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- Hotels + Resorts
Believe it or not, the past 12 months were significant for hotel openings. Flinging open their doors for the first time, these new and revamped properties welcomed guests inside with a (masked) hello and a taste of travel’s future.
Our guide to the essential openings of the past year took us to 29 countries in pursuit of the unforgettable. Over the course of 2024, GoTravelDaily writers and editors trekked to a remote Namibian tented camp in a vast nature reserve, surfed the waves at a boho-chic resort in Baja Sur, Mexico, and sipped Sazeracs on the porch of an 1891 former residence in New Orleans. While there are plenty of extravagant stays and familiar brands on the list, we committed to featuring properties that excel in their offerings while showcasing a sense of innovation. Brand new builds, century-old architectural masterpieces, and family-run boutiques are all included.
Ahead, you’ll find a hotel or resort for every taste and travel goal. There’s a 19th-century mansion in Jaipur, India, reborn as an intimate urban escape, a sleek getaway amid lush tropical forest on Malaysia’s Desaru coast, a safari lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Massachusetts wellness retreat, set on hundreds of acres of wilderness in the Berkshires, where meditation, beekeeping, and organic food awaits.
Edited by John Wogan
AFRICA + THE MIDDLE EAST
Angama Safari Camp — Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Angama Mara is a clever distillation of everything that guests need to feel welcomed on safari, the result of a lifetime of expertise by the owners, Nicky and the late Steve Fitzgerald, who have opened a multitude of hotels and safari camps across Africa. From its bird’s-eye view of the Mara triangle—a less crowded corner of the Maasai Mara—Angama is a trendsetter that redefined contemporary, culturally vibrant safaris. It’s located on community-owned land and has created a foundation that actively raises substantial funds to support fundamental conservation efforts, education, healthcare, and local businesses. This all occurs without compromising its romantic credentials or skimping on its bold Maasai-inspired suites that sit 1,000 feet above the Great Rift Valley. The property’s second act, Angama Safari Camp, offers an even lighter-footprint experience for up to eight guests. Its tents utilize high-tech canvas for maximum coolness and cross-ventilation, with each equipped with spacious beds, separate dressing areas, and bathrooms featuring double bucket showers. The entire camp can be flat-packed to move between prime sites, depending on the season and optimal game viewing locations. This provides all the exhilarating experiences of a mobile migration camp while retaining the detailed sophistication in style, design, service, and cuisine found at the main camp. angama.com; doubles from $1237 per person, all-inclusive. —Jane Broughton
Arthaus Beirut — Lebanon
In an already challenging year, the opening of Arthaus Beirut is a remarkable achievement. This 12-room boutique property (eventually expanding to 23) is tucked away on a side street in Beirut’s lively Gemmayze neighborhood. An oasis-like complex, it includes a renovated art-filled 18th-century mansion and three additional buildings, plus an expansive courtyard garden and pool. Despite the city’s hardships, the property’s owners—philanthropists and art collectors Nabil and Zoe Debs—pressed ahead bravely. They not only repaired extensive damages and reopened just months after August’s devastating port explosion, but also created a gallery that attracts the city’s creatives who gather for dinners and drinks among the courtyard’s vibrant trees. Eventually, Arthaus Beirut will offer private tours to celebrate many of Lebanon’s top artists and designers, from the atelier and private museum of Nadim Karam to the lively workshop of Hoda Baroudi and Maria Hibri, the talented duo behind the global design brand Bokja. arthaus.international; doubles from $320. —Gisela Williams
Habitas Namibia
Scattered atop a rocky kopje (Afrikaans for a small hill), Habitas Namibia’s 15 tented rooms offer stunning views over expansive plains and rolling hills in a 115,000-acre private reserve. While the camp is less than an hour’s drive from the capital city of Windhoek, it provides a sense of complete isolation. Wildlife excursions are led by a diverse team that integrates their respective Himba and Khwe Bushman cultures into the game drives, making for conversations rich with traditional hunting methods. Wellness is also a significant focus. Guests can enjoy activities such as sunrise yoga, sound meditation in the bush, and treatments like the Himba-inspired ocher body mask and a revitalizing hot-stone massage. Conclude your day with a bush braai (barbecue) beneath the stars, joined by local drummers or peaceful new-moon meditations—paying homage to Baja el Sol evenings celebrated at the original Habitas hotel in Tulum, Mexico. ourhabitas.com; doubles from $587.—Heather Richardson
Jack’s Camp — Botswana
Fifth-generation explorer and naturalist Ralph Bousfield put Botswana’s fascinating Makgadikgadi salt pans on the safari map when Jack’s first opened 25 years ago. Today, it remains the only safari operation within almost 100 miles. Over the years, the whimsical, explorer-style tented camp has developed a dedicated following for its refreshingly unconventional approach to everything—from its elegantly styled, lamp-lit interiors to the exhilarating excursions led by Bousfield and his passionate team of experts ranging from zoology to paleontology. Adventures such as searching the pans for fossils and elusive brown hyenas, exploring the veld with bushmen and learning ancient survival skills, and star-gazing have drawn loyal visitors. Jack’s is embracing modernity with the introduction of Tesla solar-energy technology, alongside the addition of nine sumptuous 1,400-square-foot tents (two specifically designed for families), each featuring private pools, wood-burning stoves, and indoor-outdoor showers. For all its modern luxuries, Jack’s remains a place to revel in the vast silence surrounding you and appreciate the sheer luxury of space. naturalselection.travel; doubles from $1450.—Jane Broughton
Kruger Shalati — Kruger National Park, South Africa
Suspended high above the Sabie River, in an engineering marvel balancing heritage preservation with sound environmental management, Kruger Shalati offers a striking departure from traditional safari lodge aesthetics. This hotel, a repurposed train, features 24 glass-walled rooms set atop former railway tracks, integrating romantic elements such as maroon leather headboards with local motifs. A noteworthy example is the luxurious bathrobes commissioned from rising textile designer Bonolo Chepape, which echo the bridge’s design. During my in-room spa treatment, I admired hippos and elephants in the river below. Retiring to my perfectly positioned tub, I then embarked on a thrilling game drive. Most of the guides and hospitality staff hail from surrounding communities as part of the hotel’s commitment to local economic impact and innovation. krugershalati.com; doubles from $530 per person, all-inclusive. —Melanie Van Zyl
Singita Sabora Tented Camp — Tanzania
Evoking the nostalgia of camping under canvas, Singita Sabora Tented Camp immerses guests in the natural spectacle of safari, amplifying the sights, scents, and sounds around them. Being the first camp to open in the exclusive-use Grumeti Game Reserve 17 years ago, it relaunched in late 2020 after a major redecorating project by the design team Cécile & Boyd. Nine tents adorned with earthy hemp textiles and leather sprawl across an open plain beneath vast skies. Herds of wildebeests appear every May and late October during their migration cycle through the Serengeti; however, wildlife sightings are exceptional year-round. Nights involve the sounds of buffalo brushing against the tents while flickering campfire light illuminates lions stalking nearby prey. Flexible all-day dining options (in the pool area, below a Balanites tree, or in your tent) are complemented by a comprehensive wine list featuring over 100 selections. Private meditation decks enhance the experience, creating a blend of traditional and avant-garde safari adventures. singita.com; doubles from $1,650 per person, all-inclusive. —Sarah Marshall.
St. Regis Cairo — Egypt
Peace and calm define Cairo’s latest luxury property, where double-glazed windows in guest rooms buffer the ceaseless action outside on the Nile Corniche. Serenity also prevails at the reflecting pools of the hotel’s Water Garden, where guests can sip mint tea or a Bloody Mary crafted with hibiscus-infused vodka amid elaborate design accents like arabesque lanterns and decorative mashrabiyas (lattice-covered windows). When it’s time to delve into the city’s extraordinary history, energize with some of Cairo’s best falafel and ful medames (fava-bean stew) at La Zisa—one of six restaurants on-site—before immersing yourself in the Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and the Pyramids, all a short drive away. For an unexpected glimpse into the city’s pastoral side, speedboat excursions on the Nile can be arranged, showcasing palm groves, charming farms, and fishermen, along with a picnic breakfast on the riverbank. marriott.com; doubles from $220.—Nicola Chilton
Xigera Safari Lodge — Okavango Delta, Botswana
While you’re likely to spot lions, white rhinos, herds of elephants, and even leopards, wildlife isn’t the only captivating aspect of this Botswana lodge, which is positioned on stilts above the Okavango Delta. Xigera partnered with Southern Guild, a Cape Town art gallery, to feature works by 80 sub-Saharan artists and designers throughout the property, with each of the 12 tented villas potentially serving as a gallery. Standout pieces include ceramics by South African artists Andile Dyalvane and Atang Tshikare, bespoke wooden benches crafted from fallen trees by Adam Birch, and a striking sculpture by Conrad Hicks encircling the firepit. The pièce de résistance is the three-story Baobab Treehouse, designed to accommodate two guests; its steel structure was inspired by a painting of the iconic tree by South African artist Jacobus Hendrik Pierneef. The second-floor bedroom is equipped with a zippable canvas wall that opens to the starry night sky, while the top-floor deck offers panoramic views of the delta. xigera.com; doubles from $2,630, all-inclusive. —Travis Levius
ASIA
Ace Hotel Kyoto — Japan
Ace Hotel Kyoto is a combination of new structures and renovation of the 1920s Kyoto Central Telephone Office, the design celebrates colossal wooden crossbeams and locally sourced materials. An example includes the washi-paper walls and ancient Shigaraki tiles used in the lobby. The shimmering copper reception desk from Nousaku, renowned for its metal fixtures for Buddhist altars, exemplifies the essence of craftsmanship with around 50 artisans contributing to the hotel’s outfitting. This American brand’s first foray into Asia is complemented by notable culinary additions like Stumptown Coffee Roasters; Piopiko, a taqueria by Wes Avila; and Italian restaurant Mr. Maurice by Chef Marc Vetri. acehotel.com/kyoto; doubles from $400 —Karryn Miller
Capella Bangkok — Thailand
Singapore-based hotel group Capella has opened what could be dubbed the city’s most beautiful hotel. The 101-key property stretches along the banks of the Chao Phraya, Bangkok’s primary river, utilizing the city’s age-old landscape more effectively than many others. Most rooms and suites come equipped with expansive balconies featuring whirlpool baths, providing an experience akin to a front-row seat at the opera—with the river performing. By the water’s edge, seven garden villas add to the charm, with only the sounds of passing rice barges and the occasional karaoke boat as a backdrop. Capella aims to cultivate privacy through sunlit open spaces, breathtaking tearooms, riverine parks, and impressive reception areas. Outdoor pools are frequented by rare bird species washing off in the water. Notably, Côté by Mauro Colagreco, the Franco-Italian restaurant led by chef Davide Garavaglia and sommelier Jay Thanathorn Bottorff, boasts an impressive wine list. After savoring blends like the 2007 Lopez de Heredia Tondonia Riserva Blanco, you can confidently say this is Bangkok’s finest wine experience. capellahotels.com; doubles from $413. —Lawrence Osborne
Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve — Hokkaido, Japan
In the mountainous, snow-globe village of Niseko on Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, Ritz-Carlton has introduced its latest luxury Reserve. Staying true to its sister properties, the ambiance here is intimate, with only 50 guest rooms and a minimalist design that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the stunning peaks of Mount Yotei and Mount Annupuri, adorned with delicate cherry-blossom motifs to celebrate the area’s spectacular spring blooms. Ski enthusiasts will appreciate access to over 2,000 acres featuring some of the world’s driest, fluffiest powder, with numerous groomed trails and off-piste areas. Beyond skiing, the surroundings include miles of picturesque hiking and biking trails, two 18-hole golf courses, and an onsen spa fed by Hokkaido’s rich hot springs. The chefs collaborate with local farmers and fishermen to incorporate the island’s renowned produce and seafood, showcased in dishes like soufflé pancakes paired with yuzu custard and omakase sushi accompanied by regional sake. ritzcarlton.com; doubles from $710. —Selena Hoy
Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa — Japan
A remarkable addition to Kyoto’s luxury hotel scene and the first under Japanese ownership, the Mitsui epitomizes the essence of the city. Guests enter through a 300-year-old gate into a property featuring a serene central courtyard garden, designed by Tokyo-based landscape artist Shunsaku Miyagi, with areas decorated by local Kyoto artists. The hotel’s 161 guest rooms showcase immense sliding glass doors that erase barriers between indoors and outdoors during pleasant weather, all providing views of either Nijo Castle (17th century) or lush gardens. The Mitsui’s two restaurants (one French-Japanese fusion, the other specializing in wood-fired pizzas) feature a tranquil afternoon tea service designed for peaceful respite, while the unique thermal spa, fed by deep spring water, offers the perfect way to end a day of exploration. hotelthemitsui.com; doubles from $872. —Selena Hoy
The Johri at Lal Haveli — Jaipur, India
On a side street in Jaipur’s vibrant Johri Bazaar (the city’s fine-jewelry market), you might be surprised to hear contemporary jazz emanating from a quiet courtyard. The Johri—a boutique hotel set in a 19th-century haveli, or mansion—was co-owned by Abhishek Honawar, Naina Shah, and Siddharth Kasliwal, who crafted a warm and modern retreat while paying tribute to the area’s craftsmanship. Johri, meaning “jeweler,” specifies each of the five suites modeled after a different precious stone or metal: ruby, sapphire, emerald, pearl, and gold. Guests can also anticipate a “high-chai” afternoon tea service and in-room gin-and-tonics at dusk, while the vegetarian Indian restaurant and cocktail bar welcome the public and are poised to become hotspots in the city’s style scene. thejohrijaipur.com; doubles from $300. — Prasad Ramamurthy
The Leela Palace — Jaipur, India
While its overall architecture and decor mimic tradition, the vibe at the Leela Palace Jaipur leans towards the contemporary. This is reflected in the harmonious blend of calming pastel shades, richly textured fabrics, Venetian mirrors, and sparkling chandeliers. Vintage buggies transport guests, complimentary mountain bikes are available, and discreet butler service enhances the experience, alongside expertly crafted craft gin cocktails at the bar. A friendly, welcoming atmosphere prevails, with staff pausing from their tasks to engage with young guests or deliver ice cream as requested. Suited for both family vacations and destination weddings, the Leela offers an engaging daily high-tea service, featuring folk dancers, fortune tellers, bangle makers, potters, and a puppet show. Indian cuisine is universally praised with options such as the nalli ka salan mutton dish—so good I ordered it twice. Try to schedule at least one dinner at Mohan Mahal, inspired by the nearby Amer Fort’s 10th-century Sheesh Mahal, lit by 110 candles at nightfall. theleela.com; doubles from $220 — Prasad Ramamurthy
One&Only Desaru Coast — Malaysia
For its fourth Asian outpost, One&Only chose a pristine corner of coastal Malaysia, about a 90-minute drive east of Singapore (the arrival point for most guests). One of the last projects of the late, great Australian architect Kerry Hill, it showcases clean lines and natural materials: wood and stone anchor contemporary cubic buildings, while reflecting pools are edged by lush jungle. The overall effect—especially alongside the sprawling white sand beach and the South China Sea—creates a feeling of being in harmony with nature, while ensuring every luxury that the brand’s clientele expects. Prime features include an Olympic-size main swimming pool, alongside a spa from Swiss wellness pioneers Chenot, offering science-based nutrition and fitness guidance, sound therapy, and biofeedback sessions. oneandonlyresorts.com; doubles from $875. — Diana Khoo
The Tokyo Edition, Toranomon
A stylish newcomer to Tokyo’s sprawling hotel scene, the Edition Toranomon is a collaboration between the renowned hotelier Ian Schrager and architect Kengo Kuma. Its design is characterized by clean lines and panoramic views of the metropolis, with a soaring 31st-floor lobby ceiling that showcases the Tokyo skyline. Afternoon tea here feels elevated, with guests enjoying pastries while overlooking the streets from a foliage-rich perch (the Lobby Bar and lounge area is adorned with hundreds of verdant plants). Of the 206 rooms (all above the 31st floor), opt for one with a terrace, equipped with full patio sets—perfect for enjoying the view of the city unfolding like a shimmering carpet in the evening. Pair this moment with a cocktail (or mocktail—consider the daidai G&T, featuring non-alcoholic gin, Japanese citrus, carrot, and apple). Conveniently located near the subway, guests can explore various attractions, yet take time to rejuvenate with a dip in the lap pool or an organic massage or facial treatment at the spa. editionhotels.com; doubles from $460.—Selena Hoy
Zannier Hotels Bai San Hô — Vietnam
The bustling energy of Vietnam’s major cities diminishes at this off-the-grid resort in central Vietnam, where 71 villas are spread over 242 acres of lush greenery and rice paddies. Zannier has honored local ethnic groups and nearby fishing villages with its three distinct types of Vietnamese-style villas, featuring bamboo ceilings, antique rice baskets, and colors reflecting the native landscape. The staff takes pride in the regional seafood, showcased in the breezy beach restaurant Làng Chài and the traditional cooking techniques highlighted at Bà Hai. The key attraction for many visitors, however, might be the private, kilometer-long beach brimming with colorful coral just off the shore. zanierhotels.com/baisanho; doubles from $240. —Katie Lockhart
AUSTRALIA
Crown Sydney
How do you make waves in a city where beaches already boast world-renowned status? Sun, sand, and saltwater feet may generally signify a holiday Down Under, but Sydney’s most recent hotel opening has guests swimming among skyscrapers—five levels up in an infinity pool with unparalleled views of the stunning harbor, all while sipping on a Bloody Mary. The glossy 890-foot Crown Sydney in Barangaroo introduces an air of opulence that the harborside city has needed. The showstopper is that very pool, with private cabanas, relaxing music, and impeccable service, making it a hotspot for lunch and cocktails. The hotel’s sprawling, tech-savvy suites offer breathtaking floor-to-ceiling views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Among the 14 restaurants and bars, Nobu’s latest outpost stands out, alongside its high-end sushi restaurant, Yoshii’s Omakase and Cirq Bar, located 26 floors up on the rooftop terrace. crownsydney.com.au; doubles from $514. —Jenny Hewitt
CARIBBEAN
Caerula Mar Club — Bahamas
Beyond sunny skies and impossibly blue waters, the Bahamas offers blissful seclusion. There may be no better place than Andros, the largest and least inhabited of the country’s 700 islands and cays. Known as the Sleeping Giant, it’s home to fewer than 2,000 residents, and one gas station, along with Caerula Mar Club, a boutique retreat that debuted in February 2020. Owned by Bryan and Sarah Baeumler—Canadian HGTV stars who documented revitalizing the abandoned resort on their show Renovation Island—the beachfront hotel features 18 rooms and four villas. Each is tastefully adorned in a contemporary Caribbean style, employing soothing neutral hues combined with natural textures like stone and straw that reflect the area. Breakfast includes indulgent lobster Benedict, and a casual lunchtime pizza stop can transform into a multi-hour feast as you sample various items from the menu. Yet, resist the temptation to linger too long. Beyond Caerula’s welcoming confines are uniquely Androsian adventures, such as snorkeling in mysterious blue holes, diving into the world’s third-largest coral reef, or casting off on idyllic nearby islets, where you can claim the land as your own, even if only for a few precious hours. caerulamar.com; doubles from $385.—Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
Eclipse at Half Moon — Jamaica
Half Moon, Montego Bay’s iconic grand dame established in the 1950s, recently announced the opening of an addition to its legendary 400-acre resort in December. Eclipse consists of 57 outrageously spacious rooms and suites that embody a fresh, island aesthetic (highlighted by hardwood floors, vibrant tropical fabrics, and a soft color palette echoing the sea outside), providing divine patio dining experiences featuring the rustle of palm fronds against the soothing Caribbean backdrop. Additionally, guests can explore several drawcards on the property, including Delmare, an Italian seafood restaurant with balcony seating (and evening calypso performances) heralding ocean views. Other amenities include a spa and fitness center offering yoga, pilates, and guided meditation; there are plenty of active pursuits for guests to enjoy, like golf, kayaking, and snorkeling. Regardless of your itinerary, the best way to conclude the day remains sipping a rum cocktail at Lester’s Bar, named for the Jamaican artist whose works grace the walls. halfmoon.com; doubles from $699. —Sheryl Nance-Nash
Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf — St. Bart’s
Even prior to Hurricane Irma’s devastation in 2017, the tiny Caribbean island of St. Bart’s and most of its resorts were undergoing extensive renovations, including Le Carl Gustaf, which initiated a four-year restoration by the French company Barrière. Its launch marks a pivotal moment for St. Bart’s, where several properties have resurrected with vigor. The palm-shrouded grounds, set on a hill overlooking Gustavia, the main town, are known for their low-slung buildings with bright red roofs. All 21 hotel rooms are optimized for breathtaking Caribbean views, featuring extensive private terraces ideal for al fresco dining (especially during golden hour). Though there’s plenty to enjoy on-site (private plunge pools, spa treatments, and Mediterranean seafood dining at the beachside restaurant), iconic Shell Beach remains within a short walk. hotelsbarriere.com; doubles from $1,090. —Dan Koday
Rosewood Little Dix Bay — British Virgin Islands
This iconic resort—established in 1964 by conservationist Laurance Rockefeller on 500 beach-fringed acres of Virgin Gorda—has undergone rejuvenation twice over the years. Little Dix Bay was already shut for renovations when Hurricane Irma ravaged the island in 2017. Over the next four years, Rosewood reconstructed the cottages, treetop lodges, and ridge-top pool suites overlooking the bay; created three distinctive open-air dining venues; stocked the Rum Room bar with over 100 rare selections; and secured catamarans for private shuttles from the airport (cocktails provided). By the time it was ready to unveil, the pandemic hit, causing another delay until December. The wait was rewarding; alongside new experiences like secluded picnics and spa treatments post-swim at the renowned Baths National Park, Little Dix Bay has mastered the art of embodying island living that keeps drawing guests back. rosewoodhotels.com; doubles from $850. —Elaine Glusac
CENTRAL + SOUTH AMERICA
Cielo Lodge — Costa Rica
Silicon Valley transplants Nicole and Keith Goldstein have transformed a scarred logging site into an off-the-grid eco-lodge surrounded by 380 acres of rainforest. Cielo Lodge allows travelers to completely immerse themselves in nature—while enjoying the comfort of its modern canopy suites, each featuring an outdoor rain shower and terrace. Perched at 1,060 feet above sea level, guests experience ocean breezes, fewer insects, moderate heat and humidity, alongside breathtaking views of the mountains and seaside town of Golfito. There is an open-air restaurant offering fresh produce and ingredients sourced from local purveyors, farmers, and fishermen, with drinks served at the infinity-edge saltwater pool while observing monkeys play in the trees. Cielo Lodge provides various nearby offsite activities (surfing; fishing; bird, dolphin, and whale watching; rainforest excursions), alongside enchanting waterfalls, natural swimming holes, and jungle trails to explore on property. cielolodge.com; doubles from $972.—Caryn Davis
Six Senses Botanique — Campos do Jordão, Brazil
With a breathtaking cultural backdrop of forested slopes, Alpine architecture, and artisanal breweries, the Serra da Mantiqueira range near São Paulo has long attracted vacationers. With the new Six Senses Botanique, this region is now on the global wellness radar. Originally opening in 2012, it was rebranded by Six Senses in February 2021, marking the brand’s inaugural foray into the Americas. Staying here promotes immersion into the Brazilian lifestyle at a relaxed pace. The’s property bottled water emanates from the hotel grounds, and its expansive gardens harvest most of the restaurant’s ingredients. Guests are encouraged to explore local waterfalls and indulge in the town’s boutiques and culinary scene, whether by horseback, mountain bike, or on foot. For those fresh off a red-eye flight, a few hours in the spa (unveiling a new look later this year) or lounging around in the elegantly decorated villas with chocolate slate baths offers an ideal stay. Near the fireplace, complimentary cachaça and honey liqueur decanters present delightful nightcaps. sixsenses.com; doubles from $403 —Mariano Leonhart
EUROPE
Four Seasons Hotel Madrid
After eight years of meticulous restoration, the suspension of a subway line, and a staggering $700 million investment, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts’ first venture in Spain finally opened in September. Located in Centro Canalejas, a seven-building complex near Puerta del Sol that also hosts luxury boutiques and private residences, the wait proved worthwhile. Behind the prow-like facade, marble staircases ascend from a gilded lobby to 200 spacious guest rooms that emanate tranquility, featuring breezy white curtains, tufted headboards in warm beige, and fresh bouquets of flowers. Bedside iPads connect guests with the front desk via instant messaging, while you can swipe to reserve a table at celebrity chef Dani García’s rooftop brasserie (and indulge in fabulous dishes like scallop tartare with Iberian ham emulsion and basil oil). The hotel’s four-floor spa includes a glass-enclosed pool surrounded by the terracotta rooftops of Madrid. fourseasons.com/madrid; doubles from $530. — Benjamin Kemper
Galleria Vik Milano — Italy
Known for engaging renowned architects to create art-centered hotels, Alex and Carrie Vik have brought this vision to Milan with Galleria Vik Milano—marking the brand’s European debut. Upon entering through a hidden side street, guests discover a magnificent cast of Rodin’s The Thinker in the lobby, while the 89 rooms and suites feature a mixture of contemporary, vintage, and antique furnishings, along with works from Italian, Uruguayan, and international artists. Choose a room with a private balcony overlooking the glass-vaulted arcades of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s oldest shopping mall; it serves as the perfect location for people-watching and enjoying an Aperol Spritz before dining at Vikissimo, which offers views of the Galleria’s famed bull mosaic, or I Dodici Gatti, a rooftop pizzeria presenting pizza classics like caprese salads and tiramisu. galleriavikmilano.com; doubles from $600. —Rima Suqi
Grand Universe Lucca — Italy
Lucca, Italy, historically a strategic base during the Roman Empire and a wealthy merchant city since the Middle Ages, now has a hotel worthy of its stature. Enter the Grand Universe Lucca, housed in a 16th-century palazzo once frequented by musicians like Puccini. A complete renovation has restored the property to its former glory: in the bright, breezy spaces, original architectural details such as wood-beamed ceilings blend with modern furnishings. Many of the 55 rooms and suites overlook Piazza Napoleone, where the annual Lucca Summer Festival draws star performances. Guests can rent bikes to navigate the town as locals do, indulge in Tuscan fiber specialties like chestnut-flour crêpes, participate in tastings with the sommelier, and delve into ancient local myths with a guide. In warm weather, the rooftop is a prime locale for stunning views of Lucca’s terra-cotta rooftops while enjoying a glass of Chianti. granduniverselucca.com; doubles from $264. —Laura Itzkowitz
La Réserve Eden au Lac — Zurich
High-end hotels permeate Switzerland’s largest city, but many are rigid establishments aimed at bankers on expense accounts. Hence, the 40-room La Réserve Eden au Lac was a refreshing change when it opened in January 2024. The baroque wedding-cake palace, directly opposite Lake Zurich’s historic swimming lido, underwent a comprehensive makeover by Philippe Starck, whose inspiration stemmed from next-level yacht clubs. The rooms, spread across eight categories (some with balconies and lake views), emulate a yacht’s cabins, effectively utilizing available space. Starck’s presence is noticeably prevalent in communal areas, but remains elegant and restrained, reflecting Zurich’s austere nature. Expect disco-mirror bathrooms, a hidden fumoir, and a ground-floor lounge, plus a restaurant, La Muña, that ventures into the Japanese-Peruvian realm under the attic’s exposed rafters, featuring wooden walls adorned with oil paintings of sailboats and dishes like truffled-sea-bass ceviche. During summer, La Muña’s terrace becomes a sought-after gathering spot for locals enjoying cocktails and the marina’s views that open onto the distant Alps. lareserve-zurich.com; doubles from $500. —Adam H. Graham
Les Sources de Cheverny — Loire Valley, France
The châteaux of France’s Loire Valley stand among the globe’s architectural marvels, yet living among such opulence isn’t for everyone. Fortunately, the elegant but low-key Sources de Cheverny provides the best remedy for grandeur fatigue after excessive spire-gazing. This hotel is a picturesque hamlet of converted stone outbuildings and wooden cabins on the grounds of a modest château. Owners Alice and Jérôme Tourbier adapted the same successful recipe used at Les Sources de Caudalie, their vineyard hotel in Bordeaux: exquisite gastronomy, lavish spa experiences (both hotels utilize locally sourced grape-based products), and cozy interiors reflecting warm wooden tones. Borrow a bike and ride to the adjacent 17th-century Château de Cheverny—the inspiration for the Tintin books—and return for chef Frédéric Calmels’s gigot d’agneau de sept heures (seven-hour leg of lamb) paired with a fruity Loire Chinon. sources-cheverny.com; doubles from $280.—Joshua Levine
Loire Valley Lodges — Esvres-sur-Indre, France
One might expect that a hotel named Loire Valley Lodges would resemble a fairy-tale scene of spires and turrets, much like the Renaissance châteaux that attract tourists. Instead, Loire Valley Lodges emphasizes comfortable, large wooden cabins, each constructed high on stilts and out of sight from one another in a secluded 700-acre forest. Nature and splendid solitude are the highlights, enhanced by artistic features. Anne-Caroline Frey, the visionary behind the project and a former contemporary art worker from Paris, melded her two passions. Large sculptures commissioned by Frey emerge unexpectedly among the dense woods, creating an unlikely yet delightful experience. I found tranquility soaking in a hot tub while watching the sun set over the forest. When dinner time arrived, a carefully curated multi-tiered box was delivered, filled with items like salmon and trout, fish rillettes, smoked eel, cheese, salad, and chocolate fondant (though there’s also a sit-down restaurant available in the main house for those seeking a more social experience). This, I decided, is the lifestyle of modern royalty. loirevalleylodges.com; doubles from $462.—Joshua Levine
Maslina Resort — Stari Grad, Croatia
This sustainability-driven resort opened in August on the pristine Maslinica Bay, an idyllic enclave of the Adriatic Sea featuring 33 guest rooms, 17 suites, and three villas that seem to float gracefully above olive tree-lined pools. Among the numerous attractions at the resort? A restaurant led by Top Chef Patricia Yeo and a network of stone paths linking the stylish beach bar to the “garden-to-skin” spa, which includes manicured lounging areas adorned with knotted rope hammocks, in addition to intimate pebble beach alcoves. Mornings may begin with waterside yoga sessions, followed by garden tours and tastings of organic olive oil and wine. Guests also can utilize the property’s electric bicycles (crafted from reclaimed wood) to explore the nearby UNESCO heritage town of Stari Grad. maslinaresort.com; doubles from $318. —Renee Perenchio
The Mayfair Townhouse — London
As townhouse hotels surge in popularity among the British capital’s lodging options, this West End newcomer—comprising 15 adjoining Georgian buildings built in the 18th century—stands as a premier example. Located on Half Moon Street, where an Oscar Wilde play unfolds, the 172-room property offers easy access to London’s central attractions, including Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and Hyde Park, all within walking distance. Long before wealthy financiers populated the neighborhood, Mayfair was home to bohemian figures such as Wilde and his lover, Lord Alfred Douglas, whose legacy the hotel affectionately honors. The Dandy Bar serves Victorian-inspired cocktails, including the Mr. Bosie, a vodka-and-gin cocktail nodding to Douglas’s nickname. Room decor features richly layered materials like velvet and marble, along with a deep red, green, and blue palette. Meals can be enjoyed anywhere on the property, from the Club Room to guest rooms, with the standout being a superb lobster curry. themayfairtownhouse.com; doubles from $500. — Rebecca Rose
Paragon 700 Boutique Hotel & Spa — Ostuni, Italy
In the historic center of the “white city” of Ostuni—so named for its ancient, uniformly whitewashed buildings—the region’s latest oasis of tranquility, Paragon 700, awaits visitors. Architect and interior designer Pascale Lauber, co-owner alongside Ulrike Bauschke, personally directed the renovation of the 18th-century palazzo, employing traditional artisanal techniques along with a contemporary flair. Eleven individually designed guest rooms feature vaulted ceilings, period frescos, original fireplaces, and parquet flooring. The property encircles a flourishing garden with an orange grove and swimming pool, inviting guests to unwind while soaking up the warmth of the Puglian sun. Other leisure options include enjoying cocktails at the cozy Mixology House, indulging in spa treatments, or dining beneath centuries-old stone ceilings at the hotel’s Restaurant 700, led by chef Giovanni Cerroni. paragon700.com; doubles from $356. —Gian Marco Tosti
The Pig – at Harlyn Bay — England
The owners of the Pig “litter,” Robin and Judy Hutson, jokingly refer to their seven English country-house hotels, which consistently maintain full occupancy. The 26 rooms of their newest Cornish property—a manor house that fuses part-medieval and part-Jacobean architecture with farm-style structures—blend contemporary amenities (top-notch beds and bathrooms, user-friendly technology) with European antiques and local artwork. The modern British dishes—like pickled mussels and garlicky roasted lobster followed by rose sorbet—highlight fresh ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. Nestled amidst the fields between the beloved beaches of Harlyn Bay and Constantine Bay, expansive walking paths and cycling trails are close by, making the newest Pig poised to be Cornwall’s summer hot spot. thepighotel.com; doubles from $208. —Lisa Grainger
Villa Copenhagen — Denmark
Located near Copenhagen’s 19th-century Tivoli Gardens amusement park, the new Villa Copenhagen almost rivals that age, as it formerly housed the Danish Post and Telegraph office headquarters. This large establishment features 390 guest rooms, yet the atmosphere remains one of celebratory vibrance rather than a nondescript chain feel. The lobby area—with its bustling lounge and bar, a shop displaying local artists’ crafts, and a clear glass ceiling showcasing the sky above—ranks among the most delightful venues in the city. A rooftop swimming pool became a (socially distanced) hotspot during my visit this past summer. The restaurant, Kontrast, lives up to its name with a culinary offering drawing inspiration from diverse global cuisines. One standout dish: butternut squash risotto with deep-fried sage, brown butter, and hazelnuts that thrilled the palate. villacopenhagen.com; doubles from $182. —Lindsay Tigar
NORTH AMERICA
Adero Scottsdale, Autograph Collection — Arizona
Scottsdale’s newest hotel is located on the town’s outskirts, which adds to its charm. The property allows guests to enjoy breathtaking mountain views until night falls, when pink peaks transition into dark skies revealing some of the best stargazing in the country. Adero features 177 rooms, two pools, tennis and pickleball courts, a spa, and a 24-hour fitness center with a Peloton studio. Its minimalist design is inspired by the desert landscape, offering each room a private outdoor area that invites visitors to indulge in the tranquility of nature (Corner suites impress with expansive balconies and telescopes). As the only Dark Sky Zone resort in Scottsdale, it takes stargazing seriously, with its scenic SkyTop cocktail lounge serving as the perfect setting to converse with local astronomers while enjoying the Old Astronomer gin cocktail. Appetizers served on the lawn range from foie-gras potstickers to short-rib poutine and irresistible s’mores—yet ensure to save room for dinner at Cielo, specializing in comfort food like coffee-rubbed filet mignon and lemon-and-garlic roasted chicken. A morning hike along nearby trails is a rewarding way to kick-start your day. aderoscottsdale.com; doubles from $249. —Nina Ruggiero
Camp Sarika by Amangiri — Canyon Point, Utah
There exists glamping, and then there’s Camp Sarika by Amangiri, a unique entity on its own. Nestled in dramatic canyon terrain near Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon, this 10-suite hotel is being defined by heightened privacy and grandeur. The canvas-roofed concrete pavilions boast a striking luxury vibe, while the main hub features indoor-outdoor dining experiences, a mesa-flanked outdoor pool, and dual spa treatment rooms. Most days, I found myself cooling off in my own plunge pool or toasting marshmallows after dinner over a nearby fire pit. Guests at Camp Sarika can enjoy full access to Amangiri’s premium facilities (including the well-known pool and spa) and their array of activities, which range from horseback riding and hikes to helicopter tours of the Grand Canyon. In this era of privacy-seeking escapes, the isolation and luxury of Sarika might just claim the title of the most desired new desert retreat. aman.com; doubles from $3,800.—Travis Levius
Cara Hotel — Los Angeles
California-cool merges with Moroccan riad sensibilities at the Cara Hotel in Los Feliz. Here, stylish indoor and outdoor spaces with refreshing wood accents create a surprisingly serene oasis in one of L.A.’s trendiest neighborhoods. The hotel has risen from the remnants of a 1950s motel, with every detail—from steel accents, ceramics, and light fixtures to wall art—meticulously rethought. The courtyard captures attention, with 100-year-old olive trees adorned with string lights surrounding a tranquil pool lit by candles at night. Each of the 60 rooms has its own balcony, plush Italian linens, and a mini-bar stocked with local snacks and drinks. Guests can indulge in executive chef Michael Patria’s creations made with ingredients from biodynamic California farms or reliable favorites like coffee from Los Feliz’s Maru. There are also iconic L.A. attractions within a short ten-minute drive, from the Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Greek Theater. carahotel.com; doubles from $199.—Nina Ruggiero
The Chloe — New Orleans
Some hotels offer the comforts of home; then there are hotels like The Chloe, which were once actual residences. Constructed in 1891 by prosperous merchant Henry Picard, this former single-family mansion has become a
