Visit Asia-Pacific's Unesco World Heritage Sites in Style With Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Melaka

A bucket list is not complete without exploring prehistoric monuments and ancient cities such as Nara or Sigiriya, climbing in Malaysia's Kinabalu Park or photographing the West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou, Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) can help check off some serious UNESCO World Heritage Sites in style.

With a worldwide portfolio of over 520 hotels in 75 countries, Asia-Pacific's UNESCO World Heritage Sites are just a hop, skip and a jump away from many beautiful SLH hotels where access to Asia's stunning UNESCO sites is easy. Many of these hotels offer unique experiences to help the guest really appreciate the beauty of the site as they explore.

To find out more: www.slh.com/marketing/asia-unesco/

MALAYSIA - Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca

UNESCO listed since 2008 are the beautiful cities of Melaka and George Town. East meets West in the Straits of Malacca, developed through 500 years of trading and cultural exchanges. The two towns constitute a unique architectural and cultural townscape unparalleled anywhere in East and Southeast Asia, definitely worth a visit!

Where to stay? The Majestic Malacca

The Majestic Malacca is a stunning 1920's colonial mansion set in the heart of the region's UNESCO site and specifically designed to echo the multi-cultural history and culture of the cities.

Our best advice: The Majestic Malacca offers complimentary daily guided walks passing prominent historical landmarks of this 600 year-old coastal port.

JAPAN – Yakushima

Located in the interior of Yaku Island, at the meeting-point of the Palaearctic and Oriental biotic regions, Yakushima exhibits a rich flora, with some 1,900 species and subspecies, including ancient specimens of the sugi (Japanese cedar). It also contains a remnant of a warm-temperate ancient forest that is exceptional in this region.

Where to stay? Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima

Yakushima

Set between the mountains, cedar forests and the sea, Sankara Hotel & Spa is located on Yakushima Island. The hotel offers guests the chance to trek through the UNESCO listed mountains from the doorstep of their room, enjoy relaxing herbal spa treatments, and sample fine local and French cuisine.

Our best advice: Visit some of the island's hidden treasures such as the Sasuga Otoshi waterfall.

SRI LANKA – Ancient City of Sigiriya

The ruins of the capital, built by the parricidal King Kassapa I (477–95) lie on the steep slopes and at the summit of a granite peak standing some 180m high (the 'Lion's Rock', which dominates the jungle from all sides). A series of galleries and staircases emerge from the mouth of a gigantic lion constructed of bricks and plaster which provide access to this stunning site.

Where to stay? – Jetwing Vil Uyana

A nature-inspired, eco-friendly resort in the shadow of the historic rock fortress of Sigiriya, Jetwing Vil Uyana is a peaceful retreat with a lake attracting local wildlife, an Ayurvedic spa, and creative regional cuisine, all in the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle.

Our best advice: Having viewed the rock fortress of Sigiriya from the villa at Vil Uyana, attempt the climb up hundreds of steps to the summit and discover its fascinating, ancient cave frescoes en route.

LAOS - Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a town in Laos that superbly combines both Laos urban structures with French provincial architecture from the 19th and 20th century. Guests will enjoy the wonderful smell of the frangipanis flowers and remarkable temples that dot the diverse landscape. The colours are intoxicating and ensure this magical town tops many “must see” lists.

Where to stay? The Luang Say Residence

Luang Prabang

The atmosphere at The Luang Say Residence is tranquil with generously-sized suites decorated in colonial style. Find a shady spot in the tropical gardens and relax surrounded by lily-filled ponds, banana palms and exotic flowers. Then, return to your suite or the dining room and enjoy a delicious lunch before heading to the pool for a leisurely afternoon swim.

Our best advice: To get in the spirit, first visit the Fumoir: This fascinating space is a cabinet of curiosity. Guests will find French and local ethnic hunting weapons, crossbows and lances treasured by explorers displayed.

CHINA – West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou

The West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou, comprising the West Lake and the hills surrounding its three sides, has inspired famous poets, scholars and artists since the 9th century. It comprises numerous temples, pagodas, pavilions, gardens and ornamental trees, as well as causeways and artificial island

Where to stay? Hangzhou Rose Garden Resort

Set in the once ancient capital of China, Hangzhou (renowned for its beautiful natural scenery, fine green tea, and lakeside temples) and nestled in gardens, close to the Qiantang River and the famous Six Harmonies Pagoda. Hangzhou Rose Garden Resort & Spa is an intimate resort.

Our best advice: Guests can admire the West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou without leaving the hotel as decks from many of the 50 rooms offer unspoilt views of this landscape.

CAMBODIA – Angkor

Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia and contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Including the famous Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations, Angkor is one of the world's best examples of cultural, religious and symbolic value

Where to stay? Angkor Village Resort

Angkor

Stay in traditional Khmer accommodation close to the Angkor temples and the city of Siem Reap. Not only is the cottage accommodation exquisite but the dining options are diverse, and the spa offers delicious herbal treatments. A magnificent swimming pool and an arts and crafts souvenir shop are additional delights.

Our best advice: Order a picnic from the hotel and discover the Angkor Wat archaeological site or get breakfast to go and explore the spectacular Bayon temple at dawn – a truly special way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.