Best New Hotels for 2025

Tucked away on a quiet sweep of golden sand, Kalkudah Beach House is a tranquil haven on Sri Lanka’s east coast – a region known for its gentle seas, authentic local life, and blissful lack of crowds. Just north of Batticaloa and within easy reach of Polonnaruwa’s ancient ruins, this thoughtfully restored estate sits on 25 acres of lush coconut palms with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean.

The three-bedroom Main House, a heritage home with Dutch-inspired arches and a fascinating past - exudes rustic charm and timeless character. Directly opposite, the sleek two-bedroom Palm Villa offers modern, open-plan living, perfectly suited for families or friends travelling together. At the heart of the property, a 22-metre pool links the villas, inviting long, lazy afternoons in the sun.

From sunrise sea swims and shady garden games to ocean-fresh seafood dinners served under the stars, days here unfold at an unhurried pace. With warm hospitality and nature all around, Kalkudah Beach House is a celebration of simple pleasures, made special.

Each of the six exquisite suites is a unique sanctuary, designed to offer the perfect blend of timeless elegance and vibrant, contemporary flair. A celebration of heritage and craftsmanship, the suites feature bespoke furnishings and carefully chosen Indian fabrics that add an exotic touch to the space. Floor-to-ceiling windows reveal breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains, providing a serene backdrop for your stay.

Created by the visionary founder, Liz Biden, each suite has been designed to reflect both the elegance of the region’s French influences and the family's extensive travels, both near and far. Rich, imported hand-embroidered silks, locally sourced tapestries, and carefully curated vintage pieces add layers of character and warmth to each space, ensuring your stay feels both indulgent and personal. This is a place where luxury meets artistry, offering the perfect retreat for the discerning traveller or families to come together.

Debuting in August 2024, Four Seasons Hotel Osaka is a harmonious fusion of Japanese heritage and contemporary luxury. Located in the vibrant Dojima district, the hotel occupies the 28th to 37th floors of the iconic One Dojima building, offering 175 meticulously designed rooms and suites with expansive city vistas. The exclusive GENSUI floor reimagines the traditional ryokan, featuring tatami mat flooring and a tranquil ambiance. Culinary experiences abound, from authentic Cantonese cuisine at Jiang Nan Chun to innovative cocktails at Bar Bota.

The 36th-floor wellness zone boasts an indoor pool, spa, and fitness center, providing a serene escape above the city. Just a 10-minute walk from JR Osaka Station, the hotel offers unparalleled access to Osaka's rich cultural tapestry.

Tucked between Queenstown’s cinematic peaks and the glittering expanse of Lake Wakatipu, Roki Queenstown isn’t simply a place to stay, it’s where architectural audacity meets the raw poetry of nature. This design-led collection of residences celebrates New Zealand’s wild beauty with unapologetic style. Expect sleek lines, local textures, and floor-to-ceiling windows that drink in the landscape. Every sunrise here feels like a private showing.

With interiors echoing the drama of the outdoors, each space is a masterclass in modern alpine living. Think crackling fireplaces, sculptural lighting, and a symphony of wood, stone and steel, all curated to ground you in comfort while elevating your sense of place.

Whether you're stepping into Queenstown’s adrenaline-charged playground or retreating into a cocoon of calm with a local pinot in hand, Roki is the launchpad for journeys that stay with you. This is high-altitude sophistication for the modern explorer.

Set along a 700-metre stretch of pristine coastline, Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay is the third jewel in the Royal Mansour Collection, thoughtfully crafted to honour the charm of the Western Mediterranean. Embraced by lush gardens and shimmering turquoise waters, the estate spans ten serene hectares where refined luxury meets nature’s calming rhythm.

This elegant retreat features 55 light-filled suites and villas, some beachfront and others nestled in manicured gardens, all designed to echo the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and sea. Guests can indulge in a slower pace, whether basking under the Mediterranean sun, discovering the rich culture of Northern Morocco, or simply unwinding in their private sanctuary.

Gastronomy is a cornerstone of the experience here, with four distinctive dining concepts led by master chefs who fuse Mediterranean traditions with global flair. Meanwhile, the ground breaking Medi-Spa invites guests on a transformative wellness journey, offering an unmatched blend of scientific innovation and holistic well-being, all just steps from the sea.