The Five best hotels in the world

With travel finally resuming across the globe following the pandemic, the travel industry is more vibrant than ever. And whereas hotels in the past were rendered places to rest up after a lovely day in the outdoors, there is a renewed urge for a holistic travel experience. For many travellers now, checking off the bucket list is just as important as the décor and lighting in the hotel room.

And the renewed enthusiasm in the travel industry has pushed hotel service providers to render the best guest experiences to beat the competition. Care for bubbly crystal champagne and exquisite caviar? Here are the five best hotels in the world.

The Brando, French Polynesia

The idyllic ultra-luxurious found 30 miles north of Tahiti is one of the truest semblances of over-the-top paradisiacal escapes. The estate has over 35 grass-thatched roof villas with each decked with an infinity pool, an outdoor dining spot and all the amenities you would expect to find in five-star hotels in any of the major global capitals.

In addition, each villa has a private stretch of fine sand and the crystalline blue ocean. The resort has even caught the eye of various global celebrities looking to escape the paparazzi and larger-than-life personalities for a laze on the beach. These include Former US President Barack Obama, Ellen DeGeneres, Bradley Cooper, and Leonardo DiCaprio among others.

Cheval Blanc St-Tropez, France

Initially known as La Résidence de la Pinède, the elegant Cheval Blanc St-Tropez is one of the most authentic ways to go back in time to the first half of the 20^th Century. Constructed in 1936, the hotel was an endearing experience for the elegant traveller back in the day.

And when it was re-opened as Cheval Blanc St-Tropez by LVMH in 2019, there was still a semblance of the simple mason by sea but with pomp and glamour to compete in the new era. The sleek interior by Jean-Michael Wilmotte and impeccable art pieces gave the hotel a regal dash making guests feel like they are staying in a palace.

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, Italy

If you ever feel cooped up in the city then 5000 acres of the estate at the Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco is more than enough space to enjoy the Tuscan backcountry. There is ample room (if I am being honest, more than you will need) to enjoy the outdoors thanks to infinite rolling vineyards and lofty pine trees.

Despite its rustic charm, the hotel has plenty of modern amenities essentially offering something for everyone. The estate has a winery, tennis court, cooking school, spa and even a terra-cotta-roofed chapel.

Matakauri Lodge, New Zealand

Imagine waking up to the picturesque backdrop towering over the tranquil Lake Wakatipu. The breathtaking views are only the cherry on top for guests staying at the Matakauri Lodge. The eccentric décor and thoughtful amenities make for a remarkable stay at the hotel. There is an outdoor jacuzzi, exquisite Winelands and a spa treatment centre.

Also, upon request, the hotel can organize excursions such as bungee jumping, sky-diving, heli-skiing, rafting, and wine tours.

Raffles Istanbul, Turkey

With its sleek and modern tech, Raffles is the truest reflection of the modern traveller. And despite the imperious technological investment across its 185 rooms, the hotel still manages to channel the Byzantine aura. From the lush Turkish textiles and handicrafts such as pierced metal and glass similar to the ones found in the Blue Mosque.

The exquisite hotel found in central Besiktas on the European side is also within walking distance of multiple shopping and dining options.

Conclusion

For the modern traveller, the hotel experience is just as important as checking off the bucket list. The listed five hotels are the perfect portrayal of what it means to travel in the modern age.