiple daily flights available. Tourism Authority of Thailand: Koh Samui Office 370 Moo 3, Tambol Angthong, Amphoe Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140 Email: tatsamui@tat.or.th Tel: +66 (0) 7742 0504 Facebook: TAT Koh Samui x Koh Phangan x Koh Tao
By Lifestyle+Travel
Botanical Grandeur
The ultra-luxury lifestyle in Phuket knows no limits. Botanica Luxury Villas unveils Botanica Grand Avenue to complete Phuket's premier ultra-luxury hub. Botanica Luxury Villas, the leader in Phuket's luxury pool villa market, is transforming the high-end real estate sector with significant progress on its premier development, Botanica Grand Avenue. This flagship project, situated in a prime location in the heart of Laguna Phuket, has already completed over 40% of construction and continues to attract strong reservation numbers. The uniqueness of this iconic project goes beyond offering luxurious residential pool villas and comprehensive facilities for sophisticated lifestyles. Botanica Grand Avenue is also home to HYTHE by Botanica, an ultra-luxurious condominium representing Botanica's first venture into the vertical segment. HYTHE features villa-style functions and designs that have already created a buzz with recently revealed project renderings. In response to exceptional demand from High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) and investors, Botanica Grand Avenue has unveiled a state-of-the-art Sales Gallery featuring plans for all projects in the area, models of every villa style, and, for the first time, three show units of the HYTHE condominium, alongside two pool villa show units – "Signature Tropical Balinese" and "Grand Forest" – now completed and ready for viewing. The Cherngtalay area, particularly in the Laguna zone, is recognized internationally as a prime location offering one of Thailand's most comprehensive luxury lifestyle ecosystems. It stands out for its world-class resorts, golf courses, renowned restaurants, and upscale beach clubs, along with premium facilities catering to both tourists and high-end residents. With continuous development, Laguna Phuket is emerging as Southeast Asia's center for luxury living. For details about HYTHE by Botanica and all projects: Tel: +66 81 324 2999 and +66 94 636 2836 Website: botanicaluxuryvilla.com
By Lifestyle+Travel
KAWS:HOLIDAY Lands in Bangkok
Collaborating with AllRightsReserved (ARR) and local partner Central Embassy, the renowned artist KAWS presents a new chapter in the “KAWS:HOLIDAY” tour in Thailand as its latest celebrated destination, following recent appearances in Le Brassus, Switzerland, and Indonesia's Prambanan temple complex. Thailand, celebrated for its profound heritage where ancient traditions gracefully intertwine with contemporary creativity, offers an exceptionally fitting backdrop for this latest iteration of the "KAWS:HOLIDAY." This exhibition not only showcases the power of contemporary art but also shines a spotlight on Thailand's expanding influence within the international art community. The collaboration between KAWS and AllRightsReserved, alongside local partner Central Embassy and the significant backing of the BMA and TAT, further solidifies Bangkok's growing reputation as a global hub for premier international events. The Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt, affirmed the city's enthusiastic support for the project, recognizing the power of art to enrich the urban landscape and inspire its people. More than just an exhibition, "KAWS:HOLIDAY THAILAND" aims to connect art enthusiasts from around the world, seamlessly fusing creativity, location, and heritage to deliver an unforgettable artistic and cultural experience. Get ready to experience the massive COMPANION sculpture this May and be part of a world-class art event at "KAWS: HOLIDAY THAILAND." The exhibition will be open to the public from May 13th with the venue to be announced soon, stay tuned!