Can a hotel make a difference in your travel experience? Many travelers say: “Definitely.” And certain hotels can be amazing destinations all on their own.
When it comes to travel — the city, town, or beaches are usually the main attraction, but accommodations play a crucial role.
In a new survey performed by Travel + Leisure, travelers have voted for the best 500 hotels in the world.
The chosen properties—from multiple geographic regions— offer travelers amenities and luxuries that make them stand out.
Travel + Leisure will publish the full list in May’s issue, but here are 7 of the top hotels with the best reputation in the survey.
The St. Regis Bora Bora
The idea of traveling to Bora Bora sounds immediately appealing, and this hotel has gained a fantastic reputation.
Marriott’s luxury brand, St. Regis, keeps expanding —a new property recently opened in Cancun— and providing impeccable service.
The St.Regis Bora Bora has its own Lagoonarium —where travelers can learn about the different species—, famous overwater villas, exquisite restaurants, and more.
Hotel Rangá, Iceland
Iceland is a fascinating destination, and this hotel can guarantee a great experience. Many travelers have recommended this 4-star hotel in the south.
The hotel offers luxurious cozy rooms with free wifi and a great restaurant where guests can taste delicious Nordic cuisine while admiring the river.
The staff can offer guests amazing tours and recommendations to visit the Blue Lagoon —recently considered one of the best tourist attractions in the world—, explore the Thrihnukagigur Volcano, and even helicopter tours.
At night, watch the sky light up as the Northern Lights dazzle you — as long as you visit at the right time.
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla
Travelers have had a great Caribbean vacation experience staying at this Mediterranean-style resort in Anguilla.
Cap Juluca has a beautiful private beach on Maunday’s Bay where travelers can relax, and it offers amazing culinary and wellness experiences. It has a tennis court —and offers private lessons—, swimming pools, a fitness center, and more.
Guests on different online platforms have highlighted the beauty of the property and the location, the views from the rooms, the hospitality, and the delicious food.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Canada
Fairmont Hotels have a great reputation —its all-inclusive hotel in Mexico has been ranked among the best— and this property in Canada has won as one of the favorites in the survey.
The Fairmont Chateau Whistler offers visitors unique experiences in the beautiful Blackcomb Mountain, allowing guests to connect with nature.
In this beautiful luxury resort, travelers can admire a sanctuary of working bees at the wooden bee house, take tours for a fun experience at Whistler, practice axe throwing, and see local bears.
Guests have described their stay as “magical,” and families have recommended it for all ages.
Nihi Sumba, Indonesia
This fascinating oceanfront resort has 27 exclusive villas with private pools and amazing views of the Indian Ocean. Guests have highlighted the delicious food and services.
Visitors can relax at the spa, surf the famous “God’s Left” wave, and swim with the Sumba Sea horses in the turquoise waters.
Travelers have described this place as a true paradise.
Babylonstoren, South Africa
This fascinating farm hotel offers guests unique experiences in the beautiful Franschhoek wine valley.
It has a motion-sensing water garden, restaurants with a farm-to-fork philosophy, delicious wines and cellar tours, and multiple activities.
The property also offers great venues for weddings and events and great local products to take home.
Baccarat Hotel New York
New York has so much to offer that it’s hard for a hotel to stand out, but the Baccarat Hotel made the cut.
This 5-star luxury hotel will amaze travelers with its sophisticated amenities. It has 53 chandeliers, the only dedicated spa by the skincare brand La Mer in the United States, a heated swimming pool with cabanas surrounding it, a fitness center, and impressive rooms with a refined French style.
It also has a curated art collection featuring impressive works of art, and guests have admired all the services and details.