World's Best Hotels

When you are worn out after a long day sightseeing, there is nothing better than knowing your home away from home is among the best on the planet. Whether you open your room to find a bouquet of freshly-cut flowers or slip between the high-thread-count sheets of an artfully-made bed, there’s something about the extra touches in a luxury hotel helps you get a little bit better night’s sleep. No matter where you go, there are top-quality offerings from major chains and local owners. Here are ten of the best for your next vacation:
 

1. Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra, India
If you’re looking for a great room with an amazing view, then you’ll love looking out your window on the Taj Mahal. Blending architecture of the Moor and Mughal empires, every inch of this hotel was designed with elegance in mind. From the verdant, terraced acreage to the white marble surrounding the reflecting pool, you will be surrounded by exquisite beauty.

2. Hotel Caruso, Ravello, Italy
A palace during the 11th century, this stunning villa is set on rocky cliffs high above the Amalfi coast. Though known for the stunning views from its gardens and terraces, the heated infinity pool has given guests the ultimate view after a refreshing swim. And, if you’re in the mood to be out on the water instead of in it, you can reserve a spot on the hotel yacht’s daily minicruise.

3. Stafford London Kempinski, London, England
The stately exterior of this hotel is hidden from the hustle and bustle of the British capital. Located across the street from Green Park, the lobby leads out onto a whitewashed cobblestone courtyard dating to the 17th century. Grab a room in the restored Carriage House and then head downstairs for a private tasting in the subterranean wine cellar with Gino, the Master Sommelier on site.

4. The Peninsula, Chicago, Illinois
One of the more technologically-advanced hotels on the list, this decade-old hotel on the Windy City’s Magnificent Mile will allow you to shut off the doorbell, turn down the lights and request housekeeping services from a bedside panel. Schedule a massage in the spa and stretch out on the rooftop sundeck or have some drinks on the terrace while taking in the lights of Chicago’s skyline.

5. Katikies Hotel, Santorini, Greece
The sights on this ancient island are second to none, but the accommodations here will give them a run for the money. The sterling white walls contrast wonderfully with the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Have a quiet meal on your private terrace or head down to the sample the Mediterranean cuisine on offer in the restaurant. Stay here if you want a distinct sense of Mother Nature’s beauty – it surrounds you at every turn.

6. Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon
Nestled between the coastal mountains of the Pacific Northwest and the most famous natural rock formations in Oregon, you’ll love the earthy feel of your surroundings. Step out the back door onto your balcony for a view of the massive Haystack Rock, then head down to the dining room for a complimentary breakfast. After that, spend the day hiking through thick, thousand-year-old forests and come back to enjoy a soak in the Jacuzzi tub.

7. Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France, Gustavia, St. Bart’s
Situated on the longest, widest beach of this gorgeous Caribbean island, you will be treated to a fair amount of privacy in any of the 20 cottages on the site. Woven among banana and palm trees, you’ll find this a paradise if you love the sun and sand. Everything about the hotel is designed for the beach – even the restaurant serves meals under umbrellas on the sand.

8. Crosby Street Hotel, New York, New York
Tucked away in the SoHo district, this smaller hotel holds fast to its boutique feel. The interiors combine bold patterns and colors with stunning views of the city through floor-to-ceiling windows. With top-class service and “Who thinks of that?” amenities (they screen movies in a private room for dinner dates by reservation), it has gained a reputation amongst locals and travelers alike.

9. St. Regis, San Francisco, California
A technical wonder a few miles up the peninsula from Silicon Valley, this hotel is a modern wonder. It has panels to control the lights and shades, as you might expect, but small details like the “rainforest” setting on the shower and a printer/copier/fax in each room make it ideal for those on a working vacation. Then, when it’s time to dine, you’ll love the cuisine and ambience of Ame, the minimalist main restaurant with American cuisine influenced by Japanese tradition.

10. The Palazzo, Las Vegas, Nevada
Only three years old, this stunning casino hotel on The Strip is one of the first LEED-certified buildings of its size – there are more than 3,000 rooms! From the stunning lobby with its 15-foot waterfall to the world’s first mix-and-match gambling room and a stunning array of five-star restaurants, you’ll have a hard time leaving this jewel among the bright lights of Vegas.
 

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