Hotels in the Asia-Pacific Region Welcome Guests to Make a Stylish Entrance with Waterfall Ziplining

For seasoned globetrotters, the customary hotel arrival tends to fade into the background, offering little in terms of memorable experiences. Whether arriving via public transit, taxi, or rideshare, the routine typically involves navigating to the lobby and patiently awaiting the check-in process – hardly a standout moment in one’s travel escapades. But what if the journey to your accommodation involved ziplining over a breathtaking waterfall or embarking on a serene river cruise through a lush gorge? Picture soaring above snow-kissed mountain peaks in a helicopter before landing at your hotel. Now, that’s an entrance to remember.

From the exotic landscapes of Thailand to the cultural richness of India, the historical allure of Cambodia to the pristine beauty of New Zealand, we’ve curated a selection of hotels in the Asia-Pacific region offering arrival experiences that redefine the ordinary.

ÀNI Thailand Nestled on Koh Yao Noi Island in the Andaman Sea, ÀNI Thailand beckons with an all-inclusive private sanctuary. Guests are presented with a choice of sea-faring arrivals – the traditional Thai longtail boat or the swift private speedboat. The longtail boat leisurely navigates through UNESCO-listed Phang Nga Bay, known for its iconic karst rock formations, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the stunning scenery. Alternatively, the private speedboat whisks guests from the Ao Po Grand Marina in Phuket to the island in a mere 15-30 minutes. Regardless of the chosen mode of transportation, the journey is accompanied by personalized amenities, including slippers, refreshments, and bamboo boxes filled with snacks. Upon reaching the island pier, a tuk-tuk transports guests to the arrival pavilion, a gleaming wooden structure inspired by ancient Lanna architecture, where the stay officially commences with a ceremonial bell and refreshing Thai soda.

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand Hidden in a bamboo forest near the Golden Triangle, where Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand converge, the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle offers a unique 19th-century expedition-inspired experience. Guests can arrive by road, but the more adventurous opt for a traditional Thai boat journey up the Mekong River. The intimate setting of just 15 tented rooms and select dining areas amidst nature sets the tone for a distinctive stay. After a private transfer from the airport, guests board a wooden longtail boat, typically used for fishing or transporting goods, at Hirannakron Pier in Chiang Rai. Cruising through the mighty Mekong River, the boat meanders through picturesque landscapes, villages, and the Ruak River, culminating in a symbolic arrival as the hotel strikes a large gong three times, signaling luck, health, and wealth.

Gangtey Lodge, Bhutan Perched above Phobjikha Valley in central Bhutan, Gangtey Lodge offers an intrepid luxury experience. The journey begins with a scenic helicopter ride from the country’s only international airport in Paro. The 30-minute flight unveils panoramic views of valleys, forests, and iconic landmarks like the Paro Dzong Buddhist monastery and the Buddha Dordenma statue. Landing in a nearby field, guests are treated to a welcome song, neck massage, and warm spiced apple cider before immersing themselves in the lodge’s cultural, historical, and natural wonders.

HOSHINOYA Kyoto, Japan In Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital, HOSHINOYA Kyoto crafts a distinctive arrival experience, ferrying guests down the Oi River in wooden boats. The refined ryokan, or traditional inn, offers a serene journey through the Oku-arashiyama nature sanctuary. Guests sip on fragrant herbal tea blends as the boat meanders through the lush Rankyo Gorge, showcasing seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in fall. Upon docking, guests walk to the ryokan, where live instrumental music in a water garden sets the tone for a tranquil stay.

Minaret Station Alpine Lodge, New Zealand Situated in a secluded glacial valley in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge offers a mountain paradise accessible only by helicopter. The scenic 20- to 30-minute flight from Queenstown or Wanaka Airport unveils shimmering lakes, glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and untouched gorges. Upon settling into the lodge’s spacious chalets, guests can partake in various mountain adventures, from hiking and fly fishing to heli-skiing and mountain biking, ensuring an immersive alpine experience.

Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia Nestled in the Cambodian jungle, Shinta Mani Wild provides an adrenaline-pumping arrival experience – ziplining into the heart of the lodge. Designed by Bill Bensley, the tented camp comprises 15 whimsically designed tents along the Thmor Rung River. After a private transfer, guests reach a seven-story tower overseeing the forest canopy. Equipped with a helmet and harness, guests embark on a quarter-mile zipline journey at speeds up to 31 miles per hour, soaring over lush greenery and the Thmor Rung River. The thrilling adventure concludes with a landing at the aptly named Landing Zone Bar, where a “Pineapple Trap” welcome drink awaits.

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur Set in the middle of Lake Pichola in Udaipur, northern India, Taj Lake Palace offers a regal arrival experience accessible only by boat. At the exclusive jetty, guests are greeted with cool towels and refreshments before boarding an open-air barge for a scenic seven-minute ride. The journey unfolds with panoramic views of the 16th-century Jag Mandir and the gleaming City Palace, providing a captivating introduction to Udaipur’s old city. Upon arrival, the experience continues with a shower of rose petals, welcome drinks on a silver platter, and a guided entrance into the floating marble palace.

The Nautilus, Maldives Located in the UNESCO-protected Biosphere Reserve in the northern Baa Atoll, The Nautilus Maldives epitomizes luxury in the archipelago. Upon landing in the capital, Male, guests are escorted to a VIP lounge for refreshments and snacks while immigration and customs paperwork are managed. The distinctive purple seaplane then takes guests on a 30-minute scenic flight northwest to the Baa Atoll, offering breathtaking views of islands and sandbars below. Disembarking on a tiny floating platform in the Indian Ocean, guests are transferred to the island via a luxurious speed boat or the Nautilus One yacht. Welcomed by a dedicated “House Master,” guests are guided to their house with complimentary Champagne and snacks awaiting their arrival.

The Peninsula Hong Kong Anchoring the Kowloon peninsula in the Tsim Sha Tsui district, The Peninsula Hong Kong sets the stage for a grand entrance. Arriving in style is a hallmark of this iconic hotel, offering guests a choice of private jet, helicopter, or the signature Rolls-Royce Phantom. The hotel boasts a fleet of 14 Rolls-Royce Phantoms, all finished in the signature shade of Peninsula Brewster Green. Opting for the Rolls-Royce arrival, guests are greeted at their airport gate inside Hong Kong International Airport and fast-tracked through immigration. The 45-minute ride in the spacious Rolls-Royce, equipped with amenities like complimentary WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity for personalized music, ensures a luxurious and comfortable journey.

In a world where travel often revolves around the destination, these hotels in the Asia-Pacific region redefine the journey itself, offering guests unforgettable arrival experiences that set the tone for a truly remarkable stay. Whether it’s ziplining through the Cambodian jungle or cruising on a wooden boat in Kyoto, these entrances ensure that the travel experience begins long before guests reach the comfort of their hotel rooms.