Breathtaking sea views? Been there. Pearly white beaches? Done that. It seems that a cookie-cutter approach has been applied to the bulk of holiday resorts and villas. Although picturesque in its own ways, an oceanic atoll is more often than not the backdrop for reclusive retreats. However, leave one overplayed trope unchecked for too long, and even the most peripatetic amongst us will have nothing to write home about. Eschew the banal for these four whimsical Airbnb accommodations that are conveniently located in Asia.

Sky Dream Villa @ Ko Samui, Thailand

Renowned for its architectural nous, the Sky Dream Villa no doubt belong to the crème de la crème of seaside lodgings. As guests are greeted by the crashing waves and a splendid seascape, it is clear that the scenery only serves as a perfect complement to the striking construction of the building. With arches protruding from each side of the villa intertwining at the apex to form the roof overlooking a terrace and a private pool on the second floor, one does not even need to venture out to sea to get their feet wet. While one feels his stress and worries melt away under the masterful hands of traditional Thai masseurs, proficient and well-trained staff are also readily available to cater to all whims as well as whip up local delights.

The Ring House @ Tokyo, Japan

A beacon of light amidst a misty undergrowth, The Ring House stands tall in a dense forest on the outskirts of Tokyo, 185 miles northwest of the bustling Japanese capital. Wrapped in rings of wood and glass, the multi-storey tower provides a 360-degree view of the dream-like surroundings, completely devoid of human intrusion. Each level’s height also varies, decided by the function behind it, creating an alternating arrangement of transparency and opaqueness. As an added bonus, a well-timed visit can be extremely rewarding when the see-through walls reveal all the wonders of the four seasons, as Mother Nature works her magic on the secluded woodlands.

This article was written by Khoo Yong Hao. Read the full story at www.mens-folio.com here.