True luxury reveals itself only to the most discerning. For the debut of TC75 — honoring the 75 most exquisite hotels in the world — we sought out those who know the hotel world intimately. Alongside our inner circle of writers who so eloquently curate our travel stories and help shape our annual Very Best Awards and Where to Go lists, we consulted a highly regarded circle of global creatives — travel editors and writers, lifestyle influencers, fashion leaders, beauty founders, and intuitives — whose lives routinely unfold within the world’s most exceptional hotels.
Rather than relying on social popularity or algorithm-driven rankings, this list reflects a collective of firsthand experiences, editorial rigor, and what defines a true luxury experience today. These are the hotels that constantly deliver, where design feels intentional, service is anticipatory without being performative, and there’s a strong sense of place that you feel even long after you leave. Some of the properties on our list are global legends, while others are quieter discoveries (IYKYK). Our inaugural list isn’t a checklist, rather an evolving curation of what exceptional stays look like right now.
Following, our personally vetted, TC75 list, in no particular order:
COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos
“My favorite hotel is COMO Parrot Cay. I have been coming to the island my entire life and it keeps getting better… the spa is the best in the world, the people who work here are made of sunshine & the beaches are pure magic. I always leave feeling refreshed, reinvigorated & renewed.” – Sailor Brinkley-Cook | @sailorbrinkleycook
Dromoland Castle, County Clare, Ireland
“My husband and I celebrated our wedding anniversary here. The castle’s authentic charm and deep sense of romance made our stay unforgettable, from evenings filled with traditional Irish music to excellent cuisine and rounds of golf set against the picturesque Irish countryside. It felt timeless and very special. “ – Tiffany Dowd | @luxetiffany
Carlton Cannes, France
“I was fortunate to stay a few times at Carlton Cannes and was welcomed back like a family member. The combination of restored heritage, new whimsical touches from Designer Tristan Auer, and the amazing Regent service make it a favorite.” – Jane Mackie | @travelicon
Belmond Royal Scotsman, Scotland
“Like with most trips, you often find yourself wondering if you could move to the destination and live a perfectly content life. I can say with no doubt that the Highlands might actually be a reasonable idea. Traveling through Scotland on the Belmond Royal Scotsman, I reconsidered my entire life plan more than once. What struck me most was the anticipatory service — very few places truly deliver on that level, yet this experience did. There’s a particular sense of fantasy woven through the entire journey that, when you leave, your heart aches a little the way it did with your first crush. Did I mention there’s a Dior spa onboard, too? After several days in that rhythm, arriving at The Balmoral in Edinburgh — a grand railway hotel overlooking Princes Street — felt like a seamless continuation of the story rather than the end of the journey.” – Deanne Kaczerski | @deanneology
Ritz Paris, France
“I adore most of Paris’ palace hotels, but Ritz Paris set the five-star standard from the beginning. I love it for the fact that Coco Chanel lived here, for the fact that no matter what time you arrive — even 5 am — your room is ready, that water pours from swan faucets in rooms, and that flawless everything is the order of the day.– Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
Aman New York
“I have never experienced anywhere else the feeling of ancient Japan, Asia, and the peace inside the Spa at Aman New York. It had a profound effect on me from the moment I stepped off Fifth Avenue. Nurturing and soul soothing.” – Susan King | @susankingintuitive
Belmond Copacabana Palace, Brazil
“The Brazilian grand dame in all her majesty, with perhaps the most unbeatable perch of any oceanfront hotel in the world, looking down upon the heart of Rio De Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach.”– Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
Atzaró Okavango, Botswana, Africa
“The depth of the game drives at Atzaró Okavango — silently moving among lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes — is beyond. But I wasn’t prepared for my high-glam suite with outdoor copper soaking tub and white-netted bed, a backdrop so romantic it feels straight from Out of Africa.” – Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
Oberoi Amarvilas, India
“The quintessential India hotel experience, this standout in Agra sits nearly touching distance from the Taj Mahal. Glamorous, glittery, with fit-for-a Maharajah service, its most illustrious suite has Taj views from every room – even the bathroom.” – Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
Ett Hem -Stockholm, Sweden
“Probably the most luxurious yet homey and unpretentious hotel experience I’ve ever had. It feels like you’re staying in someone’s private home — you can wander from room to room, curl up in a corner with a book, play board games, or even mix yourself a Negroni. In the morning, breakfast is served in this beautiful open-plan kitchen and dining room. The chef is right there cooking in front of you and simply asks, ‘What would you like for breakfast?’ They’ll make whatever is in season. It was one of the most delicious breakfasts I’ve had — fresh produce, beautifully balanced flavors. The whole experience felt effortless, elegant, and incredibly special.” – Katie Jane Hughes | @katiejanehughes
Sailrock South Caicos, Turks and Caicos
“The Caribbean the way I always imagined. Aquamarine sea, unpaved roads, pink bougainvillea, and wild donkeys. There are only two hotels on this still-undiscovered isle and Sailrock, with its endless sea views, teeny Balinese-style spa, and private plunge pool, is the only place to stay.” –-Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
Hôtel Belles Rives, Cap d’Antibes, France
“Five-star Hôtel Belles Rives is a rare slice of Riviera glamour – in beautiful Juan-les-Pins. Timeless charm and legendary history all with a front row view of the Mediterranean. (Ps. I have been going for 25+ years.) –Melanie Brandman |@melaniebrandman
Schloss Elmau, Bavaria, Germany
“I love this hotel for its naked swimming, abundant fitness and wellness focus, and hidden location among nature in the wilds of Bavaria.” – Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
Kagi Maldives
“My most unexpected find this year. Designed by Japanese architect Yuji Yamazaki to resemble a wave rising from the sea, this fantastical spa resort is Atlantis resurfaced.” – Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
Hotel La Ponche, St. Tropez
“Stayed at Hotel La Ponche the last two summers, the best. Worth traveling for its timeless Riviera charm, legendary history, and the kind of understated chic that only Saint-Tropez can do.” – Melanie Brandman | @melaniebrandman
Gleneagles Hotel, Auchterarder, Scotland
“One of my favorite places in the world — where the Highland air feels almost medicinal, and the land itself carries a quiet, grounding presence. From the food to the wellness to the effortless infrastructure — Gleneagles is expansive yet intimate, steeped in heritage yet alive, and I always leave feeling restored in both body and spirit.”– Susan King | @susankingintuitive
We Care Spa, Desert Hot Springs, California
“Hands down, one of my favorite (and life-changing) wellness experiences. There is no caffeine, alcohol, or solid food — just oodles of hot broth, clear liquids, and green drinks coupled with daily colonics, supplements, medicinal-focused spa treatments, infrared sauna, and sound healing.” – Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
Rosewood Miramar Beach, California
“It’s the epitome of effortless luxury; the rooms are breathtaking and the service is divine. I stayed for four nights and only left the property once.” – Lindsay Silberman | @lindsaysilb
Chatham Bars Inn, Massachusetts
“It is more than a Cape Cod summer resort. I spent the Festive Season there and it is magic (and if you love lobster — their holiday buffets are for you”). – Jane Mackie | @travelicon
Royal Mansour Marrakech, Morocco
“The Royal Mansour Marrakech has mastered the art of hospitality, and does so while catering to the every whim of guests who call private, multi-story riads their guestrooms.” – Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
Four Seasons Resort and Residences, Anguilla
“By far our favorite hotel to visit on repeat. The service, food, people, beaches, coves, the crystal-clear teal water, are all so special. When we arrived, everyone kept saying, “welcome home,” which we loved. It’s really starting to feel that way.” – Carly Cardellino | @carlycardellino
II Sereno, Lake Como, Italy
“I loved Il Sereno in Lake Como, the views are obviously excellent, I’m still dreaming of the Michelin star-deconstructed eggplant parmesan I had for dinner, and I basically want to move in.”– Kerry Pieri | @kerrypieri
The Baccarat Hotel New York
“In a city with a plethora of fine hotels, this one stands out for its glittery gorgeousness, boutique feel, Champagne button in the rooms, baccarat everything everywhere, cocktails with art themes, and ability to take you off the frenetic streets into a haven of sophisticated hospitality.” – Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
Tswalu Loapi, South Africa
“A total slice of paradise. And the gorgeous private safari homes — complete with talented chef and safari guide — feel like your own tiny private hotel, with leopards, lions, and rhino roaming all around.” – Kathryn Romeyn | @kathrynromeyn
Four Seasons Bora Bora
“You don’t need to go elsewhere for a taste of French Polynesia. On its own island, lorded over by an ancient volcano, with some 100 suites beside the Van Gogh-blue-hued lagoon, this is a place to eat breakfast delivered by canoe, snorkel from your deck, and luxuriate in the spa.” – Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
The Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York
“It brings a fresh kind of New York grandness to NoMad, all wit and warmth, with a clubby energy that makes the city outside feel like part of the set design.” – Brandon Perlman | @the_perl_messenger
Villa la Coste, Provence, France
“The most beautiful design — both interiors and exteriors — with crazy amazing art, great food, and kind staff. I dream of my next visit.” – Dr. Amy Wechsler | @dramywechsler
Dar Alham, Skoura, Morocco
“This hotel in a gorgeously restored old kasbah outside Ouarzazate bills itself as an anti-hotel — it lacks all the usual things like a reception desk, a restaurant, mealtimes, locks on the room doors, and schedules of any sort. In their place is a sublime oasis of intuitive service and simple pleasures, from a midday breakfast of fresh-baked bread beside the pool to sunset tea long poured from a silver pot atop a desert viewpoint.” – Ann Abel | @annabeltravels
Hotel Hassler, Rome
“Classically Roman, this hotel vaunts a peerless location atop the Spanish Steps. Family owned and operated for generations, it’s like entering a film set where Audrey Hepburn is the star, only you’re the one drinking an Aperol Spritz on the terrace of your suite. (It was one of her favorite hotels.) A glamorous nook with Rome’s most passionate concierges, it stands out as a respite from the crowds.” – Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
Hotel De L’Europe Amsterdam
“It is Amsterdam’s classic anchor on the Amstel, where canal city romance meets polished hospitality, and you can step out to museums, shopping, and riverside strolling in minutes.” – Brandon Perlman | @the_perl_messenger
Kaseholm Castle, Sweden
“There are places in the world where the earth itself feels alive with memory — where wind rustles the trees not just with breath, but with story. Kåseholm is such a place. It unearthed something ancient within my spirit. It stirred memories I cannot place but feel deeply. It brought dreams to life, ones I didn’t even know I carried. And in doing so, it reminded me: our lives are more than what we see. They are shaped by invisible threads, woven across lifetimes, lands, and loves.” – Susan King | @susankingintuitive
Rosewood Miyakojima, Japan
“I was instantly obsessed with this minimalist-chic resort — from my private pool villa to the addictive gyoza and lemon-zested spaghetti san marzano served by the pool.” – Kathryn Romeyn | @kathrynromeyn
Mollie Aspen, Colorado
Mollie Aspen nails Aspen’s sweet spot, design-forward and unstuffy, with a central downtown address that makes first chair, late dinners, and everything in between feel effortless.” – Brandon Perlman | @the_perl_messenger
Babylonstoren, Cape Town, South Africa
“This extensive Cape Dutch farm, vineyard, and winery, is so dreamy — with endless places to get into the spirit of winemaking and elevated farm life and awe-inspiring scenes everywhere you stroll — that my architect husband’s life goal ever since staying is to somehow retire and live there.”– Kathryn Romeyn | @kathrynromeyn
Hacienda AltaGracia, Costa Rica
“I spent hours in the remarkable spa at Hacienda AltaGracia. I loved the (complimentary) mud treatments, sauna/steam and soaking pool. My underwater massage in a warm pool in the jungle was also amazing.” – Katie McElveen | @katiemcelveen
Le Tikehau Pearl Resort, French Polynesia
“My forever benchmark for serenity — an authentic Polynesian sanctuary of overwater huts with glass floors revealing the living sea beneath you, set on one of the most breathtaking atolls in the Tuamotu Archipelago.” – Amber Katz | @rouge_18
The Newt, England
“This 300-year-old estate in the English countryside was high on my list. Four days felt like I was barely scraping the surface — I could have spent weeks exploring the gardens, cycling through the orchard, and lingering in the heated outdoor infinity pool.” – Lane Nieset | @lanenieset
Four Seasons Golden Triangle, Thailand
“In the far-flung jungles of northern Thailand, set along a river that borders both Laos and Burma, with design by the inimitable Bill Bensley, this whimsical, but lavishly conveyed, 12-room hotel has glamping style cabins with pampering accoutrements and a whole herd of rescued elephants you can feed and help care for…Don’t miss its Burma Bar.” – Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
Downtown Los Angeles Proper, California
“I find this hotel to be one of Kelly Wearstler’s most engaging, beautiful masterpieces, with a stunning Abel Mac mural at the entry, the perfect little DTLA-view rooftop pool, and totally covetable furniture, tiles, and art.” – Kathryn Romeyn | @kathrynromeyn
Hoshinoya Tokyo, Japan
“Stroll back through the centuries to relish a traditional way of life, but one that manages to be filled with top-tier modern creature comforts of a swanky hotel in the heart of central Tokyo; and don’t skip the Nippon Cuisine dinner.” – Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
The Nimb Hotel, Denmark
“I’ve been spending a lot of time in Copenhagen lately and it is home to my new favorite hotel — The Nimb. Everything feels like a fairytale and the staff is amazing. They also carry Seed to Skin products in their spa.” – Jeanette Thottrup | @jeannette_groen_thoettrup
La Donaira, Andalusia, Spain
“The people behind this Relais & Châteaux farmhouse in sun-soaked Andalusia describe their project as a “beautiful anarchy.” Its management team came through Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, and the like, so they know the luxury hospitality rules — well enough to break them to delightful effect. The nine dreamy guestrooms are eclectic but inviting, the swimming pool is fed by a mountain spring, the kitchen is stocked with food from the permaculture gardens, and the equestrian program is outstanding.” – Ann Abel | @annabeltravels
Airelles Gordes La Bastide France
“It turns a storied Provençal perch into a full fantasy of stone, terraces, and old-world glamour with medieval Gordes at your feet and the Luberon unfolding in every direction. – Brandon Perlman | @the_perl_messenger
Borgo Santo Pietro, Tuscany, Italy
“A storied Tuscan estate near Siena with a deep-seated sustainable mission, this working farm is faultlessly five star with a Michelin restaurant, pool, activities, and more — but also the home of the hotel’s own skincare brand, Seed to Skin. Walk amongst herb gardens, olive groves, vineyards and orchards here.” – Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
The Siam, Thailand
This Bill Bensley boutique beauty oozes the sultry appeal you’re craving from a visit to Bangkok.” – Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
Desa Potato Head, Bali
“Dynamic and vibrant zero-waste, this beachfront escape is truly unmatched as they pioneer regenerative hospitality and offer impeccable architecture and design alongside fabulous food and thoughtful, creative experiences that reimagine local culture. – Kathryn Romeyn | @kathrynromeyn
Grand Hotel Fasano, Italy
“I’ve always loved Lake Garda, and the grand-dame charm of Grand Hotel Fasano captures exactly why. Aperitivo on the terrace quickly became my nightly ritual, largely thanks to the dangerously addictive vegetable crisps that arrived with the drinks — which I swear I will one day find again somewhere in Italy.” – Deanne Kaczerski | @deanneology
The Peninsula Hong Kong
“Also known as ‘The Grande Dame of the Far East,’ this legendary hotel is a must stay in Hong Kong. Arrival is by Rolls Royce where you’re greeted by white-and-gold-capped bellmen and “door gods” (lion statuettes) said to protect all who enter. And that’s just the beginning.” – Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
The Datai, Langkawi, Malaysia
“The rain forest plays a starring role at this longtime standard-bearer of luxury sustainability in Southeast Asia. This kind of integration with nature feels fairly routine now, but it’s hard to overstate how revolutionary this was when the resort opened some 30 years ago. And don’t let that age scare you — the place doesn’t feel like the product of any particular era as much as a world of its own outside the usual limitations of time.” – Ann Abel | @annabeltravels
Soneva Fushi
“If there’s a better way to wake yourself up than a waterslide into the cerulean Maldivian seas — launching yourself from some of the largest & most stunning overwater villas in the world, of course – I haven’t found it. – Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
One&Only Mandarina, Mexico
“You get a private Riviera Nayarit world of cliffs, jungle, and beach, paired with One&Only’s precise service and a sense of seclusion that actually delivers.” – Brandon Perlman | @the_perl_messenger
Delamar Greenwich Harbor, Connecticut
“My home away from home just 30 miles outside of New York City where I can enjoy a peaceful glass of rosé by the water and freshly renovated rooms.” – Jane Mackie | @travelicon
Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing, China
“The Mandarin Oriental Qianmen, Beijing, calls an entire traditional hutong neighborhood its home, with lavish courtyard houses scattered across its walking alleys for a stay unlike any other.” – Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
Atzaró Capetown, South Africa
“I love the ambience of this stunning, six-room hotel — the flickering see-through fireplace, zebra-skin rug, and exquisite African art. With Table Mountain to my back, I’m served a glass of bubbly and decadent charcuterie board which I move with me into my room, beautifully named Protea.” – Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
Rosewood Sao Paulo, Brazil
“Few hotels on the planet have the intensive art focus of the Rosewood Sao Paulo, which has the impeccable style and service to match, along with a postcard-worthy pool oasis.” – Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
Dorchester London
“Chic celebutante London at its finest. From the Rococo Oliver Messel Suite to the Lalique-studded Artists Bar, it’s all James Bond dapperness. It has a Rolls Royce for guests, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret-celebrated momentous occasions, and Kate Moss has been seen sipping martinis. Get bedazzled in The Oliver Messel Suite, a Rococo fantasy by genius stage designer and artist Oliver Messel. It vaunts a riot of florals and a conversation-starting gold scalloped toilet seat — among other enchantments. – Becca Hensley | @beccahensley
Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, California
“Dripping in chandeliers and Lalique installations,Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is an Art-Deco dream. The triple-height ceilings, polished floors, white marble with gold accents, and teak doors scream old Hollywood glamour.” -Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
Hotel Norman, Paris, France
“I loved Hôtel Norman in Paris for how discreet it feels despite being just steps from the Champs-Élysées. Rooms feel like apartments and the lounge/bar area isn’t fussy but has great cocktails, Champagne, and snacks. A major win after a long day walking around the city.” – Deanne Kaczerski | @deanneology
Ellerman House, Capetown, South Africa
“Ellerman House showcases one of the best African art collections on the planet, in a one-of-one clifftop estate amid Cape Town’s pristine natural beauty.” – Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
The St. Regis Venice, Italy
“Right on the Grand Canal, this hotel truly has everything going for it, not only location (impeccable), food and drink (creative, memorable, and mouthwatering), and design (sumptuous and grand) but culture, too. The original artwork, much of it glass by Berengo Studio, even includes fine art level glassware, and makes the property even more legendary.– Kathryn Romeyn | @kathrynromeyn
The Rosewood Mayakoba, Playa del Carmen, Mexico
“Pure indulgence — palatial rooms, a butler who anticipates your every need, dining that rivals the best restaurants anywhere, a stunning pool, and a beach so breathtaking it almost doesn’t seem real.” – Amber Katz | @rouge_18
Regent Hong Kong
“What can I say? Any stay is just too short! The best blend of service and design which stands out in its beautiful simple lines.” – Jane Mackie | @travelicon
The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado
“It is the rare true ski-in, ski-out hotel that still feels intimate, with an A-plus team, serious wine and dining, and a front-row seat to Aspen Mountain.” – Brandon Perlman | @the_perl_messenger
Four Seasons Budapest, Hungary
“I loved staying at the Four Seasons Gresham Palace in Budapest — especially in August when the fireworks over the Danube turn the entire city into a front-row show. It makes the NYC fireworks display look like child’s play. The property is discreet, often buzzing with celebs and other notables. Stick around for cocktail hour and definitely order a few of the bar’s addictive snacks.” – Deanne Kaczerski | @deanneology
Sky Villa Boutique Hotel, South Africa
“I love the urban feel of Sky Villa set against a very rural area. It’s a nice contrast but warmth still comes in through the texture and color of the furniture. The view and sunset were extremely beautiful.”– Amira Rasool | @amirarasool
Veligandu Maldives
“You can swim or snorkel right off the deck of Veligandu’s new and uber-dreamy overwater villas. But the most decadent (and addictive) feature comes indoors, via the glass floor, where I spent hours watching colorful fish, giant starfish, even the occasional shark swim by.” – Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
La Samanna, St. Martin
“A Belmond hotel, La Samanna is worth traveling for its crystal-clear waters, ultra-private vibe, and timeless Riviera-meets-Caribbean glamour.” – Melanie Brandman |@melaniebrandman
Park Hyatt Kyoto
“A stay at the Park Hyatt Kyoto is an entrancing and immersive welcome to the refined Japanese tradition of omontenashi, from amid a charming traditional neighborhood.” – Jake Emen | @mantalkfood
Kisawa Sanctuary, Mozambique
“This intimate 700-acre beach resort on Mozambique’s flawless Benguerra Island is truly my idea of heaven on earth: it’s not only drool worthy when it comes to design and seascapes and wildlife encounters (flamingos and dugongs), but it has exceptional culinary offerings, radiant staff, and the most fun little Mini Mokes to drive around.” – Kathryn Romeyn | @kathrynromeyn
The Florentin, Frankfurt, Germany
“The Explorer, one of just nine private villas, at The Florentin in Frankfurt offers travelers a glimpse into the past while keeping them grounded in the present. I fell in love with the design and the thoughtful amenities — many clearly designed with women in mind — which included details I rarely see in even the best hotels. This villa and honestly the property overall is a tribute to wanderlust and the spirit of discovery. What a truly magical stay.” – Deanne Kaczerski | @deanneology
St Regis Mayakoba, Mexico
“I loved the spacious accommodations at The St. Regis Mayakoba, where the beautifully appointed rooms felt calm, polished, and genuinely comfortable. Don’t sleep on the beach cabanas — book one. They’re incredibly comfortable, perfectly positioned on the wide stretch of sand, and the service is exactly what you want during a long beach day.” – Deanne Kaczerski | @deanneology
Sensei Porcupine Creek, Rancho Mirage, California
“After passing through the electric gate into what is quite possibly the most luxurious spa in the U.S., I was not prepared for the Japanese immersion. Live orchids, Japanese art, minimalist teak furniture, traditional yukata and slippers, and Toto deep-soaking tub.” – Shari Mycek | @sharimycek
Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, Thailand
“This exquisite Bangkok newcomer is everything you could want from an urban Aman hotel (and Aman resort). And their cocktails and cuisine are simply sublime.” – Kathryn Romeyn | @kathrynromeyn
Faena Miami Beach, Florida
“It is Miami turned up to its most cinematic setting, bold design, big mood, strong food and nightlife, and a beach scene that feels like a production in the best way.” – Brandon Perlman | @the_perl_messenger
Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, Amsterdam, Netherlands
“This iconic hotel, home to the White Room — the oldest and most elegant restaurant in Amsterdam — curates a luxurious experience to the Dutch tulip fields in April (something very near and dear to our hearts as a tulip-powered skincare brand).” —Kim van Haaster| @kimmivanhaaster
Feature image, courtesy, COMO Parrot Cay
