Despite the tumultuous tourism landscape of recent years, the hotel industry has remained resilient, and the pace of openings and renovations has not slowed. That's why T+L spent the past year obsessively tracking major openings and renovations, consulting with our network of travel professionals and writers from around the world, and scouring the globe for the year's most memorable and innovative hotels for our annual It List.
This year, our guide to the essential openings (and reopenings) of the past year took us to 35 countries in search of the unforgettable. T+L writers and editors visited ancient palaces in Sicily, state-of-the-art wellness centers in Qatar, a working farm in South Africa and a Pharrell Williams hot spot in Miami. This is not simply a list of the most upscale resorts, nor is it a list of the major hotel chains, though you'll find indulgent stays and familiar brands. Instead, we've sought to showcase the establishments that are at the top of their game and bring something new to the conversation, whether they're century-old establishments that have just been renovated or intimate family-run boutiques that fall somewhere between hotel hospitality and vacation rental friendliness.
Ahead, you'll find a stay for every style and mood. There's a classic Mid-Century Palm Springs getaway that's been updated for a new generation. A series of ryokan-style cabins in the Canadian wilderness, a stylish newcomer in New York City, and a lavish Parisian mansion. We offer remote getaways in Argentina and the Maldives and sophisticated urban hotels in Madrid and Hanoi. Check out the 100 properties on the 2022 It list - your next vacation spot awaits.
Eden Nairobi — Kenya
Fashion designer Anna Trzebinski has transformed her Nairobi home into an art-filled boutique hotel, close enough to the action of the city yet offering a quiet retreat. There's everything you'd expect from a larger-than-life designer: rustic-chic decor in all nine rooms, mirrors framed by colorful blown glass installations, a sleek bar hidden behind a curtain of ostrich eggs, and paintings and sculptures by Trzebinski's children. This serene hideaway truly feels like Eden, and Nairobi residents and jet setters alike are already fans. On any given weekend, expect to see chic Kenyans on vacation and foreigners celebrating destination weddings. Rooms start at $500.
Sussurro — Mozambique
Long before it even opened, Sussurro had developed an audience almost exclusively on Instagram, tapping into a tribe of design-conscious and planet-conscious creatives eager to travel more mindfully. The six bungalows encourage mindfulness with hand-sewn robes, organic soaps and antique heirloom pieces. Everything on the restaurant's seasonal menu aims to support local fishermen and traders as much as possible, and the drinks have a similar sense of place-think cocktails made with tropical fruits and fair-trade coffee grown on the slopes of Mount Gorongosa. Whether you're snuggling up on a Zanzibar daybed with a book from the library or taking one of the sunset dhow cruises, everything is extremely relaxed here. Rooms start at $1,200.
Sterrekopje Farm — South Africa
This is a deeply rewarding therapeutic retreat on a 125-acre working farm; but rather than a farm stay or spa, think of it as a soft landing for the soul. Restorative rest is considered the foundation of all healing, as evidenced by the 11 rooms, each a unique, quiet, meditative sanctuary. Harvesting fruits and vegetables with the chefs is a daily ritual, and the healthy, organic food is reason enough to book a stay here. Whether you stick to homemade herbal teas or sample local handcrafted wines, abundance rather than abstinence is the motto at Sterrekopje. Rooms from 1,463.
Six Senses Shaharut — Israel
Luxury properties are popping up all over Israel, but this chic, secluded destination in the heart of the Negev desert is easily the most remarkable. This luxury hotel, which looks like it was sewn into an austere ridge, is a perfect blend of artistic pampering and site-specific architecture that offers the most beautiful views you've ever seen. Add to that chic, meticulously designed accommodations (a modern fusion of local cultures with an emphasis on Israeli craftsmanship), an extensive spa, and a host of "experiences," from hikes and camel rides to guided tours of historical sites, and you have a getaway of biblical proportions. Rooms start at $1,000.
Wilderness Safaris DumaTau — Botswana
The latest first-class camp from luxury outfitter Wilderness Safaris is a new twist on a familiar name. The new DumaTau is a collection of eight oversized tented suites overlooking the elephant-rich Osprey Lagoon, each with its own living space, shaded deck, infinity pool and outdoor shower. A new wellness spa, The Osprey Retreat, and menus filled with locally sourced ingredients reflect the desire of today's Botswana travelers to bask in nature and indulge in mindfulness on safari. The combination of wildlife viewing on land and in the water amplifies the immersive experience, as does the opportunity for close encounters with elephants, wild dogs, and rare birds. Rooms start at $1,887.
Fairmont Taghazout Bay — Morocco
One of the first luxury resorts to spring up in the windswept fishing village of Taghazout, this beachfront property, dotted with gnarled olive trees and set against the verdant foothills of the Atlas Mountains, deftly blends the Fairmont's impeccable service and extensive amenities with a decidedly laid-back vibe. Interiors are filled with locally sourced fabrics and bold accents of Moroccan blue, while floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of surfers (and the occasional camel strolling) on the beach. The 146 rooms are modern and sun-drenched, and the 15,000-square-foot spa, billed as the largest in Morocco, offers sweeping ocean views and relaxing treatments. Rooms start at $360.
25hours Hotel One Central — Dubai
This is perhaps the least doubtful of all the hotels in Dubai. Located in the burgeoning One Central business district, this stately hotel marks a new chapter for the UAE, not only with the rebirth of a once grim area, but with bold concepts like a co-ed sauna and slogans like "Let's spend the night together." The predominant crowd is made up of 30-something hipsters and creatives, who move between co-working spaces, pottery and podcast studios, and the artisanal café. The rooms and suites are all different, but you can expect hammocks, sheik-sized beds, and private bars that can host a DJ. But the real star of the show, the Monkey Bar, is on the roof, surrounded by jungle vines. Rooms start at $175.
Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som
Zulal is a one-of-a-kind experience, a wellness center of the region and for the region, that celebrates ancient local methods and practices that have never been recognized in this way, but does so in a way that will appeal to travelers from around the world. Combined with its unique coastal location in a destination that is quickly becoming one to watch, it is poised to become one of Qatar's most important stays. Rooms start at $1,815.
Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort
The Anantara World Islands have been in the works for a long time, with interruptions over the decades for financial and environmental reasons. The Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort is the first resort to open on the man-made archipelago, and it's hard to imagine that subsequent properties will offer better views of Dubai's glittering skyline. It's the kind of place you go to and stay at, exploring the water on jet skis and hydrofoils. And while it's still in its opening phase, the family-friendly suites and incredibly charming staff are already moving in the right direction. Rooms start at $490.
Mango House Seychelles, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Mango House Seychelles is the former family home of Milanese fashion photographer Gian Paolo Barbieri, which is now a 41-room boutique hotel managed by LXR Hotels & Resorts. Its ultra-scenic seclusion on Mahé is the epitome of a relaxed yet luxurious Seychelles getaway: You can honestly stare at the stunning bay views-from the beach, the two pools, or your own balcony-for hours and feel revitalized. The promotion of local artisans and suppliers makes you feel especially close to the place. The interior of each room is contemporary luxury, close to the sea breeze, but you'll often have to step outside to get to the hotel's upscale restaurants and bars. Rooms start at $925.
LUX* Chongzuo, Guangxi — China
Surrounded by picturesque gardens and situated on the banks of the Mingshi River, LUX* is the very definition of a modernist tropical retreat. Each suite at the hotel has its own terrace, overlooking the calm waters and impressive karst mountains. The hotel staff will be happy to arrange tours of local sugar shacks or tea on a bamboo raft on the river. The hotel's location on the border of China and Vietnam also creates a unique atmosphere, where different cultures collide and mingle with each other. Rooms start at $600.
Joali Being — Maldives
Pristine white beaches and crystal clear lagoons are the ultimate soothing setting for self-improvement, and thankfully, Joali Being Wellness Center applies its sophisticated philosophy with pampering and a barefoot, shoeless aesthetic. Thatched roofs ripple like ocean waves, oversized hand-carved doors resemble tree bark, walls are textured like wind-blown sand, and the Tiffany color palette of the 68 villas, each with its own pool, brings the lagoon into your light-filled sanctuary. The world-class spa is dotted with glass-enclosed saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains and hydrotherapy pools. Rooms start at $2,035 with a five-night minimum.
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands
Arriving on the market as a sophisticated lifestyle brand, Patina Maldives is already attracting repeat visits, despite only opening in May 2021. Patina is located on a lush, green man-made island, bordered by a golden, sugary beach and bathed in the gentle waters of a crystal clear lagoon. The water villas have a neutral palette and contemporary design, with open-air decks for swimming in private pools, soaking in freestanding tubs and curling up in hammocks. The list of activities available to guests seems to have been copied and pasted from the Maldives bucket list. Rooms start at $2,490.
Aramness Gir National Park — India
Welcome to the newest and arguably best safari lodge in Sasan Gir, where Asiatic lions and leopards periodically roam. The 18-villa property, each with a non-chlorinated pool, is located outside the perimeter of the world's only Asiatic lion reserve. The impeccable design is combined with immersive activities, such as guided forest walks and picturesque breakfasts. The daily menus (which mix Indian and international dishes) are based entirely on what was harvested from the on-site farm. Ultimately, Aramness works because it's a complete program. You get off the grid, see some wildlife, eat well, swim a few laps, spa if you feel like it, and come home ready to go back to work. Rooms start at $1,000.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
The first Ritz-Carlton property in the Maldives is one of the most remarkable private islands in recent history. It features 100 contemporary, round-shaped villas with sparkling infinity pools, with not a thatched roof in sight. The one-bedroom villas feature floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that can disappear entirely to create an indoor-outdoor living experience. The Ritz-Carlton spa is an architectural masterpiece: a floating, wood-clad ring above the swirling lagoon with nine stunning treatment rooms. The treatments, especially those lasting several hours, are excellent and highly recommended. Overall, the ambiance is unpretentious, though a designer cocktail dress or two may appear for beachside dinners and social gatherings. Rooms start at $1,700.
Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam — South Korea
Upscale and opulent, with spectacular artwork around every corner, Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is one of the most elegant luxury hotels to visit in Seoul. As soon as you enter the hotel, you are confronted with a towering statue by Daniel Arsham, Blue Calcite Eroded Moses, while breathing in the hotel's signature scent. The impeccable design continues in the rooms, where patterned fabrics and Korean artwork compete with the stunning views of Gangnam. The 1914 Lounge & Bar is already a neighborhood staple, while the Eatanic Garden serves modern Korean cuisine accompanied by an extensive French wine and champagne list. Rooms start at $270.
The Standard, Hua Hin — Thailand
In a beach town dominated by mega-hotels, The Standard, Hua Hin, brings a much-needed dose of youthful energy to a place usually associated with snowbirding retirees and upper-class Thais arriving from Bangkok. Instead of teak floors and jasmine garlands, guests are greeted by contemporary art and mid-century modern furniture, and then bamboo and bougainvillea-lined pathways meander to the boho-beachy villas (where disco balls hang in the bathrooms). The main action takes place by the pool, where Bangkok's beau monde lounges under striped umbrellas and two restaurants serve drinks and Thai food until 10 p.m.
Six Senses Fort Barwara — India
It took nearly a decade to transform the 700-year-old fort into a 48-suite hotel, but it was well worth the effort. The spa, housed in the women's original palace, blends Ayurveda with Six Senses' inimitable touch. The commitment to working with local communities is evident throughout: local women make hot masala chai and cook bajra and jowar rotis during the day; block printers and bangle makers have set up shop in small corners; nimbu pani detox drink counters are scattered throughout the hotel. It's encouraging to see global brands come to India so aware of the local heritage and riches, and strive to infuse their openings with as much of it as possible. Rooms start at $560.
Raffles Udaipur — India
Set on a 21-acre island on Udai Sagar Lake and surrounded by the Aravalli range, India's first Raffles property is a place to relax: think long breakfasts over several cups of French coffee, massages in the expansive spa, and custom cocktails at the Long Bar. Plus, the service is such that it warrants repeat visits. (All 101 rooms and suites have a private garden or pool (or both). Book a south-facing room on the top floor for the best view of the lake and its flamingos. Rooms start at $600.
Arashiyama Mansion MAMA — Japan
Modern, minimalist and beautifully designed, Arashiyama Mansion MAMA is a new 10-room hotel and restaurant surrounded by gardens, just steps from Arashiyama's famous bamboo forests. It offers a perfect glimpse of contemporary Kyoto style, with materials made by modern artisans, Scandinavian furniture, stone baths overlooking private gardens, and a discreet but elegant (yes, really) pizzeria. Simple and minimal, with a natural feel, it's a far cry from the luxurious glitz of five-star hotels, but it's still the kind of place that instantly makes you want to redesign your own home. Overall, Arashiyama is Kyoto's ultimate insider secret. Rooms start at $525.
SUJÁN Sher Bagh — India
Olive and beige tones, canvas and wood furnishings, and a myriad of photographs of jungle inhabitants set the tone for this über-chic camp, located on the edge of one of India's most wildlife-rich and scenic national parks. The spacious and elegant tents are designed for comfort and relaxation. Jeep safaris take you into a truly magical forest, with rolling hills and giant banyan trees. The forest is teeming with tigers, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles and over 350 species of migratory and resident birds. At meal times, expert mixologists and chefs serve traditional and international dishes. Rooms start at $1,000.
The Shinmonzen — Japan
Shinmonzen, the chic little sister of Villa la Coste in the south of France, is a modern and elegant version of a traditional ryokan inn. Located in a quiet alley in Kyoto's Gion district, it features a traditional-style wooden facade that leads to a contemporary interior of modern design and world-class artwork. Each of the individually designed suites is flooded with natural light and features a harmonious blend of modern Kyoto craftsmanship (minimalist screens and hinoki cypress wood bathtubs) and touches of its Provençal DNA (as reflected in the lingering scent of jasmine from each of the river-facing balconies). Rooms start at $990.
Karan Mahal — India
Karan Mahal is probably the most charming non-palace royal residence you will visit in India. Built in the 1920s, it once housed the governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Karan Singh, son of the last maharaja of Kashmir; today it is the summer residence of Singh's son. It has the kind of décor one might imagine in a house of this age: antique mirrors, hand-knotted rugs and original Lalique lamps. The food prepared by the family's cooks is a mix of dishes that showcase the princely state lineage - dogra, phadi and Nepali - and more modern fare. Most of the staff are third generation family members. As a result, the service is warm and full of a genuine desire to please. Rooms start at $367.
Shinsho-an — Japan
The atmosphere of Shinsho-an is more like that of a luxurious private home than a hotel, both in scale and ambiance. The elegant interiors use premium materials from around Japan, with touches of contemporary design, adding to the modern Kyoto restaurant and top-notch hospitality, right down to the cashmere-covered hot water bottles you can request under the sheets at night. Each of the four suites is uniquely designed and extremely spacious, with minimalist flower arrangements by one of Japan's oldest florists. All meals are created by Michelin-starred chef Toshiro Ogata, from melting squid sashimi at breakfast to a nine-course omakase dinner. Rooms start at $1,420.
Roku Kyoto, LXR Hotels & Resorts — Japan
More of a luxury resort than an urban hotel, Roku Kyoto is a place to stop, slow down and recharge after visiting the ancient capital of Japan. The atmosphere is one of contemporary design and Kyoto tradition, with modern echoes of temple aesthetics in the hotel's minimalist architecture: expanses of clean-lined light wood and outdoor walkways under sloping roofs, all connected by cloud-reflecting pools and gardens with seasonal flowers. The heart of the hotel is the Tenjin restaurant (especially the chef's table, reserved for diners), but the hotel has another head-turning feature in Kyoto: an outdoor thermal pool. Rooms start at $847.
Silky Oaks Lodge — Australia
Australia has always been well known for its beaches and wild outback. But when it comes to experiencing its ancient forests and tropical rainforests in style, there have been surprisingly few options-until now. Silky Oaks Lodge, located in the rainforest (which just underwent a $20 million renovation), gives guests access to the country's most treasured ecosystems, such as Daintree National Park and the Great Barrier Reef, while focusing on deep, luxurious comfort. Each of the 40 treehouses is designed to blend into the landscape, with smooth wood and floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto private decks overlooking the river or rainforest. You'll feel like you're part of this delicate ecosystem. Rooms start at $495.
The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel — Australia
Repurposed from three nearly abandoned buildings, the Tasman has turned Hobart into a booming tourist destination. While there's no shortage of rooms, a restaurant and a sandstone facade, the real draw of the hotel is stumbling upon some of the structures' original features. Artifacts from the excavations, such as pipes, perfume bottles, combs and marbles, are on display in the bar, and exclusive wines and rare spirits will soon be stocked in the former coal pit. While there are modern, luxurious touches throughout (and Peppina's Italian cuisine is already a local hit), Marriott has left plenty of room for history to continue to emerge from the past. Rooms start at $280.
Hotel Motto Vienna
Lovingly designed, all-local and very reasonably priced, Hotel Motto Vienna offers guests a glimpse of contemporary Viennese life with a touch of 1920s Paris. Walk past Chez Dédé's whimsical mural of bellboys in pink suits and leopards in the lobby to the quiet rooms, filled with luxurious fabrics and deco curves. On the top floor, Chez Bernard, draped in a cascade of foliage, has become something of a hub for locals, with its crepes and activated charcoal lattes in the morning, gin cocktails and bistro classics in the evening. On the seventh floor, the small wellness area has a spa and a mixed sauna big enough for four. Rooms start at $225.
Bulgari Hotel Paris
Between the Gio Ponti artwork, the Caracalla Baths-inspired mosaics in the pool and even the dozen Italian pastries on offer, this Parisian haven is infused with a bit of Italy. The public areas of the hotel - which is in the heart of Paris' golden triangle - recall the well-appointed home of a Milanese friend (see the portrait of actress Monica Vitti in the lobby), while the 76 rooms and suites offer quiet luxury with blackout blinds and photographs of brightly colored jewelry from the Bulgari archives. It would be almost criminal not to block off an entire day to spend at the spa, or not to visit the bar each night for a well-deserved aperitivo. Rooms start at $1,655.
Madame Rêve Hotel — France
Located in a discreet corner near Les Halles, in what was once the only 24-hour post office in Paris, Hotel Madame Rêve is where wealthy guests spend the night in elegant rooms with views of the monuments, or on the hotel's rooftop 3,000-square-meter restaurant, ready for summer gatherings. Guests range from tattooed fashion designers to white-haired entrepreneurs wearing pink Saint Laurent sneakers. The 82 rooms exude a Bond- and Balmain-like atmosphere, with onyx desks and tables, tan leather armchairs and sumptuous linens - and, if you choose right, views of the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy a sexy, dimly lit dinner at La Plume, a French-Japanese restaurant that does the place proud. Rooms start at $500.
The Maybourne Riviera — France
The French debut of the Maybourne Hotel Group has redefined the sleepy village of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. Even from the beach, the dazzling block of crisscrossing white lines and floor-to-ceiling glass can be seen. From the Riviera Restaurant terrace, the changing panorama of sailboats, mega-yachts and hang gliders unfolds. From each of the 69 rooms and suites, you can watch the sunrise over Cap Martin. The hotel also has a state-of-the-art holistic spa, a botanical garden, and an indoor and outdoor pool, the latter built into the rock so that you see nothing but a mirage of pool, sea, and sky. Rooms start at $865.
Saint James Paris
Located in a former neoclassical private residence and surrounded by a large structural garden, Paris' only chateau-hotel underwent a radical decorative transformation last year, thanks to Laura Gonzalez, who made it look like a one-of-a-kind Parisian home. The 50 rooms and suites are perfect examples of Gonzalez's maximalist design style: Think nature-inspired wallpaper, ornate moldings and luxurious fabrics in a variety of colors and textures. The wellness program has also been completely redesigned and relaunched in 2021 as a three-room Guerlain spa, with large vaulted spaces, a stone staircase and an aesthetic reminiscent of Greco-Roman thermal baths. Rooms start at $620.
Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle — France
Located within the walls of Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle offers an exclusive and unparalleled glimpse into the lives of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Every silver spoon, antique cabinet and gilded portrait tells of life before the French Revolution. The 14 rooms and suites are inspired by a more opulent era, with chandeliers and marble fireplaces setting the tone. Meanwhile, dinner takes a theatrical turn, with waiters dressed in period costumes and a five-course meal of the Sun King's favorites (all prepared by Alain Ducasse). Ask for the "king's wake-up call," to wake up to classical music and a bubble bath accompanied by crystal glasses of orange-scented milk, and you could be spoiled for life. Rooms start at $2,021.
Kalesma Mykonos — Greece
Located atop a bougainvillea-scented hill overlooking Ornos Bay, this serene, whitewashed sanctuary is a refreshingly low-key alternative to the raucous parties of Mykonos. With only 25 suites and two villas spread over five hectares, Kalesma could be mistaken for a private estate, meticulously landscaped with 60-year-old olive trees and vines of fuchsia bougainvillea. The whitewashed walls, stone floors and chestnut and bamboo ceilings are inspired by the Cycladic architecture of yesteryear. The beds have been perfectly oriented so that you can wake up watching the sunrise over the Aegean Sea through the floor-to-ceiling French doors. Both owners frequent the property, making you feel like a very special guest at the island's most organized dinner party. Rooms start at $1,450.
Le Moulin de Lourmarin — France
This well-located village hotel, which combines the old and the new world, is an ideal blend of typical rural charm and tasteful modern design. The hotel's ivy-covered stone walls and typical sky-blue shutters invite guests in, where a sense of warmth continues to permeate the decor and service. Everyone here goes out of their way to lend a hand, whether it's taking luggage upstairs, pointing the way to the Sunday market in L'Isle sur la Sorgue or unlocking one of the free bikes for a ride through the village. Don't miss the homemade fougasse grilled in olive oil for dinner! Rooms start at $190.
Cheval Blanc Paris
It seems logical that Cheval Blanc would open its first urban hotel where so many of its guests reside, and where better than within the iconic La Samaritaine? With nearly 600 artisans involved in the restoration and works by international artists on display throughout the space, Cheval Blanc Paris feels like entering a living museum, where you can very comfortably spend the night. Almost all of the 72 elegant rooms, most of which are spacious suites, overlook the Seine. The seventh-floor Art Deco brasserie and cocktail bar, Le Tout-Paris, is the place to be before escaping to the underground spa run by Dior. Rooms start at $1,254.
The Rooster — Greece
The Rooster is unlike other Greek islands: it's thoughtfully designed and respectful of its natural surroundings, with a holistic attitude toward wellness, slow living, and farm-to-table food that feels genuinely thoughtful. Her House of Healing, which offers real Ayurvedic treatments, Reiki and Qigong sessions, is more about feeling than looking (though the ila facials are superb and the whole place is aesthetically impeccable). Add to that the beautiful, spacious villas with private pools, expansive terraces, and stunning sea or valley views, and you're bound to feel deeply relaxed and rested during your stay. Rooms start at $765.
Soho House Rome
The Roman branch of Soho House is dynamic and modern, housed in a restored ten-story building with an industrial feel. The property is next to La Sapienza University. The theme of visual art is very present in the hotel, with a dedicated gallery and a 42-seat screening room. All rooms (49 rooms and 20 apartments) offer unparalleled views of the mountains and the Eternal City. The restaurants include a catering bar and lounge on the first floor and an exclusive restaurant upstairs. The rooftop cocktail bar, with its lemon trees, striped linen blinds and velvet stools, looks like it's straight out of Rome's Dolce Vita era. Rooms start at $195.
MarBella Elix — Greece
From its hilltop location, the MarBella Elix offers breathtaking views of Paxos, Antipaxos, Corfu and the glistening Ionian Sea. The Elix's reception area is a kind of heavenly spa, with barn-high ceilings and windows that frame the endless view. Colorful tapestries hang everywhere, imbuing the place with the history of local craftsmanship and complementing the overall atmosphere of sunny modern luxury. From the ever-popular Greek and Mediterranean buffet to the even more creative Greek cuisine, the food and drinks are all local and delicious. Activities range from kayaking in hidden bays to mountain and coastal biking, outdoor yoga sessions, sailing lessons, and snorkeling around the underwater meadows. Rooms start at $185.
The Reykjavík Edition — Iceland
Reykjavík finally has the five-star hotel it deserves with this sexy newcomer, a mix of everything we love about Edition hotels with plenty of Icelandic flair. A huge black lava rock, dotted with faux fur blankets and pillows, anchors the hotel's expansive lobby, with a huge, undulating wall projection of the northern lights at the other end. The Tides restaurant (helmed by chef Gunnar Karl Gísalson, the man behind Reykjavík's famed Dill restaurant) serves up same-day seafood and high-quality meats, while the spa takes rejuvenation to a whole new level. Rooms start at $420.
Borgo Santandrea — Italy
If you wanted to land the most prestigious address in Amalfi, this would be it: perched high on the cliffs, built into the rock face overlooking the sea, and overlooking the charming fishing village of Conca dei Marini. The property's original elements, dating back to the 1960s, have been enhanced by a magical team of local Amalfi craftsmen. Details like landscaped gardens and museum-worthy vintage pieces make this one of the most interesting arrivals in Italy in years. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and sea views, but ask for an infinity pool option if you don't want to have to head to the private beach or communal pool to cool off. Rooms start at $1,006.
Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel — Italy
This former renaissance palatial resort is as glamorous today as it was when it was owned by the wealthy Florio family. Raw woods, lots of marble, touches of Art Nouveau, and elegant, comfortable rooms. The large terrace for cocktails is perhaps one of the most special spaces in Palermo. In the evening, it comes alive with all the characters that this establishment attracts. While a pianist tinkers in the corner, tables of Europeans effortlessly switching between languages and wearing outfits that seem intentionally packaged for cocktail hour sip martinis and nibble on olives. The scene is so mesmerizing that you feel like you've entered a new world. Rooms start at $675.
Ca’ di Dio — Italy
Few Venetian luxury hotels dare to challenge the antique, chandelier and velvet look that is the city's default option. The Ca' di Dio turns the rules of the game on their head while maintaining a warm, local feel-think Rosso di Verona marble bathroom fixtures, walls covered in shimmering lagoon green fabric and specially commissioned Murano lamps vaguely reminiscent of Art Deco. Its location near the twin sites of the city's Art and Architecture Biennials is compelling bait for the kind of international and artistic clientele that Ca' di Dio has already begun to attract; and if the hotel's Vero restaurant lives up to its initial promise, it will be another great addition to the city's suddenly vibrant dining scene. Rooms start at $450.
Il Tornabuoni — Italy
Located on Florence's most elegant thoroughfare, Hotel Il Tornabuoni attracts fashion enthusiasts and travelers looking for a quieter address. Milanese Andrea Auletta's bright, elegant interiors breathe new life into the property's original bones without making the place feel cookie-cutter. The lovely frescoes in the Il Magnifico suite, for example, are delightful in their whimsy. The Lucie Gourmet restaurant feels like dining inside an Art Deco showcase, with its gilded mirrors, roses, and teals that look like gems, while the Butterfly Terrace offers great views of the city - be sure to drink an Aperol after a sightseeing or shopping trip. Rooms start at $400.
One&Only Portonovi — Montenegro
Set on the rolling coastline of Boka Bay, One&Only Portonovi takes its cues from the local Italianate architecture of nearby medieval towns, with arched windows, stone colonnades, and terracotta roofs that stand proudly above palm-filled gardens that line a sandy beach. The rooms are soothing and spacious (Suite One even has its own 268-bottle wine cellar), decorated in a muted palette of taupe, beige and gray. At the impressive spa, guests can embark on one- to seven-day programs, with high-tech exams conducted by on-site doctors. The two flagship restaurants are the beachfront Sabia and the more low-key Tapasake Club by former Nobu chef Yannick Bayjoo. Rooms start at $912.
Hotel âme — Netherlands
Not so long ago, spending a night in Rotterdam meant booking a bland business hotel or a faded historical number. In recent years, however, new boutique hotels have popped up all over the city, and Soul, with its Scandinavian-Japanese design and third-wave coffee-shop vibe, is the smartest of them all. Regardless of the hotel type, rooms are universally austere, with subtly plastered walls and palettes of taupe and beige. Bathrooms feature black steel fixtures, while linen bedspreads and curtains add a tactile touch. You'll need to venture outside for meals, but given the hotel's prime location on Eendrachtsplein, finding great restaurants within walking distance is a breeze. Rooms start at $119.
The Ivens, Lisbon, Autograph Collection — Portugal
Like an oasis hidden in the city (but not hidden from it), Ivens, Lisbon, Autograph Collection, is inspired by the journey of 19th century Portuguese explorers Ivens and Capelo. From the moment you walk in the door, you're greeted by tropical plants, parrots, macaws, beetles, velvet chairs and gold detailing. The 87 rooms allude to flora and fauna through the colorful notes of the wallpapers and rugs. The hotel's restaurant, Rocco, is already one of the places to be right now in Lisbon, as it is filled day after day with creatives, artists and bohemians. Rooms start at $425.
NoMad London
Located just across the street from the neoclassical ambience of the Royal Opera House, NoMad is housed in a former courtyard. The center stage is the courtyard restaurant, a three-story glass atrium that rises like a Victorian greenhouse and is adorned with hanging plants. There's a sense of theater throughout the hotel, draped in velvet and lit by vintage chandeliers. Rooms reflect a mix of Art Deco and 1920s Victorian style: faded Oriental rugs, sofas the color of Bellinis peaches, portraits and exhibition posters scattered about, and bathrooms filled with wavy glass, mosaic tiles and lamps that Mae West would walk out in a mink robe. Rooms start at $555.
Six Senses Ibiza — Spain
Six Senses Ibiza is a place where you can truly rest, recharge and reset. Newcomers enjoy a brief but energizing shamanic smoke cleansing ceremony before descending into the hotel proper, an earthy enclave dotted with swaying rattan lanterns and bamboo-covered roofs. The spa is spotless, the infinity pool sublime, and guests can paddleboard or kayak from a ladder directly into the sea. Minibars stock adaptogens and CBD-infused soft drinks to sip on the private terraces, most of which have daybeds, dining tables and moon-like outdoor lamps. Some guests choose to stay for a month or more, and it's not hard to see why. Rooms start at $490.
Hotel Castello di Reschio — Italy
Because it's an eleventh-century castle owned by glamorous aristocrats, the term "fairy tale" is likely to be used often to refer to Hotel Castello di Reschio, and not inappropriately so. The property spans 3,700 acres filled with oak and chestnut trees, olive groves and carefully trellised vineyards. The 36 rooms are arranged around a central courtyard, their shapes and proportions dictated by the irregularity of the original building. The two main restaurants serve an ever-changing menu of carefully executed classic Italian dishes. And the spa is perhaps the most enchanting space of all, occupying a series of adjacent cellars beneath the Palm Court. Rooms start at $860.
Can Ferrereta — Spain
In the past, tourists only visited the small town of Santanyí on day trips, but Can Ferrereta has changed that, becoming a destination in its own right. The original structure was renovated by architect Sergi Bastidas, who added two new buildings and completed what is an exceptional exercise in minimalism and exquisite taste in 32 rooms (more than half are suites), a 3,000-plus-square-foot spa with an indoor pool and two restaurants. Your jaw is sure to drop once you reach the main pool area, a relaxing landscape interrupted only by the sound of the breeze kissing the surrounding bushes. Rooms start at $345.
Beaverbrook Town House — England
With a destination restaurant and a beautifully designed bar, Beaverbrook Town House already has the feel of a true local haunt. Just past the welcoming doorman, a Japanese apothecary cabinet marks the entrance to Sir Frank's Bar, an arsenic-colored Art Deco bar that has quickly become the after-work hangout for Chelsea's chic clientele. Sophisticated Japanese restaurant The Fuji Grill serves the freshest sushi and sashimi; the best seats are at the counter for a sensational 20-course omakase dinner. Pro tip: On a sunny day, ask the front desk for a key to the peaceful Cadogan Gardens, a private property across the street from the hotel that has tennis courts and a playground. It's the perfect place for a picnic. Rooms start at $645.
OKU Ibiza — Spain
If there's one place where you can find inner peace and connect with yourself, it's OKU Ibiza. This laid-back luxury retreat is a little paradise within a paradise, and the best place to discover (or rediscover) the so-called white island: Think wabi sabi inspired design, two serene pools, regular yoga sessions and fusion cuisine. The hotel also boasts a prime location that gives you access to the island's most beautiful spots, from large sandy shores to small hidden coves, as well as popular beach clubs and ocean-view restaurants. Rooms start at $245.
Cristine Bedfor Guest Houses Mahón — Spain
A personal project of Cristina Lozano and Daniel Entrecanales (and designed by Lorenzo Castillo), Cristine Bedfor is an unclassifiable guesthouse located in downtown Mahón, the capital of Menorca. The 21 rooms eschew the typical Mediterranean decor of blues and whites. Instead, you'll find walls covered in intense greens and mustards, a profusion of fabrics and floral prints, and furniture purchased from island antique shops. The patio pool is small and secluded, one of those that makes up for the minutes without the sea but doesn't replace it: This is Menorca, after all. Here, no one would trade the sea for anything. Rooms from $131.
Glebe House — England
This late-Georgian mansion features six rooms - with hand-painted lamps, geometric tiles and floral wallpaper - in a setting of such pastoral perfection that you'll find yourself pinching yourself. And here, life in the slow lane comes with added culinary power. Produce is grown locally, butter and yogurt are made in a large kitchen prepared in the cottage behind the main house, and a temperature-controlled aging room produces pickles and charcuterie. All of this is incorporated into the Italian-influenced menu: antipasti of homemade salami, peas and beans, and fresh white cheese; then zucchini and crab linguine and barbecued lamb rump with heirloom tomatoes, topped off with a strawberry and alder blossom custard pie. Rooms start at $180.
The Woodward — Switzerland
The Woodward is by turns wild and lavish, modest and delicate. The eclecticism you are confronted with when you enter the hotel - a deliberately dissonant mix of crystal, marble, murals, Victorian gold lacquer, mid-century modernism and Macassar ebony - gradually subsides, but the initial sense of sparkle and drama persists. Each of the 26 suites is adorned in glorious, richly textured style. The Guerlain spa is a real standout. In addition to the spa itself, there's a 70-foot pool, two saunas, two steam rooms, a whirlpool, a gym and - get this - a cigar lounge. Rooms start at $1,015.
The Pig in the South Downs — England
The much-loved Pig is expanding to Sussex with this clever country estate, which finally opened in 2021 after years of whispers. The rooms are rustic, oak and brass, with plump beds, Tunnock caramel wafers next to the coffee machine, and the usual monsoon showers. At breakfast, eggs and tea are piping hot, as they should be. A two-acre vegetable garden was dug in 2019 and provides chef Kamil Oseka (previously at the Pig at Bridge Place) with peppers and tomatoes, stone fruits and edible flowers. If you can tear yourself away from your hot tub or your well-stocked table, get out and explore the South Downs and all it has to offer. Rooms start at $280.
The Harper — England
The Harper Hotel fills a contemporary void in the historic villages of North Norfolk. This versatile hotel retains the laid-back village vibe, with cozy nooks and bright, airy living spaces, but also embraces a more modern aesthetic, with fairy lights, giant emoji artwork, and an ecocentric philosophy. The spa is definitely worth booking, with an indoor pool flooded with natural light. Sample the seasonal menu at Stanley's, then end your evening at Ivy's lounge: settle in with a good book by the wood stove or pour yourself a glass of wine from the dispenser in the corner as you watch the sunlight slowly decline. Rooms start at $247.
Baja Club Hotel — Mexico
With the opening of the Baja Club Hotel on the esplanade in La Paz, the coastal city now has its first true boutique hotel. Attracting the artistic and creative elite from Mexico City and beyond, the 32-room Spanish Colonial-style property serves as a jumping-off point for further explorations in the Sea of Cortez, whether it's swimming with the region's seasonal visitors-whale sharks and blue whales-or taking boat trips to the biodiversity-rich Espíritu Santo Island. All rooms have balconies, private outdoor patios or decks, cream and coral striped banquettes, and Grupo Habita's classic minibar: a bottle of homemade Mezcal to sip. Rooms start at $290.
Saba Rock — British Virgin Islands
Moskito Island — British Virgin Islands
Although more expensive than your average luxury hotel, Moskito Island makes the life of a billionaire a little more accessible. Five-star restaurants are replaced by private chefs, hotel suites by exclusive properties, and concierges by dedicated house managers capable of doing almost anything you want. The only guests in sight are members of your immediate circle, unless you decide to venture out to Manchioneel Beach's communal beach, complete with floating trampoline and ready bartenders, or to the Beach House, a community recreation area where you can play tennis and mingle with the estate's owners (you might even catch a glimpse of Richard Branson in person). Properties start at $17,500.
Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya — Mexico
Habitas Bacalar — Mexico
A four-hour drive south of touristy Cancún, Habitas Bacalar's discreet entrance on the side of a secluded road makes you feel like you've been let in on a big secret. The facility is small - only 34 rooms, each accommodating a maximum of two people - and has a very communal atmosphere. The hotel strives to bring the community to you, hosting local vendors for experiences such as wine and cocoa tasting, and partnering with local businesses for free paddle board tours, yoga classes and more. The wellness program uses local ingredients for spa products, and the Siete restaurant uses traditional Mayan cooking techniques. Rooms start at $380.
Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth
The newly reopened Rosewood Le Guanahani sits along an 18-acre peninsula overlooking Marigot Bay, the other side of the island. For this reason, the resort feels much more secluded than some of its competitors, with each of its 66 discreet cottages (all with private entrances; many suites have private pools) surrounded by lazily falling palms and other local wildlife. Another advantage of its location on this quiet peninsula on the northeast coast? The endless breeze that flows through the oceanfront infinity pool and into the Beach House St. Barth, an airy restaurant that feels more like the home of a chic Mediterranean or French Riviera friend than a Caribbean resort restaurant. Rooms start at $1,253.
The St. Regis Bermuda Resort
If you crave a dose of easy but high-level relaxation, this new St. Regis is for you. Away from the nightly revelry and beach shots, it's a place for languid days around the pool, hours set aside for golf and massages, and slow dinners overlooking the ocean. The food is always light and fresh - just what you want when you're sitting in the Bermuda sun all day - and it incorporates plenty of local produce, especially fresh fish in abundance. The rooms maintain the hotel's upscale but casual vibe, with shades of mint green, blue and light stone throughout. Rooms start at $550.
Inness — Accord, New York
Within the first few minutes of arriving at this rustic yet refined resort, you realize the positive evolution it heralds for hospitality in the Catskills. With 28 cabins, a 12-room farmhouse and a social center, it marries Scandinavian-style minimalism and throwback Americana with echoes of the Borscht Belt summer resorts once ubiquitous in this part of the state. There's an excellent restaurant, of course, with a menu of comfort food with shades of Italian and Middle Eastern cuisine. The surrounding area is a hiker's and biker's paradise from spring through fall; in winter, the cabins, with their simple Shaker-style furnishings and wood-burning stoves, are cozy retreats for relaxing under a blanket and gazing at the frosty landscape. Rooms start at $285.
The Ryder Hotel — Charleston, South Carolina
Inspired by Jack Kerouac's semi-fictional character Japhy Ryder, this Charleston hotel is all about shaking things up and savoring the journey. (If you miss that undercurrent when you arrive, there's a photo of a topless woman strumming a guitar in the hallway to remind you to relax a bit.) A welcome craft cocktail, mixed to order, greets you at check-in. At Little Palm, the indoor/outdoor poolside hangout, the sounds of shakers and Motown grooves get your feet tapping, whether you're wearing flip-flops, acrylic heels or no shoes at all. And when it's time to relax, the La Bottega robes, walk-in showers, and airy room aesthetic are there to help. Rooms start at $319.
The Loutrel — Charleston, South Carolina
The Loutrel Hotel enters the Charleston hotel landscape with new construction and a prime location just south of City Market. The 50-room boutique hotel has a decidedly contemporary look and feel, and it constantly seeks to bring the outdoors in: calamondine orange topiaries flank the lobby, delicate cherry blossom branches dot the floral arrangements as the seasons change, and live orchids grace each room. The rooms are clean, minimal and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows and double-panel dividers. The Loutrel's main attraction is its rooftop terrace, which overlooks the mature tree line of Charleston's historic French Quarter. Early risers enjoy their morning coffee here as they watch the sun light up part of the harbor and return a few hours later to enjoy an evening cocktail. Rooms start at $299.
The Green O — Greenough, Montana
The Green O offers a rare level of casual luxury in a unique, wilderness setting. Its location in the Montana forest recalls simpler days when hunting and gathering was a way of life, but it also offers some of the most advanced accommodations in the world in terms of design, service and cuisine. All 12 units are similar in size and have floor-to-ceiling windows, and food is a serious matter: A tasting menu is served nightly at the Social Haus and tailored to your preferences. Courteous, but not overly so, the knowledgeable staff will attend to your every need, whether it's providing a personalized thermos of tea for the road or scheduling your game of cow croquet. Rooms start at $2,005.
Faraway Nantucket — Massachusetts
Nantucket is an odd beach destination, where you go as much for the great sandy beaches as for the town charms and history. The Faraway falls into the latter, right in the middle of town, with bikes to take you to the sand, but a contemporary design and patio scene that makes you want to come back. In a city filled with outdoor drinking patios, the patio you want to be on is Faraway. It's a total delight, with rattan furniture, vintage umbrellas, potted plants and outdoor couches that make it the perfect spot for cocktail hour. Rooms start at $245.
Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection — New Mexico
For ages, Santa Fe has attracted visitors with its rich history, cultural diversity, mystical landscape and extraordinary arts scene. All of these charms come together at Bishop's Lodge, a century-old resort that reopened in the summer of 2021 after a $75 million renovation. It's an upscale but unpretentious place to immerse yourself in nature, adventure, spiritual healing and local traditions, all in the signature comfort of the Auberge Resorts collection. The Stream Dance Spa is sure to be the highlight of your visit. Rooms start at $999.
Four Seasons Resort Hualālai — Hawaii
After a multi-million dollar, multi-year renovation that saw the refreshment of all rooms, expansion of its family-friendly villa offerings, a sleek new pool and several updates to its world-class golf course, Four Seasons Resort Hualãlai feels better than ever. Each accommodation type - room, suite or villa - is spacious, with private outdoor space, while all ground-floor rooms feature outdoor showers made of lava stone and planted with birds of paradise and other tropical flowers. The recently expanded two-story villas are a game-changer for the property and offer top-notch luxury for families or groups of friends traveling together. Rooms start at $1,100.
Pendry Manhattan West
The Pendry Manhattan West aims to bring a West Coast vibe to Midtown Manhattan, with 30 spacious suites (all with floor-to-ceiling windows) and 164 rooms, modern furnishings, abundant greenery and warm recessed lighting in the rooms and common areas. The resulting clientele is mostly cool creatives looking for a place to retreat. You'll find them posing on their laptops in the lounges during the day and heading to the Pendry Bar on the first floor for an innovative cocktail with friends in the evening. Arrive with busy days on Manhattan's West Side, knowing you'll have a quiet space to recharge in the evening, with fluffy slippers and macaroons at bedtime. Rooms start at $695.
Pendry West Hollywood
In the heart of West Hollywood, The Pendry is located across the street from The Comedy Store, great shopping and world-class restaurants. The hotel features 149 rooms, 40 residences, a rooftop pool, an elegant private social club that would make SoHo swoon, a spa, a bowling alley and several Wolfgang Puck restaurants. If you can, opt for one of the hotel's 37 suites, which feature art collections and opulent, exaggerated modern furnishings in vibrant electric blue and gold tones that give the room a playful Hollywood Regency aesthetic. Rooms start at $525.
Piaule Catskill — New York
Of the many boutique hotels that have sprung up in the Catskills in recent years, none more easily combines smart sustainable design, wellness and stylish escape than Piaule. If the view from the designer cabins isn't enough to get you ready for a day of mindfulness, the spa surely will. Large and communal, it consists of raw cedar walls, with that wonderful smell lingering just right, and spaces including a relaxation room and a large saltwater pool. The entire property is very neat, but there's an element of solitude that any New Yorker will surely appreciate. Rooms start at $499.
Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley — California
Napa has a handful of excellent hotels and no shortage of fabulous wineries and tasting rooms, but this is the first full-service luxury resort to marry the two. The property's 85 rooms and suites, as well as 20 private residences, are surrounded by acres of vineyards. The bar and dining room are stunning (high ceilings, a glass kitchen and a wall of glass doors leading to a huge terrace with a fireplace), but they're made cozy with banquettes and warm lighting. The winery and tasting room are another way this hotel sets itself apart. It's a dream to be able to walk from your room to a tasting without having to worry about driving or calling a car. Rooms start at $1,200.
The Boca Raton — Florida
Boca Raton has undergone a $200 million makeover, and it's ready to show it off. The 200-acre resort is wedged between a half-mile of private waterfront and an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary (and divided by Lake Boca Raton)-an elevated option for enjoying Florida's famed sunshine and water activities, with immaculate, light-filled interiors overlooking towering palms, upscale amenities galore, and a luxury outdoor lifestyle that entices you to stay in the sun a bit longer. The property offers pontoon and catamaran cruises, as well as two water cabs that transport guests to the private beach. Because if you haven't been on the water in Florida, have you really been in Florida? Rooms start at $475.
The Hythe, A Luxury Collection Resort, Vail — Colorado
Thanks to Hythe, Vail's Bavarian-inspired Lionshead Village finally has a hotel rooted in European ski (and après-ski) culture, which you'll notice the moment you enter. A huge glass fireplace anchors the lobby, and skiers fresh off the slopes order whiskey cocktails at 10th Mountain. The hot tub and heated pool are bustling with guests, and families gather around nearby fire pits to roast free marshmallows. With a fantastic restaurant and trendy bar, guests don't have to head to Vail Village for evening entertainment, and the spa's recovery-focused therapies will keep your days on the slopes flowing. Rooms start at $699.
Hotel Saint Vincent — New Orleans
Located in New Orleans' Lower Garden District, just beyond downtown, the splendid 75-room Saint Vincent Hotel is both close to and away from the crowds. Its countless porches, shady palm trees and subtle, attentive service are a gateway to Uptown, where time slows and light filters through the live oaks like it did a century ago. The St. Vincent's amenities alone could keep you busy for a day and a night-two bars, two restaurants, a boutique and a pool-and the rooms, outfitted with elegant furnishings, dark hues and psychedelic candy-colored wallpaper, are a balance of serenity and playfulness. Rooms start at $409.
1 Hotel Toronto
Hotels in Canada's largest city tend to be either business or bohemian-chic. This lush new exception - a literal urban oasis that takes sustainability seriously - stands out for its biophilic design, impressive conservation programs and real community spirit. Rest assured, however, that the luxury factor has not been compromised. While in-room tumblers and decanters are made from reclaimed wine bottles, the impeccably stocked minibars still contain small-batch Veuve Clicquot champagne and Dillon's gin. And did we mention the rooftop pool that offers waterfront service and a stunning view of the downtown skyline? Rooms start at $450.
Resorts World Las Vegas
The first resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip in more than a decade, Resorts World Las Vegas combines celebrity residences, restaurants new to Las Vegas and three separate hotels into one property. The audience here is quite young: They're tech-savvy partiers with money to spend on entertainment and shopping. Suites vary from hotel to hotel, but some have features like in-room massage guns. In terms of dining, options range from $20,000 steaks that make headlines to food stands configured like a Southeast Asian street market. Awana Spa is certainly worth spending some time at, if only to see what the fountain of youth is for women. Rooms from $71.
Ace Hotel Brooklyn
The lobby of any Ace hotel is the place to be, and its Brooklyn outpost is no different. There are public workspaces galore, including a library-style table, a plant-filled garden and a dark bar with comfortable seating, and many guests, residents and employees use them all. Most of the hallmarks of Ace decor are present in all 287 rooms: plywood furniture that offers both form and function, local artwork and splashes of color (in this case, a deep green). But the room designs also draw on the architecture of the industrial building, with exposed concrete and warehouse windows. Rooms start at $249.
The Colony Palms Hotel and Bungalows — California
This private, adults-only luxury hotel, created by famed designer Steve Hermann, is located in the heart of Palm Springs, but offers a more relaxed and exclusive vibe than its neighbors. (Fireplaces and private nooks are scattered throughout the property, surrounding a verdant, palm-fringed pool that glistens beneath the San Jacinto Mountains. Bold wallpaper, sky-high ceilings and lots of greenery are the punchlines of all room categories, with suites offering private verandas with garden seating. Chef Michael Hung has upped the ante for poolside dining at The Colony Club, where you'll find excellent variations on California Mediterranean cuisine. Rooms start at $399.
Montage Big Sky — Montana
Montage Big Sky has always been more rough than fine, but the opening of this slopeside resort has Aspen and Jackson Hole faithful rethinking their next ski vacation. With an 11,000-square-foot spa (the first true spa in the area), a lively bar scene and top-notch restaurants, the property guarantees that even non-skiers will be kept busy. Most of the 139 rooms, suites and residences have decks and balconies with mountain views, and the gas fireplaces light up at the flip of a switch. Head to Beartooth Pub & Rec for a menu of comfort food, like Wagyu nachos and oversized hot pretzels served with smoked beer and cheese dip. Rooms start at $495.
The Newbury Boston
Located on one of Boston's most picturesque corners, the Newbury Boston opened in May 2021 after a two-year renovation. Its 286 rooms include 90 suites, some with wood-burning fireplaces (birch logs provided) and views of the downtown skyline across the park. Trendy Bostonians flock to the rooftop restaurant, Contessa, which is currently booked weeks in advance. As for art lovers, they come here for the art walls that feature works and tributes to some of America's most iconic creators, from Yousuf Karsh's portrait of Ernest Hemingway next to the lobby bar to paintings by artists like Elise Ansel throughout the property. Rooms start at $476.
The Langham, Boston
In the heart of Boston's financial district, this Langham offers as much style as comfort. The ground-floor whiskey bar and a cavernous Italian restaurant in the former bank's grand lobby, located near the picturesque Post Office Square, have made Bostonians eager to return to the building for cocktails or a brunch reservation since the property closed in 2019 for a two-year facelift. But the real treasures are in the rooms, where creature comforts like velvet-soft robes and a heavenly bed can make you forget about the busy world outside. Book a suite for top-floor views and a massive white marble bathroom. Rooms start at $425.
Thompson Austin
The new skyscraper is expected to re-energize a sleepy corner of downtown Austin, with two ground-floor restaurants helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Mashama Bailey, a design- and music-focused bar and pool on the fourth floor, and a two-hotels-in-one concept that appeals to professionals and urban adventurers alike. It's one of Hyatt's first attempts to combine the Thompson and the Tommie (the luxury brand's little brother). Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the city skyline, and the rooms also feature Nespresso coffee makers and bars that are far from mini with Texas-sourced snacks and spirits. At bedtime, you'll get Earlybird CBD gummies and a Skin Authority eye kit - a welcome upgrade from the usual dark chocolate and weather report. Rooms start at $329.
Posada Ayana — Uruguay
Posada Ayana's elegant yet casual approach to luxury hospitality has quickly made its way onto the radar of sun-seeking HNWs and well-traveled art lovers. The main attraction is Ta Khut, the latest Skyspace by American artist James Turrell and his first work in Uruguay. After two years of work, this unexpected white marble pyramid that stands out from the sand dunes has significantly raised the cultural level of the area. When not taking in the sunrise light show, guests can sway on their private terrace, mingle with art dealers and plastic surgeons at the communal dining table, and sip orange juice by the green marble infinity pool. Rooms start at $425.
Villa Bokéh — Guatemala
Located on the outskirts of Antigua's cobblestone downtown, this elegant 15-room boutique hotel offers a perfect view of Volcán de Agua, one of three volcanoes that frame the colonial Guatemalan city. The hotel is part of the Relais & Chateaux group, which means that the service is more concierge-like and upscale. The hotel staff can book custom experiences for guests, whether it's an on-site tasting of local corn varieties in small dishes or a natural dyeing workshop at a local textile studio. Most suites have private balconies or walled gardens with bonfires, while the greenhouse-style restaurant focuses on showcasing regional and indigenous Guatemalan ingredients. Rooms start at $264.
Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection — Costa Rica
Hacienda AltaGracia's commitment to wellness and service begins the moment you land on the property's private airstrip. Grab a coffee from the on-site plantation before heading to one of the 50 casitas, many with private pools. From there, it's up to you: Take a six-hour hike at sunrise? Take a horseback ride to a nearby farm? Lounge by the pool with a pineapple, turmeric and ginger juice? Enjoying an immersive river bath and a craniosacral facial at the spa? It's done and done. A stay at Hacienda AltaGracia is like stepping through a portal to another world, except that here, everyone's highest priority is you. Rooms start at $1,410.
Explora El Chaltén — Argentina
This excursion-based adventure lodge makes Patagonia both accessible and affordable from a comfortable base in El Chaltén, the young resort town at the northern end of Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina. Explora is more about getting you out of the hotel than keeping you there. The expedition team members (almost all women) are truly remarkable, answering questions before you even think about them and effortlessly switching languages to help different travelers. They not only help you navigate difficult landscapes, but also help you understand them better. If you're willing to forgo an outing, though, the simple spa and carnivore-friendly restaurant are good reasons to stick around. Rooms from $917.
Fasano Trancoso — Brazil
No travel destination in Brazil beats the laid-back, understated glamour of Trancoso, and Fasano Trancoso is its first full-service resort. The vast palm and shrub-covered property is dotted with geometric white bungalows (most with private roof terraces), many of which face the ocean. Fasano classics like the beef carpaccio with black olives and the three-fish crudo are on the menu at the main restaurant. Adults are often spotted sipping rosé by the pool, while children are kept occupied by a discreet army of private nannies and hotel monitors. Rooms start at $520.