Last-Minute Holidays? Hotels You Can Jet Off To Without The Hassles Of Visa

Feeling the urge to escape? A last-minute Diwali getaway can be the perfect remedy to the smog and chaos that fills the cities. With a little planning and flexibility (and a stretchy wallet), you can embark on an international adventure without the hassle of visa applications. Here are some incredible hotels in visa-free countries where you can book a last-minute deal and kickstart your time off.

Amankora Thimphu Lodge, Bhutan

Amankora Thimphu, a 16-suite lodge nestled in the Motithang area, offers a luxurious retreat inspired by traditional dzong fortresses. Located near the capital's shops and sights, the lodge provides a serene escape to explore both the city and the stunning Himalayan landscape. Hiking and cycling are ideal ways to explore the breathtaking surroundings. The lodge offers a curated list of experiences, ensuring guests can fully immerse themselves in the local culture and natural beauty.

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, Thailand

Located about a 4-hour flight from India, this riverside sanctuary in bustling Bangkok offers luxury by the Chao Phraya River and easy access to the city’s vibrant markets and temples. During Diwali, you can explore Spice Spoons cooking classes, indulge in Muay Thai lessons, or unwind with a signature spa treatment. The resort also offers river cruises and a boat shuttle service, allowing you to explore the city with ease.

W Bali, Seminyak, Indonesia

The trendy district of Seminyak is where all the high-fliers put up their feet. And nestled amidst designer boutiques, art galleries, and trendy bars, this W outpost, the first in Indonesia, redefines Bali's exuberance. The hotel's architecture reflects Bali's natural beauty with a playful twist. Think bold design and textures inspired by the island's mystical "conceal and reveal" concept. While it's a bit of a splurge, for ultimate indulgence, opt for one of the 75 private pool villas, ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom configurations. What’s more, you’re only a short walk away from the pulsating nightlife of Seminyak at all times.

Amanwella, Sri Lanka

Designed for blissful seclusion and natural exploration, the contemporary Amanwella beach resort claims a vast swathe of golden sand fringed with coconut palms and lies close to revered temples, rolling tea plantations and Sri Lanka’s finest National Parks. To make the days even more special, Amanwella has curated a programme of cultural experiences, culinary journeys and jubilant celebrations, designed to bring joy and light, and encouraging you to savour precious moments with loved ones in the Sri Lankan sunshine.

Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, Malaysia

Only a 5-hour flight away, this resort offers overwater family villas with beautiful views of Malaysia’s coastline. The AvaniKids Club ensures children have plenty to do, with treasure hunts, beach games, and creative activities. Families can take part in water sports like paddle boarding or cycling tours around the resort, while the Petit Bistro caters to the young ones with special menus and kid-friendly dining options.

Six Senses Thimphu Lodge, Bhutan

Six Senses Thimphu, located in the panaromic valley of Bhutan, offers 25 spacious villas and suites, starting from the intimate Lodge Suites to a three-bedroom villa which is perfect for families. At Thimphu Lodge, guests can immerse themselves in traditional Bhutanese therapies, such as the soothing hot stone bath enhanced with fire-roasted stones and clear quartz crystals. The lodge also offers a Wellness Screening with an in-house doctor, providing a personalised wellness journey. Beyond the spa, explore cultural sites like the Buddha Dordenma statue and local markets for a taste of Bhutanese heritage.

Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

This wildlife lodge is one of the many resorts in Sri Lanka from the house of Resplendent Ceylon, the brainchild of the Fernando family who founded the world-renowned Dilmah Ceylon Tea. Perched at the edge of the Yala National Park, where the Indian Ocean kisses the shore, stands Wild Coast Tented Lodge. Its 28 cocoon tents, scattered across the property, take on the shape and colour of the rocks and boulders to merge with the surrounding, for Wild Coast is a free movement zone for animals, with Yala’s most famous predator, the leopard, coming in the area for an occasional stroll. Grab a coconut cocktail at the vaulted bamboo Ten Tuskers bar and dining pavilion, nestled adjacent to a free flowing infinity pool where you can spend leisurely afternoons after a safari to the park.

Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, Maldives

Enjoy a dazzling Diwali at the award-winning Maldives resorts. With both Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani easily accessed from India’s main travel hubs, reconnect with family and friends and rediscover the Slow Life, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The holiday line-up is designed to delight all ages: unforgettable dining that celebrates India’s rich culinary heritage; acclaimed visiting chefs to tempt your tastebuds; fun-packed festivities at The Den; and the chance to unwind with daily yoga and sessions with world-renowned wellness specialists at Soneva Soul.

Six Senses Samui, Thailand

Located on a headland at the northern tip of Samui Island, Six Senses Samui offers 67 private villas, many with personal pools and stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand. It’s a short, 45-minute flight from Bangkok, making it a convenient luxury escape. The resort’s dining options include the award-winning Dining on the Rocks and Dining on the Hill, offering both regional and international cuisine. The spa provides treatments in private villas or open-air salas with ocean views, enhancing the relaxation experience.

Ceylon Tea Trails, Hatton, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s tea estates deserve a vacation of their own, with a slice of Dilmah tea’s history. And in Hattan’s Bogawantalawa Valley, five restored colonial tea planter bungalows double up as luxurious stays with 27 suites that let you explore the region’s colonial charm. Keep your mornings for solitary walks and tea tastings around the retreat, and evenings for barbeques with the tea estate sprawled in front of your eyes.