First impressions count. Arriving at one of our top picks, we want you to be speechless, blown away by the drama of location, the imaginative architectural design, the finesse of the interiors, and the grace and professionalism of the staff. Any one of these features is a tall order to achieve, especially in a remote, underdeveloped location, but realising them all at once shows unusual prowess. When it happens, it’s a joy to behold and deserving of enthusiastic celebration.
Sujan Jawai was built entirely from scratch, but it draws upon centuries of opulence and unbeatable service: India’s maharajas had the most discerning tastes but also the most demanding standards. Here you can live the life of royalty, marvelling at how abundant adventure is entwined with sumptuous splendour.
Half a world away in the UNESCO listed Torres del Paine National Park, Tierra Patagonia makes our list of top picks for very different reasons. Here, it is the landscape which captivates you, and every aspect of the building has been designed to capitalise on the location. Your hunger for the mountains, the snow, and the water will never be sated, but you can relish the panorama from a hundred different angles.