The best hotels are more than just a bed, a view and a shower — they’re a haven from the chaos of the outside world. They beckon with swoon-worthy design and boundary-pushing cuisine, and they soothe your soul with a spa experience that’s out of this world. But how do you determine which one is right for you? The good news is that our travel experts have your back when it comes to the top hotels for every taste, destination and budget. This year, we’ve surveyed more than 580 travel journalists, hoteliers and luxury travelers to compile the world’s top properties, from historic grande dames to modern boutiques that offer everything from a state-of-the-art gym to a rooftop bar with jaw-dropping views.
A LUXURIOUS SPOT IN THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS
New York’s best hotels abound with all the trappings of luxury: a swanky suite, a rooftop cocktail lounge with sweeping views, a spa that specializes in Eastern-inspired treatments. But what separates these spots from the crowd is how they deliver their five-star service to guests and how well they fit into the city’s unique culture.
The latest entry into the ranks of NYC’s best hotels is the Aman New York. The 250-room property, which opened last summer in a tony red-stone building on Fifth Avenue, offers both contemporary and classic decor. Natural stone floors, sleek marble bathrooms and an upscale restaurant and spa round out the luxe offerings. The hotel’s prime Central Park location and impeccable staff (hallway butlers, room service and a 24-hour concierge are all on call) make it one of the city’s most highly rated hotels.
Whether you want to surf Siargao or laze on Tubbataha’s coral-lined shores, the Philippines have it all. The country’s pristine beaches and friendly people have made it the world’s leading beach destination for the last six years. With its colonial architecture, lively fiestas and tropical islands, the Philippines is a great place to discover a different kind of paradise.
A CLASSIC IN THE MOST CROWDED CITY
The century-old Plaza is synonymous with New York, and its recent $400 million overhaul turned its huge rooms into private residences. Still, its opulent ambiance, a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park and the 8,000-square-foot Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa are reason enough to spend a night or two in this iconic hotel. And a hallway butler on-call 24 hours a day, plus the option to cruise Manhattan in the hotel’s Rolls Royce, are just an added perk.