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I used to think people got charged way too much just to chill out in overwater bungalows. The idea of paying to be in a place that is simply above the water seemed a little absurd. That is until I actually experienced staying in one. I can say now without exaggeration, that my vacation turned out to be, without a doubt, the best trip of my life. I deliberately left my door and windows open, so I could constantly hear the sound of the waves enter my room, where I slept suspended in between poles. I would wake up and head outside to jump right into the clear salty ocean water before my eyes could even adjust to the sun’s rays. After a week, it made me feel so much younger. I left all my troubles behind and slept into the night with ease, with not a shred of negativity.

According to Wallace J. Nichols, who is a marine biologist, as well as the author of the book Blue Mind, hydrotherapy can be healing to us. Among the many problems that can be healed by staying close to water, includes the reduction of anxiety and stress. Hence, it is beneficial to those who have depression to just space out by the water.

In Nichols’ book, he noted how we seemingly transform into a somewhat meditative state whenever we are in the vicinity of water. This backs up the prior research made about people who live near water and their level of wellbeing. The study tells us that these people have a higher level of happiness and health, a better sleeping pattern, and even better memory. If this kind of life appeals to you, then check out this list of the best overwater bungalows around the world.

 

COMO Maalifushi, Maldives

The archipelago is composed of more than a thousand islands floating on extraordinarily clear sea water, and COMO Maalifushi sits on one of them. The mere beauty of this place can be a reminder of what to be grateful for. The bungalows are situated in the Maldives and come with a quite an impressive bunch amenities. Inside you will find large tubs, plunge pools with direct exposure to the ocean. The resort’s three restaurants are built overwater too, as well as its spa services. If a guest ever feels like visiting the shore perhaps for a short walk, 2 other restaurants await them. They may bike around and try out some meditation or yoga classes.

Likuliku Lagoon, Fiji

This resort is off-limits to children, set at the edge of a reef, over a marine sanctuary. The only sound you’ll hear in this resort, located on the small island of Malolo, is the soothing sound of calm waters, which is literally the meaning of the word Likuliku. You can immerse yourself in a tub in your own private area, or view the scenic ocean right from your doorstep, where the resort’s hospitable waiters deliver your canapes daily.  There are many activities within the Fijian island resort such as kayaking, diving, snorkeling, or surfing. You may charter a small boat and head to the island where the movie Castaway was filmed. After a bit of adventure, end an ideal day spent in a spa, let yourself be massaged, foot scrubbed, or bathe in milk while sipping on some champagne.

 

Song Saa, Cambodia

This resort lies in between 2 small islands south of Cambodia. Guests have an option for one or two bedrooms, each one boasting an infinity pool where you can jump in and view the ocean as if you were one with it. There are daily yoga classes held within the Song Saa resort. One may also meditate as night falls, or take a dip in saline water at the Marine Flora Immersion therapeutic treatment.

Four Seasons, Bora Bora

There are many properties in Bora Bora with stunning overwater bungalows but, so far, none of them quite beat the Four Seasons resort. This consistently gets the top reviews. Lying down in a room that’s practically on stilts, affords you a grand view of Mount Otemanu. It doesn’t matter what angle you take a photograph from, it’s bound to be an Instagram fave among your followers. The resort has one or two-bedroom bungalows. It has plunge pools and a tub outdoors. The resort’s spa shops are built with glass floor panels, so as you lie face down, you are captivated by the corals in the seabed while being massaged. You won’t get bored around the resort that also offers paddleboarding and other water activities. Along the shore, one can partake in yoga exercises, or head to the gym to lift weights.

Palafitos at El Dorado Maroma, Riviera Maya, Mexico

Unlike the overwater bungalows in Maldives or Fiji, the ones in El Dorado are constructed over Tenochtitlan’s lake. The resort’s design is Aztec inspired, with modern finishes such as glass paneling installed and luxurious amenities. Everything one might need is practically within the property enclosure. Just a few steps outside will lead you to a restaurant and a health spa that is popular for using only organic ingredients.

 

Pangkor Laut, Malaysia

This is the only resort within the three hundred acres of the island. Situated roughly 3 miles from Malaysia, on this island, one can feel completely disconnected from the rest of the world here.  The resort offers guests quick access to the spa village. While there, you have a plethora of health treatments at your fingertips. Spend early mornings hiking around, roaming with a professional guide through the forest. Alternatively, you can go kayaking, fishing, or visit nearby surrounding islets by simply hopping on a boat. A popular activity is to also just sit around the forest close to the monkeys.

Hôtel Palafitte, Neuchâtel, Switzerland

I personally like to vacation on tropical beaches, but the Hôtel Palafitte amazes me nevertheless. It is the sole resort in all of Europe with overwater houses, and it rests over the largest lake in Switzerland. Depending on the weather, the experience could either be warm and sunny or completely ‘hygge-filled’ and cozy one. The bungalows are spread over the lake, giving guests direct access to the calm body of water. Every house is installed with a tub, where you can take a dip and gaze at the sunset. Like most resorts, the Hôtel Palafitte offers outdoor activities, although it is expected to remain unavailable of during winter. The resort, in all its idyllic setting, is surprisingly located rather close to other establishments and hotels.

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