Glamping in Asia

If you believe that camping involves a soggy canvas tent, a hole behind a tree for the latrine, and dinner a mix of wood ash and burnt chicken breast, maybe it’s time for a re-think.

Now you can camp in the lap of luxury. Or should I say ‘glamp’ in the lap of luxury. Glamping is the new upmarket style of camping for those who wouldn’t be seen dead in anything less than five star accommodations. And it’s catching on fast, especially in many Asian countries where getting up close and personal with the wildlife is what the holiday is all about. Take elephants for instance.

The Shangri Lao Classic Explorer Camp in Laos is a rescue center for elephants. Spend your days as close to these gentle giants as you’re ever likely to get. While in the evening, you can enjoy a relaxing dip in the pool. If you don’t fancy the pool, then soak to your heart’s content in your personal whirlpool or hot tub, before retiring to your four-poster bed.

Sri Lanka’s Mahoora Tented Safari Camps are available in a number of its National Parks. Ideal for those with a love for anything nature, wildlife and conservation, these eco-friendly camps have expert wildlife trackers and guides. Look forward to meeting on-site naturalists to answer all your habitat and wildlife queries.

The Elite sites offer large carpeted tents lit at night by candles. With sumptuous beds and private hot showers, you really can enjoy a walk on the wild side during the day, while enjoying those must have comforts at night.

If you’re thinking of holidaying in Thailand, then try to fit in something completely different, like sleeping in a four-poster bed up in the treetops.

The Four Seasons Tented Camp at Chiang Saen, Thailand, offers you just that. Built on large wooden platforms amongst the treetops within Thailand’s Golden Triangle, the height provides unequaled views from your private balcony across the borders into Laos and Myanmar. With freestanding bath, king-sized beds, exceptional cuisine, open air spa, and a pavilion for yoga aficionados, the camp really does have everything – including plenty of elephants within the 200 acres of estate.

If you’d rather do something a bit more active, but still on the luxurious side, how about trying the Hintok River Camp at Hellfire Pass, Thailand. Voted as one of Asia Pacific’s top ten attractions for adventure sports, you can try your hand at canoeing, rafting, mountain biking, and elephant riding. These are in addition to the usual trekking excursions and organized trips.

The camp is comprised of 38 luxury tents, a fabulous restaurant and campfire dinners, Wi-Fi connection in the clubhouse, Thai massage, laundry service, air conditioning units, in-room bath and shower, and comfortable beds to drop into after a hard day. It also has 24-hour security and a doctor on call.

Bluewater Sumilon Island Resort – Cebu Islands, Philippines, is a great glamping resort for those with a love for scuba diving and sea life. Tents are erected around a picturesque lagoon where colorful fish species can be watched darting in and out of the corals and anemones. Other activities include bird watching, hiking, kayaking, scuba diving and snorkelling, fishing, massages, picnics and tours. Night time is party time with native dancers, bonfires and special dinners. Tent amenities include twin beds, toiletries, cabinets, minibar, lamps and fans, cell phone services and camp assistant.

For private glamping events, book a luxurious Philippines camping real estate outside the metro region. This is highly recommended if you go camping in groups. Hire a camp master to take care of the activities.

For those who can’t get into the camping thing, or you long for that metropolitan touch after your extended connection with the wild, welcome back to the city. You can find a condo for rent in many cities across the Philippines. Glamping is an excursion after all.