THE HOTEL EDIT
The Most Unforgettable Top 20 Stays Around the World: From luxurious resorts to charming hidden gems, this is my personally curated list of hotels that left a lasting impression. Expect unique stays, heartfelt service, and the kind of travel moments that stay with you forever—(plus, insider perks when you book through Belle Travel.)
BY BROOKE MORALEJO
I was recently asked if I could compile a list of my top 20 hotels in the world, and I thought—challenge accepted! But also—yikes, where do I start!?
To make this selection truly meaningful, I focused exclusively on places I’ve personally experienced. They are in no particular order or specific any part of the world. From ultra-luxurious retreats to budget-friendly gems, each hotel on this list has left a lasting impression on me. These are the places that not only made me feel alive but also helped me create unforgettable memories.
And of course, booking any of these properties through Belle Travel means you’ll enjoy extra perks and VIP treatment! So whether you’re seeking indulgence or adventure, I hope you find inspiration for your next getaway in my curated list of favorites!
Carneros Resort and Spa, Napa Valley California
Set on 28 acres of vineyards and farmland, it’s a far cry from the typical Tuscan-inspired resorts. The metal-roofed cottages give sophisticated farmhouse vibes. The sprawling outdoor pool overlooks the vineyards, and “Farm” restaurant brings a true garden-to-table experience. I was here for a girls trip and the highlight was sitting on our deck in the evening around a crackling fire pit, enjoying a bottle of our favorite Napa Chardonnay.
1 Hotel Southbeach, Miami
Coveted beachfront location + some of the largest rooms in South Beach. The Hotel feels like a breath of fresh air amidst the craziness of the Miami scene. Plus the Ocean view and rooftop pool you need. The plant-based at Plnthouse restaurant is amazing. Girls trip, boys trip, work trip, this hotel works for any occasion.
Covent Garden Hotel, London
I just love Kit Kemp - the eclectic interior designer and owner of the collection of Firmdale hotels in London & New York City. Each room is unique and the bars and restaurants are always fabulous (don’t miss the Afternoon Tea)!
Capella Ubud, Bali
I spent 5 years of my life representing this property so it will always have a place in my heart. It’s not for everyone, but if you’ve got a spirit of adventure and want an immersive, eclectic jungle experience you can’t find anywhere else in the world - stay here. The memories will last a lifetime.
Raffles Hotel, Singapore
This property is a legend in itself. Open since 1886, it’s seen everything from the last Singapore tiger to the creation of the Singapore Sling. With its historic charm and modern comforts, it’s a spot where history meets luxury. Enjoy a sip of the famous Singapore Sling at the Long Bar.
The Resort at Paws Up, Montana
I made forever memories here with my father and brother - riding horses, shooting guns, and drinkin’ whisky around the campfire. Everything you should do on a 38,000 acre ranch in the middle of Montana’s incredibly beautiful wilderness.
Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa, Paris
A hidden gem in the middle of the Le Marais, in my opinion the most perfectly chic French neighborhood. The property is classic but chic and surrounded by gorgeous gardens. Staying here feels like you’re a real Parisian, not a tourist. Stay with your lover or find one when you get there.
COMO The Treasury, Perth Australia
Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, the hotel seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxury. The huge rooms feature gorgeous high ceilings and massive windows. I could actually live in the bathrooms. Within the building there are multiple restaurants, coffee shops, a wine bar and great little shops showcasing the best of Perth.
Lily of the Valley, South of France
Just twenty minutes from Saint-Tropez, this hotel is a little slice of heaven. The guestrooms are super stylish but still comfortable. You can choose to drink Rose all day, or get involved in one of their immersive health programs. Clifftop restaurants serves local, vegan, and organic dishes to die for. With over 5 kilometers of fine sandy beach for guests nearby, it’s an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun!
Nihi Sumba, Indonesia
On the island of Sumba, an hour flight from Bali, this remote resort is worth the journey to get there. Each villa features a private butler, glassy infinity pool, and ocean views. Activities range from SWIMMING with horses to a 'spa safari.' It’s a perfect honeymoon or anniversary splurge.
Thompson Nashville, Tennessee
This hotel just ticks all my boxes. Thoughtfully designed rooms, great bars & restaurants, rooftop space, coffee shop, and a great location in the center of country music mecca. Grab your friends and book a weekend, you’re in for a good time!
The Bowery Hotel, New York City
To me this is classic New York. Maybe I love it because of all the celebrity sightings I had, sipping cocktails at their bars and restaurants in my 20s. The location in the East Village is a perfect middle ground to get anywhere in the city. The rooms could probably use a refurb, but that’s what give them their charm.
COMO Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos
It’s private island perfection. The crystal clear waters and white sand beaches are almost too beautiful to capture in photos. As a COMO property you know you’re getting world-class wellness offerings and incredibly fresh and sensational cuisine. This is worth adding to your travel bucket list.
Chiltern Firehouse, London
I was living in London when this hotel opened and you couldn’t even get a table in the restaurant without being on a 6 month waiting list! 10 years later it’s maintained it’s allure as a haven to celebrities and VIPs. The best bars (where DJs play late) are for hotel guests only and there is still a secret smoking room. The guestrooms are cozy and some have working fireplaces. It’s in my favorite London neighborhood - Marylebone, walking distance to everywhere and oozing with cute shops, pubs and restaurants. Sadly it’s currently closed for renovation after a recent fire (ironic as it’s housed in an old firehouse!).
Vila Vita Parc, The Algarve, Portugal
The Algarve may get more than 300 days of sunshine a year, but if you want to spend your time at Vila Vita Parc’s underground in the wine cellar, no-one’s judging. The resort has more restaurants than even the most committed gourmand could require, including one with two Michelin stars, another with Fado singers and one at a nearby beach, as well as a beach club, Sisley spa, a swim-up bar and an Atlantic-facing, adults-only pool.
Soneva Jani, The Maldives
This hotel is on another level. Each over-water villa has a private pool and waterslide into the lagoon. Master bedrooms have retractable roofs for stargazing. There’s a private cinema suspended over the water. It’s the honeymoon destination dreams are made of.
Royal Mansour Marrakech, Morocco
Fit for royalty (literally, since it was commissioned by the King, with no budget), the Royal Mansour is one of the most opulent of all of Marrakech’s hyper-luxurious hotels. Every room is a riad – with shaded patios, private pools, mosaic floors and terraces that overlook the Atlas Mountains – joined up by winding alleyways that reflect the city beyond, and a lush garden at the edge of the Medina, perfect for palm-shaded pool days.
The Imperial New Delhi, India
This property transports you back in time. Built in 1931, The Imperial is an iconic property in Delhi and the most distinguished address in the heart of the capital. It’s iconic and awe-inspiring heritage comes across in the multiple fantastic restaurants and incredible spa. The perfect refuge from the bustling city outside the gates.
Hai Tide Beach Resort, Nusa Lembongan, Indonesia
This funky little beach resort may be my favorite of the list, and most certainly costs the least. Accessible by boat from Bali, the tiny island is known for it’s crystal clear waters and dive sites. Traditional-style Balinese Beachfront Lumbungs are right on the golden sands of Mushroom Bay. You watch the sunset from your private balcony, fall asleep listening to the ocean waves, and wake up early for a morning swim. What more could you possibly need?
Brooke’s Travel Hacks: Create your own list!
Reflect on your best and worst hotel experiences as you plan your next trip. When we collaborate, this will be one of my first questions for you. There are hotels that people love and others they can't stand, so your personal style and preferences are key in making the right choice. Don’t just follow the crowd or rely on reviews from Karen—focus on what truly excites you and will create lasting memories!
Belle Travel provides…
Personalized hotel recommendations and bookings anywhere in the world.
Special rates and complimentary perks like breakfast, upgrades, and hotel credits at hotels within our preferred network.
Booking management - we get in touch with the hotel to ensure they know your preferences, arrival time, special requests, etc.
All at zero cost to the traveler. (The hotel pays us)
