With the Masters golf tournament starting, you might be tempted to pack up your clubs and travel to the country’s best golf destinations: Georgia, Florida, or Palm Springs, to name a few. But if you want to mix a golf vacay with tropical sun, pristine beaches, and exotic culture, book a flight to Southeast Asia where golf courses are world-class, and high-end accommodation can be very affordable.
Villa Sawarin – Phuket, Thailand
Big, bold and beautiful, Villa Sawarin glitters brightly from its hilltop position at Phuket’s exclusive Cape Yamu. The sprawling 8-bedroom villa was designed by the world-renowned Philippe Starck and Jean-Michel Gathy, blending modern grandeur with the charm of alfresco Thai living. In addition to a gorgeous infinity pool and 3 acres of tropical gardens, the villa features its own private par 3 golf practice green.
Villa Amarapura – Phuket, Thailand
Also situated in the luxurious haven of Cape Yamu on Phuket’s eastern coastline, Villa Amarapura is a chic and glamorous 7-bed villa that comes with a full staff of five to attend to your every need. A perfect crash pad for families or large groups, the villa features spectacular architecture and two infinity pools with glorious views. Golf enthusiasts can work on their swing in the villa’s game room which houses a high-tech golf simulation game.
Banyan Tree Phuket – Phuket, Thailand
A 2nd place winner for the prestigious CondéNast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards, Banyan Tree is a luxurious villa resort nestled in the enclave of Laguna Phuket, steps away from a pristine stretch of beach. Golfers don’t have to go far to tee off – the resort has its own 18-hole, par-71 course surrounded by a spectacular display of scenic lagoons, coconut groves, and waving fairways.
The Ungasan Clifftop Resort – Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia
Located in the breathtaking setting of Uluwatu, The Ungasan Clifftop Resort houses an exclusive collection of ultra-luxe villas, each with their own private infinity pool, butler, and chef, not to mention incredible clifftop views. In addition to a private lagoon for sunbathing, a trendy beach club, and a flood-lit tennis court, Ungasan offers guests an on-site professional golf putting green.
Villa Karang Putih – Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia
With a name that means “White Coral”, Villa Karang Putih embodies a charming Hamptons vibe with its all-white furnishings, beautiful French doors, and colonial architectural elements inspired by old-money glam. Kids and adults alike love the villa’s private mini golf course, perfect for those sunny Bali mornings. Other features include a private saltwater pool, movie theater room, 8-foot long pool table, and even a helipad to make the ultimate entrance via chopper.
Villa Parim – Tabanan, Bali, Indonesia
Located on a black sand beach next to Bali’s famous Tanah Lot Temple, Villa Parim is a design aficionado’s dream. The villa features an expansive garden designed by renowned artist John Pettigrew, and is powered by solar panels to help reduce energy consumption. For golfers, the villa is perfectly located just 3.4 miles away from Nirwana Bali Golf Club, which is not only the best golf course in Bali according to Forbes, but also one of the best in Asia!
The Anandita Villa – Lombok, Indonesia
For golfers looking to get away the Bali crowds and experience a more serene Indonesian island, the 4-bedroom Anandita Villa provides the ultimate beachfront escape in the neighboring island of Lombok. Sitting on a private white sandy beach and boasting a full staff, the villa is located right next to Lombok Golf Kosaido Country Club where you can enjoy an 18-hole championship course with dramatic views of Mount Rinjani.
Cameron Highlands Resort – Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Sitting on the largest hill retreat in Malaysia and surrounded by breathtaking scenery, lush greenery, and rolling hills, Cameron Highlands Resort is a countryside heritage hotel that fronts the prestigious Cameron Highlands' 18-hole golf course, which is just a minute’s walk away. Besides golf, guests can hike jungle trails, explore tea plantations and strawberry farms, or enjoy tea bath at the resort’s Spa Village.
[Via TheLuxeNomad.com]
