The Oriental South-East Asia has always been popular with the Indian tourists. Over the years both travel agents and tourism boards of different South-East Asian countries, have been working hand in glove to keep the interest levels high of their respective destinations.

Malaysia , for example, is now capitalizing on its natural surroundings to promote its unique rainforests, spas and outdoor adventures. Likewise Thailand is advocating tourists to go beyond the normal tourist trail and experience something unique such as home stay or a trek on an elephant back through the destination's rainforests.

Entertainment is the buzzword if you are traveling to the Pearl River Delta circuit of Hong Kong , Macau and Shenzhen. From gaming options in Macau to Hong Kong Disney and Ocean World to the Windows of the World in Shenzhen the place just can't get any better.

The thirst of an Indian traveler to explore the world, has now taken him to the exotic lands of China , Taiwan and Korea . Each destination has something unique to offer to the visiting Indian tourist.

The joy and excitement of visiting a new destination and learning about its culture is incomplete if the accommodation facilities don't live up to your expectations. Hotels and resorts play an important role in the entire tourist experience in any given destination. With travelers becoming more and more internet savvy today, it's our attempt to present before you a gist of the popular hotels, resorts and spa's in Asia , straight from the officials of various tourism boards along with the top agents of the Indian travel industry.

Call it an image makeover or a new facet to the destination but Thailand Tourism Authority's new campaign “7 Amazing Wonders” has certainly made travelers seek new regions and explore the unique and fascinating side to Thailand . With Thai 'wellness' gaining popularity, it comes as no surprise that spas top the list today for a majority of Indian travelers.

Ashutosh Mehere , vice president - Luxury Escapades, Cox and Kings India Ltd., feels that the trend to opt for a luxury package is steadily catching up with the Indian traveler. He said “depending on the customer needs we promote different spa and luxury resorts across Thailand . For those who want to stay in Bangkok and yet enjoy the luxury we recommend The Sukhothai , Bangkok because with just 210 rooms the property offers various luxury, amenities such as a private dining room, their spa Botanica and floodlit tennis courts”.

Cox and Kings suggest the exotic properties of the Six Senses Hideaway located both in Hua Hin and Koh Samui and the Evasaon Phuket and Six Senses Spa in Phuket for those looking at luxury options beyond Bangkok . Each property has that extra touch and service that ranges from butler service to children's programmes to a hideaway spa. Evason Phuket with just 260 rooms offers various water sports, 4 sea facing restaurants and a private beach on Bon Island .

According to Vishal Suri , COO leisure outbound, Thomas Cook India , “today tourists look to experience the best of activities. i.e . relaxation and sightseeing / shopping in the city. For this segment we suggest The Westin Grande Sukhumvit Hotel, Bangkok , primarily for its location and the various amenities it offers.

The city, famous for its Merlion statue and Sentosa Island , has been drawing hordes of Indian tourists year after year. It's surprising but true that this urban city also has a hidden wealth of spas that would definitely take you by surprise. The Singapore Tourism Board in India recommends that tourists should experience at least one of the many spas listed below:-

Estheva's Choc De- Ager ©

In the heart of Orchard Road , set amidst big brand boutiques, is Estheva Spa, one of Singapore 's most exclusive and lavish ladies-only spas. The spa has recently introduced an exotic signature age-management treatment which is inspired by chocolates. Warmed chocolate mixed with almond oil is sensuously drizzled on your body for a massage which relaxes your body and brings back the youthfulness into our skin.

SK-II Boutique Spa

This is a spa unlike any other you will encounter. Indulge yourself in the pampering care of therapists and experience the miracle of SK-II. They have created the perfect surroundings for you to relax, be pampered and emerge refreshed and renewed, right in the middle of bustling Singapore . SK-II Boutique Spa is a unique collaboration between the prestigious skincare brand, SK-II and Senze Salus , a luxury spa specialist based in Singapore . The first in the world, SK-II Boutique Spa combines the goodness of SK-II products with excellent spa services for an experience that will tantalize your senses and leave you with radiant, crystal clear skin.

Fish Foot Reflexology

Located in Under Water World at the Sentosa Island , the fish foot reflexology offers relaxation to feet which are tired after a day full of shopping and adventure. The Fish Foot Reflexology is a unique spa experience. You soak your feet in warm water and little Turkish spa fish swim up to your feet and nibble at them. It's rather ingenious the way the fish deal with only the dead cells on your feet and leave them feeling baby soft and pretty. To lock in the softness, you are treated to a revitalizing foot massage making you feel like your feet are the most beautiful parts of you.

Andana Spa

The 22,000 square-feet Andana Spa at Orchard Road boasts revolutionary concepts. Andana Spa offers packages such

as 45-minute massages with complimentary, unlimited food and beverages. No bookings are required, which means you can walk-in, contemplate your massage choice and enjoy the full-day use of comprehensive spa facilities, like hot and cold pools, sauna, steam baths, and lounges where you can watch movies or even surf the internet.

Amrita Spa

One of the largest in Asia , the Amrita Spa is spread over 50,000 square feet. It has come to be known as the sanctuary for tranquility and serenity. Not only is the Amrita Spa renowned for its exquisite treatments which integrate holistic healing and therapies inspired by ancient eastern and western rituals, but also for their private label products and unique spa cuisine which stimulate all your senses which leave you asking for more.

Aramsa Spa

Ever wondered how it would be to enjoy a special massage in a garden? Visit the Aramsa Spa to know. It is Singapore 's first Garden Spa in a national park. Located in the lush surrounds of Bishan Park II, Aramsa represents the new concept of an urban day spa. Drawing from the therapeutic power of nature, Aramsa is founded on the belief that Nature is the greatest healer. Lush tropical gardens take centre stage and this theme is carried through in the architecture, design, treatments, therapies and the products used. A trip to Aramsa will help you soothe all your senses including touch, smell and sight.

Spa Botanica

Singapore 's first garden destination spa, Spa Botanica , is set in the grounds of the Sentosa Resort and Spa on the idyllic island of Sentosa . It has state-of-the-art facilities… mud pools, float pools, steam baths and labyrinths which encourage guests to relax their minds through meditative walks. Spa Botanica offers the perfect balance of modern amenities, traditional beauty and health practices. It is the perfect and serene getaway for you and your family after a day filled with crazy shopping.

Villa Rain Tree Resort Spa

The Rain Tree Spa offers a retreat for the senses where unique blends of traditional and cross-cultural therapies lavishly intoxicate and rejuvenate the mind, body and soul in a setting unlike anywhere in Singapore . Upon entering the grounds of Rain Tree Spa, it is easy to feel as if a giant step back in time was taken to a small private island where the world outside simply ceases to exist as the sea waters, rambling forests and historic sights allow the imagination to run wild.

Seven Eden Wellness Centre

The Seven Eden Wellness Centre is the Sentosa Resort & Spa's newest addition. Adjacent to Spa Botanica and within walking distance of the resort premises, Seven Eden Wellness Centre is the gateway to preventive medicine. It includes a well-equipped lifestyle gymnasium with top-of-line fitness equipment, a herbal juice bar named Zest Bar, a Movement Studio named Zest Studio for healthy lifestyle programmes and anti-aging consultation to staying youthful.

Wellness Village

The Wellness Village is an oasis for leisure in the heart of Marina Bay . Luxuriate by the large outdoor swimming pool with underwater acoustics or book a relaxing massage or pampering spa treatment at the Wellness Village spa which specializes in Asian holistic treatments and techniques.

Just as the Merlion is synonymous with Singapore , the Petrona Towers are an iconic symbol for Malaysia . The capital city of Kuala Lumpur alongside the famous island resorts of Langkawi and Penang is increasingly popular with tourists.

For those who want to enjoy the city life of Kuala Lumpur yet rejuvenate themselves, Thomas Cook has the perfect answer; the Crowne Plaza (Angasan Spa), Kuala Lumpur. Noted for its location and ambience the property is very popular with tourists.

However Manoharan, director, Malaysian Tourism Board in India , would now like tourists to go beyond Kuala Lumpur and explore the unexplored territories of East Malaysia . The natural surroundings of East Malaysia serve the perfect setting for outdoor activities and hot springs .

The 'Baba-Nyonya healing therapy at the Spa Village Malacca is something that the Malaysian Tourism Board would like Indians to experience when in Malaysia .

The Spa Village Malacca is the world's only spa to base its therapies on the age old healing heritage of the Baba-Nyonya or Peranakan culture a unique combination of Chinese and Malay influences. The Spa Village Malacca resides within The Majestic Malacca, a classic hotel set in a historical building with architectural influences drawn from the Portuguese, the Dutch and the Peranakan Chinese. A visit to the spa is a voyage into the heart of Malacca's rich culture.