The best hotels can make or break a trip. They can give you a home base from which to explore the sights of your destination, provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life and offer a cozy place to recharge. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to selecting a hotel for your next vacation.
The good news is that there are plenty of excellent choices available. The top hotels — as determined by the prestigious 50 Best organization — range from luxury resorts and villas to posh boutique properties. These hotels stand out for their exceptional hospitality and amenities, as well as for offering an unforgettable experience that will be remembered long after your return home.
This year’s top hotel is Passalacqua, an 18th century villa on the edge of Lake Como in Italy. The property was once the home of composer Vincenzo Bellini and abuts seven acres of terraced gardens. Rates start at $1,300 per night. The organization’s debut with a hotel ranking marks its first venture into the sector, though it has long been known for its “World’s Best Restaurants” and “World’s Best Bars” rankings.
For families looking for a luxury New York City hotel, the Conrad New York Midtown provides an ideal home base. The spacious suites — the majority of which are two-roomed — feature separate living, dining and sleeping spaces. Modern furniture and clean lines create a sense of space, while white marble and tile bathrooms add a refined feel to the accommodations.
In the midst of all the luxury, you’ll find an abundance of family-friendly perks at this hotel including a playroom and babysitting services. This hotel also offers a full range of recreational activities such as kayaking and island-hopping.
The Philippines’ 7,000 islands provide endless opportunities for visitors to experience a tropical paradise. These islands, along with a handful of ultra-posh resorts, offer spectacular views, over-the-top service and state-of-the-art facilities.
With over-the-top service and luxurious rooms, this hotel is a great choice for luxury travelers who want to get away from it all and relax in comfort. Rooms at this property are designed to feel like private townhouse residences and feature large windows, modern furnishings and spa-like bathrooms with soaking tubs.
The Mercer is a sleek, sophisticated Manhattan hotel that’s ideal for business travelers or anyone looking to experience the quintessential NYC lifestyle. This hotel features a swanky bar, top-notch fitness center and an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can also enjoy cocktails at the rooftop bar, which offers breathtaking skyline views. Guests can also enjoy a relaxing massage at the spa. The hotel is also located near a number of top NYC attractions.