Our Pick of the World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025

After two years in second place on the podium, Rosewood Hong Kong takes this year’s No. 1 spot. A standout addition to the city’s eclectic skyline, with a prime harbourside location, it offers a true sense of respite and retreat in the heart of one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. The modern Asian minimalism that defines its hospitality enhances the ultra-luxe ambience and exceptional service you can expect during your stay.

It’s easy to forget you’re in the heart of Bangkok, with its cascading architecture, seamless indoor-outdoor transitions and interconnected green courtyards, the Four Seasons is an urban sanctuary a world away from the bustle of the city. Located on the Chao Phraya River, you are in the perfect spot to explore the small canals of the river, its waterside temples and wooden houses on stilts in the luxury of the Four Seasons' private boat.

Passalacqua has been named winner of the Best Hotel in Europe award for the second year in a row and takes an impressive 4th place overall this year. A flawlessly restored 18th century villa on the shore of Lake Como, it’s not hard to see why this charming hotel retains such a high spot on the list. Effortlessly recapturing the spirit of the past, this historic mansion once played host to the likes of Vincenzo Bellini, Napoleon Bonaparte and Winston Churchill. Today, it welcomes discerning travellers and serves up a slice of nostalgic Italian living.

Again, hailed as the Best Hotel in North America for a second year, Chable Yucatan is a beautiful state-of-the-art wellness retreat in the heart of the Yucatan jungle. It has been completely transformed from its days as a working hacienda, with chic and contemporary villas dotted throughout the gardens, providing a true escape achieved through its palm-lined grounds and extensive range of Mayan treatment programmes which we absolutely love.

A dazzling new entry from Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel - the grand dame dominating the Brazilian beachfront since 1923 - now holds the title of the Best Hotel in South America. Revered as one of the continent’s most iconic hotels, overlooking the sparkling Copacabana Beach. With a seamless blend of timeless style, refined elegance, and unparalleled luxury, the hotel offers an experience that is as legendary as its reputation. “The hotel also features Rio’s finest large pool, an inviting spot to enjoy a tranquil breakfast while watching local birds sip from the water, an experience that feels both peaceful and enchanting.” Sabastian Gittany, Private Travel Manager

The beautiful Moroccan hotel has earned a duo of accolades, winning both the Highest Climber Award and the title of The Best Hotel in Africa. More than a hotel, it’s a masterpiece of Moroccan artistry and elegance, where every detail reflects the country’s rich heritage, from intricate tilework to serene courtyards. The attentive staff have a ‘nothing is too much trouble’ mentality and deliver joyful surprises to guests via a network of underground tunnels. As such, the service they provide is unfaltering yet entirely discreet.

Soneva Fushi is the ultimate Robinson Crusoe island escape, with a laidback philosophy of ‘no news, no shoes’. With only 63 villas on an island which measures a mile long, it is the sense of space that sets Soneva Fushi apart. And while each villa is exquisite, Head of Scott Dunn Private Jules Maury lets us in on her secret – “I always book one of the sunrise-side villas for my guests, for an elevated sense of privacy”.

A new entry among our favourite hotels, the Taj Mahal Palace stands proudly overlooking the Arabian Sea — a symbol of timeless grandeur and Indian hospitality at its finest. The flagship property of the Taj Group masterfully blends old-world charm with exceptional style, comfort, and service, featuring soaring staircases, handwoven silks, and glittering chandeliers, all complemented by a contemporary touch of luxury that makes the experience feel effortlessly modern.

Singita blends standout luxury with true wilderness for a spectacular safari experience. For us, it’s the standard of guiding which really elevates Singita, with their expertise and in-depth knowledge delivering unforgettable wildlife encounters for our guests. Senior Private Travel Manager Gina Waygood recalls her experience at Singita Lebombo: "Following rhino tracks on foot and crouching less than 100 metres from three of these fascinating animals still gives me goosebumps.”