The best new luxury hotels of 2023

Friday newsletters always feature luxury travel contests, tips, or news.

Today: The best new hotels of 2023

Here’s my selection of the 70 best new luxury hotels that opened their doors in 2023. Some of these hotel are managed by the world’s most exclusive hotel brands.

There is more information below the slide show! Think I missed one? Leave a comment.

• Best new hotels of 2023 in the Americas
• Best new hotels of 2023 in Europe
• Best new hotels of 2023 in the Middle East
• Best new hotels of 2023 in Africa
• Best new hotels of 2023 in Asia
• Best new hotels of 2023 in Oceania

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1. KONA VILLAGE, A ROSEWOOD RESORT, HAWAII, USA

Kona Village reopened early 2023 as a new Rosewood Hotel after a complete renovation of the iconic property located on the Kona Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. Conceptualized and developed by intrepid explorer Johnno Jackson in the early 1960’s, the original Kona Village Resort was best known for its free-standing, palm thatch roof hales and tranquil location. Located close to Kona International Airport, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, features 150 unique, standalone guest hales with locally-inspired décor, spectacular views and a privileged sense of seclusion. An array of distinct dining venues, including the original resort’s beloved Shipwreck Bar and Talk Story Bar, offer elevated yet relaxed food and beverage experiences. Guests have access to new leisure facilities including Sense, A Rosewood Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, as well as multiple pools and tennis courts.

• Hotel website: Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort 

2. THE ST REGIS CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, USA

Located in the idyllic Lakeshore East neighborhood, The St. Regis Chicago offers easy access to the Chicago River and is a short walk from the city’s leading luxury retailers, dining destinations, and notable cultural landmarks such as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the famed Magnificent Mile. Making its own mark on the city’s cultural landscape, The St. Regis Chicago is housed in a 101-story tower, the tallest building in the world designed by a female architect. The skyscraper features a unique and distinctive design composed of an interconnected series of stacked, frustum-shapes that move rhythmically in and out of plane and extend to various heights. Throughout the hotel’s public areas, metallic materials and colors, such as copper and rust, are interwoven with geometric, angular lines, offering a nod to The Great Chicago Fire and the city’s geographic interconnectivity of waterways, buildings, and green spaces. The property features 159 luxurious guestrooms and 33 exquisite suites across 11 floors, as well as several high-end dining outlets, spa, gym, meetings rooms and a palatial, heated indoor pool.

• Hotel website: The St. Regis Chicago

3. THE RITZ-CARLTON PORTLAND, OREGON, USA

A tribute to nature and the thrill of discovery, The Ritz-Carlton, Portland explores the Rose City. Opened in autumn 2023, the new downtown Portland hotel offers uninterrupted views of the city’s skyline, the Cascade Mountain Range and the Willamette River. From rustic logs bound with copper to an infinity pool inspired by a serene mountain lake, this pioneering property showcases the biophilic design, raw materials, local craftsmanship and abundance of natural beauty that only the Pacific Northwest can provide. The 19th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Portland is a haven to nurture the mind, body, and soul. The spa is inspired by the unfolding petals of a Portland rose. Adjoining the Spa is a 4,000 sq. ft. fitness facility featuring equipment favored by professional athletes. The 20th floor features the hotel’s signature restaurant, Bellpine. This 35-story, 251-room property takes visitors on a tour through the history, landscape and spirit of one of America’s most beautiful and vibrant destinations.

• Hotel website: The Ritz-Carlton, Portland

4. THE FIFTH AVENUE HOTEL, NEW YORK, USA

The Fifth Avenue Hotel is an oasis of calm amidst the frenetic pace of Manhattan. Mindfully blending personal service, superlative design by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, distinctive cuisine, compelling art and engaging cultural experiences, every aspect of Flâneur Hospitality’s inaugural 153-room hotel is tailored to delight, engage and reward curiosity. Rooms are split between two buildings: the majority of the rooms is housed in a soaring new 24-story skyscraper, while 24 signature suites are located inside the former Second National Bank Building, a McKim Mead & White original design which the Gilded Age’s favorite architects completed in 1907. Located in the NoMad neighborhood, The Fifth is steps from the idyllic Madison Square Park, the iconic Flatiron Building, the blooming flower district, as well as the city’s best dining, shopping and nightlife. 

•  Hotel website: The Fifth Avenue Hotel 

5. VIRGIN HOTELS NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK, USA

Located at 1227 Broadway, and taking up the entire block between 29th Street and 30th Street, the newest addition to the Virgin Hotels collection – which opened in February 2023 – sits at the heart of the booming NoMad neighborhood and delivers a vibrant yet sophisticated hospitality experience in one of the world’s most exciting cities. This is the sixth Virgin Hotels in the United States and the seventh in the brand portfolio. With design and architecture spearheaded by MARKZEFF and Stantec, the hotel features 460 Chambers (guest rooms), Suites, and Penthouses; entertainment-anchored spaces including Everdene (where indoor/outdoor distinct dining and cocktail experiences paired with nightly music and entertainment programming); an outdoor Pool Club exclusive to hotel guests; and more than 19,000 square feet of meeting and event spaces – all with a picturesque backdrop of the city. Travelers seeking the most luxurious overnight experience can book a stay in St Richard’s Flat, an impressive duplex suite spanning the hotel’s 35th and 36th floors.

• Hotel website: Virgin Hotels New York City

6. AMBIENTE, A LANDSCAPE HOTEL, SEDONA, ARIZONA, USA

A first of its kind in North America, Ambiente, a Landscape Hotel is uniquely designed to blend in with the mystical red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, offering guests the opportunity to experience and embrace the natural beauty that surrounds them in one of the world’s most stunning locations. Opened in spring 2023, the new Ambiente Hotel is comprised of 40 cubed-shaped guest atriums that are elevated above the ground by steel piers and constructed using floor-to-ceiling, bronze-tinted glass and matte-charcoal and rusted metal. At dusk, the tinted glass reflect the nature around it creating stunning, mirrored silhouettes. The atriums’ sleek and contemporary design embodies elegant minimalism and the utmost in luxurious accommodation. Onsite facilities include a pool, spa and fine dining restaurant. Ambiente is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.

• Hotel website: Ambiente, a Landscape Hotel

7. RAFFLES BOSTON, MASSACHUSSETS, USA

Offering an urban oasis in the heart of Back Bay, Raffles Boston features 147 sumptuous guestrooms and a wide variety of distinct gathering spaces for guests, residents and locals to discover. Upon entering Raffles Boston, guests ascend to the hotel’s 17th floor, where a three-story Sky Lobby awaits, and a Grand Stair, iconic of the Raffles brand, spirals through the atrium. Dining experiences include Amar by Chef George Mendes, the signature restaurant serving modern Portuguese cuisine with influences from Boston’s seafaring culture, the Long Bar & Terrace, a Paolo Ferrari-designed lounge pairing cocktails with sweeping views of the South End, and a Speakeasy offering specially crafted cocktails and small bites. Also on the 17th floor is the Raffles Writer’s Lounge, a signature Raffles space made famous for the esteemed writers and poets who have frequented it within the flagship Raffles Singapore and a number of other Raffles hotels around the world. On the 4th floor, guests will find sanctuary in an exclusive state-of-the-art gym,  indoor pool with expansive city views and the prestigious Guerlain Spa at Raffles Boston, featuring treatments in partnership with the renowned Parisian beauty and wellness brand.

• Hotel website: Raffles Boston

8. KLAHOOSE WILDERNESS RESORT, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

Klahoose Wilderness Resort is British Columbia’s premier Indigenous cultural experience on the lands of the toq qaymɩxʷ (Klahoose) People. Recognized as “Authentic Indigenous”, Klahoose Wilderness Resort is an award winning, sustainable off-grid eco-resort in Desolation Sound, British Columbia, Canada. The all-inclusive eco-resort portrays the Klahoose traditional values, while offering an immersive exploration into this pristine region rich in diverse wilderness and cultural significance. The ancient voices songs echoed  in the traditional Klahoose greeting welcome newly arrived guests with a casual gathering on the lodge verandah. Toba Inlet wildlife tours include Spring Bear viewing and late Summer to Autumn Grizzly Bear, Salmon run tours led by Indigenous guides. Only accessible by boat or seaplane, the resort is located within the heart of Desolation Sound, on Homfray Channel between the coastal mountain peaks of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, the Salish Sea, and the edge of the BC’s Great Bear Rainforest. 

• Hotel website: Klahoose Wilderness Resort

9. THE RIVIERA MAYA EDITION AT KANAI, MEXICO

Sited on a 620-acre nature reserve with two miles of pristine white-sand beaches, The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai rises up from a forest of mangroves to introduce a completely new concept of sustainable luxury to the Caribbean coastline. Featuring 182 guest rooms and suites, a lagoon-sized pool, versatile meeting spaces, a state-of-the-art ballroom, and North America’s largest penthouse suite, Mexico’s first EDITION marries its signature brand of hospitality with the Yucatan Peninsula’s modern and ancient cultures. A destination in and of itself, the resort brings two of Mexico’s most renowned chef-restauranteurs to Kanai through five food and beverage venues including an innovative tasting menu by Chef Paco Ruano and a Mediterranean-inspired beach club by Chef Tomas Bermudez. The property also features a cenote-inspired destination spa that lives in harmony with its surroundings. The new hotel had its soft opening in November 2023 (a grand opening is expected at a later time).

• Hotel website: The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai

10. THE ST REGIS KANAI RESORT, RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO

Designed by Mexican architectural firm Edmonds International with interiors by Chapi Chapo Design, the St Regis Kanai Resort features an exceptional circular exterior design inspired by the constellation Pleiades, resulting in unrivaled ocean views from nearly every vantage point. Guests of the resort are immediately transported into the magic of Kanai with a multi-story open air water installation leading into the main lobby. Floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of the mangroves give way to lush gardens and an expansive outdoor lawn with direct access to 2 miles (3 km) of undisturbed white sand beach. Drawing inspiration from ancient Mayan artistic and ceremonial manifestations, the hotel’s sophisticated aesthetic features a rich palette of limestone, walnut, and layered textiles. The St. Regis Kanai Resort boasts 124 lavishly appointed guestrooms and 19 suites, each offering mesmerizing ocean views and a private terrace or plunge pool.  Facilities include several restaurants, pools, and a spa.

• Hotel website: The St. Regis Kanai Resort

14. THE PENINSULA LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

In October 2023, The Peninsula London, the first British hotel from the 157-year-old company, opened its door between Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch. Bringing spectacular new style and luxury to the heart of Belgravia, the newly-built hotel is designed and appointed to embody the finest British craftmanship and artistry, and is just steps away from Buckingham Palace, Knightsbridge and other iconic attractions. The property centres around an expansive, off-street courtyard, landscaped by celebrated designer Enzo Enea with climbing jasmine and wisteria vines, and two 120-year-old Japanese maples (the oldest trees of their kind in Europe). World-renowned architect and designer of interiors Peter Marino has created a calm and refined aesthetic, with light-filled spaces inspired by grand British houses and surrounding nature. The Peninsula London’s 190 spacious guest rooms and suites feature bespoke furnishings, textiles, and original artworks that evoke the feel of chic private residences. World-class dining and drinks can be enjoyed at six stylish restaurants, bars, and lounges. The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Center, opening in November, will offer a diverse array of relaxation and well-being choices – including an extensive menu of mind-body therapies, a results-driven wellness programme, a fully equipped fitness studio, and a 25-m indoor swimming pool.

• Hotel website: The Peninsula London

15. RAFFLES LONDON AT THE OWO, UNITED KINGDOM

Formerly Britain’s historic Old War Office, the iconic Whitehall building was once inhabited by Britain’s most famous statesmen and spies, from Winston Churchill to Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond. Today, this Grade II listed Old War Office has been restored by thousands of expert craftsmen and transformed into Raffles first London hotel. The lofty scale and soaring ceiling heights lend it a grandeur rarely seen in hotels. The hotel features 120 rooms and suites designed by Thierry Despont. For epicureans, nine restaurants and three bars are overseen by world-class chefs, including three unique dining experiences by chef Mauro Colagreco. And for body and mind, a luxurious Guerlain Spa with nine treatment rooms offers traditional beauty therapies, whilst cutting edge wellness brand, PILLAR will oversee active wellness training and health programmes. All this is complemented by an indoor swimming pool, vitality pool, saunas and steam rooms, state of the art gym and movement studio.

• Hotel website: Raffles London at the OWO

16. BROADWICH SOHO, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

As seductive and characterful as its historic location, Broadwick Soho is an independent luxury hotel in the heart of London’s West End. The hotel channels the grit, glamour and wild energy of London’s most storied neighborhood into an opulent contemporary 57 room retreat (including nine Suites and one Penthouse). Conceived by a group of friends, this glorious hotel perches on the corner of Broadwick Street and Berwick Street in a truly unbeatable and iconic location. Enticingly flamboyant, Broadwick Soho’s townhouse aesthetic was created by world-renowned interior designer Martin Budinski. Artfully infusing a range of inspirations, from Jazz Age opulence to travels around Italy, with a dash of English eccentricity and a sprinkling of Disco fabulousness, Broadwick Soho is a feast for the senses that blends glamour and comfort in equal measure. The hotel also offers an eclectic range of restaurants and bars.

• Hotel website: Broadwick Soho

17. THE HOTEL MARIA, HELSINKI, FINLAND

Mere steps from the excitement of Helsinki’s historic Kruununhaka district, The Hotel Maria welcomes travelers with tranquil modern design and stunning attention to detail. Located throughout four traditional and charming buildings in the Finnish capital, the hotel offers renowned Nordic hospitality through the eyes of a local. The intricacies of the historic architecture impress in every archway and reimagined space, speaking to the storied history of the buildings and the area. The hotel is home to 117 spacious rooms and suites featuring “American-style” beds and spa-like baths. Facilities include two restaurants, two bars, and the Maria Wellness Club with a separate spa and fully equipped fitness center.

• Hotel website: Hotel Maria

18. MANDARIN ORIENTAL COSTA NAVARINO, GREECE

Opened in summer 2023, the new Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino Hotel is located on the southwest coast of the Peloponnese, one of the most unspoiled and breath-taking landscapes in the Mediterranean, and 45 minutes’ drive from Kalamata International Airport. The beachfront resort is part of Costa Navarino, a well-established upscale tourism destination. The ultra-luxe property comprises 99 guest rooms, including 48 pool villas, all with outdoor terraces and sea views, along with five restaurants and bars. The wellness facilities include a stunning indoor-outdoor pool with magnificent bay views. The Mandarin Oriental’s first property in Greece offers a back-to-nature experience with mesmerizing views of the surrounding countryside, the azure sea, and dramatic sunsets, as well as easy access the destination’s leisure activities, water sports, biking and rock-climbing, as well as four signature golf courses designed by Bernhard Langer, Robert Trent Jones II and José María Olazábal.

• Hotel website: Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

19. ONE&ONLY AESTHESIS, ATHENS, GREECE

One&Only’s highly anticipated debut resort in Greece is situated in the cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Glyfada, ensconced within a serene 21-hectare beach and forest reserve. Overlooking the sapphire waters of the Aegean Sea, One&Only Aesthesis evokes the essence of a private island, just 30 minutes from the ancient marvels of Athens. The resort boasts a collection of rooms, bungalows, suites, residences and villas that redefine the concept of al fresco living. Expansive outdoor living spaces offer unparalleled peace and seclusion, featuring private pools, fragrant gardens, and atmospheric showers and fireplaces. Bathed in sunlight, the architecture pays homage to mid-century design with local marble, native timbers, woven leather details and muted tones. One&Only Aesthesis blends historic treasures, world-class culinary experiences, and transformative wellness in an elegant beachfront setting. The glittering coastal hideaway recalls the 60’s vibrant Hollywood Grecian era, that Glyfada is most known for.

• Hotel website: One&Only Aesthesis

20. ROSEWOOD MUNICH, GERMANY

Spanning two iconic buildings, the new Rosewood Munich is housed within the former Bavarian State Bank headquarters and the adjacent Palais Neuhaus-Preysing, originally an aristocratic residence. Steps away from Marienplatz, the central square in the city’s center, Rosewood Munich effortlessly encapsulates the essence of Bavarian culture. Guided by Rosewood’s A Sense of Place philosophy, in which every element of the experience is inspired by its surroundings, the hotel represents a unique fusion of a timeless landmark that honors the illustrious history of Munich’s’ old town. Featuring 73 spacious guestrooms and 59 suites, including five exclusive houses -the property’s signature suites – the interiors seamlessly integrate modern design. Culinary offerings encompass an enticing lobby lounge, full-service brasserie, the Wintergarten, the exterior Palaishof and a lively bar. For those seeking the ultimate wellness experience, the hotel will be home to Germany’s first Asaya Spa, featuring six treatment rooms, along with an indoor pool and a well-equipped fitness area.

• Hotel website: Rosewood Munich

21. SON BUNYOLA HOTEL, MALLORCA, SPAIN

Sir Richard Branson’s new hotel on the Spanish island of Mallorca is set upon an 810-acre estate in the Serra de Tramontana. Joining the three existing villas, Sa Punta de S’Aguila, Son Balagueret and Sa Terra Rotja on the estate, the hotel consists of 26 luxurious suites and bedrooms, created by Mallorca’s Gras Reynés Architecture Studio in partnership with local interior designer, Rialto Living. Honoring the heritage of this historic building has been central to the restoration project with traditional and local materials at the core of the hotels design. The original towers in the main house have been transformed into two Tower Suites showcasing vineyard views and the mountains beyond; the former olive press holds one of two restaurants; and the historic terrace is now home to the pool.

• Hotel website: Son Bunyola Hotel

23. LE GRAND MAZARIN, PARIS, FRANCE

27. BVLGARI ROME, ITALY

An instantly iconic destination given Rome’s role as Bulgari’s hometown and endless font of inspiration, the new property occupies an illustrious address at Piazza Augusto Imperatore in the heart of the Campo Marzio district. Inspired by the imperial splendor of its setting, the design of the new Bulgari Hotel blends past and present. The property occupies a magnificent modernist building from the 1930s that faces two of Rome’s most iconic landmarks: the Ara Pacis and the Mausoleum of Augustus, the first Roman Imperator. Like all Bulgari Hotels properties, the Italian architectural firm Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel was in charge of both the restoration of the building and the interior design of the new Bvlgari Hotel Roma. The hotel is home to 114 suites, a spa, a pool, a gym, a library dedicated to the history of jewelry, the and Bulgari’s signature dining and drinks destinations: The Bulgari Bar and Il Ristorante – Niko Romito.

• Hotel website: Bulgari Rome

28. THE ROME EDITION HOTEL, ITALY

EDITION Hotels’ first Italian property features 91 rooms and suites. The Rome EDITION offers a signature restaurant with outdoor dining space that will make locals and visitors fall in love with its cuisine and all that comes with it; a Punch Room Bar with its exceptionally crafted cocktails; and a Rooftop Terrace where guests can have the choice of a seasonal bite, a drink overlooking the city, a private gathering with friends, or all of the above. With its central location at a few steps from Via Veneto and Bernini’s Tritone Fountain in Piazza Barberini, The Rome EDITION is within a short walk of all the best that the city has to offer, such as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Borghese Gardens and Gallery, and all the other wonders that makes Rome a must-see destination. At the corner of modern luxury and history, the hotel is housed within a historical striking building designed by Cesare Pascoletti in collaboration with architect Marcello Piacentini, one of Italy’s most famed architects of Rationalism in the early 20.

• Hotel website: The Rome EDITION

29. SIX SENSES ROME, ITALY

A peaceful haven nestled in the beating heart of the Eternal City, Six Senses Rome opened its doors in March 2023 in the historical Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini. The Palazzo housing Six Senses Rome is a treasure trove of wonders, from the monumental marble staircase with its decorative skylight to the newly restored 600-year-old columns in the main entrance. From Cocciopesto on the walls to the extensive presence of Travertine local stone, the reverential nod to Roman traditions is evident throughout the hotel’s 96 guest rooms and suites, with some featuring the iconic Triclinium-style marble seating on their terraces. True to the Eat With Six Senses ethos, menus foster a strong link with local culinary traditions, whether at the all-day dining BIVIUM Restaurant-Café-Bar or up high on NOTOS Rooftop. Besides the Roman Empire-inspired 5-course tasting menu, dishes include plant-based, meat, fish, and sweet classics with Sicilian touches to honor the Executive Chef’s home favorites. A sanctuary of wellness, Six Senses Spa Rome offers holistic experiences, such as the 60-minute Roman bathing circuit (a modern-day take on the ancient ritual).

• Hotel website: Six Senses Rome

30. HOTEL LA PALMA, CAPRI, ITALY

 Oetker Collection’s first Italian property brings to life the island’s iconic dolce vita lifestyle. Capri’s first hotel, built in 1822, was transformed into an elegant and exclusive 50-room-and-suite hotel before being reopened as an Oetker Collection property. Located mere steps from the famous Piazzetta, the hotel comprise a rooftop restaurant and bar, its own beach club, a newly built pool deck, a spa and high-fashion boutiques. The property’s interiors were designed by two acclaimed architects: Rome-based Francesco Delogu of Delogu Architects for the rooms and public areas, and London-based Francis Sultana, a true maestro in the world of high-end interior design, for the restaurants, pool, spa, and beach club. Hotel La Palma is Oetker Collection’s reimagined incarnation of Capri’s original hotel that has long hosted a collective of notable artists, poets, writers and musicians from

•  Hotel website: Hotel La Palma 

31. PALAZZO CORDUSIO, A GRAN MELIA HOTEL, MILAN, ITALY

Palazzo Cordusio Gran Meliá is located in the heart of Palazzo Venezia, a popular square known for its rich history and iconic design in the center of Milan. Originally constructed as the Assicurazioni Generali headquarters between 1897 and 1901, Palazzo Venezia’s eclectic design sought inspiration from the world-renowned architect and historian, Luca Beltrami who played a pivotal role in the restoration of the area between the late 19th and early 20th century. The reopening of this historic building under Meliá Hotels International kickstarts the redevelopment of Piazza Cordusio, a square that connects the iconic Duomo to Sforzesco Castle, promising to celebrate the history of Milan while inviting international travelers to explore the destination as a cultural hub. Along with the interior restoration, 84 luxury rooms and suites have been created, each characterized by grand windows and in some rooms, private balconies. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s luxury wellness offerings, including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath, relaxation lounge, and a state-of-the-art gym

• Hotel website: Palazzo Cordusio Gran Meliá

32. W BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Housed in the historic Drechsler Palace, W Budapest is set to become an evolutionary heartbeat of the city with visionary design, eclectic gastronomy and a socially driven spirit drawn from the cosmopolitan capital. Located on Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city’s most luxurious shopping street, W Budapest features 151 stylish guestrooms and suites as well as three innovative dining concepts, all influenced by Budapest’s rich history, creativity and diversity. Interior designers Bowler James Brindley (London) and Bánáti + Hartvig (Hungary) have carefully restored and reimagined Drechsler Palace, drawing inspiration from its rich cultural history and multiple identities as a café, social hub and Hungarian State Ballet Academy, to create captivating design narratives. From soft layering to the use of metallic meshing to create perspective and intrigue throughout the hotel’s public spaces and guestrooms, the design concept has created spaces that reveal new depths each time they are experienced. Further inspiration has been sourced from the grand French Renaissance architectural aesthetic throughout the city, leading to a spirited modernization with color palettes of green, coral and deep blues and paired with contemporary Zsolnay inspire tiles, stained glass features and jewelry-inspired light fittings.

• Hotel website: W Budapest

33. MATCA HOTEL, ROMANIA

Matca is a world apart – a Transylvanian sanctuary in the heart of Romania. Dropped on a hilltop by divine inspiration, guests are offered sweeping views of mountain ranges and deep valleys where every season has its own magic effect on the surroundings. The luxury hotel features 16 exclusive guest rooms and junior suites plus 10 private villas. The guest rooms offer a perfect combination of authentic Transylvanian style and contemporary elegance and comfort, unseen to date in Romania. Paired with a magnificent SPA and a restaurant inspired by a new local culinary awakening, Matca Hotel is quintessentially Transylvanian. Matca translates into English as queen of the bees. Since ancient times and across all cultures, the honeybee, and especially the queen bee, is a symbol of wealth, good luck, and prosperity, said to be diligent, sociable, pure, wise and creative. The hotel owners have incorporated these values into their philosophy and incorporate health-benefiting products manufactured by their own bee colony to the benefit of bees and guests alike.

• Hotel website: Matca Hotel

34. THE PENINSULA ISTANBUL, TÜRKIYE

The new Peninsula Istanbul encompasses four exquisite waterfront buildings, three of which are protected historical landmarks dating to the early 1900s, each carefully renovated, set amid a large expanse of blooming gardens along the Bosphorus Strait – the convergence point of East and West in Türkiye’s most cosmopolitan city. The hotel houses 177 gorgeously appointed rooms and generous suites spread among its four waterfront buildings. Many rooms and suites provide sweeping Bosphorus views from large windows, balconies, or private terraces; others include direct access to the property’s magnificent gardens, outdoor swimming pool, private boat dock, and stylish luxury boutiques. The hotel’s spa center includes opulent hammams – traditional Turkish steam rooms – along with a dramatically lit indoor swimming pool. The hotel’s featured rooftop restaurant and bar offer sophisticated Turk-Asian cuisine.

• Hotel website: The Peninsula Istanbul

35. THE BO VUE HOTEL BDORUM, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON, TÜRKIYE

Situated along the Aegean Coast, The Bo Vue Hotel Bodrum, Curio Collection by Hilton provides 1.2 km (0,7 mi) of private white sandy beach and 102 stylish and modern rooms–nearly all with glittering sea views. The hotel is just a short drive away from the popular town of Yalikavak and a 40-minute drive to Bodrum Castle and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Guests can enjoy a range of world-class dining options, including the property’s main restaurant, Bo Giorno, offering delicious Mediterranean and Aegean cuisine, as well as the Turkish restaurant, Delmanzo, and the seafood restaurant, Bacalao–both offering a mouth-watering selection of à la carte options. Those looking to unwind can indulge in a relaxing treatment at the fully appointed, 1,000 square-metre Spa Soul or take a refreshing dip in the property’s indoor and outdoor pools.

• Hotel website: The Bo Vue Hotel Bodrum, Curio Collection by Hilton

36. FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES AT THE PEARL-QATAR, QATAR

With an enviable beachfront location at the end of a residential street, the new Four Seasons is located within The Pearl-Qatar with its dynamic shopping, dining, entertainment and residential neighborhoods. Accommodations include 161 beautiful one, two or three bedroom apartments ranging from 105 to 280 square metres (1,130 to more than 3,000 square feet). Each offers expansive living areas complete with fully equipped kitchens with Miele appliances and ensuite laundry, along with furnished outdoor terraces, all tastefully finished by Wimberly Interiors with bespoke details throughout. Throughout the property, a fantastic contemporary art collection features local Qatari artists including Hanadi Al-Darwish and Shouq Al-Mana, as well as works by international artists, including a striking wall sculpture by Turkish artist Gülay Semercioğlu and four large-scale paintings by Parisian artist Maude Maris in the Resort lobby. Led by the Resort’s Executive Chef Luigi Ferraro, the resort’s signature restaurant Spuntino offers traditional specialties from across Italy. The Four Seasons’ Loulou Spa also offers salon services, a well-equipped gym and a 25 meter (82 foot) indoor lap pool overlooking the sea.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Resort and Residences at The Pearl-Qatar 

37. ATLANTIS THE ROYAL DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

With open access to all that Atlantis, The Palm has to offer right next door, Atlantis The Royal is a destination of impossibilities made possible. Located on the crescent of The Palm, this new generation of distinctive luxury has forever changed the landscape of Dubai, offering a sophisticated lifestyle with infinite ocean views, lush green spaces, and a playful contrast between fire and water, all encapsulated in dramatic architecture. At The Palm’s most exclusive address, residents have access to the world’s most renowned chefs, and the fun of Atlantis. The 795-room resort is housed in three 43-storey towers. Facilities include 17 restaurants including outposts from blue-chip chefs like Heston Blumenthal and Jose Andres, an enormous spa, an infinity sky pool, and the largest private beach in the United Arab Emirates.

• Hotel website: Atlantis The Royal

38. SIX SENSES SOUTHERN DUNES, THE RED SEA, SAUDI ARABIA

Enveloped by the majestic Arabian desert, The Red Sea Destination blends visionary tourism with sustainability and heritage. This is where Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea has found its home, inviting guests on an out-of-the-ordinary journey of discovery and enrichment. Opened in autumn 2023 and inspired by the pillars of innovation, adventure, and heritage, the new hotel embodies the brand’s trademark wellness formula and respect for centuries past. The 36 guest rooms and 40 pool villas are dotted in strategic locations to maximize the expansive views of the dunes and wadi. Constructed using locally sourced materials, they were designed by British architectural firm Foster + Partners, renowned for its eco credentials. Facilities include a world-class spa, whose honeycomb walls mirror the familiar undulating patterns of the dunes, an Alchemy Bar (to handmake clean skincare products) and several restaurants.

• Hotel website: Six Senses Southern Dunes, The Red Sea

39. JUMEIRAH JABAL OMAR, MAKKAH, SAUDI ARABIA

Located at the sacred heart of the Muslim world, Jumeirah Jabal Omar, Makkah, has been designed to create a serene, luxurious haven for guests as they experience a deeply significant life event. Playing host to guests as they embark on a life-affirming pilgrimage, the hotel is committed to making guests’ stay as smooth as possible. Jumeirah has created an atmosphere where guests can reconnect with a sense of purpose, at a gateway to one of life’s greatest journeys. Overlooking the Grand Mosque, the property includes 1,033 guest rooms along with 93 villas and will feature a variety of food and beverage offerings, meeting facilities, executive lounge, gymnasium and over 90 retail units throughout the complex.

• Hotel website: Jumeirah Jabal Omar, Makkah

40. THE ST REGIS RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

The St Regis Riyadh is the only hotel in the heart of the recently launched premier destination, Via Riyadh, home to designer boutiques, Michelin-star restaurants and a luxury cinema. Situated at the entrance of the Diplomatic Quarter, the hotel is close to embassies and the central business district. Cast from ancient Tuwaiq mountain stone found in the south of the country, the hotel embodies Salmani architecture, exuding modernity while celebrating local design. Guests are greeted in the lobby by a curved sculptural grand staircase and a crystal chandelier depicting pages of a history book, an interpretation of the country’s storied past and the new being written. The first boutique style luxury hotel in the capital features 83 luxurious guestrooms including 21 exquisite suites and an expansive two-bedroom Royal Suite with separate living and dining areas, a pantry and library. The legendary St Regis Butler Service, a personalized hallmark of the brand for more than a century, ensures that each guest’s individual preferences are anticipated at every turn. Facilities include elegant dining venues, a rooftop pool with bar, and an expansive spa featuring domed ceilings reminiscent of Italian architectural structures.

• Hotel website:  The St Regis Riyadh

41. MANDARIN ORIENTAL AL FAISALIAH, RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

Opened in January 2023, the new Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel is located in the heart of the Central Business District of Riyadh, providing easy access to corporate offices, government buildings, shops, restaurants and cafés. The property form an integral part of the mixed-use Al Faisaliah Centre, designed by Foster & Partners. The new Mandarin Oriental hotel comprises 321 guestrooms and suites, with interiors designed by Adam Tihany Design, New York. The property includes a variety of refreshed restaurants, lounges and bars, including the popular top floor venue which commands outstanding views of the city. An indoor swimming pool, male and female spa areas, and a fitness center complete the leisure facilities.

• Hotel website: Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah

44. KWETU NAIROBI, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON, KENYA

Nestled on the edge of the Karura Forest, and in close proximity to the Nairobi business district, Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton marks the entry of Hilton’s Curio Collection by Hilton brand into East Africa and sets the standard for upscale accommodation in Nairobi, Kenya. In Swahili, “Kwetu” means “our home” or “our place” and this is central to creating a home-away-from-home experience for guests. The hotel features 102 rooms, in five individual but interconnected blocks of varying sizes, themes, and designs. All the blocks overlook a peaceful forested landscape, each with its own private butler to cater to the needs of guests. The hotel also features exquisite dining venues, including a rooftop bar and specialty restaurant with a seasonal concept. The guest’s wellness journey takes center stage at the hotel’s recreational facilities which include an outdoor heated swimming pool, fully equipped fitness center, and luxurious spa.

• Hotel website: Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton

45. PARK HYATT MARRAKECH, MOROCCO

47. THE ST REGIS LA BAHIA BLANCA, MOROCCO

Built as a private riad with intimate courtyards and lush gardens, the Mediterranean coast resort exudes Moroccan charm and pays tribute to the Andalucian cultural legacy of the area. The design echoes archetypal local white architecture and coastal scenes, translated into a palette of whites, neutrals and blues with bronze accents. Local craftsmanship is celebrated with intricate metalwork, mosaic zellige tiles and tadelakt-style textures. The St Regis La Bahia Blanca Resort, Tamuda Bay offers 83 guestrooms and 17 suites, all with a private balcony facing the Mediterranean Sea, including an 1,800 square-feet Presidential Suite. Elegantly designed and thoughtfully curated, the guestrooms offer a place to unwind in residential style and comfort typical of the St. Regis brand. The luxury resort’s culinary offerings include Baie Blanche Brasserie, a contemporary French brasserie with Moroccan influences, and the Bahia Vista Beach Bar & Grill, an elegant beachside grill, offers fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. In addition to the fully equipped Exercise Room, The St. Regis Spa offers a haven of tranquility and rejuvenation to indulge mind, body and spirit.

• Hotel website: St Regis La Bahia Blanca Resort, Tamuda Bay

50. SHISUI, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, NARA, JAPAN

The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott’s global hotel portfolio, opened on in autumn 2023 the new Shisui hotel in Nara, one of Japan’s most historic leisure destinations. Shisui is nestled in a classical Japanese garden that was once part of the grounds of Kofuku-ji temple, the family temple of the aristocratic Fujiwara clan, which was established in Nara in 710 AD. Renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma conceptualized the overall design direction and interiors of the hotel, breathing new life into traditional Japanese architecture and the beauty of the Yoshiki-en temple garden with modern aesthetics to create a rare luxury stay experience for guests. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate the 43 guest rooms and suites with natural daylight, and immerse guests in the beauty of the historic gardens and greenery. Select rooms also feature captivating views of nearby Mount Wakakusa, and for relaxation in luxury and tranquillity, deluxe rooms and suites offer private in-room hot spring or open-air baths. Shisui invites visitors to discover Nara’s rich epicurean traditions with two distinctive restaurants and a bar, which authentically showcase the styles and presentations of the destination’s cuisine

• Hotel website: Shisui, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Nara

51. THE RITZ-CARLTON FUKUOKA, JAPAN

Loctaed on the island of Kyushu in Southern Japan, the Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka is situated within the 364 ft (111 m) main tower of Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City, the tallest urban lifestyle complex in the city’s core commercial district. Overseen by Melbourne-based Layan Architects + Designers, the hotel’s interior design and art take inspiration from Fukuoka’s traditional yarn-dyed silk and kimono weaving craft, called “Hakata-ori”. The hotel features 167 generously sized guestrooms (including 20 suites), four restaurants, two bars, and a spa with indoor pool. The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka brings the brand’s famous service and contemporary aesthetic to one of Japan’s fastest growing cities famous for its thriving start-up scene as well as for its enduring history, traditions, and outstanding culinary culture. Fukuoka was once a key waypoint of Silk Road trade routes, and today the city remains a major gateway between Japan and the rest of Asia. The destination is famous for its annual festivals, such as the 800-year old Hakata Gion Yamakasa summer festival, designated by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

• Hotel website: Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka

52. ANDAZ PATTAYA JOMTIEN BEACH, THAILAND

Opened in January 2023, the new Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach is a tranquil oceanfront hotel on Tawanron Beach – known as “Sunset Beach” for its magnificent sunset views – located between the popular holiday hub of Jomtien and the charming fishing village of Bang Saray. Surrounded by mature, landscaped gardens with conserved, century-old trees, the distinctively local yet modern design of the resort is inspired by the site’s history as a private estate. Set in low-rise clustered buildings, the 204 rooms, suites, and villas are adorned with locally influenced interiors, walk-in rain showers and a balcony or terrace with a relaxing daybed. The resort’s six distinct restaurants and bars feature local, seasonal, and sustainable produce, including tropical fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices from the onsite organic garden. Three outdoor swimming pools provide endless opportunities for relaxation, including a peaceful lap pool, a freeform family pool, and a beachfront pool overlooking the beautiful beach that sets the stage for sunset cocktails and sparkling DJ parties. Nestled amid the verdant gardens, the resort’s spa offers a luxurious haven of wellness where guests can experience soothing therapies with organic skincare products.

• Hotel website: Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach

53. INTERCONTINENTAL CHIANG MAI MAE PING, THAILAND

InterContinental Chiang Mai Mae Ping, a conversion of the prestigious Imperial Mae Ping Hotel, aims to set new hospitality benchmark in Chiang Mai. When designing the conversion project from the former Imperial Mae Ping Hotel, design firm PIA Interior layered traditional Lanna heritage with the building’s storied past, resulting in spaces that honor the hotel that had welcomed generations of travelers over its 30-year history. Guests can choose from 240 rooms and suites facing the old town or the misty slopes of Doi Suthep mountain. The accommodations have handcrafted objects commissioned from local artisans and spacious bathrooms with a plunge bathtub. Guests staying in premium rooms and suites enjoy Club InterContinental benefits, including a deluxe breakfast served in a private area, daily afternoon tea and evening cocktails. Located in downtown Chiangmai near the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, the hotel will feature six food and beverage outlets and a holistic Lanna Spa.

• Hotel website: InterContinental Chiang Mau Mae Ping

55. SHINTA MANI MUSTANG – A BENSLEY COLLECTION, NEPAL

Designed by Bill Bensley, Shinta Mani Mustang is located high above the town of Jomsom at the gateway of Mustang, an isolated kingdom in Nepal, forbidden to outsiders for centuries. This almost mythical region, hidden in the Kali Gandaki valley between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges, is one of the deepest valleys and most unusual places in the world. “Mustang” in Tibetan, translates to “Plain of Aspiration”. It is bordered by the Tibetan plateau with an elevation that rises to 8,167 meters (26794 feet) above sea level. The hotel features 29 suites, each one designed in the style of a traditional Tibetan home with an open-plan bedroom combined with a living area and a separate bathroom. Floor to ceiling windows offer majestic views of Nilgiri mountain. The resort offers an all-inclusive experience, with the guests’ journey curated to provide the most remarkable 360-degree, luxury experience in the Himalayas; one of the most unique and preserved regions in the world.

• Hotel website: Shinta Mani Mustang – A Bensley Collection

58. INNIT LOMBOK, INDONESIA

Innit Lombok offers an intimate cluster of seven beach houses designed by acclaimed Indonesian architect Andra Martin in collaboration with Gregorius Supie Yolodi. Situated on a peninsula on the southeast side of the island – which is an easy 30-minute flight east from Bali – the two-bedroom standalone structures are a modern take on the traditional Lombok Lumbung-style house. Open-plan living and dining areas on the ground floor, with sand in place of flooring, give way to private bedrooms upstairs. Throughout the homes are bespoke furnishings made by Indonesian designers from locally sourced natural materials like Lombok and Sumbawa woods, terrazzo, Lombok stones, rattan, and rattan skins. Food is also a primary part of the guest experience and the onsite restaurant Anakampung focuses on fresh seafood caught by locals and home-grown vegetables.

• Hotel website: Innit Lombok

59. CAP KAROSO, INDONESIA

• Hotel website: Cap Karoso

60. COMO METROPOLITAN SINGAPORE

Opened in October 2023, the 156- room COMO Metropolitan Singapore is the Group’s first hotel in its home country. Known to never repeat herself with her creative collaborations, owner Christina Ong has engaged the award-winning talents of Italian architect Paola Navone (Otto Studio), Japanese interior design-consultant Koichiro Ikebuchi (Atelier Ikebuchi), and Norwegian digital artist Thomas Hilland in the development of the property. COMO Metropolitan Singaporefeatures a beautiful rooftop pool and bar. The rest of the 19-floor building includes two floors of fashion retail curated by Club21 for seasonal collections and pop-up partnerships. The hotel’s spa – COMO Shambhala – aims a thoughtful, diagnostic approach to holistic wellbeing, and offers numerous classes, workshops and multi-day wellness paths. The new COMO Cuisine restaurant expands the brand’s commitment to creating some of the best food in Singapore, celebrating the debuts in Asia for internationally-acclaimed French pastry chef Cédric Grolet and restaurateur Simon Kim of COTE Korean Steakhouse, the beloved Michelin-starred restaurant in New York and Miami.

• Hotel website: COMO Metropolitan Singapore

61. THE SINGAPORE EDITION

Firmly rooted in the EDITION brand’s strong sense of refined, timeless design and style, The Singapore EDITION – the first Southeast Asia outpost in the stable – seamlessly blends the dynamism energy of a major metropolitan city with a warm-weather resort sensibility. Masterminded and conceived by Ian Schrager, in collaboration with interior design firm Cap Atelier, the 204-room hotel is located just off the west end of Singapore’s iconic upper Orchard Road. At the core of the architecture and interior design of The Singapore EDITION is seamless access to nature with sweeping vistas and greenery integrated throughout, including a skypark and lushly planted, sunken garden that offers a tranquil escape from Singapore’s bustling Orchard Road shopping district. The spacious guest rooms unfold over six light-filled floors. In every guest room, warm white rugs clad the customized white oak-planked floors while decorative pots of orchids and thick drapes frame the broad bay windows. Hotel facilities include a spa with pool & gym, a rooftop terrace, and and several dining venues. The new hotel had its soft opening in November 2023.

• Hotel website: The Singapore EDITION

62. REGENT HONG KONG, CHINA

Perched on the edge of Victoria Harbour, Regent Hong Kong tempts international jet-seekers with waterfront luxury. Redefining modern luxury, the property features a serene and soul-rejuvenating aesthetic by Hong Kong-born design visionary Chi Wing Lo – each of its 497 rooms with oasis baths (including 85 suites), envisioned as a Personal Haven of tranquility. Everything about the hotel is curated to elicit a sense of calm, from the LiuLi-inspired glass entrance to rooms and suites accented by a soothing charcoal-and-cream color palette, expansive picture windows, and bathrooms so stunning they could be considered a work of art. Guests can savor innovative, multi-sensory experiences at the two MICHELIN star Yan Toh Heen, Harbourside, the Steak House, NOBU Regent Hong Kong, Lobby Lounge, and an indulgent destination bar. Guests can also rebalance both body and mind with a mystical and stimulating wellness experience at Regent Spa, and soak in the view from the infinity spa pools and feel like they’re floating on Victoria Harbour.

• Hotel website: Regent Hong Kong

63. RISSAI VALLEY, A RITZ-CALRTON RESERVE, CHINA

Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is located in Jiuzhaigou, a valley on the edges of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau in China’s Southwestern Sichuan province. The region is an area of exceptional natural beauty with spectacular alpine mountains soaring above a fairyland of forests, lakes, and waterfalls, and has been inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and World Biosphere Reserve. Rissai Valley’s intimate 87 villas offer magnificent views of the snow-capped Minshan mountain range, forests, and ancient Tibetan villages. U.S.-based architectural firm WATG paid homage to the natural surroundings and Tibetan heritage with the use of traditional building forms and locally-sourced materials. The elegant interiors were designed by the late Indonesian interior design legend Jaya Ibrahim, who curated palettes of forest greens, emeralds, and icy blues to mirror the jewel-colored lakes and waterfalls of Jiuzhaigou, while celebrating the culture and heritage of the local villages with examples of artisanal Tibetan craftsmanship throughout the property. The property – which is part of Marriott‘s hotel portfolio – features three unique restaurants and a holistic spa.

• Hotel website: Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

64. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SUZHOU, CHINA

Set on a private garden island on Jinji Lake in the heart of one of the country’s most dynamic cities, the all-new Four Seasons Suzhou is a low-rise, amenity-rich hotel offering a true urban resort experience with easy access to the city’s business districts, numerous leisure pursuits and rich history and culture. Lushly landscaped gardens weave through the hotel’s buildings, with winding lakeside and garden paths for leisurely strolls and contemplation of the surrounding natural beauty.  Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows throughout public and private spaces invite the outdoors inside as natural elements come to life in the onsite pottery studio and floral design workshop.  An outdoor infinity pool appears to spill into Jinji Lake, while an indoor pool with soaring ceilings and full glass wall offers a refined sanctuary for relaxation. The hotel’s signature restaurant is Jin Jing Ge, which is led by Consultant Chef Wang Yong from the Michelin-starred Jin Sha restaurant at Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou at West Lake. Additional venues include Yun He, with a pan-Chinese menu served from breakfast through to dinner.

• Hotel website: Four Seasons Suzhou

65. CONRAD SHENZHEN, CHINA

Located in the heart of the central business and financial district, Conrad Shenzhen is designed by international firm Yabu Pushelberg. The property’s bold design centers on the theme of ‘A Story of a Dreamer’, and aims to provide a restful respite from the bustling thrum of the city. The hotel features 300 rooms and suites with garden city and bay views, international restaurants and an enormous amount if meeting space, including an expansive grand ballroom. Conrad Shenzhen is committed to offer purposeful service for business and leisure travelers alike.

• Hotel website: Conrad Shenzhen

66. THE RITZ-CARLTON MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

The new Ritz-Carlton Melbourne Hotel – which opened in March 2023 – is the centerpiece of an urban mixed-use project in Melbourne’s central business district which includes residential apartments and retail shopping. Destined to be an attraction in its own right as the tallest hotel in Australia, upon arrival guests enter the hotel lobby via the porte-cochere and take a direct elevator straight to the hotel‘s sky check-in on level 79, offering panoramic views of the Dandenong Ranges, Victoria Harbor and Port Phillip Bay. Featuring 263 luxury hotel suites with quality finishes and furniture, guests can enjoy state-of-the-art bathrooms, breathtaking views, and luxurious amenities including day spa, restaurants and bars, concierge services, function rooms, business center, 500-seat grand ballroom, and outdoor garden terrace.

• Hotel website: The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne

67. CAPELLA SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

Occupying an entire city block just moments from Circular Quay, Capella Sydney is housed within the Department of Education building, originally designed in the 1900s by NSW government architect George McRae. Forming part of the city’s prestigious Sandstone Precinct, the building has been meticulously restored and reimagined by Pontiac Land. Capella Sydney brings to the city 192 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, arranged across nine levels. Representing the epitome of luxury, the guestrooms and suites are replete with deluxe textiles, standalone tubs and Italian Frette linen, carrying a custom pantone and a bespoke collection of vegan, sustainable in-room amenities designed in partnership with Haeckels. On level six, guests are invited to indulge in rejuvenating treatments at Auriga Spa or swim in the heated indoor pool, designed to provide the ultimate wellness experience in the heart of the city. The Living Room, a signature space of all Capella properties, is the private ground-floor retreat for in-house guests. It’s also the place where the hotel’s culture and experience programs are conceptualised, facilitated by Culturists who are on-hand to shape the guest experience from pre-arrival to departure.

• Hotel website: Capella Sydney Hotel 

68. W SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

Designed by acclaimed Australian architectural firm, Hassell, W Sydney rises above the roadways to hug Darling Harbour. Its interiors are created by London-based Bowler James Brindley, who conceived W Sydney through the authenticity of the city’s history, spirit, and lore; from the marine-inspired rooms and suites to the distinctive restaurant and bars. At the heart of the hotel’s design story is ‘the larrikin,’ a quintessentially Australian character whose strong spirit informs and inspires the hotel’s luxe yet unconventional interiors. W Sydney’s 588 guestrooms, including 162 suites, draw inspiration from the hotel’s harbourside location and nearby beaches, exuding marine-chic in their nautical white and navy-blue palette and undulating walls that echo the sails of yachts in the marina below. Electrifying the city’s culinary and nightlife scenes, W Sydney brings four new dining and bar venues across three exciting levels. Switching the mood, Away Spa (with five treatment rooms) is an oasis of concrete calm designed to leave guests feeling rested and recharged in a deeply restorative space.

• Hotel website: W Sydney 

69. ARDO HOTEL, QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA

Redefining North Queensland’s hotel landscape, Ardo boats 132 rooms and suites, with each room offering  either a private balcony or courtyard to bask in the tropical breeze. When it comes to dining, guests will be able to choose from three restaurant offerings, the biggest luxury multi-restaurant launch ever seen in Townsville, each designed to sit at the top of Queensland’s culinary experiences list. Marmor is inspired by the region’s world-class meat and seafood offerings with a focus on offering contemporary Australian cuisine, while the casual yet cool Japanese restaurant, Terasu, will present a lively take on traditional Japanese fare. The signature Ardo Rooftop, overlooking the stunning infinity pool and coral sea, is the perfect place to unwind and let your worries float away. For those looking for some pampering, the Ardo Day Spa offers resort-styled relaxation and there’s also a stunning rooftop pool deck with postcard-worthy views across the Coral Sea.

• Hotel website: Ardo Hotel

70. SOUTHERN OCEAN LODGE, AUSTRALIA

After this world-famous Australian resort was devastated in a 2020 bushfire, it was rebuild and finally reopened early December 2023. The project, led by the lodge’s original architect Max Pritchard and his partner Andrew Gunner, kept most of the structure’s original footprint, but the 25 luxury guest suites have been repositioned to offer even better views of the ocean and rugged coastline. Additionally, a new Ocean Pavilion suite now sits remotely and boasts an outdoor terrace, wet-edge pool and up to four bedrooms and bathrooms. Sustainability sits at the core of this redesign, and hybrid solar and battery infrastructure allow the lodge to run off the grid while reducing diesel fuel consumption by half. The resort has also cleared the coastline, planted fire-retardant succulents and native juniper, and installed a bushfire sprinkler system for extra safety.

• Hotel website: Southern Ocean Lodge

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