When you love visiting somewhere, it can typically be attributed to a combination of factors – culture, food, nature, the people – a general sensibility that just feels good. Oftentimes, it is also because of the aesthetic of a place which, in many of the world’s top destinations, is entirely distinct. Imagine the candy-coloured homes and green spaces in London, the azure waters of the south of France, the ancient stone of Rome. When these distinct features permeate the hotel, it can be a genuinely transportive holiday. Here are our picks of the top stays that reflect the surrounding area or city’s perceptible sensibility.
The Ritz Paris
The epitome of Parisian glamour, The Ritz Paris evokes all of the qualities that make the city beloved worldwide. From gorgeous interiors to perfect cuisine, never-ending Champagne and chic clientele, this is Paris come to life.
The Ritz Paris
Make the most of your stay by booking a suite – featuring opulent décor with marble accents, velvet curtains, and walk-in closets, these spacious accommodations are ideal for imagining a Parisienne home away from home. With several food and beverage offerings, you hardly need to leave the property to indulge. Don’t miss Le Grand Brunch on Sundays, a decadent and indulgent buffet, or a drink at the famous Bar Hemingway.
Villa Palladio, Jaipur
With a stunning design inspired by the caravanserai along the Silk Road, this vibrant property is seriously beautiful. It is somewhat secluded, and with just nine rooms, and has the feeling of a private home. With canopied beds, manicured gardens, striking patterns, and imaginative dining, you can step into the provided block-printed robe and hotel slippers and pretend it’s your own…
Villa Palladio, Jaipur
Encapsulating not only the vibrance of Jaipur but also the historical context of the Silk Road, Villa Palladio truly reflects the special sense of place this part of India has. Every element of the hotel incorporates tradition – the spa rituals, the fragrant gardens, and the library with a collection of books inspiring global exploration. If you love India, this is where you want to be.
Capella Ubud Bali
Located deep within the jungle, Capella Ubud Bali definitely maximises the surrounding area – as the rich foliage and verdant nature of Bali is part of its draw, this hotel completely immerses guests in the area’s tropical forest.
Comprised of a series of individual tented accommodations, linked by suspension bridges, the (somewhat tongue-in-cheek) design evokes colonial Indonesia with bold textiles, teak wood, religious iconography and rattan details. Even the saltwater pool is surrounded by jungle, and the fusion cuisine (Indonesian, Chinese, and American-style options) features grown-onsite produce. We advise engulfing yourself in the jungle, enjoying activities such as outdoor movies and spa treatments beneath the stars.
Faena Hotel Miami Beach, Miami
Occupying a prime beachfront space with a huge expanse of private sand – coveted in Miami – Faena epitomises the over-the-top glamour that Miami is known for. A vintage property renovated by Baz Luhrmann with his signature bold theatricality in mind, guests will experience amenities like a private butler and an Ice Parlor in the Tierra Sant spa alongside Carrara marble, Italian linens, gold leaf, and the striking red and white palette that has come to define the hotel.
Faena Hotel Miami Beach, Miami
Carve out time to relax by the pool, which has a commanding view of the Damien Hirst woolly mammoth sculpture, Gone But Not Forgotten. Of the four onsite restaurants, our favourite dining destination is Los Fuegos, an Argentinian grill led by chef Francis Mallmann, which offers many cuts of meat cooked to perfection. Each of the three bars provide a completely different atmosphere – make sure to end the night at the Saxony Theatre, which hosts unforgettable cabaret evenings.
The Royal Mansour, Marrakech
Marrakech (not inaccurately) conjures up jewel-toned images of warm terracotta hues, richly woven carpets, intricate tile work and carved wood, all framed by sweeping palms. The Royal Mansour features each of these aspects, plus so much more. The ultimate in luxury (private transport to the hotel is in a Bentley from a VIP section at the airport), the hotel is composed of 53 individual riads, meaning every guest has their own ‘house’ in which to savour the riches for which Morocco is known.
The Royal Mansour, Marrakech
Richly decorated to spotlight the aforementioned handicrafts, the riads feature kitchenettes with bowls overflowing with plush dates and sweet oranges and fireplaces to light in the evenings. Elsewhere on the property, the stunning gardens are perfect and scented and a beautiful hammam and spa rejuvenates using local Argan oil and other traditional therapies. Last – but certainly not least – the food. It is truly exceptional, as you’d expect with a kitchen helmed by two Michelin-starred chefs. Offering Moroccan, French, and Japanese cuisine, guests are spoilt for choice; we’re partial to the Moroccan breakfast with an assortment of bread and fresh jam alongside incredible produce and spiced eggs.
Think you’ve seen it all? Think again. Our global network of dedicated travel specialists plans one-of-a-kind, tailor-made travel experiences to make every trip your best yet. Find out more about Quintessentially Travel here.
