Cultural extravaganzas in Macau and Thai eco-stays

Andaz Bali (above left, www.hyatt.com/andaz) has launched its Kakao-Friends stays in specially themed Garden Pool Villas. This seems an unusual offering from a luxe villa resort but it's completely in line with the Andaz DNA. Pushing its version of unique stays and self expression, the brand recently ran a "Be Like No One's Watching" campaign to imprint its credentials. At the Andaz Bali property that neighbours the older and brightly refurbished Hyatt Regency, the stays serve up Kakao Friends everywhere, fun floaties and a tent for kids, and much more. Meanwhile Cube Social @ Boat Quay (above right, cubehotels.com.sg) is Singapore's latest capsule hotel but with a difference. Expect elegant upscale slip-in sleeping with 300 thread count linen, luggage space, childproof adaptors, a safe, mirror, table, and reading light. Families can squeeze in with cube combinations (pick queen beds, single beds, or private room). For mixers there's a lively bar area, all this is in a trendy converted shophouse district on the river.

Floating stays on the River Kwai

On the storied River Kwai in Thailand's western jungles, try an unusual eco stay on a floating hotel at the River Kwai Jungle Rafts Resort (riverkwaijunglerafts.com). Moored on River Kwai Noi, the snaking raft hotel is a sustainable resort that does not use electricity and tries to keep its carbon footprint small. At night, read in the glow of a kerosene lamp if you must or simply watch the stars. River excursions and trips to Mon villages are available. As the resort explains, here you are "disconnected from time... and surrounded by raw nature." Comfortable rattan weave and thatch accommodation includes ensuite bathrooms. A two night three day guided exploratory trip may be priced in the region of Bt12,550 (US$390). Take in long-tail boat rides and visit historic spots like the Thailand-Burma Railway Center, the War Cemetery where Allied prisoners are buried, the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, and the 'Death Railway'.