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Header image courtesy of Karsten Winegeart (via Unsplash)
With a wealth of exciting, exotic destinations on their doorstep, Hongkongers can count themselves lucky when it comes to holiday planning. With the click of a button and a short-haul flight, you can find yourself high up in the hills, relaxing by a beach, or exploring a new and exciting cityscape. And while there’s nothing quite like the plush comfort of a five-star hotel, frequent travellers will know that after a while, they begin to look the same. So, if you’re looking to immerse yourself more in your travel destination of choice, an Airbnb rental could prove to be the perfect solution. Here are some of the most popular vacation rentals on the market around Asia.
Situated in a quaint, traditional shophouse on Petain Road in the Jalan Besar neighbourhood, this private space lies within one of the city’s seven conserved historic shophouses. The one-bedroom, one-bathroom property is only a five-minute walk from the nearest train station, and boasts a large living space, high ceilings, and Nordic-inspired interiors. Vacation rentals of the private loft space are inclusive of a mini-bar fridge, high-speed Internet access, shared laundry facilities, and a fully equipped kitchen downstairs in the shophouse’s communal spaces.
Prices start from $783 per night
On the southern tip of Cambodia, Kep is a former old colonial seaside town that boasts some of the region’s best seafood, quietest beaches, and most relaxed atmospheres. For large groups looking to travel independently, this four-bedroom expansive villa offers the perfect balance between luxury services and home comforts. Accommodating up to 16 people, it boasts two private swimming pools, a cinema screening room, a private chef, and more.
Prices start from $4,709 per night
This one-bed, two-bathroom property in the heart of the historic centre of George Town boasts an old-world charm. Its Little India location situates it in the centre of the UNESCO heritage zone, with temples, restaurants, cafes, and art galleries on its doorstep. With large French windows, antique furniture, and original wooden flooring, it's the perfect sanctuary in which to escape. The property also boasts a lending library, spacious outdoor terrace, selection of games, and television appliances to while away the rainy days.
Prices start from $737 per night
This 20th-century traditional teak house offers travellers a unique base for their time in Bangkok. The three-bedroom house accommodates up to nine people, features a clawfoot bathtub, plunge pool, outdoor patio, plentiful plants and greenery, and more. Artworks and antiques and murals add to its appeal, while its location (next to popular Silom Road) offers access to the morning market, river, and nearby arts hub.
Prices start from $1,183 per night
This Taipei apartment may not be as large as some of its Airbnb regional counterparts, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in style – with 270-degree views of the city and downtown Ximen, and even a hot tub. Just three minutes from the nearest MRT station, landmark sites like the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Longshan Temple lie only a short train ride away. The property sleeps up to six guests, comes equipped with standard amenities, and includes a pocket WiFi egg rental, making navigating through the city all the more manageable.
Prices start from $682 per night
In the heart of Tokyo’s CBD, this minimalist, bright open five-storey home was designed by leading local architect Baqueratta. With four bedrooms, the property sleeps up to nine people, and boasts a rooftop garden, patio and barbecue area – perfect for entertaining or taking in the city skyline. The Airbnb is stocked with a comprehensive wine cellar that operates on an honesty policy, so you’ll never need to venture too far to source yourself a sundowner.
Prices start from $5,670 per night
This three-bedroom house is a work of art – constructed almost entirely from bamboo, Sunrise House opened in 2016, providing an intimate sanctuary deep in Bali’s Abiansemal district. The windowless property spans four floors, features a plunge pool, bamboo furniture, and intricate, natural decorations that blend seamlessly into their surroundings. Bookings are inclusive of daily breakfast, hot water, standard room amenities, and both a private and shared pool.
Prices start from $2,550 per night
Following a brief and bitterly cold stint in Scotland, Amanda returned to Hong Kong—a place she’s called home for over 18 years—to begin her career as a writer. She can often be found getting lost somewhere very familiar, planning her next holiday, and enjoying a cup (or three) of good, strong coffee.
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