Since I firmly believe that good hotel recommendations should be shared and not gatekept, I’ve put together a list of favourite hotels our editors have personally stayed at and loved, whether it was for work or leisure. And, as if the lush travel photography isn’t reason enough to dive right in, we’ve also included insider tips to level up your stay, based on our own first-person experience. Click ahead for our hand-picked bucket list hotels that should have a spot on your 2024 travel vision board.
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Kimpton Aysla Mallorca
Location: Santa Ponsa, Mallorca, Spain
Why It’s Special: “If you’re planning an island escape to unwind, Kimpton Aysla Mallorca is the place to book. I spent a weekend here during a stressful period of my life — I was having trouble sleeping and my skin was frequently breaking out as a result — and the stay was just what I needed to feel more balanced and back on track. The lush Mediterranean gardens and sun-drenched outdoor pools were lovely places to plop down and take a breather. The calmness continues into the bright and airy bedrooms, decorated with colourful pottery, each with their own individual terrace or gardens.
“Everything I got to taste, from the horchata welcome drink to the pan con tomate (smashed tomato on bread, a popular Spanish snack) to the fresh sashimi at SABA, the on-site Korean fusion restaurant, was so yummy and nourishing. I’m not exaggerating when I say that I had one of the best massages in my life at the Maison Codage Spa, thanks to a masseuse with innately confident knowledge of where my knots were and had excellent finger pressure. After doing laps at the oasis-like heated indoor pool and drying off in the spa lounge — built with Himalayan salt walls that are meant to relax — I was more than ready to jump right back into my busy day-to-day life.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel WriterPhoto: courtesy of kimpton aysla mallorca.
Venus’ Insider Tip For Kimpton Aysla Mallorca
“The hotel offers Mallorcan pottery classes on-site and it’s a really fun way to take something home from the island with you. Images of nearby flora and fauna and sea life — which also informs the colour palette of the rooms — are distributed for inspiration, and after making your own bowl with clay and painting it, the hotel takes care of the rest and ships the product straight to your home.”
Prices: From £250 per night.
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Photo: courtesy of kimpton aysla mallorca.
University Arms Hotel
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Why It’s Special: “I took my partner here on a long weekend for his birthday and we were surprised by how much we were charmed by this hotel. In fact, it’s probably the most romantic place we’ve stayed together in Europe.
“The hotel feels like a continuation of Cambridge’s “dark academia” atmosphere: You can find 1900s stained glass panels featuring Cambridge University’s college crests in the restaurant and some of the suites. It boasts a massive book collection, which is looked after by an in-house “book butler”. Before your stay, I would recommend getting in touch with the butler with a list of your favourite books, and the butler will curate the collection of books found in your room based on your preferences. This was a nice birthday surprise for my partner, who is an avid reader, and we spent the weekend reading by the window overlooking the greenery on Parker’s Piece, and soaking in the claw foot tub.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel WriterPhoto: courtesy of University Arms Hotel.
Venus’ Insider Tip For University Arms Hotel
“This is more of a tip for venturing outside and exploring Cambridge, but I recommend getting a Love, Cambridge gift card to make your trip more convenient. I could pay for things without revealing how much the bill was (not to ruin the surprise), and it’s a great way to support local small businesses. I also found the website really helpful for discovering the mum-and-pop stores I’d actually like to check out.
“Back onto the hotel: Its Parker’s Tavern Restaurant has a live jazz performance every Friday night and it’s a bit of a celebrity magnet. Just over the course of our dinner there, we spotted a prominent Harry Potter actor and a British TV host among us.”
Prices: From £183 per night.
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Photo: courtesy of University Arms Hotel.
SO/ Paris
Location: Paris, France
Why It’s Special: “As someone who travels to Paris twice a year for Paris Fashion Week, believe me when I say: You would be hard-pressed to find a more stylish room with a better view of the Seine and Eiffel Tower than the one from SO/ Paris.
“The sleek hotel, where the staff members are dressed in covetable uniforms designed by Patou artistic director Guillaume Henry, is the epitome of chic, from the rooftop Bonnie bar — which is a destination of its own that has even locals clamouring for a spot overlooking the aforementioned panoramas of the city — to the design-forward rooms, a lobby coffee shop, and a Codage spa. Tip: Don’t skip breakfast, served at the Bonnie restaurant featuring a wraparound terrace with a prime view of the City of Light.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion DirectorPhoto: Courtesy of SO/ Paris, Gaëlle Le Boulicaut.
Irina’s Insider Tip For SO/ Paris
“The fashion-minded will love SO/Paris’ off-site experiences, including a private shopping session at one of the city’s premiere department stores Printemps, and the option to purchase the unabashedly French beret or striped sweater that the hotel staff wear.”
Prices: From £339 per night.
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Photo: Courtesy of SO/ Paris, Gaëlle Le Boulicaut.
W Algarve
Location: Albufeira, The Algarve, Portugal
Why It’s Special: “Portugal is my happy place, so I knew I wanted to return to this beautiful country ASAP after our summer London wedding for a mini-moon break. After this overwhelming and emotional life event, we desperately needed a couple days just to hunker down with a book, get some sun, and do nothing by the pool (and not speak to anyone). W Algarve turned out to be the perfect place for all of the above. The hotel is tucked on a quiet end of Albufeira, away from the touristy hustle and bustle you find in the centre of town. Evaristo Beach, with its tumbling waves and rocky coastline, is just a five-minute walk away. The rooms are massive even at the lower categories, and all offer a balcony or terrace garden. The blue-and-white decor and colourful tile work, along with kitschy sardine fish-shaped cushions on the bed, created such a fun atmosphere for our mini-moon.
“Our first order of business was refuelling with some cataplana, an Algarvan seafood stew. Market Kitchen, the hotel’s main restaurant, does an authentic version of the dish served in a pan shaped like a flying saucer. The sushi was also some of the freshest I had tasted outside of Japan.
“Keeping in character with most W hotels, the pool area is very much the happening place, with lively DJ sessions at sunset in the summer seasons (pay attention to the daily special cocktails, which are only €10). We got such a fabulous tan just from relaxing in the sun all day, reading on the grass and sipping mango daiquiris by the pool. It was exactly the kind of break from reality we needed.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel WriterPhoto: courtesy of W Algarve.
Venus’ Insider Tip For W Algarve
“Forgot to pack your skincare essentials? Not a problem. The hotel thoughtfully includes makeup remover wipes in the bathroom cabinets, and bottles of sunscreen and aloe vera are provided at the refreshment station by the pool. The Away Spa was a lovely spot to get some time away from the sun, too. Switch between sessions in the sauna and ice bath to get your body feeling awake and energised.”
Prices: From £181 per night.
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Photo: courtesy of W Algarve.
Loisium Wine & Spa Hotel
Where: Mutigny, Champagne, France
Why It’s Special: “I came to France this past October on a press trip with Champagne Nicolas Feuillate — which is actually a very tasty and reasonably priced champagne, by the way — and was absolutely blown away by this hotel. Just going to Champagne was on my bucket list, but staying here for a few days took this trip to an entirely out-of-this-world level.
“It’s kind of in the middle of nowhere, but in a good way: You feel totally disconnected from reality while at the same time just steps away from some of the most famous Champagne vineyards.” — Elizabeth Gulino, Senior WriterPhoto: Courtesy of Loisium Wine & Spa Hotel.
Elizabeth’s Insider Tip For Loisium Wine & Spa Hotel
“Besides the obvious — drinking all the champagne — I’d recommend really taking advantage of the spa aspect of this hotel. While I didn’t have time to book any specific services, the facilities are open to all hotel guests. Enjoy the sauna, steam room, pool, and relaxation area that looks over a vineyard of grapes, and that I may have taken a life changing nap in.”
Prices: From £173 per night.
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Photo: Courtesy of Loisium Wine & Spa Hotel.
Raffles Singapore
Where: Singapore
Why It’s Special: “I’ve been yearning to visit The Raffles ever since I spotted its lavish suites in Crazy Rich Asians, my favourite romantic comedy of all time: It was where Rachel and Nick (the protagonists) spent their first night in Singapore. So, I was really excited that I made it to the hotel this year. The oldest hotel on the island, it went through a massive renovation in 2019, where every corner of the hotel was polished up to the nines.
“The results will make anyone gasp in awe as soon as they enter the Grand Lobby: Natural light streams through the insanely tall ceiling skylight and bounces off the stark white French colonial columns — legend has it that there’s a person on staff responsible for painting over any blemishes every morning. Otherworldly music swells up the space, either coming from a live harpist or the carefully restored Victrola gramophone sitting in a corner. Outside, a cerulean blue wrought-iron fountain from the Victorian era quietly sparkles and adds to the atmosphere. It’s a cliché, but you really feel transported to a different time.
“This is a landmark hotel, so the outdoor pool (overlooking skyscrapers in the city center) and the renovated Raffles Spa are, of course, all impeccable (the Rescue & Release massage really helped me kick my jet lag to the curb). But what was most memorable to me was the guided tour around the premises with the hotel’s resident historian. I loved getting a low-down on all the stunning details and the “history tea” behind them. This place is a living, breathing museum — and just the way I like my bucket list hotels.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel WriterPhoto: courtesy of venus wong.
Venus’ Insider Tip For Raffles Singapore
“The Raffles was famously where the Singapore Sling cocktail was invented. Most people like to sample the drink at the Long Bar, a saloon-style watering hole where patrons are given bags of peanuts to snack on — and the shells are meant to be brazenly tossed across the floor.
“I personally find the cocktail a bit too strong (and the non-alcoholic version too syrupy), but the tall cocktail glasses, with a retro cartoon and Raffles logo stamped across the front, make an amazing souvenir for family and friends. You can pick these up at the hotel gift shop.”
Prices: From £765 per night.
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Photo: courtesy of venus wong.
Pan Pacific London
Location: London, United Kingdom
Why It’s Special: “Pan Pacific London offers everything I love about a city staycation and then some. Its crowning jewel is something that many other five-star, far more expensive properties don’t have: a heated indoor pool overlooking the City of London. Most historic five-star hotels in London have pools set in the basement unit. But here, you can do laps alongside views of red double decker buses and The Gherkin. The well-maintained steam room and sauna are the perfect spots to unwind après-swim.
“The hotel takes the art of sleep very seriously: The sound-proofing is top notch and the everything in the room can be controlled with a smart remote. Before you fall into a deep slumber on the fluffy pillows and Egyptian cotton bedding, make sure to take a long bath in with the diptyque toiletries provided in the bathrooms.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel WriterPhoto: courtesy of Pan Pacific London.
Venus’ Insider Tip For Pan Pacific London
“Don’t let the business hotel vibes fool you: This is a haven for foodies. My one tip is to come very hungry. The hotel breakfast features a very international spread, including chicken curry, wonton soup and kaya toast (all sensational). The lobster laksa noodles at Straits Kitchen is supposed to be legendary; one bowl will cost you £45, so I’m saving up for a special occasion.
“Afternoon tea at The Orchid Lounge is served kopi tiam style — mimicking classic treats you’d get at a Malaysian coffee house. Some of the highly inspired substitutes are Pandan mantou, dim sum with truffle, and matcha-flavoured scones with ginger lily jam.
“The sweets, looking like works of art served on a swinging bird cage, are just as delicious as they look. This is the kind of afternoon tea experience that leave a lasting impression on locals and tourists alike.”
Prices: From £356 per night.
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The Lodge At Blue Sky
Location: Park City, Utah, United States
Why It’s Special: “This was the first Auberge property I’d ever stayed at, and it did not disappoint. The Earth Suites, aka individual bungalows, were just something else, featuring private balconies, outdoor showers (!), and plenty of room to get comfortable.
“The suites truly felt like a mountainside home, and I’ll never forget waking up to unobstructed views of Alexander Canyon. It’s also less than 30 minutes away from the ski mountain, if you want to hit the slopes.” — Karina Hoshikawa, Senior WriterPhoto: courtesy of The Lodge At Blue Sky.
Karina’s Insider Tip For The Lodge At Blue Sky
“The hotel offers complimentary bike (or e-bike) rentals to explore some of the beautiful trails nearby (helmets are also provided, because safety first.) It’s an amazing way to take in the breathtaking views and terrain in Park City.”
Prices: From £1,064 per night.
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Photo: courtesy of The Lodge At Blue Sky.
The Hoxton, Downtown LA
Location: Los Angeles, California, United States
Why It’s Special: “Let’s be real: when it comes to LA accommodation, you can’t beat the value for money at The Hoxton. With a nightly rate that starts at north of £150, you get access to a rooftop pool, hipster chic rooms with comfy beds and massive windows, and that feeling of being a part of an unspoken cool member’s club.
“Sure, the ‘pool’ is more like a plunge pool, and there are certainly no cabanas (in fact, you have to vacate the pool by 6 pm as the cocktail bar takes over). But you’ll be splashing with young creative hotshots with Downtown’s panoramic views at your feet. I spent a Saturday morning here and had the most interesting people-watching session. Young influencer couples tapping their keyboards, Hollywood power brokers on their phones, models with haircuts I’ll never be able to pull off — they all seem to love hanging out by this relatively squeezed pool. But somehow, it all still feels quite welcoming.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel Writer
Venus’ Insider Tip For The Hoxton, Downtown LA
“To fully immerse yourself into the scene, get a dinner booking at Cabra, the hotel’s Peruvian-inspired rooftop restaurant right by the pool. It’s buzzy but still laid-back, and the bartender makes a mean Pisco Sour.”
Prices: From £158 per night.
Book The Hoxton, Downtown LA
Nobu Residences Los Cabos
Location: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Why It’s Special: “What’s better than bringing the aesthetic, style, and culinary dream that is Nobu to a hotel? Taking it up a notch at the Nobu Los Cabos Residences. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Baja California, my stay at the Nobu Residences was luxurious, relaxing, and pristine. The residences have all of the amenities of a traditional hotel room but are equipped with everything you need to really make it your home away from home.
“My one bedroom, 1,000 square foot suite came equipped with a multitude of kitchen appliances including pots and pans (although who needs to cook when you have Nobu on site), a washer and dryer, dining area and living area. The property also boasts a spa, multiple bars and restaurants, including Nobu (of course) and two stunning pools to relax in making Nobu Los Cabos the most perfect getaway.” — Cortni Spearman, Director of Social MediaPhoto: courtesy of Nobu Residences Los Cabos.
Cortni’s Insider Tip For Nobu Residences Los Cabos
“If you do anything at Nobu Los Cabos, a visit to the Essencia Spa is a must. Thank me later.”
Prices: From £336 per night.
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Photo: courtesy of Nobu Residences Los Cabos.
SLS South Beach
Location: Miami, Florida, United States
Why It’s Special: “The SLS South Beach is such a treat if you happen to be in the Miami Beach area. The property is primely located and offers an array of chic, elegant rooms and suites to fit your needs designed by Philippe Starck. There are lots of fun design details to peep, such as a 10-inch tall aluminium duck sculpture.
“If you’re in the mood for relaxation or for a bit of fun, SLS South Beach will more than deliver. Best believe the vibe at Hyde Beach Club, with its legendary pool parties, will satisfy your need for pleasure, and with wagyu steaks from Katsuya right on your doorstep, what more can you ask for?” — Cortni Spearman, Director of Social MediaPhoto: Courtesy of sls south beach.
Cortni’s Insider Tip For SLS South Beach
“I have two pro tips: first, if you sign up for a Dis-loyalty membership (£12 a month), you can get great perks and discounts on this hotel (20% off your first stay) and plenty others. And, If you’re looking to party, make sure get to Hyde early to secure your spot. It fills up really quickly but is well worth the wait.”
Prices: From £354 per night.
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The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
Location: Manhattan, New York, United States
Why It’s Special: “This was one of the most hotly anticipated hotel openings of 2022, and with good reason. The hotel’s location in NoMad puts you right in the centre of the action, within easy walking distance to both major tourist attractions and trendy neighbourhoods like Greenwich Village and Chelsea. But the sights follow you back to the hotel, too: you can spot the Empire State Building and One World Trade in rooms on higher floors.
“Ritz-Carlton is part of a well-known luxury chain owned by Marriott, but this skyscraper feels more like an intimate boutique hotel. I was staying with a friend who had her dog with her, and the staff remembered the name of the puppy from the get-go and couldn’t be more accommodating. Zaytinya, the ground floor restaurant, is a cozy and vibrant space that felt more like a living room that serves delicious mezze and Istanbul-inspired cocktails than an actual restaurant.” — Venus Wong, Senior Travel WriterPhoto: Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad.
Venus’ Insider Tip For The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
“It’s worth noting that Nubeluz, the always fully booked bar on the top floor, is not directly operated by the hotel, so being a guest may not get you very far in securing a last-minute table. I recommend chatting with the staff at the bar at least a day ahead to get this sorted. It’s definitely the kind of place to just stop by for one drink, take in the views, and peace out when you get all the content you wanted.”
Prices: From £650 per night.
Book The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
Photo: Courtesy of nubeluz.
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