This isn’t “the best hotels in the world.” It’s a short list of places that still have a clear personality — the ones I’d put on a first-timer’s map, or send someone back to.
A starting list
- Aman properties when silence and space matter more than a busy social scene.
- Six Senses when you want wellness without feeling institutional — Douro is an easy European entry point.
- Four Seasons when service consistency matters (families, multi-gen, or a complicated itinerary).
- Orient Express when the journey is the point — train or hotel, and now a sailing experience depending on the trip.
A noteRoom category matters as much as the brand. A garden room at the wrong hotel can feel less special than a well-chosen suite at a quieter one. Ask before you book the “standard.”
How to pick
If you’d like to pick a luxurious hotel experience, I invite you to share the information using the link below. We will then set up a call where you will talk me through your preferences and requirements. I will ensure you have an amazing stay and treated incredibly well by our partners.