At Anantara, we pride ourselves on offering inspirational experiences that connect every guest to the heart of the locale. We also love to connect travellers with the world’s most extraordinary locations. From age-old favourites like Victoria Falls, to more off-the-beaten-track sites like the ancient forts of Sri Lanka, we’ve selected six locales where the world’s most astounding sights blend seamlessly with authentic Anantara luxury.

Angkor Wat – Cambodia

There are few sights that do more justice to the word ‘iconic’ than the sprawling temple complex of Angkor Wat. The sheer scale of this extraordinary remnant of ancient Khmer culture must be seen to be believed. There are days and days worth of exploration here for those who want to dig deep into the history, or much can be seen in a day or two with the right guide. For those with a head for heights, a dawn balloon ride over the temples makes for an experience that will live long in the memory.

Where to stay: Anantara Angkor Resort is your perfect base for temple explorations. Choose from a selection of expansive suites. Sample rich local flavours. Or lounge poolside after a day of discovery.   

Sigiriya – Sri Lanka

Located in central Sri Lanka, Sigiriya – meaning ‘lion’s rock’ – was built in the 5th century by king Kashyapa I. For centuries it remained largely forgotten as it was reclaimed by the surrounding jungle, before British historians brought it to prominence once more in the 19th century. Today, the UNESCO-listed heritage site is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic attractions. Perched on a 200-metre-high column of rock, the fortress is accessed by passageways cut into the rock face between a giant pair of carved lion paws.

Where to stay: Anantara Kalutara Resort and Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort offer luxurious beachside stays on the south-west coast of Sri Lanka. Both resorts offer the Soaring Over Sri Lanka Signature Experience – an exhilarating helicopter journey over Sri Lanka's most inspirational sights, including the iconic Sigiriya fortress. 

Baa Atoll – Maldives

The Maldives isn’t just home to iconic locations… it is an iconic location. The rich blues, shimmering white sands, endless views and rich marine life make this one of the most enchanting destinations anywhere, and one that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime. For those who want to see the Maldives at its very best, the UNESCO Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve promises unforgettable stays surrounded by crystal-clear waters, pristine reefs and the opportunity to dive and snorkel among some of nature’s greatest creations. 

Where to stay: Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas puts you in a place of boundless luxury set in a natural wonderland. Bask in serenity in an overwater or beach villa. Experience local cuisine, sunset cruises and soothing spa treatments in an enchanting haven of indulgence.

Victoria Falls – Zambia

Perhaps the ultimate iconic location and one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the might and majesty of Victoria Falls must be seen to be believed. Witness it from the banks of the Zambezi or take it in from the air on a microlight excursion. Or swim to the edge and peek over the falls in the exhilarating Devil’s Pool. The falls alone make this a wonderful place to visit. Add safari outings and nature excursions in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for a quintessential African adventure.

Where to stay: Untamed nature meets authentic luxury at The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara. Situated on the banks of the Zambezi river with direct and unlimited access to the falls, this is your gateway to Africa’s astounding natural beauty. The hotel is also located in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, offering limitless opportunities for excursions in the wild.

Hoi An – Vietnam

From Vietnam’s mountainous north to its breezy tropical south, you’ll find a diversity of cultural influences, but none as perfectly preserved as those of Hoi An. Crisscrossed by canals and cobblestone lanes, Old Town Hoi An paints a picture of a prosperous trading port, complete with merchant shop houses, Chinese temples and ancient stone bridges. Wander the oldest streets in the city, cross the famous Japanese Bridge, shop for leather, silk or silver, and stop for a ca phe trung – Hoi An's specialty egg coffee. 

Where to stay: Anantara Hoi An Resort, within walking distance of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, sidles up alongside the Thu Bon River. Do day-trips into Hoi An’s historic alleyways, then return for dinner in the gardens or a romantic cruise along the river. 

Phang Nga Bay – Thailand

Set amid turquoise Andaman waters, the karst seascape of Phang Nga Bay remains one of Thailand’s most iconic destinations. Easily accessible from Phuket or Krabi, the bay is an enchanting maze of islets and caverns. Snorkel and swim in tropical waters, visit the famous James Bond Island or laze in the shade aboard a traditional longtail boat or a luxurious yacht.

Where to stay: The natural wonders of Phang Nga Bay can be experienced from any of Anantara’s luxurious properties in Phuket – Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, Layan Residences by Anantara, Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas or Anantara Phuket Suites & Villas.