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The 13 Most Beautiful Overwater Bungalows in the World
Each one of these belongs on your travel bucket list.
By BRIE DYAS
Sometimes, when you really, really want to get away from it all, dry land simply won't do. These jaw-dropping homes are built on the water, bringing you privacy along with Instagram-worthy views.
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Fiji
Chris McLennan/Marriott Hotels International
As the first (and, currently, only) resort on the main island of Fiji with overwater huts, we have no doubt this new hotel is about to become one of the most popular on the island. Guests can dive from their private decks directly into those famous Fiji waters.
Every villa at the new Milaidhoo Island resort has its own private swimming pool and opens up 180 degrees, which maximizes the gorgeous view guests flew from all over the world to wake up to every day. Sigh.
The newly-built Palafitos Overwater Bungalows, located at the adults-only El Dorado Maroma, are the first over-the-water lodgings in Mexico. Guests stay in thatched-roof bungalows that overlook turquoise water.
With the Caribbean Sea at your front door and a jungle setting for your backyard, this luxurious yet eco-friendly Airbnb is rightly called "Azul Paradise." Though the accommodations are built for relaxation, more active types will enjoy scuba trips through the nearby coral reef.
Linked by wooden walkways, the incredible sea villas at the Pangkor Laut Resort is ideal for those who want a little extra privacy. Even showering is quite the experience — the ceiling-mounted showers opens out to the sea.
The island of Bora Bora is known as much for its luxury resorts as it is for its ubiquitous coconut trees. The Four Seasons Bora Bora, however, might be the best of the bunch, at least as far as overwater accommodations go: You have your choice of one- or two-bedroom villas, many of which boast private plunge pools.
There are very few places where, if you look down, you can see right through the water. The Misool Eco Resort is one of them. Each cottage is built over water that's so clear, you can see fish from the comfort of your on-deck hammock. Want to get even closer? There's snorkeling and diving expeditions available.
Floating decks and private infinity pools are just a few of the ultra-luxurious features of the soon-to-open overwater villas at Sandals Montego Bay. Each villa is also appointed a private butler that has been trained to the standards of the Guild of Professional Butlers (who provide butlers for nobility and celebrities).
Fiji's only overwater bures (Fijian for "wood and straw hut"), these cozy suites overlook a reef and marine sanctuary. Each has a separate bathing pavilion that offers lagoon views.
Thatched roofs and woven palm walls give the overwater villas at Le Meridien Tahiti a definite romantic feel. Through the crystal-clear water, you can gaze upon coral gardens and bright ocean life.
Like other remote locations, it'll take you two flights to get to the far-flung
Berjaya Langkawi Resort. But, from the looks of the premier chalets (seen here) and premier suites, all located over the water, it's worth the trip. If you'd rather stay on land, you can still enjoy the views from the overwater restaurant.
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom home is like having your own private villa. (It even comes complete with a private butler.) The infinity pool seems to seamlessly merge with the aquamarine-hued water, and the open-air bathtub will ruin normal baths for you forever. Such luxury will come at an unbelievable price: Almost $10,000 a night.