Despite having some top-tier resorts and hotels, Malaysia failed to secure a spot in Tripadvisor’s 2025 “Best of the Best” hotels list. Meanwhile, neighboring countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia celebrated several entries.

Southeast Asia has long been a darling of global travellers, and once again, the region’s top-tier hotels have left an impression — this time in the form of five properties breaking into Tripadvisor’s prestigious 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Hotels, collectively representing a full 20% of the global top 25.

As you scroll through this round-up, it’s important to remember that this is not a professionally assessed and curated list, but rather a reflection of real-world travellers of all budgets, backgrounds, and expectations.

Topping the regional list and coming in second globally is Grandvrio Ocean Resort Danang in Vietnam. With its palm-fringed setting near the serene An Bang Beach, this family-friendly retreat impresses with amenities like a kids’ pool, an on-site hot spring bath, and ample outdoor play areas for children. Though photos of the property seem to show a fairly standard resort without anything especially noteworthy standing out, guests consistently rave about the seamless blend of natural tranquillity and thoughtful hospitality.

Also representing Vietnam is La Siesta Classic Ma May, ranked fifth worldwide. Located in the heart of Hanoi’s atmospheric Old Quarter, this boutique hotel impresses not just with its location near Hoan Kiem Lake, but also with its elegant rooftop sky bar offering sweeping views of the city. With just 75 rooms and an emphasis on personalised service, it’s a fine example of Vietnamese hospitality done right.

Over in Indonesia, the lush green foothills of Ubud are home to The Kayon Jungle Resort, which claimed the 15th-place spot on the list and to us, at least going by the images, seems more in line with a resort that would feature on many “best of” lists. Nestled among the treetops, this adults-only resort offers private villas with plunge pools, jungle views, and spa treatments designed for complete rejuvenation. From the yoga pavilion to the hiking trails that wind through the area, this resort champions both well-being and indulgence in equal measure.

Another Indonesian entry, Ashley Tanah Abang, placed 17th, bringing a contemporary edge to Jakarta’s hotel landscape. Just steps from the city’s bustling markets, this stylish hotel impresses with smart TVs, streaming-ready rooms, and facilities tailored to both leisure and business travellers. With complimentary breakfast and a rooftop pool, it’s a popular choice for urban explorers looking to recharge in comfort.

Rounding out Southeast Asia’s entries is Jaya House River Park in Siem Reap, Cambodia, which landed in 21st place. Located alongside the Siem Reap River and shaded by mature trees, the boutique hotel embraces sustainability with its plastic-free policy, refillable water bottles, and eco-conscious design. Guests appreciate the tranquil environment, bespoke spa treatments, and the warm, personalised service that makes it feel like a true home away from home.

HOW DID MALAYSIAN PROPERTIES FARE?

While Malaysia didn’t feature in the top 25, it continues to host several highly regarded hotels that consistently earn praise from travellers on Tripadvisor:

• The Datai Langkawi: Set between Langkawi island’s ancient rainforests and the tranquil Datai Bay, this resort is renowned for its harmonious blend of nature and luxury.

• The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur: An urban heritage hotel that combines colonial charm with modern luxury, often highlighted for its elegant architecture and impeccable service.

• EQ Kuala Lumpur: A sleek, contemporary luxury hotel in the heart of the capital, EQ has earned multiple awards and is widely praised for its panoramic skyline views, rooftop dining, and outstanding service.

• Casa del Mar Langkawi: This beachfront retreat has been awarded Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award for 2025, placing it among the top 10% of hotels worldwide.

• The Danna Langkawi: With its colonial-inspired elegance, lush gardens, and beachfront setting, The Danna delivers consistently high guest satisfaction, earning accolades for both its hospitality and design.

Collectively, these properties do an admirable job of showcasing the strength and variety of Southeast Asia’s hospitality sector — from jungle escapes and riverside sanctuaries to family-friendly resorts and stylish urban hideaways.

Of course these are just a tiny handful of the many excellent options in the Southeast Asian region. And while Malaysia was left off this year’s global top 25 list, there are still a good number of outstanding resorts and hotels to be found here, and the region as a whole continues to punch above its weight in world-class accommodation.