Ever felt like you really need a change of scenery but don’t want to cancel the weekend’s dinner plans and travelling somewhere just seems too tiring?

Or would you like that all-inclusive hotel service and an infinity pool, right here right now?

The solution doesn’t even require a big travel budget – a staycation!

Basically a staycation is a vacation spent in your own city, as if you were a tourist. You can rent a hotel room for the weekend, enjoy some sightseeing or just chill inside. It’s popular too. According to The Independent, the demand for staycations rose to 70% in 2018, compared to the 2016 results.

Who is a staycation for? Anyone who wants a change of scenery without any complicated plans: young parents in need of some couple-time while staying a driving distance from the kids; a group of friends celebrating a special occasion; a 9 to 5 office worker who doesn’t want to use up the holiday leave, you name it.

Hotels are always willing to accommodate the locals as much as the tourists, so we’ve selected some of our favourite places for the local crowd in the big cities of Southeast Asia:

Riva Arun – Bangkok, Thailand

After living in Bangkok for a while, one might forget that all the famous cultural attractions such as the Grand Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and, of course, the Temple of Dawn are actually only a short distance away. Staying in a hotel nearby and taking advantage of the views will certainly bring back memories of your first days in the city and provide a break from the regular routine. And which hotel has the best location – Riva Arun, a 25-room boutique hotel located along the Chao Phraya River.

Want to stay inside the whole weekend? We won’t judge! Choose a Grand Deluxe suite with a private balcony overlooking the river and enjoy a masseuse service without even leaving your room. Although be warned – the magnificent view from the rooftop Above Riva restaurant might entice you out of bed.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap – Cambodia

photo by Kieron Marshall & Audrey Corben

Park Hyatt Siem Reap has all that’s needed for a relaxed weekend – elegant and luxurious suites designed with a private garden and private plunge pool, cultural dinners as well as a wide selection of tours for those who want to play tourists for a day. Cambodia’s local residents and expatriates can enjoy a stay tailored to their needs.

Bring your loved one along and enjoy the staycation together – the world can wait outside.

137 Pillars Suites and Residences – Bangkok, Thailand

For those in Bangkok who don’t want to get away from the action of Sukhumvit Road, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok is just the place. Located in the Thonglor area, it is surrounded by some of the best restaurants and bars in the city, as well as some great shopping spots. Even so, the hotel itself has two restaurants, two bars, and a private dining option served by a dedicated butler with incredible views of the city added to the mix – perfect for a romantic occasion, don’t you think?

Wellness is also something to talk about with the hotel’s spa and wellness centre, fitness, yoga and meditation studios created to help you balance your body, emotions and mind.

Too many things for just a short visit? You can always make this staycation a tradition!

Anjali by Syphon, Siem Reap – Cambodia

Want to escape the routine of Siem Reap and instead chill by the pool with some spa treatments? Here’s how you do it! Anjali by Syphon always has a promotion on hand for those who want to recharge and enjoy some me-time or a calm weekend with a partner. We would certainly take advantage of the spa that offers traditional Asian healing rituals and proven modern therapies to reset your inner balance. This hotel is great for fans of all things sustainable. It’s equipped with solar panels, a water-saving system, locally produced organic bathroom amenities, and a salt water swimming pool that is sure to make you feel like you are at a tropical resort.

akyra Manor Chiang Mai – Thailand

Those living in Chiang Mai, the so-called northern capital of Thailand, will find their home away from home in akyra Manor Chiang Mai. Relax in an oversized bathtub with akyra‘s signature bath bombs, enjoy private dining with homemade wood fired pizza, and don’t forget to have afternoon tea in one of the most Instagrammable bars in the city! 

Contact us for more information about the hotels mentioned above.