Silken sheets whisper beneath your fingertips. A terrace opens to an endless horizon, where the sun dissolves into liquid gold. In these rare sanctuaries, luxury is not just a service—it’s an art form, a symphony of exclusivity, history, and breathtaking beauty.
As travelers seek more than just indulgence, the world’s greatest hotels have evolved into gateways to wonder—places where time slows, senses heighten, and memories are etched forever. Whether perched above a sapphire sea or hidden within palace walls, each destination on this list transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Let’s step inside and discover their secrets.
1. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah – Dubai, UAE
Perched on its private island, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is more than a hotel—it’s a statement. With its sail-shaped silhouette soaring above the Persian Gulf, this architectural wonder embodies Dubai’s insatiable pursuit of luxury. The moment you arrive, a fleet of Rolls-Royces and a personal butler signal that you’re stepping into a world where indulgence knows no limits. The lobby’s 24-karat gold accents, towering aquariums, and a grand staircase with choreographed fountains set the tone for an unparalleled experience.
Step inside one of its lavish duplex suites, where Hermès amenities, a gold-plated iPad, and panoramic views of Dubai’s coastline redefine what it means to stay in luxury. Dining at the Burj is a theatrical affair—whether it’s a meal beneath the sea at Al Mahara, or an afternoon tea at Skyview Bar, suspended 656 feet above the city. At sunset, the infinity pool terraces transform into a golden oasis, reflecting the city’s lights, making for an unforgettable evening.
Key Practical Information:
- Peak Season: November to April (pleasant winter temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities)
- Off-peak: May to September (extreme heat but better rates)
- Getting There: The hotel offers chauffeured Rolls-Royce transfers or a private helicopter ride from Dubai International Airport.
- Ideal Duration: 2–3 nights to fully immerse in the opulence.
- Must-Try Experiences: Afternoon tea at Skyview Bar, dining at Al Mahara, and a sunset swim at the infinity pool.
- Budget Considerations: Ultra-luxury pricing, but worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Cultural Etiquette: Dress modestly in public spaces; tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
- Photography Opportunities: The helipad, the opulent lobby, and the sunset views from the terrace.
2. The Ritz Paris – Paris, France
Stepping into The Ritz Paris is like entering a dream woven with history, grandeur, and whispers of legendary guests. Located in Place Vendôme, this hotel has been a sanctuary for literary icons, royalty, and celebrities. The Belle Époque architecture, antique chandeliers, and gilded décor transport you to an era where luxury was not just a privilege but an art form. As you glide past the soft candlelit corridors, you can almost hear Coco Chanel’s footsteps—after all, she called this hotel home.
Each suite is a masterpiece, draped in silk upholstery, gold-trimmed mirrors, and Louis XVI furniture. But perhaps the most enchanting space is the Bar Hemingway—a cozy, mahogany-scented lounge where Ernest Hemingway once declared he “liberated” the hotel from the Nazis in 1944. Sitting here with a Serendipity cocktail in hand, it’s easy to believe that stories are written in every corner.
Key Practical Information:
- Peak Season: April to October (pleasant weather, high demand)
- Off-peak: November to February (romantic winter charm, lower prices)
- Getting There: Easily accessible from Charles de Gaulle Airport by private car or high-speed train.
- Ideal Duration: 2–4 nights for a complete Parisian luxury escape.
- Must-Try Experiences: Afternoon tea at Salon Proust, a cocktail at Bar Hemingway, and a walk through the historic Place Vendôme.
- Budget Considerations: One of the most expensive stays in Paris, but offers unrivaled elegance.
- Cultural Etiquette: French dining etiquette applies—don’t rush meals, and always greet with “Bonjour” before speaking.
- Photography Opportunities: The courtyard garden, opulent suites, and rooftop terrace views.
3. The Badrutt’s Palace Hotel – St. Moritz, Switzerland
A fairytale castle nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is where winter luxury meets old-world elegance. For over a century, this lakeside gem has hosted Hollywood royalty, European aristocrats, and skiing enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable alpine retreat. Its grand façade, illuminated against snow-covered mountains, creates a scene straight out of a Christmas postcard.
Inside, hand-painted ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and roaring fireplaces set the stage for an experience that blends warmth with sophistication. Guests can indulge in Michelin-starred dining, unwind in the world-famous spa, or hit the slopes at the Corviglia Ski Resort, just a stone’s throw away. The hotel even offers horse-drawn sleigh rides across the frozen lake—a moment so magical it feels like stepping into a classic novel.
Key Practical Information:
- Peak Season: December to March (ski season, winter wonderland)
- Off-peak: June to September (hiking and lake activities)
- Getting There: Fly into Zurich, then take the scenic Glacier Express train to St. Moritz.
- Ideal Duration: 3–5 nights to experience both winter sports and alpine luxury.
- Must-Try Experiences: Skiing at Corviglia, a horse-drawn sleigh ride, and fine dining at IGNIV.
- Budget Considerations: Luxury pricing, but off-season offers better deals.
- Cultural Etiquette: Swiss punctuality is valued—always arrive on time.
- Photography Opportunities: Snow-covered rooftops, the frozen lake, and panoramic mountain views.
4. Aman Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan
Aman Tokyo is not just a hotel—it’s a sanctuary of serenity high above one of the world’s busiest metropolises. From the moment you step into the lobby, where a soaring washi-paper lantern ceiling floats above a minimalist Zen garden, you realize this is a retreat unlike any other.
Blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern architecture, the rooms feature tatami mats, onsen-style bathtubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Mount Fuji on a clear day. The hotel’s spa is one of Tokyo’s finest, offering hot spring-inspired treatments that melt away the chaos of the city below.
Key Practical Information:
- Peak Season: March-April (cherry blossoms) & October-November (fall foliage)
- Getting There: Narita Airport to Tokyo Station, then a quick taxi ride.
- Ideal Duration: 2–4 nights for a balance of relaxation and exploration.
- Must-Try Experiences: Tea ceremony, sushi dining at Aman’s signature restaurant, and a day trip to Hakone.
- Budget Considerations: Expensive but offers a rare level of tranquility in the city.
- Photography Opportunities: Zen garden, skyline views, and the serene spa interiors.
5. The Plaza – New York, USA
Few hotels in the world carry the same level of prestige as The Plaza. Located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, this legendary hotel has been synonymous with New York luxury since 1907. From hosting dignitaries and Hollywood royalty to serving as the backdrop for movies like Home Alone 2 and The Great Gatsby, The Plaza is not just a place to stay—it’s an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric. The moment you step through its gilded doors, the grandeur of its chandelier-lit lobby, intricate gold detailing, and opulent furnishings transport you into a world of old-money elegance.
Every suite at The Plaza feels like a royal residence, blending French Renaissance charm with modern sophistication. The Royal Suite, overlooking Central Park, is fit for a monarch with its gold-trimmed decor, lavish dining area, and a grand piano. Beyond the rooms, the hotel offers indulgent experiences like The Palm Court’s legendary afternoon tea and the Champagne Bar, where toasts are made against a backdrop of city lights. The Plaza is more than just a hotel—it’s where stories are made, and New York’s elite come to see and be seen.
Key Practical Information:
- Peak Season: April to June & September to December (pleasant weather, buzzing atmosphere)
- Off-peak: January to March (cold but great for lower rates and a quieter NYC experience)
- Getting There: Fly into JFK or LaGuardia, then take a private car or yellow cab to Midtown Manhattan.
- Ideal Duration: 2–4 nights to enjoy the luxury and explore the city’s highlights.
- Budget Considerations: High-end luxury pricing, but worth it for a quintessential New York experience.
- Cultural Etiquette: New Yorkers appreciate efficiency—keep conversations brief and avoid blocking sidewalks.
- Photography Opportunities: The grand entrance, The Palm Court, and sweeping views of Central Park from the suites.
6. The Royal Mansour – Marrakesh, Morocco
A stay at The Royal Mansour is unlike any hotel experience—it’s an immersion into Morocco’s imperial luxury. Commissioned by King Mohammed VI, this palace-hotel is designed to reflect the grandeur of a royal Moroccan medina, complete with intricate riads, lush gardens, and an underground network of tunnels ensuring guests enjoy a seamless, unseen level of service. Every detail, from the hand-carved cedarwood ceilings to the intricate zellige tilework, speaks of artisanal mastery. Unlike other luxury hotels, where modernity often overpowers heritage, Royal Mansour is a tribute to Moroccan craftsmanship, built by over 1,500 local artisans who have preserved centuries-old traditions in every corner.
Instead of traditional hotel rooms, guests stay in private three-story riads, each with its own plunge pool, rooftop terrace, and central courtyard. The hammam spa, inspired by ancient Moroccan rituals, is an unmissable experience, where the scent of orange blossom and eucalyptus lingers in the air as expert hands work their magic. Evenings here are best spent in the lantern-lit gardens or savoring a Michelin-starred Moroccan feast at La Grande Table Marocaine. For those looking to step beyond the palace, the Jemaa el-Fnaa market, with its snake charmers, spice stalls, and storytellers, is just a short walk away—offering a sensory experience like no other.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: March-May & September-November (pleasant weather, vibrant souks)
- Getting There: Fly into Marrakesh Menara Airport and take a private car to the medina.
- Ideal Stay: 3–5 nights to soak in the culture and luxury.
- Experiences Worth Having: A traditional hammam, rooftop dining under the stars, and exploring the hidden corners of the medina.
- Budget Considerations: Ultra-luxury pricing, but private riads and unparalleled service justify the cost.
- Photography Gems: Ornate riad interiors, rooftop views at sunset, and the serene garden pathways.
7. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru – Maldives
The Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru redefines barefoot luxury, offering a mix of overwater villas, marine conservation experiences, and one of the world’s best wellness retreats. Unlike other Maldivian resorts, this island isn’t just about indulgence—it’s about discovery. Guests can help rehabilitate injured sea turtles, participate in coral restoration projects, or experience biohacking treatments at the Ayurvedic wellness center. This unique blend of ultra-luxury and eco-conscious living makes it a rare find, where travelers can indulge in unparalleled beauty while giving back to nature.
Each villa feels like a secluded paradise, set against a backdrop of turquoise lagoons and powdery white sand. The best moments here are the unexpected ones—snorkeling alongside manta rays in Hanifaru Bay or watching bioluminescent plankton glow beneath a starlit sky. The resort’s innovative dining includes a sandbank dinner under the open sky, making every meal a memory. For adventure seekers, a seaplane ride over the atolls or a diving excursion into the Maldives’ legendary underwater world reveals a side of the country few get to witness.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: November-April (dry season, perfect for diving)
- Getting There: Fly into Malé, then take a scenic seaplane ride to the island.
- Ideal Stay: 4–6 nights for total immersion in nature and relaxation.
- Unforgettable Moments: Manta ray snorkeling, overwater spa treatments, and dining on a private sandbank.
- Budget Considerations: Premium pricing, but includes top-tier service and exclusivity.
- Photography Must-Haves: Aerial views from the seaplane, glowing plankton at night, and the iconic overwater villas.
8. Hotel de Crillon – Paris, France
There’s something deeply poetic about waking up in Hotel de Crillon, knowing you’re in a place that has hosted royalty, artists, and thinkers for centuries. Perched on Place de la Concorde, this hotel dates back to 1758 and was once a palace before being transformed into an ultra-luxurious retreat. While many luxury hotels in Paris offer grandeur, the Crillon offers an intimacy that feels rare in the heart of the city. Walking through its hallways feels like stepping through a living museum, with hand-restored tapestries, marble columns, and chandeliers that shimmer like falling stars.
The Karl Lagerfeld-designed suites, known as the Les Grands Appartements, offer a contemporary take on 18th-century opulence, complete with marble bathrooms, curated art pieces, and balconies overlooking the Eiffel Tower. But the true highlight? The hotel’s hidden speakeasy, tucked behind a bookshelf, offering an exclusive Parisian nightlife experience. For those who love a touch of history, a private guided tour through the royal apartments unveils secrets from the days when Marie Antoinette roamed these very halls.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: Spring & Autumn (perfect for long city walks and terrace dining)
- Getting There: Private car from Charles de Gaulle Airport or a metro ride to Concorde station.
- Ideal Stay: 2–4 nights to explore Parisian luxury.
- Secret Gems: The speakeasy cocktail bar, a personalized perfume session at Guerlain, and breakfast with a view of Place de la Concorde.
- Budget Considerations: High-end pricing, but the grandeur and exclusivity make it worthwhile.
- Photography Highlights: The grand façade, opulent suites, and intimate courtyard moments.
9. The Oberoi Udaivilas – Udaipur, India
Imagine waking up to the soft golden light reflecting off Lake Pichola, with the Aravalli Hills standing guard in the distance. This is the magic of The Oberoi Udaivilas, a palace-hotel that feels like a living, breathing piece of history. Designed to resemble a traditional Rajasthani palace, the property is a maze of courtyards, reflecting pools, and intricately carved archways. Unlike many luxury hotels that blend into modern skylines, Udaivilas transports guests into a regal world, where peacocks roam freely across lush gardens and candlelit pathways lead to private pavilions.
Guests arrive by private boat, setting the stage for an experience that is as regal as it is romantic. The pool suites open directly into the lake, offering a level of tranquility that’s hard to find anywhere else. For an immersive cultural experience, take part in a private dinner under the domes, complete with live sitar music and candlelit pathways. The hotel’s cooking classes offer a rare opportunity to learn the secrets of Rajasthani cuisine, from delicate saffron-infused curries to rich, slow-cooked laal maas (spicy lamb curry).
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: October-March (cool, pleasant weather)
- Getting There: Fly into Maharana Pratap Airport, followed by a boat ride to the hotel.
- Ideal Stay: 3–5 nights to experience both Udaivilas and the city’s heritage.
- Must-Do Experiences: Boating at sunset, a private astrology session, and Rajasthani folk performances.
- Budget Considerations: Luxury-priced but significantly more affordable than European counterparts.
- Photography Hotspots: The infinity pool merging with the lake, peacock-filled gardens, and intricate jharokhas (balconies).
10. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort – Bora Bora, French Polynesia
If a dream honeymoon had an address, it would be The St. Regis Bora Bora. Nestled on a private atoll, this resort is the pinnacle of tropical seclusion and romance, where the emerald lagoon meets towering volcanic peaks. Unlike many overwater resorts, St. Regis offers one of the largest villa layouts in Bora Bora, ensuring unparalleled privacy and exclusivity.
The resort’s overwater bungalows feature glass floors that reveal vibrant coral reefs beneath, while private infinity pools stretch toward the endless horizon. Dining is an adventure in itself—from French Polynesian fusion dishes under the stars to fresh seafood barbecues on the beach. For those seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences, a private motu picnic on a deserted island awaits. Guests can also embark on a traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe ride, exploring the untouched corners of the lagoon where blacktip reef sharks and manta rays glide effortlessly through the water.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: May-October (dry season, best for water activities)
- Getting There: Fly into Papeete, then take a short island-hopper flight to Bora Bora.
- Ideal Stay: 4–6 nights for a blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Unmissable Experiences: Shark feeding excursions, Polynesian dance performances, and spa treatments over the water.
- Budget Considerations: Luxury pricing, but honeymoon packages offer added value.
- Photography Highlights: The infinity pool at sunset, the iconic Mount Otemanu backdrop, and your private overwater deck.
11. The Langham, Hong Kong – Hong Kong
There’s something uniquely enchanting about The Langham, Hong Kong. While many of the city’s luxury hotels lean towards modern minimalism, The Langham embraces classic European grandeur with its marble pillars, gilded decor, and signature pink roses at every turn. It’s an old-world sanctuary in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui’s buzzing streets, offering a welcome contrast between the city’s high-energy pace and the hotel’s timeless elegance.
One of the most iconic features of The Langham is T’ang Court, its three-Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant, where dishes like braised abalone and crispy roast duck redefine fine dining. The Langham Club Lounge offers skyline views that stretch across Victoria Harbour, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. For those who love high tea, the hotel’s signature afternoon tea experience—complete with British scones and floral-infused teas—feels like a little slice of London in Hong Kong.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: October-December (cool, dry weather and festival season)
- Getting There: Fly into Hong Kong International Airport and take the Airport Express train to Kowloon.
- Ideal Stay: 3–5 nights to experience both luxury and city life.
- Unique Experiences: Michelin-starred dining at T’ang Court, a private Victoria Harbour cruise, and high tea at Palm Court.
- Budget Considerations: Moderate luxury pricing, with excellent value for money in club suites.
- Photography Spots: The glamorous lobby, Victoria Harbour views from the rooftop, and Michelin-starred dishes.
12. The Raffles Hotel – Singapore
To step into The Raffles Hotel Singapore is to step into a colonial-era world of romance and refinement. Opened in 1887, this legendary property has welcomed icons like Rudyard Kipling, Elizabeth Taylor, and even Queen Elizabeth II. While Singapore has no shortage of modern skyscrapers and futuristic hotels, Raffles remains its most iconic address, preserving a rare sense of old-world charm amid the city’s evolution.
The hotel is home to the original Singapore Sling, invented at its Long Bar in 1915. Its suites—each with butler service—open onto tropical courtyards, where the sounds of jazz and the scent of frangipani linger in the air. Unlike many luxury hotels where privacy means isolation, Raffles feels like a social club where history, culture, and elegance intertwine seamlessly.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: February-April & July-August (cultural festivals and moderate humidity)
- Getting There: Fly into Changi Airport, then take a short taxi or MRT ride to City Hall.
- Ideal Stay: 2–4 nights for the full heritage experience.
- Signature Experiences: Enjoying a Singapore Sling at Long Bar, attending a literary salon, and dining at La Dame de Pic.
- Budget Considerations: Priced at heritage luxury rates, but afternoon tea is an accessible way to experience its grandeur.
- Photography Highlights: The grand colonial facade, high tea in The Tiffin Room, and the historic billiard room.
13. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok – Bangkok, Thailand
Few hotels have a legacy as rich as Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, which has been welcoming royalty, writers, and world travelers since 1876. Nestled on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this hotel is a seamless blend of Thai heritage, colonial grandeur, and modern elegance. While Bangkok is known for its vibrant chaos, stepping into the Mandarin Oriental feels like entering a serene sanctuary, where white-jacketed butlers, fragrant lotus flowers, and handcrafted silks set the tone for unparalleled hospitality.
The Author’s Lounge, with its white rattan chairs and polished teak floors, is where literary greats like Joseph Conrad, Somerset Maugham, and Graham Greene once sat penning their masterpieces. Guests can arrive in true luxury via the hotel’s private teakwood boats, which offer a scenic ride across the river. For those seeking rejuvenation, the Thai spa here is considered one of the best in Asia, offering traditional massages in century-old wooden pavilions.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: November-February (cooler, less humid weather)
- Getting There: Fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport, then take a private car or boat transfer.
- Ideal Stay: 3–5 nights to explore Bangkok while enjoying riverfront tranquility.
- Signature Experiences: Afternoon tea at the Author’s Lounge, a sunset cruise on the Chao Phraya River, and a Muay Thai class at the hotel’s wellness center.
- Budget Considerations: Luxury pricing but often more affordable than Western counterparts.
- Photography Highlights: The iconic riverside view, the elegant Author’s Lounge, and the illuminated skyline from the boat.
14. Rosewood Hong Kong – Hong Kong
Towering above Victoria Harbour, Rosewood Hong Kong is a modern masterpiece of high-rise luxury, redefining the city’s hotel scene with its art-centric design, opulent interiors, and panoramic skyline views. Unlike Hong Kong’s classic luxury hotels that lean toward traditional elegance, Rosewood embodies a bold, contemporary style, with curated artworks, sleek marble furnishings, and cutting-edge technology in every room.
The Asaya Spa is a destination in itself, offering bespoke wellness programs that go beyond pampering—think holistic healing treatments, crystal therapy, and guided meditation overlooking the harbor. For those who appreciate fine dining, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, The Legacy House, offers elevated Cantonese cuisine with ingredients sourced from local organic farms. Evening cocktails at DarkSide, the jazz-inspired bar with rare vintage spirits, capture the electric energy of Hong Kong’s nightlife in a refined setting.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: October-December (cooler temperatures and vibrant city events)
- Getting There: Fly into Hong Kong International Airport, then take a private car or the Airport Express to Kowloon.
- Ideal Stay: 2–4 nights for a mix of urban adventure and luxury relaxation.
- Signature Experiences: Bespoke spa treatments at Asaya, a private dining experience at The Legacy House, and a rooftop infinity pool session overlooking Victoria Harbour.
- Budget Considerations: Ultra-luxury pricing, but offers modern extravagance with personalized services.
- Photography Highlights: The infinity pool, sky-high city views from the suites, and the immersive art installations within the hotel.
15. One&Only Palmilla – Los Cabos, Mexico
For travelers seeking Mexican luxury infused with warmth and adventure, One&Only Palmilla is the ultimate retreat. Perched on a dramatic cliffside in Los Cabos, this resort combines hacienda-style elegance, world-class wellness programs, and access to one of the few swimmable beaches in the region. Unlike the party-driven resorts of Cabo, One&Only Palmilla is designed for privacy and serenity, where each suite opens onto the turquoise waters of the Sea of Cortez.
The resort’s butler service ensures every detail is taken care of—from arranging private yacht charters to setting up beachfront movie nights under the stars. The culinary experiences here are second to none, with fresh seafood tacos served at the water’s edge and Japanese-Mexican fusion dining at the famous SEARED steakhouse by Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Adventure lovers can embark on deep-sea fishing excursions, whale-watching tours, or private horseback rides along the coast.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: November-April (perfect for whale watching and warm weather)
- Getting There: Fly into Los Cabos International Airport, then take a 30-minute private car transfer.
- Ideal Stay: 4–6 nights to balance adventure, relaxation, and culinary indulgence.
- Signature Experiences: Private yacht excursions, surf lessons on the exclusive beach, and tequila tastings with a resident sommelier.
- Budget Considerations: Luxury pricing, but often includes all-inclusive packages with exclusive experiences.
- Photography Highlights: Sunset views over the infinity pool, cliffside private villas, and the iconic wooden pier extending into the ocean.
16. Palazzo Versace – Dubai, UAE
Luxury hotels often have a distinct character, but Palazzo Versace Dubai takes it a step further—it’s a fashion statement you can live in. Designed by the Versace fashion house, every detail in this neoclassical masterpiece reflects the brand’s signature opulence, from the Medusa-emblazoned mosaics to the gold-accented furnishings that feel straight off a Milanese runway. It’s not just a stay; it’s an immersion into haute couture living.
One of the hotel’s hidden gems is the Giardino restaurant, a botanical-inspired paradise with greenhouse-like interiors, where guests enjoy a Versace-branded afternoon tea unlike any other. For an exclusive experience, the Palazzo Versace offers private poolside cabanas with tailored butler service, making it a favorite retreat for high-profile guests. If you want to take a piece of the luxury home, the Versace boutique inside the hotel offers exclusive collections not found anywhere else.
Key Practical Information:
- Take a private yacht ride from Dubai Marina, arranged by the concierge.
- Guests can request personalized Versace bathrobes monogrammed with their initials.
- Best time to visit: October-April (cooler temperatures, vibrant city life).
- Visit Dubai Design District (D3), a hub for emerging designers.
- Photography moments: The infinity pool at golden hour, the chandelier-lit lobby, and the grand spiral staircase.
17. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island – Maldives
Most people come to the Maldives expecting overwater villas and endless turquoise waters, but Conrad Maldives Rangali Island delivers something beyond imagination—The Muraka, the world’s first underwater hotel suite, submerged 16 feet below the ocean’s surface. It’s an experience that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a futuristic marine dreamscape.
While the Muraka suite is its biggest draw, another hidden treasure is Ithaa, the world’s first underwater restaurant, where guests dine beneath a glass dome while vibrant fish and manta rays drift overhead. For those craving an ultra-exclusive experience, the resort offers a “Castaway Island” escape, where you’re dropped off on an uninhabited island with a gourmet picnic, a two-way radio, and nothing but the sound of the waves.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: November-April (dry season, best for diving).
- Fly into Malé, then take a scenic seaplane ride to the island.
- Ideal stay: 4–6 nights for total immersion in nature and relaxation.
- Unforgettable experiences: Manta ray snorkeling, overwater spa treatments, and dining on a private sandbank.
- Photography must-haves: Aerial views from the seaplane, glowing plankton at night, and the iconic overwater villas.
18. Shangri-La Hotel – Paris, France
There’s Parisian luxury, and then there’s Shangri-La Paris, a former royal residence that offers arguably the best view of the Eiffel Tower in the city. Unlike the typical high-rise hotels of Paris, Shangri-La is a hidden sanctuary tucked away in a quiet, mansion-lined street in the 16th arrondissement, offering a sense of privacy that even locals envy.
Beyond its regal suites and palatial salons, what makes Shangri-La special is its ultra-rare Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant, Shang Palace—a rarity in a city known for its French cuisine. If you’re an early riser, order breakfast in your suite and watch the Eiffel Tower slowly come to life as the morning light reflects off its iron lattice. At sunset, the hotel’s secluded garden terrace offers a romantic escape from the city’s rush, making it one of Paris’ best-kept secrets.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: Spring & autumn (mild weather, fewer crowds).
- Private car from Charles de Gaulle Airport or a metro ride to Concorde station.
- Ideal stay: 2–4 nights to explore Parisian luxury.
- Signature experiences: Michelin-starred dining at Shang Palace, a candlelit dinner in the secluded garden gazebo, and a private Seine River cruise arranged by the concierge.
- Photography highlights: The grand façade, Eiffel Tower views from the suite balconies, and the intimate courtyard garden.
19. The Dorchester – London, UK
If walls could talk, The Dorchester would tell stories of Hollywood legends, royal rendezvous, and secret wartime meetings. Opened in 1931, this timeless London icon has hosted everyone from Winston Churchill to Elizabeth Taylor, offering classic British luxury with a modern twist. Unlike many historic hotels, The Dorchester’s rooms are constantly updated while maintaining their Art Deco charm, making it a seamless blend of past and present.
What sets this hotel apart is The Promenade, its grand, tree-lined lobby where guests sip some of the finest afternoon tea in England. For a truly exclusive experience, visit The Bar at The Dorchester, where the Vesper Martini—a favorite of James Bond author Ian Fleming—was first crafted. Guests staying in the roof suites get an added treat: panoramic views of Hyde Park with London’s skyline unfolding in the distance.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: May-September (warmer weather, bustling city life).
- Fly into Heathrow Airport, then take a private car or the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station.
- Ideal stay: 3–5 nights to enjoy the best of London in comfort.
- Hidden gems: The Harlequin Suite—where Elizabeth Taylor spent her honeymoon, a private tour of Churchill’s War Rooms arranged by the concierge, and a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce for select suite guests.
- Photography highlights: The Promenade’s grand floral displays, classic London black cabs outside the entrance, and the city lights from the rooftop suites.
20. The Belmond Hotel Caruso – Ravello, Italy
Perched atop the Amalfi Coast’s soaring cliffs, Belmond Hotel Caruso feels like stepping into an Italian Renaissance painting. Once a 11th-century palace, this jewel of Ravello offers uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean, with cascading gardens, stone archways, and frescoed ceilings that tell stories of centuries past. Unlike Positano and Amalfi, which are bustling with tourists, Ravello remains a peaceful escape, making Caruso the ultimate retreat for those seeking quiet luxury.
The infinity pool is a destination in itself, seemingly suspended between the sky and the sea. For the romantically inclined, the hotel offers private moonlit dinners in a secluded garden gazebo, where local violinists serenade guests as they dine on handmade pasta and regional wines. Another hidden gem? Guests can take a complimentary boat ride along the Amalfi coastline, stopping at secret grottos that most travelers never see.
Key Practical Information:
- Best time to visit: May-June & September-October (warm but less crowded).
- Fly into Naples International Airport, then take a private transfer along the scenic Amalfi Drive.
- Ideal stay: 3–5 nights to enjoy Ravello’s beauty.
- Signature experiences: A hike to Villa Cimbrone for breathtaking panoramic views, a private cooking class featuring Amalfi’s famous lemons, and a complimentary boat tour exploring hidden coastal gems.
- Photography highlights: The infinity pool at sunrise, Ravello’s cliffside views, and the candlelit gardens at night.
