HAP Magazine 2024-2025

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Editor’s Letter

Hi (HAP)pers,

It’s amazing to think that it’s been four years since I started Hotels Above Par while on furlough from my travel PR job during the pandemic. What began as a simple Instagram account dedicated to showcasing boutique hotels—my greatest passion, born from my start as a bellboy—has since blossomed into a full-fledged media company, now reaching nearly 400,000 readers each month.

At HAP (the abbreviated nickname our friends call us), we’re all about independent, unique stays that truly capture the heart of a destination. We’re not into mega-sized, corporate-throbbing resorts. We’re here to connect you with the authentic, the quirky, and the unforgettable. And to be clear, there’s nothing wrong with these big-time conglomerates—they just aren’t our vibe.

We wouldn’t be where we are today without our amazing editorial team. Together, we’ve created a space for hotel reviews, mouthwatering restaurant recommendations, inspiring travel guides imbued with indie establishments aplenty, and even a curated online shop featuring designers from around the globe.

Alas, we welcome you to our inaugural print issue. Our dedicated travel-obsessed team and talented network of top travel journalists put their hearts into this. You’ll discover the winners of our exclusive Above Par Star Awards, highlighting the best boutique stays worldwide. Plus, we’ve got a handy guide to the lively and ever-evolving city of Toronto, along with some fun essays about hospitality for all you hotel lovers out there.

Anyway, thank you for your continued readership—it’s your adoration for the brand that keeps us going. Long live the boutique hotel.

With love, Brandon Berkson, Editor-in-Chief & CEO of Hotels

Photography by Megan Shelton

Table of Contents

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ABOVE PAR STARS

Drumroll, please…our inaugural Above Par Stars results are in, and we’re rolling out the red carpet for an exclusive selection of 30 of the world’s most remarkable boutique hotels. These aren’t just any stays. Our editorial team, made up of seasoned hospitality connoisseurs, scoured the globe to find the most unique properties that offer something more than just a beautiful room and exemplary service. We went looking for hotels with souls, places where every detail tells a story you can’t find anywhere else.

What exactly sets these hotels apart from the thousands out there? First, we focused on individuality. Each property on our list has a distinct personality that reflects its location and spirit. Whether it’s an eco-lodge tucked away in the Costa Rican rainforest or a chic urban retreat in the heart of Tokyo, these hotels don’t

follow trends—they set them.

Next, we looked for those #AbovePar elements that make a stay unforgettable. Think private rooftop pools, Michelin-starred chefs, or exclusive cultural experiences you won’t find on any tour. These are the details that transform a good stay into a great one, ensuring that guests leave with memories worth sharing and tales worth telling.

Finally, we love a good story—and every one of these hotels has one. Whether it’s a family-owned inn with generations of history or a cutting-edge property pushing sustainable luxury boundaries, these places offer more than just a bed—they offer an experience.

So, without further ado, we present our 30 Above Par Stars: the hotels redefining what it means to stay somewhere extraordinary.

Courtesy of Casa Angelina
Courtesy of Forestis

Nestled at the base of the Catskill Mountains, just over the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, Camptown is a charming 50-room, alpine-chic lodge that draws nature lovers with its bucolic surroundings and cozy log cabins featuring vintage kitchenettes and wood-burning fireplaces.

Interiors seamlessly blend the historic charm of a motor lodge and the nostalgia of a campsite with modern comforts to deliver a home-away-from-home ambiance and standout amenities for today’s travelers.

Guests can enjoy the peace and solitude of the private cabins or opt for a more social outing, grilling local meat from the pantry and gathering around the fire pit for late-night drinks and chats.

For a memorable culinary experience, the hotel’s modern Mexican restaurant, Casa Susanna, highlights the bounty of the Hudson Valley with delicious dinners and hot toddy nightcaps.

The Wildset

Rooted in the rugged beauty of the Chesapeake Bay, The Wildset bills itself as the “Eastern Shore reimagined”—and no other accommodation along North Talbot Street in the quaint seaside town of Saint Michaels quite compares. The 34-key boutique inn spans three historic homes, with a bright, minimalist, marsh-like color palette, coastal-inspired interiors, and thoughtful touches like curated bedside reads, including “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

The main house’s Victorian-style wraparound porch nods to its 19th-century schoolhouse origins.

Guests can enjoy dining at Ruse Restaurant or visit the Sundry and Coffee Shop, both dressed in chic contemporary decor. Helmed by the sister duo of Kathryn Lager Design Studio and Allie Balin, the hotel reflects their East Coast upbringing, incorporating subtle personal accents that celebrate women—from art by female artists to a wine list highlighting women winemakers.

Our fav

Every detail—including the name of the hotel and the restaurant—directly reflects the town’s history.

#AbovePar element
Room count: 34
The Vibe
A chic country house hotel with thoughtful amenities and gracious staff that will make you feel right at home.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The award-winning restaurant and bar Casa Susanna, located at the heart of the property. Room count: 50
The Vibe New York’s coziest countryside hotel.

UNTITLED AT 3 FREEMAN ALLEY

New York City, NY

Tucked away in the graffiti-clad Freeman Alley, UNTITLED captures the eclectic spirit of its environs and is geared toward New York City’s Lower East Side creatives. Its urban-chic design takes inspiration from the vibrant street art that surrounds it. Guests enter through a checkerboard-tiled foyer that leads to an expansive ground-floor café, the lush Gallery Garden, and a hidden tattoo and piercing parlor, UNSCRIPTED Ink.

The 200 guest rooms evoke classic New York studio apartments but feel airy thanks to Scandinavian-inspired design elements such as maple wood accents, crisp, white-striped bedding, and large windows that invite natural light. After exploring the lively local culinary scene, guests can chill at the rooftop bar, UNLISTED, complete with velvet banquettes, a glittering disco ball, sprawling patio seating, and cityscape views.

When inspiration hits, UNTITLED offers innovative programming, including expert-led street art tours, tattoo parlor pop-ups, readily available instruments, Polaroid cameras, and professional recording microphones for use.

The Junto

Columbus, Ohio 4

Situated in the Franklinton Art District, The Junto—the first boutique hotel in Columbus—stands at the forefront of this burgeoning neighborhood. Named after Benjamin Franklin’s 1727 club for discussing prominent ideas and issues, the hotel embodies this ideology of intellectual exchange. The expansive lobby, known as the “Trade Room,” is a design-forward work environment by day and a lively gathering spot by night.

The 198 accommodations offer modern retreats in various styles, from cozy bunk rooms to spacious apartments. All are fashioned with calming blue hues, stylish mid-century furnishings, and industrial design elements.

The F&B highlights the area’s agricultural heritage. Maudine’s Coffee Shop honors Ohio State’s 1926 homecoming queen, a farm girl celebrated for her role in the university’s dairy herd. Little West Tavern serves wood-fired cuts and classic pours. Brass Eye, the upscale rooftop bar, mixes a lively selection of cocktails inspired by Benjamin Franklin’s “Drinker’s Dictionary.”

Our fav #AbovePar element
Room count: 200
The Vibe C’mon, tell us about another hotel with a graffiti park and tattoo shop attached to it.
Our fav #AbovePar element Every element tells a story rooted in the rich history of the earliest days of the United States. Room count: 198
The Vibe Ohio’s answer to “Where do the cool people stay?”

Noelle

From the never-ending live music venues along Broadway to the array of delicious Southern restaurants, staying at Noelle Nashville puts you in the heart of the Music City. Built in 1930, the hotel occupies what was once Nashville’s tallest building and its design pays homage to its Art Deco beginnings. A palette of whites, browns, grays, and blues weaves through the suites and common areas, complemented by brass fixtures and vintage-inspired upholstery, presenting a stylish nod to the stay’s historic past.

Its central address makes it ideal for surveying the city, but the on-site dining and imbibing options are equally alluring. Guests have plenty of options to enjoy without leaving the property: Trade Room, the open-lobby bar; Rare Bird, the rooftop lounge; Makeready Libations & Liberation, an underground gastronomic destination; and Hidden Bar, a speakeasy-style bar.

Oh, and if you want a souvenir that matches the hotel’s cool and collected demeanor, the trendy retail space in the lobby sells curated goods from Nashville’s top designers, makers, and artists.

6

Hidden Pond

Kennebunkport, Maine

Hidden Pond, tucked away on 60 acres of birch groves and balsam fir in Kennebunkport, offers a peaceful escape all about connecting with nature. Choose from cozy two-bedroom cottages, one-bedroom bungalows, or the stunning treetop lodges. Interiors blend earthy tones like sage and forest green with bold wallpapers and contemporary furnishings to create a chic yet rustic vibe.

The real star? The Tree Spa, where you can relax in private spa cottages and enjoy treatments such as the Espresso Mud Back Scrub, a detoxifying ritual inspired by nature’s best ingredients to refresh your skin.

In addition to 46 accommodations, Hidden Pond features two pools, organic gardens, and farm-to-table dining that’s worth the trip alone. And if you’re up for it, Goose Rocks Beach is just a 10-minute bike ride away.

Our fav #AbovePar element Each room contains one of four letterpress prints celebrating a noteworthy Nasvhillian.
Room count: 222
The Vibe Just because she’s a short walk from Broadway doesn’t mean she’s rowdy.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The Tree Spa and its private spa cottages are wellness goals. Room count: 46
The Vibe Mother Earth’s favorite place to stay.

Cedar Lakes

Set on 500 acres of Hudson Valley wilderness, this Upstate New York estate is one of the region’s most breathtaking wedding venues. Once a summer camp for Team USA athletes, the property now features 16 cottages, 14 cabins, and six main house suites. From the Sleepy Pine Cottages nestled under towering trees to the modern Bluebird Cottages with heated stone floors and the Lakeside Cottages along the serene waterfront, each offers a distinct, stylish retreat.

Run by sisters Stephanie and Lisa Karvellas, the estate combines sharp management with Lisa’s culinary expertise. Her farm-totable creations, influenced by world-class kitchens, ensure that dining is as unforgettable as the rest of the stay, while the impeccable service makes every guest feel truly pampered.

The estate’s playful summer camp spirit lives on with activities like zip lining into the lake, cornhole, curling, and board games for rainy days. Whether guests are seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s plenty to do.

The Pontchartrain Hotel New

Orleans, LA

The Pontchartrain Hotel, a New Orleans landmark since 1927, is a treasure trove of unique decor. Blending vintage luxury and modern aesthetics, the guest rooms feature quirky artwork, plush furnishings, and glossy wood-paneled walls. The result is a chic, nostalgic feel that’s reminiscent of grandma’s house but with a touch of added sophistication. It’s an experience that will leave you intrigued and eager to explore.

Strategically positioned in the Garden District and near top tourist attractions like Bourbon and Frenchmen Streets, the Pontchartrain Hotel offers unparalleled access to the city’s highlights. The in-house dining is equally enticing. The Silver Whistle Café, a cozy, diner-style spot, serves comfort food, while Jack Rose offers elevated fare. Next door, guests can enjoy tavern-style cuisine with a side of live jazz at Bayou Bar. The hotel’s location is not just convenient; it’s an exciting gateway to NOLA’s vibrant culture.

Our fav #AbovePar element
The charming cottages, constructed from locally sourced oak, feature furnishings made from animal hides, reclaimed wood, and antler chandeliers.
Room count: 36
The Vibe An Upstate New York Pinterest board.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The location along the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar line is the ideal launchpad for exploring NOLA. Room count: 106
The Vibe A case study on how to do New Orleans vintage luxury with a newage twist.

Turtle Island is a private island escape that unites luxury and Fijian heritage into a seamless celebration of paradise. Imagine 14 light-filled beachfront villas that offer an irresistible blend of tropical style and coastal elegance. Handmade wooden furniture from the property’s onsite joinery, breezy open layouts, and outdoor rain showers create the perfect post-beach refresh. Meanwhile, verandas provide jaw-dropping views of the stunning turquoise waters.

Adventure and relaxation harmonize effortlessly. Guests can start their days with a gentle sunrise horseback ride along the beach or retreat to one of 12 secluded beaches for a day of privacy and pampering. For those seeking to explore, scenic hiking trails swerve through lush rainforest terrain, offering a chance to connect with nature and enjoy Fiji’s stunning landscapes.

Every element of Turtle Island immerses guests in the spirit of Fijian culture, from the architecture and locally crafted decor to the serene landscapes.

Bottleworks Hotel

Indianapolis, IN

Once the world’s largest Coca-Cola bottling plant, Bottleworks Hotel in Indianapolis marries vintage cool, and modern luxury in a fun, stylish way. The hotel’s stunning Art Deco design steals the show, from the polished brass doors to the gleaming white terracotta exterior. Inside, it’s all about Jazz Age charm: terrazzo floors, goldenrod tiles, and exposed brick walls nod to the building’s storied past while keeping things fresh.

But Bottleworks Hotel isn’t just a pretty face. It’s packed with personality. Challenge your friends to a game of billiards, grab a cocktail, or explore the on-site dining options in the lively Bottleworks District. Whether you’re there to unwind or dive into the action, this hotel offers a unique blend of nostalgia and energy.

of Turtle Island hotel
Courtesy of Bottleworks Hotel
The Vibe
Your private island fantasy.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The 12 breathtaking coves and beaches that populate the premises Room count: 14
Our fav #AbovePar element
The brilliant transformation from an erstwhile Coca-Cola bottling plant to a design-centric hotel masterpiece. Room count: 139
The Vibe Midwest creativity for the win.

Curtain Bluff

Antigua & Barbuda

Perched on a rocky promontory on Antigua’s south side, Curtain Bluff enchants visitors with stunning views of teal waters and lush hills meeting the Caribbean Sea. Opened in 1962 by Howard and Chelle Hulford, this award-winning Relais & Châteaux resort has grown from a quaint 22-key hotel into a beloved retreat. Its 72 blush-pink stuccoed guest rooms, many with private balconies, offer luxurious accommodations like the two-story Bluff Rooms with sea views and expansive bathrooms.

Curtain Bluff’s dedicated staff, some with over 40 years of service, create a welcoming atmosphere, exemplified by manager Rob Sherman’s weekly cocktail parties. The resort’s all-inclusive experience defies expectations with gourmet dining at Sea Grape and The Tamarind, rotating menus, and attentive service. Guests can enjoy watersports, tennis, and spa treatments or simply relax on the beach, making Curtain Bluff a perfect blend of activity and relaxation in a tropical paradise.

Casa Angelina

Praiano, Italy

Perched on the cliffs of Italy’s Amalfi Coast in the authentic village of Praiano, Casa Angelina is a serene Mediterranean retreat that exemplifies quiet luxury and refined elegance. In 2005, founder Antonino Cappiello envisioned Casa Angelina as a forward-thinking project. He was inspired by his desire to create a contemporary home on the Amalfi Coast, named in honor of his beloved mother, Angelina. This white-washed, nature-driven hotel features an eclectic art collection with vibrant works by artists from around the world.

All 36 rooms and suites are bathed in natural light, showcasing all-white interiors that highlight breathtaking views over Positano from private balconies or terraces.

A stay here means easy access to La Gavitella Beach, one of the Amalfi Coast’s few swimmable beaches. Casa Angelina provides a complimentary all-day shuttle to and from Positano for easy access to the town’s charm and vibrant energy.

Amenities include a heated outdoor pool surrounded by lemon trees, a wellness area with a gym, and experiences like boat tours and cooking classes. Simply put: Casa Angelina gives guests a true slice of La Dolce Vita reimagined.

Courtesy of Casa Angelina hotel
Our fav #AbovePar element It’s a tie between the poolside lemon trees and the colorful glass art collection in the common areas. Room count: 36
The Vibe La Dolce Vita but make it contemporary.
The Vibe A Caribbean beach hotel that feels like home.
Our fav #AbovePar element
All rooms have sea views that make you want to relocate to Antigua permanently. Room count: 72

Casa Hoyos

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

A former Spanish colonial manor turned luxury, design-centric hotel, Casa Hoyos is a 16-room gem located in San Miguel de Allende. As a fourth-generation family-owned hotel, this space oozes with a history that dates back to 1938.

The hotel itself is vibrant and unique, with Mexican design infused throughout. The interiors— carried out by A-G Studio and led by designer Andrés Gutiérrez in collaboration with several Mexican designers and artisans—draw inspiration from the idea of a Spanish mansion where tradition and avant-garde coincide. Inside, guests will notice colorful tiles, eccentric furniture pieces, and sleek accents everywhere they look.

The 16 rooms are all distinctive, each showcasing bold hues, local artwork, and comfortable beds. All are equipped with luxe bathroom amenities from the Mexican brand Loredana and 24-hour concierge service.

BEKEB, the hotel’s rooftop bar, offers creative cocktails with stunning views.

Le Grand Mazarin

Paris, France

Le Grand Mazarin, located in Le Marais, is a design lover’s paradise. This 61-room hotel, crafted by renowned designer Martin Brudnizki, combines French classicism with eclectic maximalism. Mismatched patterns, bold prints, and quirky textures create a whimsical yet luxurious vibe.

Adorned with medieval-inspired tapestry canopies, calming pistachio-green walls, and playful accents like striped chaise lounges and leopard-print chairs, the rooms at Le Grand Mazarin are a true reflection of Parisian elegance. The crystal lighting adds a touch of refinement to these spaces, creating a luxurious yet inviting ambiance.

Guests can savor Ashkenazi comfort food at Boubalé, the hotel’s signature restaurant. For a more intimate setting, Le Bar de Boubalé offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying wine and cocktails.

The wellness center at Le Grand Mazarin is a sanctuary of relaxation and indulgence, featuring a secluded pool, jacuzzi, hammam, and fitness area.

Our fav #AbovePar element
The beautiful ceiling art above the indoor pool. Room count: 61
The Vibe A whimsical and eclectic retreat showcasing Martin Brudnizki’s interior design brilliance.
The Vibe A masterclass on how to make a historic edifice feel contemporary.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The rooftop, with its orthogonal pool, sleek bar, and sensational vantage points of San Miguel de Allende.
Room count: 16

Hôtel

Hermitage

Monte-Carlo

Monte-Carlo, Monaco

Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, the pinnacle of European luxury, stands out with its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. This esteemed five-star hotel is the epitome of elegance, boasting Belle Époque architecture, well-tailored rooms, and a prime location.

With a selection of 277 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, each exuding timeless sophistication, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo caters to various guest preferences. Whether it’s the sea-view Exclusive Rooms or the spacious Diamond Suites with private terraces, there’s something for everyone.

Dining is a highlight. Michelin-starred Pavyllon Monte-Carlo by Yannick Alléno offers expertly crafted, seasonal dishes. Seafood lovers can enjoy a menu shaped by the day’s freshest catches at Chef Yasunari Okazaki’s L’Abysse Monte-Carlo.

The hotel’s spa, Thermes Marins Monte-Carlo, provides personalized treatments alongside a team of experts. It boasts a heated indoor pool, outdoor whirlpool, solarium, sauna, steam room, and a fitness room with panoramic views.

Grand Hotel

Kronenhof

Pontresina, Switzerland 16

Swiss luxury is the ultimate alpine escape, no matter the season. Truly, nobody in Europe does better when it comes to hospitality than Switzerland. This stunning 112room Neo-Baroque gem in the quaint town of Pontresina is just a hop away from the glamor of St. Moritz. With a history of hosting Europe’s elite, this grand dame hotel is the very definition of iconic. Having received a fabulous facelift by legendary French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon—who also worked his magic at the Four Seasons George V and Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills—this place is dressed to impress.

The mountain-facing spa is jaw-dropping with its flotation pool featuring underwater music, saunas, steam rooms, and rejuvenating treatments like facials that use products from top European brands.

fav

The on-site Kronenhof Spa is a serene Swiss oasis offering 21,000 square feet of relaxation-inducing amenities, including a saltwater grotto, Kneipp footpath, relaxation room, and indoor pool with underwater music.

Courtesy
Our
#AbovePar element
Room count: 112
The Vibe A grand dame Swiss hotel that wrote the book, prequel, and sequel on how to be iconic.
The Vibe Classy, classy, classy.
Our fav #AbovePar element
It’s a quick hop away from the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo. Room count: 277

Desierto Azul

Todos Santos, Mexico

Desierto Azul, a boutique hotel nestled in Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, offers an intimate, four-suite escape. The family-owned hotel provides a serene setting with a saltwater pool and towering Cardon cacti, blending the beauty of the desert with a touch of small-size charm.

Each suite embodies modern Mexican design. Handcrafted decor, natural materials, and neutral tones create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Sustainability is at the heart of Desierto Azul, with solar-powered electricity, sun-heated water, and biodigesters for water treatment. The desert garden is filled with native plants that thrive with minimal water, further enhancing the eco-conscious approach.

Desierto Azul also hosts a plantbased cooking studio with yearround classes, perfect for guests who appreciate wellness and sustainability. The on-site boulangerie, PanVero Whole Bakery & Elixirs, whips up gluten-free and dairy-free baked goods.

Andronis Wellness Concept Resort

Santorini, Greece

Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, a luxurious health retreat in Santorini’s Imerovigli, offers a serene escape with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and caldera. The 28-suite resort is a perfect blend of privacy and indulgence, making it an ideal destination for relaxation.

Inspired by Cycladic architecture, the suites and villas range from three-level suites to four-bedroom villas. Each has high-end amenities, private plunge pools, and stunning sea views, perfect for enjoying Santorini’s magical sunsets.

At the heart of the resort is Kallos Spa, the largest in Santorini. It offers personalized treatments that combine ancient Greek rituals with modern wellness techniques. The “Bliss Experience” focuses on reconnection through therapy, yoga, and detox meals, while the “Cell Wellbeing” program provides a comprehensive wellness profile based on hair analysis.

Dining at Throubi Restaurant emphasizes organic, locally sourced Mediterranean dishes paired with an extensive wine list. Guests can enjoy amenities like a fitness center, helipad, tennis court, and vineyard.

Courtesy of Desierto Azul hotel
Courtesy of Andronis Wellness Concept Resort hotel
Our fav #AbovePar element It’s a tie between each accommodation being a suite and the fact that the property boasts Santorini’s largest spa. Room count: 28
The Vibe Life’s great when you are posted up in a suite with a private plunge pool staring out at the Aegean Sea.
The Vibe Proof that good things come in small packages.
Our fav #AbovePar element How the sun-dappled pool flows into the surrounding magical desert landscape.
Room count: 4

Palazzo Avino

Ravello, Italy

Palazzo Avino, a five-star gem in Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, combines history and elegance in a 12th-century villa. Offering 33 rooms and 10 suites, each space is uniquely decorated with antique furnishings and modern accents. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean or surrounding mountains. The crown jewel, the Infinito Suite, boasts a private terrace, infinity pool, and outdoor dining area.

Dining at the Michelin-starred Rossellinis, led by Chef Giovanni Vanacore, delights guests with gourmet Italian cuisine crafted from local ingredients. For a more relaxed experience, Terrazza Belvedere serves light bites and cocktails with breathtaking coastal views, while The Lobster & Martini Bar pairs fresh seafood with sunset drinks.

Beyond the main property, Palazzo Avino has a private beach club accessible by shuttle, where guests can savor Italian fare by the water. Back at the hotel, a pool with a swim-up bar invites relaxation while taking in captivating vistas.

The Greenwich Hotel

New

The Greenwich Hotel, owned by Robert De Niro, is an under-the-radar five-star gem in New York’s TriBeCa. Blending warmth with chic luxury, the 88 rooms, suites, and penthouses feature unique designs with Tibetan silk rugs, Moroccan tiles, and vintage furniture. The custom-made beds add to the cozy, residential feel, while luxe amenities like fireplaces and soaking tubs elevate the experience. Penthouses offer private terraces and saunas.

Locanda Verde, the on-site Italian tavern helmed by Chef Andrew Carmellini, serves rustic, flavorful dishes in a casual setting, with an inviting bar perfect for cocktails and people-watching.

Guests can also unwind at Shibui Spa, which offers holistic treatments in a tranquil bamboo pool house built with a 250-year-old farmhouse structure.

With exceptional service, eclectic design, and a peaceful ambiance, The Greenwich Hotel is a true escape in the heart of bustling NYC.

Courtesy of Palazzo Avino hotel
Courtesy of The Greenwich Hotel
Our fav #AbovePar element
The centerpiece courtyard, surrounded by vine-lathered walls. Room count: 87
The Vibe A refuge amongst the hustle and bustle of New York City.
The Vibe
A royal, historic retreat offering iconic, bucket-list-worthy views.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The Michelin-starred Rossellinis features a terrace with unparalleled views of the Amalfi Coast. Room count: 43

La Fiermontina Palazzo Bozzi Corso

La Fiermontina Palazzo Bozzi

Corso in Puglia is a historic boutique hotel set in an 18th-century palazzo, offering a unique blend of art, history, and luxury. Dating back to 1775, this property features art by renowned figures like Le Corbusier, Sottsass, and John Lennon (donated by Yoko Ono). Sculptures and paintings by Jacques Zwoboda and Renè Letourneur, plus watercolors by Fernand Léger, add to the artistic atmosphere.

The hotel boasts 10 individually designed suites, each telling a chapter of the Fiermonte-Filali family story and appointed with custom-made furniture, art, and luxurious linens. Some include saunas, experience showers, private terraces, and rooftop access.

The hotel’s amenities include a stunning panoramic rooftop pool, a serene secret garden, dedicated game rooms, and a heated whirlpool. Guests can also enjoy a range of signature experiences, from private art tours and cooking classes to excursions exploring the region’s hidden gems.

Rome, Italy 22

Casa Monti

Casa Monti, the first five-star hotel in the Monti district, is nestled within an enclave of independent shops, rotating exhibits, and intimate wine bars that feel distinctly Roman. Here, handmade mosaics and ivy-draped courtyards wage a silent protest against millennial gray. It feels like residing in an artist’s studio; every corner is carefully curated.

Inside, 26 rooms and 10 suites, designed by Laura Gonzalez, burst with color and texture. Creamsicle-hued walls are paired with bold orange curtains, while intricate pink and green headboards mirror the wallpaper’s patterns. The bathrooms are equally impressive and come stocked with hand-painted ceramics, rainfall walk-in showers, and Susanne Kaufmann amenities. Select rooms offer private courtyards for enjoying a morning espresso while observing the cobblestone streets below.

Classic Roman cuisine is crafted from seasonal produce at the ground-floor restaurant, where homemade pasta is always on the menu. Apertivo and cocktails are best enjoyed on the top-floor bar overlooking the city’s rooftops. Guests who want a break from sightseeing can carve out time for treatments and Roman baths at the spa. And how will you know you’ve made it to Casa Monti? When you spot its iconic yellow beetle parked right out front.

Courtesy of Casa Monti hotel
Our fav #AbovePar element Rooms and suites blend Monti craftsmanship with the effortless elegance of sprezzatura to evoke a carefree Italian spirit.
Room count: 36
The Vibe Welcome to Monti. We’re stylish here.
The Vibe
The holiday home of your stylish Italian friend who loves rock music.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The palazzo features a suite dedicated to John Lennon and Yoko Ono, filled with iconic memorabilia and original artwork.
Room count: 10

S Hotel Montego Bay

Montego Bay, Jamaica

The S Hotel in Montego Bay offers the quintessential island escape: sun, sand, endless cocktails, lounge chairs, and the ease of an all-inclusive experience. For travelers seeking total relaxation, this property delivers the ultimate reset.

Chic deck pools and private access to the impossibly blue tides of Doctor’s Cave Beach make this a paradise for swimmers and water lovers. Ocean-view rooms are spacious with simple black and white palettes. The wicker-covered bathtub and rich wood floors featured in the two-floor Presidential Suite wow.

With seven restaurants and bars to choose from, dining options abound. Highlights include Roots Rock, which serves Jamaican classics like jerk chicken and oxtail, and Rocksteady, a vibrant space adorned with artwork by famed Jamaican artist Michael Thompson. For rejuvenation, the Irie Spa provides personalized treatments, three subterranean plunge pools, and a serene sauna that will have you in do-not-disturb mode for the entirety of your PTO.

Room count: 120

Brixen, Italy 24

Forestis

Perched 5,900 feet above sea level with the Dolomites as its stunning backdrop, Forestis is a five-star wellness retreat that’s beyond compare.

Swathed in neutral tones and natural materials, the minimalist rooms are a sight to behold. The oversized windows offer breathtaking views and the outdoor suites provide refreshing mountain air. However, it’s the penthouse that truly stands out with its private pool and unparalleled sense of luxury.

Dining at the Forest Cuisine Restaurant is a plant-based delight with seasonal ingredients and a cocktail bar inspired by the surrounding landscape. The two-story spa, crafted from local woods, offers saunas, fitness studios, and panoramic mountain vistas. The outdoor pool is a highlight of this remote alpine sanctuary.

Room count: 62

Our fav #AbovePar element Where do we start? The spa is exceptional, the environs are dreamy, and the service surpasses what it means to be hospitable.

The Vibe Waking up to a view that just might be prettier than heaven.
The Vibe “Jamaican me not want to come home.”
Our fav #AbovePar element
Astonishingly blue ocean views from deluxe rooms and suites.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge

Ruhengeri, Rwanda

The sublimely located Singita Kwitonda is the only lodge that borders Volcanoes National Park. Adventurers from around the globe flock to this region (and this intimate five-star property) for gorilla trekking.

A pathway of streams and meadows connects the main lodge to eight large guest rooms, each tastefully decorated with artisanal, handmade furnishings in a plethora of colors and textures. Expect plush leather armchairs with knit throws, dark floors offset by oversized rugs, and bathrooms accented by oven-red clay bricks. Floor-toceiling windows offer sublime views of the neighboring national park, and guests may be tempted to nix their indoor and outdoor showers in favor of an oversized black bathtub. Covered verandas and private heated plunge pools are a welcome treat after a day spent trekking.

Rooms are stocked with generous food pantries and a changing menu with plentiful plant-based meals that are guaranteed to be delicious—even more so when paired with vino from the property’s premium wine cellar. Guests can book in-room massages or light many incense sticks, candles, and oil burners scattered throughout their villa for a touch of aromatherapy.

Milan, Italy 26

Portrait Milano

Originally a seminary, the five-star Portrait Milano, with its sumptuous portal designed by the renowned architect Francesco Maria Richini in 1652, reflects the transformative power of renovation. The recently restored piazza, now open to the public after more than 20 years, is a testament to the exclusive location of this historic hotel.

Managed by the iconic Ferragamo family, this property is not just a hotel but a love story between Milan and its stylish residents. A meeting point for local Milanese and chic travelers, the property offers a unique experience where guests can immerse themselves in the city’s fashion culture, from the click-clack of heels in the lobby to the ground-floor shops—including the second outpost of the beloved Antonia boutique and SO-LE STUDIO by Maria Sole Ferragamo.

Despite the hustle and bustle of the ground floor, guests will find sanctuary in the quiet rooms, just an elevator ride away. Soft linens and comfortable beds are complemented by marble bathrooms featuring generous tubs— ideal for a long soak. For a deeper escape, the subterranean spa offers a dimly lit swimming pool and an impressive menu of treatments such as massages and cryotherapy.

Courtesy of Singita Kwitonda Lodge hotel
Courtesy of Portrait Milano hotel
Our fav #AbovePar element
The subterranean spa for a quiet reprieve from the fashion district above. Room count: 73
The Vibe Milan, darling. Milan.
The Vibe Luxury with a side of gorilla trekking.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Volcanoes National Park. Room count: 8

Villa Ardore Tuscany, Italy

An hour’s drive outside of Florence, in the Tuscan region of Chianti, Villa Ardore is a private residence, available only for exclusive buyouts. Three acres of lush grounds embody the Italian philosophy of “la dolce far niente,” encouraging one to sit and enjoy the simple pleasure of doing nothing. Nothing in this context, of course, means drinking aged vino and bathing in salt water.

This expansive villa features eight en suite accommodations that preserve original materials and rustic charm, comfortably accommodating up to 16 guests. The saltwater infinity pool supplies breathtaking views of the vineyards. The private spa, which has a jacuzzi, dry sauna, sensory shower, and Turkish steam bath, feels like an idyllic haven for relaxation.

Dining is special. The breakfast buffet features fresh pastries and eggs straight from the property’s chicken coop, while chef-prepared margarita pizzas, made in the outdoor pizza oven, are topped with local Tuscan specialties. Every meal can, and should be, enjoyed with an aged glass of Chianti. If ever there was a compelling argument to sip wine with breakfast, this is it.

The Scott Resort & Spa

Scottsdale, Arizona

The Scott Resort & Spa is Scottsdale’s hippest stay. Clean lines and a soothing neutral palette give the guest rooms a fresh and inviting atmosphere. Crisp white bedding complements a blend of brass details, rattan and caning, utilitarian fixtures, and geometric forms alongside mid-century modern furnishings. Plush gray seating creates a cozy corner, and desert-themed bespoke artwork infuses the space with a distinctly Arizonian flair.

Two outdoor pools are nestled within tropical gardens to evoke the feel of a beach getaway smackdab in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. At the outdoor cabana bar, you can enjoy fizzy, colorful cocktails and mocktails served in frozen coconut shells. But the real highlight is dinner at The Canal Club, where American classics are infused with Caribbean twists. The jazzy ambiance, adorned with colors inspired by 1930s Havana and featuring luxurious velvet touches, adds to the charm. The uniqueness of The Canal Club is sure to make your dining experience a memorable one.

Courtesy of Villa Ardore hotel
Courtesy of The Scott hotel
Our fav #AbovePar element
The sun-drenched spa has six treatment rooms for halcyon pampering. Room count: 204
The Vibe
A modish desert stay that’s interior design dessert.
The Vibe
A Tuscan villa that feels stolen from a movie set.
Our fav #AbovePar element
The tree-lined infinity pool that overlooks the vineyards.
Room count: 8

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Casa Lucia was once the historic Edificio Mihanovich, a 20-story marvel commissioned in 1929 by shipping magnate Nicolás Mihanovich. Upon its completion, it stood as the tallest building in Latin America. Today, it’s been transformed into a boutique five-star property in the heart of Buenos Aires, affectionately called “the Paris of Latin America.”

The Art Deco lobby moonlights as an opulent greenhouse. Gass ceilings, cascading greenery, and black-and-white checkered floors balance pops of green, gray, and onyx furniture. A dramatic light fixture designed by Argentinian artist Cristían Mohaded commands attention overhead. Step into the doors of Le Club Bacan for a chic bar jiggering inventive mixed drinks. On the other side, Cantina Restaurant serves Argentine dishes in a dark, woody atmosphere reminiscent of The Polo Bar.

Guest rooms embody luxurious simplicity with modern furnishings in neutral white, cream, and brown tones.

30

Mihir Garh

Khandi, Rajasthan India

Located 45 minutes from Jodhpur, Mihir Garh emerges from the horizon like a regal Rajasthani fortress. While its fresh exterior mimics the neutral hues of its natural surroundings, inside are jewel-tone palettes and Rajasthani antiques juxtaposed against the dramatic backdrop of the Thar Desert. This five-star fort is a celebration of heritage and landscape, embracing intimacy as its greatest amenity.

Nine spacious guest suites offer 1,700 square feet of opulence (and some are even larger), with private plunge pools made for refreshing desert-facing dips. The impressive common areas, replete with fountain-studded courtyards, hidden seating alcoves, and a sprawling terrace for prime sunset views, will entice you to leave your quarters. And, of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the sprawling main infinity pool overlooking the desert.

The spa, nestled within a walled garden, offers ayurvedic products rich in ingredients from the surrounding desert. Mihir Garh’s boutique touch reaches beyond the confines of the property, too. Hand-picked village safari itineraries and culinary workshops allow guests to immerse themselves in the region with intention.

Casa Lucia
Courtesy of Casa Lucia hotel
The Vibe There’s a new chica in town—and she’s trés chic.
Our fav #AbovePar element
Its Arroyo Street location, framed by stunning neoclassical buildings. Room count: 142
Courtesy of The Scott hotel
Our fav #AbovePar element
The treasure trove of Rajasthani antiques lovingly placed throughout the property. Room count: 9
The Vibe
A secluded desert stay that gives off major enchanting fortress energy.

Toronto Unlocked: Your Ultimate Insider’s Guide to “The 6ix”

Where to Stay

The Ace Hotel is located in the heart of the Garment District, near the CN Tower and Metro Toronto Convention Centre. The property boasts a Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant, Alder, and the swanky Evangeline lounge, perfect for a drink to close out the night. Ace Toronto boasts 125 rooms, ranging from small to double, which were designed to be effortless, intentional spaces.

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is making a statement as a multicultural metropolitan destination that’s a must-visit. Home of the Raptors and Maple Leafs, The 6ix is a diverse and growing cultural hub. Below, our curated list of where to stay, eat, drink, and visit in Toronto.

Contrada

Situated in Little Italy, Contrada is a modern, casual Italian restaurant that focuses on locally sourced, seasonal food. This quaint, intimate setting embodies rich Italian traditions, drawing inspiration from Palio di Siena, an annual summer festival and bareback horse race through the piazza. Stop by for aperitivo hour or dinner of swordfish crudo and the autumnal ravioli doppio, closing the night with a ricotta tart topped with figs and candied oranges.

This 16-room boutique hotel offers guests comfort, culture, and convenience in Dundas West. Each room has a theme, but all showcase local artists and feature their furnishings. Ode Toronto is situated near independently owned shops, diverse restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it easy to immerse yourself in the local scene. Enjoy delicious meals from local dining options that showcase the best of Toronto’s culinary landscape or take part in regular cultural events and art exhibitions that bring the community to life.

For the local downtown experience, The Drake Hotel is where you want to be. With 51 rooms, the property received a little extra TLC in 2022 with the new Modern Wing featuring a living room-style lobby. Since opening its doors in 2004, The Drake Hotel has served as a hub with a unique sense of place. A Queen West address means you’ll find yourself rooted at the center of contemporary art and culture, celebrating the communities surrounding you.

This deli-inspired steakhouse features a challah service and hand-sliced pastrami on its menu. New to the scene, Linny’s is serving up big flavors to Toronto. The mind behind Sunnys and Mimi, David Schwartz, brought Linny’s to life as a nod to his Eastern European heritage and, of course, his grandma’s cooking. Even the cocktails have their own flairs, with dill pickle and borscht-inspired drinks. And never forget dessert, as the chef whips up a warm chocolate babka.

If you’re interested in a vibey apéro hour to unwind or catch up with a friend, Chantecler is where you want to go. This effortlessly chic bistro is powered by Diego Reyes, a Noma-trained chef who cooks up bistro classics with a twist. Come hungry and order the steak tartare, an orange-scented creme brulee, and a glass of wine.

DaiLo whips up new Asian cuisine with a tasteful Chinese flair in the heart of Toronto. Meaning “big brother” in Cantonese (it’s often used as a term of endearment and respect), DaiLo is a nod to the ways and tastes of older cultures and generations. Chef Nick Liu’s Hakka upbringing inspired dishes like the popular Big Mac Bao, and ancient favorites were modernized with Liu’s flair and demand for local and sustainable ingredients. Dishes such as Truffle Fried Rice, Sweet & Sour Pork Hock, and Hakka Brown Wontons are a must when visiting.

Courtesy of Contrada
Chantecler
Courtesy of Chantecler
DaiLo
Courtesy of DaiLo
Linny’s
Ace Hotel
Courtesy of Ode Toronto
The Drake Hotel
Ode Toronto
Courtesy of Ace Hotel
Courtesy of The Drake Hotel
Courtesy of Linny’s

Little Portugal Toronto

This bar infuses its own ferments into its signature drinks menu and riffs of classics. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous and creative, there’s a bespoke cocktail experience. Choose your base and seasonal ingredients and adjust to your sweetness and sourness preferences. For a decadent and bold drink, try the Affogato Express. Prefer a light, floral taste? Go for the Porcelain featuring Dry Sake, violet liqueur, and Jasmine Baiju.

Upon walking in, you’ll be transported to 1900’s Paris. The mind behind this bar is no other than Frankie Solarik, an author and judge on Netflix’s Drink Master. The design was inspired by the apothecaries of the Art Nouveau era, with its wooden walls, oldtimey jars, and antique decorations placed around the bar. Apothecaries then used fresh and dried herbs and flowers to create tinctures, medicines, and cures. A nod to the past, bartenders craft each drink like it’s art. Mixologists embody the Méthode Classique, muddling herbs and spices in real-time, giving guests an experience to savor and enjoy.

Strolling through Little Portugal, you’ll be greeted by colorful murals, boutique shops, and bustling cafes. Taste and savor beloved Portuguese dishes like pastéis de nata from Brazil Bakery and Pastry. The lively area also hosts events showcasing traditional music and dance, making it a great place to experience the warmth of Portuguese culture. Shop like a local at Saudade for Portuguese designs and artisan traditions or run into Easy Tiger Goods to grab some fun goodies. Food lovers and history buffs alike will find Little Portugal an enriching part of Toronto’s cultural life.

Kensington Market

Kensington Market is a must-visit in Toronto that encapsulates the city’s rich cultural tapestry. With its eclectic mix of vintage shops, artisanal food vendors, and vibrant street art, this historic neighborhood invites visitors to experience a unique urban pocket. Explore the winding streets filled with colorful murals and discover hidden gems around every corner. Try local eateries showcasing cuisines all over the world and visit local farm stalls presenting all the local produce of the community. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or a shopper seeking one-of-a-kind treasures, Kensington Market offers a delightful blend of culture that captures the spirit of Toronto.

and hand-crafted signature cocktails while perched on leather banquettes or wooden chairs.

Bata Shoe Museum

If you self-identify as a sneakerhead or fashion-curious, a visit to the Bata Shoe Museum is well worth it. The BSM showcases footwear’s style, history, and development across four galleries that display everything from wooden clogs and Egyptian sandals to Chinese foot-binding shoes and modern heels. The museum came to life when owner Sonja Bata’s personal collection outgrew its home. Since then, the collection has only grown. Shoes may be an indication of personal style and preference, but they also tell the hidden stories of the world’s development and society’s attitudes and values. Home to at least 14,000 shoes, this unique museum is an international center of footwear that illustrates a way of life through the changing times.

Mother
Courtesy of Mother
Prequel & Co. Apothecary
Courtesy of Prequel & Co. Apothecary
Bar Pompette
Claiming the No.29 spot of North America’s top 50 bars is no easy feat. Bar Pompette brings Paris chic straight into Toronto with sleek, white brick walls and a marble-finished bar top. Enjoy an extensive Old World wine menu
Courtesy of Bar Pompette
Courtesy of Kensington Market
Courtesy of Destination Toronto
Courtesy of Bata Shoe Museum

Designing a Dream: Martin Brudnizki on La Fantaisie’s Botanical Transformation

Opened in July 2023, La Fantaisie is a dreamy Parisian escape in the lively Faubourg-Montmartre shopping district in the heart of the city’s 9th arrondissement. The boutique hotel was transformed by Swedish design master Martin Brudnizki, who revived the former L’Opéra Cadet hotel. Now a jewel box loved by tourists and locals alike, La Fantaisie centers around a dazzling courtyard garden, giving the nod to the area’s rich history.

Here, we ask Brudnizki about the inspiration behind La Fantaisie’s design.

What level of transformation were you faced with in reimagining La Fantaisie?

The design concept for La Fantaisie was inspired by the horticultural history of Rue Cadet, which was transformed into market gardens by Jean and Jacques Cadet in the 18th century. We wanted to create a serene oasis in South Pigalle, centering the hotel’s design around the landscaped garden—a rare feature in Paris.

In what ways did the 9th arrondissement influence your design?

We drew significant inspiration from South Pigalle’s bohemian ambiance.

Q&A with tastemaker

Our vision was to create an environment that offers charm and relaxation while staying close to the dynamic opera and bar scene. We wanted La Fantaisie to be a destination for both tourists and locals, seamlessly integrating into the neighborhood.

What did your vision board look like as you prepared the hotel’s design?

Following the botanical theme, we were inspired by the rich colors of natural vegetation. From floral motifs to hand-painted murals, it was important to work with artisans who captured the essence of nature, which is what we feel we achieved with La Fantaisie.

How did your time spent as a guest of boutique hotels inform design decisions for La Fantaisie?

Boutique hotels are intimate and memorable. It’s essential that the spaces feel comfortable and intrinsic to the surrounding area without losing the local essence to whimsy. That balance was key in designing La Fantaisie.

In what ways does the aesthetic

This Is What Makes Kimpton Hotels Feel Boutique

Cool Neighborhood Alert: Ybor City in Tampa

Ybor City, Tampa’s vibrant historic district, brims with undeniable character. Founded in the 1880s, this locale buzzes with history, an unmissable art scene, and various cultural influences.

Where to Stay Hotel Haya

Hotel Haya captures the neighborhood’s storied past, fusing historic architecture with modern design as a refined tribute to Ybor City.

Where to Eat

Columbia Restaurant

Where to Visit

Go vintage shopping and antiquing at local boutiques

Hunt for one-of-a-kind fashion at La France or uncover quirky antiques at Vintage Roost and Dysfunctional Grace.

Tour the J.C. Newman Cigar Factory

of the hotel’s public spaces carry over to guest rooms?

We selected a nature-inspired color palette for the guestrooms, incorporating verdant greens, sunshine yellows, and true reds found in lush gardens. These colors create a serene and grounded atmosphere while reflecting the joyous energy of the hotel’s overall theme.

In what ways did you transform the courtyard garden and Bar Sur Le Toit?

The secret garden is the centerpiece, offering a sun-dappled retreat in the heart of Paris. Bar Sur Le Toit features rose panels designed for the hotel and a rooftop terrace with views over the city, creating a magical experience for guests.

What inspired you to transform the hotel’s former underground parking garage into a luxury spa?

The spa, located on the hotel’s lowest level, provides a secluded setting for relaxation. Inspired by Turkish Hammams, it features a mosaic mural depicting perennial flowers, continuing the hotel’s overall botanical story.

It’s no secret that we live and breathe boutique hotels. There’s just something about checking into a well-curated home base with its own distinct personality that elevates a trip to the next level. It could be a 12-key beachfront oasis in Costa Rica or a refurbished manor house in the Cotswolds. These types of overnights have a way of holding up a mirror to a destination and distilling its ethos into a unique guest experience.

Of course, our penchant for all things indie doesn’t preclude us from staying at an accommodation associated with a larger chain as long as it embodies the spirit and style of a bijou boutique bolthole. For travelers who like the consistency of a well-established brand that guarantees a high level of service, signature amenities, and topnotch dining, we love Kimpton. Its ever-growing portfolio includes 75 properties in 55 cities. Across the board, guests spend the night at a Kimpton know what to expect: cool design, comfy beds, great food and drinks, and thoughtful extras like complimentary loaner bikes, in-room yoga mats, wine social hours, and accessories hand-selected by Anthropologie stylists.

What’s more, loyalists (like us) will find Kimpton outposts in some of the most desirable destinations around the world. Perched on the Buda banks of the Danube River, the new Kimpton BEM Budapest blends Hungarian folklore with whimsical contemporary styling. Visiting New York City? Kimpton Hotel Theta is a sleek surprise in Midtown Manhattan. Its rooftop Bar Sprezzatura serves spritzes that recall the Italian Riviera and skyline views. Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa, a Georgian landmark in the heart of Scotland’s largest city, evokes Glaswegian luxury and offers a fabulous afternoon tea. Holidaygoers looking for a stylish, toes-in-thesand vacation in Choeng Mon Beach can escape to Kimpton Kitalay Samui.

Established in the early 1900s, Columbia is Florida’s oldest restaurant and serves Spanish-Cuban fare in a space inspired by history, art, and literature.

Casa Santo Stefano

Situated in a former macaroni factory called Casa Santo Stefano, this Sicilian eatery evokes the warmth of traditional Italian Sunday suppers.

Where to Drink

Tampa Bay Brewing Company

Expect classic and experimental IPAs, sours, and Florida-inspired brews at this laidback taproom.

Learn about handcrafted cigars and Ybor’s rich cigar-making legacy within this storied family-owned factory.

Cuba without a Passport

Travelers to Tampa Bay can take a quick jaunt to Cuba without the hassle of a passport. Just head to Ybor City, the historic Latin Quarter, where you’ll find a slice of Cuban culture in José Martí Park. This park honors the legendary poet and revolutionary who gave Spanish rule a serious run for its money in the late 1800s—no sunscreen or airfare required

KIMPTON PARTNERSHIP
Courtesy of Columbia Restaurant
Courtesy of Kimpton Theta New YorkTimes Square
Photography By Jerome Galland
Photography By Jerome Galland

The Best American Cities for Boutique Hotels

Get ready for a rendezvous with creative hospitality as we explore America’s coolest cities for boutique hotels. These urban boltholes don’t just provide a place to sleep—they are

hubs of culture and innovation, connecting guests to the heart of a destination in an anything-but-cookie-cutter way. Read on as we share the USA’s best cities for boutique hotels.

Denver

Mile-High Mix of Mountains and Creative Flair

Los

Angeles Where Stays Deserve an Oscar

Austin

Where Creative Energy Comes from Its New Residents

Detroit’s comeback story is raw and resilient. Once known for cars, now it’s cruising on indie hospitality. The Siren Hotel, a swanky reincarnation of the Wurlitzer headquarters, mixes industrial vibes with eye-popping pink at its Candy Bar. At the Shinola Hotel, an iconic American watch company proves its knack for hospitality. Let’s not forget the Detroit Foundation Hotel, which transformed a fire department HQ into a boutique wonderland, preserving every tile, brick, and marble piece like a love letter to the past.

Welcome to Denver, where the peaks are as frothy as the craft beers. Picture yourself sipping a cold brew with the Rockies as your backdrop. The city’s RiNo Art District isn’t just a pretty mural or two—it’s practically a kaleidoscope on the sides of converted warehouses, now operating as mom-and-pop establishments, including a lively food hall, The Denver Central Market. Colorado’s zingiest city’s boutique hotel flex is strong. The Ramble Hotel dazzles with its Death & Co bar and statement-making chandeliers. Meanwhile, The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block invites you to explore Downtown Denver like it’s your personal playground. And for the budget-savvy, Catbird combines contemporary flair with mid-century charm into a chic stay that won’t empty your wallet.

Nashville A Melody Surrounding Hospitality

Nashville’s got rhythm and its boutique hotels hit all the right notes. When you’re not grooving to the city’s famous music scene on Broadway, rest your head at Noelle Nashville, where the in-house store is an artisanal paradise, especially for upmarket hats. For a dose of Dolly Parton fandom, the Graduate Nashville won’t disappoint (it’s dedicated to the singer from head to toe). The Russell, a former church turned inn, offers a heavenly stay with its stained-glass windows and budget-friendly prices. Hallelujah!

LA’s boutique hotel scene is as star-studded as the Oscars. The Cara Hotel in Los Feliz offers a serene escape with its plant-punctuated courtyard featuring a cream palette and a calming water feature flanked by outside furniture. It’s enough to make you forget about the city’s endless honking horns and traffic jams. In West Hollywood, Short Stories and Palihouse West Hollywood deliver a California-cool stay, while Santa Monica’s revamped The Georgian Hotel dazzles in a turquoise Art Deco tower facing the Pacific Ocean.

New York City Where It All Happens

New York City’s boutique hotels are as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. For a touch of class, check into The Wall Street Hotel in FiDi or the Martin Brudzinski-designed Fifth Avenue Hotel in Flatiron. If you’re seeking hip and trendy, Studio 54 founder Ian Schrager’s PUBLIC Hotel on the Lower East Side and the colorfully decorated Penny Williamsburg in Brooklyn will excite you.

Austin is where everyone’s moving (and many are bringing their creative juices with them). Bunkhouse’s Carpenter Hotel, with its pecan tree-lined pool and amicable coffee shop, feels like a hidden gem in a bustling city. The Loren at Lady Bird Lake offers stunning views from its rooftop bar, Nido, while Hotel San Jose charms guests with its ivy-covered structures and fountain-filled courtyard.

New Orleans

A Melting Pot of History and Style

New Orleans is a treasure trove of boutique hotels with unique flair. Hotel Peter and Paul occupies a former church, convent, and school, offering a stay that rules the repurposing game. Hotel St. Vincent takes a historic brick building and infuses it with modern design, complete with an awesome gift shop. The Chloe, a 14-room Victorian mansion, is a masterclass in thoughtful design, from alligator doorknobs to handwoven robes by local

Detroit
From Motor City to Hipster Haven
Courtesy of Shinola hotel
Courtesy of The Russell hotel
Courtesy of The Maven hotel
artisans.
Courtesy of The Georgian hotel
Courtesy of Carpenter hotel
Courtesy of The Wall Street hotel
Courtesy of Hotel Peter & Paul

The Hotel Lobby Bars We Adore

Our editors can’t stop raving about these boutique hotel lobby bars.

A seductive hotel lobby bar helps set the mood (and, of course, promises an unforgettable evening). History unfolded in these swanky spots where infamous figures lingered over tipples and pivotal moments happened. We’re spotlighting seven exceptional hotel lobby lounges that deserve to be celebrated.

The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel

Beneath the glow of a grand nine-story atrium, The Bar Room at The Beekman in Lower Manhattan captures the quintessential cool of a New York lobby bar. With an elevated nighttime vibe and a boozy weekend jazz brunch, it’s a place to step back in time. Deemed an “interior landmark,” the skylit chamber floods the lounge with natural light, inviting guests to sink into velvet couches and admire the art-adorned, olive walls.

With an illustrious past hosting Hollywood’s Golden Age icons— including Charlie Chaplin, Will Rogers, Greta Garbo, and Marilyn Monroe—The Hollywood Roosevelt’s historic Lobby Bar pays tribute to a glamorous bygone era. The bar’s Spanish Colonial architecture, accentuating arched doorways, stately stone columns, and authentic paneled ceilings, sets the perfect scene for guests to savor a Centennial Martini or enjoy a Shirley Temple in honor of the child star herself.

Situated at the heart of La Mamounia, Morocco’s crown jewel hotel, The Majorelle Bar offers two distinct experiences. Inside, grand and sumptuous seating areas feature eye-catching prints and artworks inspired by Jacques Majorelle’s Orientalist style, honing the essence of Marrakech and southern Morocco. Outside, a courtyard blends balmy air with lush foliage, where the soft strains of smooth jazz enhance the ambiance.

The TWA Hotel, an iconic 1960s-era airport terminal turned hotel, boasts the glamorous and historic Sunken Lounge. With its signature Chili Pepper Red carpeting and cushions, this renowned spot once hosted crowds eager to catch a glimpse of The Beatles’ arrival in 1965. Today, you can sip playful cocktails like the Jet Fuel, Red Eye, and Quickie Vacation while admiring the retro “Connie” airplane, a classic from 1958, which is also transformed into a bar and lounge itself.

The Nook at Broadwick Soho epitomizes a chic hotel lobby bar. This convivial ground-floor space, exclusively for hotel guests, is a feast for the eyes with its maximalist design: intricate Italian fabrics, dramatic floral wallpapers, and vintage treasures, including a 1970s Murano chandelier. It’s the perfect spot to daydream by the fireplace with a classic Corpse Reviver in hand, accompanied by the warm crackle of vinyl spinning in the background.

At the Ritz Paris’s intimate 25seat Bar Hemingway, the spirit of the great writer is revived every evening. The only sounds are the soft murmur of conversation and ice clinking in glasses, generating an environment rife with inspiration. This absence of music is intentional, evoking the atmosphere once enjoyed by legendary guests like Coco Chanel, the Fitzgeralds, and, naturally, Ernest Hemingway himself as they sipped the bar’s original Serendipity elixir.

Hotel Chelsea’s alluring Lobby Bar is the kind of lounge that effortlessly transports you between a swanky New York City drinking spot and a Euro-chic watering hole. By day, it’s a serene spot to enjoy coffee beneath the verdant indoor-outdoor garden terraces. By night, it transforms into a moody, golden-hued cocktail room adorned with striking artworks, where quiet conversations unfold in the cozy corners of low-sunken velvet couches.

New York City
Eschelman
Hollywood, Los Angeles
The Hollywood Roosevelt
New York City TWA Hotel
Courtesy of The Maven hotel Courtesy of The Hollywood Roosevelt hotel
Courtesy of TWA Hotel
Soho, London Broadwick Soho
Paris, France Ritz Paris
New York City Hotel Chelsea
Marrakech, Morocco La Mamounia
Courtesy of Broadwick Soho hotel
Courtesy of La Mamounia hotel
Courtesy of Ritz Paris hotel
Courtesy of Hotel Chelsea

Stockholm Destination Guide

Stockholm deserves more stardom, in our opinion. It has all the high-scoring qualities other European metropolises boast and a contagious buzz hums through theWhere t city’s lively streets. Denizens pour into vibrant bars, international restaurants freckle each walkable block, and Nordic-style shops sell items imbued with Scandinavia’s quintessential minimalist, neutral looks.

Stockholm’s Metro Stations

Stockholm’s metro system is not just a place for transport but also a canvas for free-range artists. On your way in and out of the train, you’ll see stations bedecked in painted artworks, sculptures, rock figures, and mosaics. Our favorite is T-Centralen, which has a flower motif and blue and white walls. The metro stop opened its gates in the late 1950s and was grandfathered in as the first Stockholm station to showcase artwork.

Fotografiska Stockholm

Word of mouth has spread Lucy’s Flower Shop’s name like wildfire. The 25-seat cocktail bar specializes in distinct flavors (you won’t find libations with too much citrus or anything run-of-the-mill, for that matter). Sip-worthy concoctions come to life as owners and master bartenders Ola Carlson and Alex Skarlen experiment with recipes in the onsite cocktail lab.

When it comes to a hotel that feels like a home, Ett Hem outperforms. The name means “at home” in Swedish—and it couldn’t be more accurate. Communal spaces flow into one another, including an open kitchen that blurs the line between working chefs and dining guests, operating like a friend’s inviting estate with an “order whatever you want” menu. Just as superb as the homey ethos and physical attributes are its welcoming staff, whose profound attentiveness wins over guests.

Those looking for a hearty Swedish meal should consider Sturehof in Stockholm’s city center. Specializing in fruits of the sea, the Cured Char, which comes with dill-creamed potatoes and fish eggs, is a must-try.

Djurgården—dubbed “Museum Island”— is a cultural launchpad with a medley of museums suitable for visitors of all ages. Make sure to mosey around the jaw-dropping Vasa Museum, which hosts a real-life relic of a gargantuan ship that sunk centuries ago. Stop by the Viking Museum to see plenty of Nordic history.

Flower Shop

This Pan-Asian restaurant is one of Stockholm’s most beautiful spaces. It occupies a sumptuous, historic, ornate-paneled dining room with high ceilings and sparkly chandeliers. The electronic music playing in the background nods to Sweden’s long roster of talented DJs.

This hipster-packed neighborhood is one of Stockholm’s trendiest and beams with creativity. When walking around the area, you’ll find a medley of vintage shops, indie boutiques, and design-oriented shops. Some of our favorite pitstops include trendy thrift shop Grandpa, Swedish fashion brands Asket and A Day’s March, and Esteriör for furnishings, posters, potted plants, and shape-varied lamps.

Word of mouth has spread Lucy’s Flower Shop’s name like wildfire. The 25-seat cocktail bar specializes in distinct flavors (you won’t find libations with too much citrus or anything run-of-the-mill, for that matter). Sip-worthy concoctions come to life as owners and master bartenders Ola Carlson and Alex Skarlen experiment with recipes in the onsite cocktail lab.

Hem
Sturehof
Djurgården (Museum Island)
Lucy’s
Södormalm
Berns Asiatiska
Courtesy of Ett Hem
Courtesy of Ett Hem
Courtesy of Sturehof
Courtesy of Visit Stockholm
Courtesy of Södormalm
Courtesy of Fotografiska Stockholm
Courtesy of Djurgården (Museum Island)
Courtesy of Lucy’s Flower Shop
Courtesy of Berns Asiatiska

How The World’s Best Boutique Hotels Find Their Signature

Scents

Growing up, my parents would always delight in purchasing a “trip scent” while we were on vacation—sometimes a bottle we’d pick up on our travels, other times a last-minute perfume we’d scoop up at duty-free before taking off. Regardless of provenance, its purpose was always the same: a smell that—once we’d returned home to suburban Maryland—would transport us speedily to sun-soaked terraces in Capri or cloudy afternoons spent wandering the Louvre. As scent is so intertwined with memory, it worked: even now, when I smell vacation fragrances from over a decade ago, I’m right back in Rome, Hong Kong, or Buenos Aires.

Of course, it’s not just travelers who employ this trick but hotels as well. While it’s not uncommon for chains to employ a signature scent at their properties across the world, lately, boutique hotels have also been crafting bespoke fragrances to help shape their identities.

“It really expresses their brand,” said Jill Fetsch of Candlefish, a Charleston-based candle company that creates custom scents for dozens of properties, including Montage Palmetto Bluff and Zero George. “Maybe you’ve gone to the hotel for a birthday or an engagement, and you want to take something home to remember it. It’s huge to then have that scent always around you.”

Read on to discover some of our favorite bespoke scents from boutique hotels around the world.

This luxury lodge and camp brand created a signature scent that can be found at all of the company’s African properties. As a member of highly selective Beyond Green, a sustainable portfolio of hotels, choosing an eco-friendly partner to craft the fragrance was paramount. &Beyond found the perfect fit with Healing Earth, which fashioned a lemon verbena-argan oil made from African indigenous botanicals. The unisex fragrance is an uplifting scent designed to mimic how the African sun feels on your face.

Adare Manor, an estate hotel in County Limerick, Ireland, drew on native flora to create its bespoke fragrance, which includes notes of fig leaves, blonde wood, and parched earth. Available to purchase on-site or online in candle or diffuser form, “the scent has added a magical detail to the Adare Manor guest experience,” said Deirdre Buckley Moore, the boutique manager at the hotel. “Our visitors time and time again share how the scent brings back fond memories from their stay, teleporting them to that exact moment in time.”

At one of the toniest hotels on the toniest of islands, it’s little wonder that Cheval Blanc has a bespoke fragrance created by LVMH’s sister brand Guerlain. The result is as elegant as you might expect: the scent has top notes of bergamot and fig and is finished off with floral notes of iris and white blossom. With its gold-and-blushpink stopper crafted in the hotel’s signature color, the bottle itself is also worth collecting. Don’t leave the hotel before purchasing: it’s only available at the Cheval Blanc spa.

Lake Como’s most famous property is known for its manicured grounds, which inspired its signature scent, Aqua Como 1910. The floral fragrance also carries notes of lake breeze and is available in perfume, diffuser, and candle form, among others.

“Our intention was to seamlessly weave Lake Como’s natural beauty into a scent and for our guests to connect to these elements during their stay for a memorable experience,” said CEO Valentina De Santis.

This grande dame property in Marrakech, Morocco, also boasts one of the more famous signature hotel scents. Created by storied luxury perfumery Fragonard, it has a top note of orange blossom, an ode to the orange trees scattered among the expansive gardens. Guests can bring it home in candle or soap form to keep memories of the 100-yearold-plus property alive long after departing.

Owned by Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg, co-founders of beauty brand Fresh, it’s perhaps little surprise that this Hudson, New York hotel has a bespoke fragrance. The spicy, woody Spiritus scent was crafted with Robertet perfumer Jerome Epinette to evoke the bohemian vibes of this Hudson Valley city. It has notes of frankincense, cannabis, and vanilla bean. “Guests love this fragrance,” said Glazman. “It’s our top-selling candle.”

Perfume connoisseurs are probably familiar with Mexico City’s Xinú, one of the country’s finest artisanal shops. For their neighbor, Casa Polanco, the house created the exclusive Flor de Musgo scent which carries notes of lime, tuberose, moss, and cedarwood. In addition to perfume, it’s available in body lotion, shampoo, and conditioner. Guests of the hotel can also visit the perfumery for a unique olfactory exploration, complete with a mezcal tasting.

&Beyond
Adare Manor
Adare Manor
Cheval Blanc St.-Barth Grand Hotel Tremezzo La Mamounia
The Maker
Casa Polanco
Casa Polanco
Cheval Blanc St.-Barth
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
The Maker

A Campus With a Michelin-starred Restaurant? Inside the World’s Top Hospitality School

Michelin-starred restaurant, spa-like pool, and professional butlers—sounds like the amenities of a five-star hotel. But it’s all part of the student experience at EHL Hospitality Business School in Switzerland. Ranked the world’s top hospitality school, EHL takes a hands-on approach to shaping future industry leaders.

So, what makes EHL stand out? It starts with a unique blend of practical experience and academic rigor. “True to our roots, EHL’s approach combines experiential learning with a strong emphasis on both hard and soft skills,” said Dr. Achim Schmitt, dean of EHL. From the start, students are immersed in real-world roles, ensuring they learn by doing.

First-year students embark on a “preparatory year,” rotating through various operational positions, like managing the front desk or working in food and beverage. The year is designed to teach everything from guest interaction to leadership. “We start cultivating communication, empathy, and leadership skills right from the beginning,” said Schmitt. The focus is on developing the soft skills vital to success in hospitality—skills that can’t be taught in a textbook.

EHL’s Lausanne campus takes learning beyond the classroom. Spanning about 20 acres, the eco-certified campus is a hub for hospitality innovation. “Students designed the campus for students,” Schmitt explained. Its world-class facilities include a Michelin-starred restaurant where students work alongside top chefs, gaining real industry

insight. With a student body representing 125 nationalities, it’s a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and experiences—an essential aspect of learning in such a globalized field.

While hospitality often brings to mind hotels and restaurants, the skills students gain at EHL are transferable across industries. “Hospitality comes from the Latin word ‘hospes,’ meaning visitor,” Schmitt said, reminding us that hospitality is about creating exceptional, personalized experienc-

es in any setting, whether luxury retail or high-end consulting.

EHL’s broad approach prepares students for leadership in various service-oriented careers.

Beyond the classroom, students must complete two internships, work on collaborative projects, and even consult with real clients. These opportunities allow them to apply their skills in the field, giving them a competitive edge by graduation. “We ensure our students are prepared to excel in any service-oriented business,”

Schmitt noted, emphasizing the school’s commitment to real-world application.

What truly sets EHL apart is its forward-thinking approach. The school continuously adapts to the evolving demands of the hospitality industry, ensuring its students are prepared for today’s challenges and ready to lead in shaping the future. By the time students leave EHL, they’re more than capable of excelling in any role—and equipped to redefine the industry itself.

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Boutique Hotels With Cool Retail Stores

Whether you’re a shopaholic or simply looking for a memorable souvenir, a hotel with a trendy retail store makes for an unforgettable stay. From local crafts to high-end fashion, these six boutique hotels offer unique shopping experiences that capture the essence of their destinations.

Emporio Sirenuse at Le Sirenuse

At Le Sirenuse, nestled in Positano on the Italian Riviera, Emporio Sirenuse showcases an array of carefully curated items that reflect the hotel’s rich cultural style. Guests can browse signature branded products like ceramic ashtrays, fluffy robes, and Italian leather-handled bags. For those looking for something extra special, the boutique offers limited-edition artist-collaboration tableware, airy cotton caftans, and linen Hawaiian shirts with patterns inspired by Martin Creed’s neon artwork, which adorns the hotel’s bar.

La Boutique Mamounia at La Mamounia

La Boutique Mamounia is an opulent shopping experience. The Marrakech shop is filled with ornate trinkets that mirror the hotel’s luxurious aesthetic. Delicate diffusers, silver tea kettles, and lacquered trays—featuring Moroccan mint tea doodles—are just a few of the treasures waiting for guests. The store’s design is as striking as its wares, with vibrant displays set against the emerald zellige tiles that line the hotel’s corridors.

Tennessee

Blackberry Farm’s Retail Trio

In the heart of Tennessee, Blackberry Farm boasts not one but three distinct retail shops. The Gallery Shop focuses on handcrafted lifestyle items like tableware and custom bed linens. The Wellness Shop offers bath and body products infused with Appalachian botanicals and Tammy Fender skincare. At the Oak Shop, foodies can stock up on house-made pantry staples, including ramp chimichurri and sheep’s milk pimento cheese.

If your suitcase looks sparse, the Luisa World Boutique at Katikies Santorini will surely help. This boutique, located near the stairs that lead to the hotel’s rooms, is stocked with high-end fashion. Guests can find everything from Helios bikinis to Balmain printed button-downs, Missoni tunics, and Zegna espadrilles. The selection is ideal for those looking to elevate their island style.

Gleneagles & Co at Gleneagles

Gleneagles & Co ensures guests won’t leave empty-handed. Its boutique carries house-made treats like shortbread, while The Still Room offers a selection of 200 rare and independent single malts. The arcade includes Gaia for fashion and accessories, The Corner Shop for designer stationery, and Chamber and Clay for country gear. Guests can even find treasures for the little ones at Hop & Scotch.

Positano
Santorini
Luisa World Boutique at Katikies
Scotland
Marrakech
Courtesy of Emporio Sirenuse
Courtesy of Luisa World Boutique
Courtesy of Blackberry Farm’s Retail Trio
Courtesy of La Boutique Mamounia
Courtesy of Artisanal Colombia
Courtesy of Gleneagles & Co

Why Hoteliers Who Don’t Come from Hospitality Backgrounds Make the Best Owners

When you spot a flagged hotel under a big-name brand, you know what you’re getting. But much of the charm of an independent hotel is in its mystery, and it often results in unique and distinctive stays. Sometimes, the reason a small hotel has character is because of its owner’s background. In particular, when a boutique hotel comes from someone outside the hospitality industry, it allows for fresh eyes and new ideas. First-time hoteliers who are also winemakers, cosmetic gurus, and even former members of government bring their one-ofa-kind viewpoints to breathe new life into the industry.

When winemaker Susana Balbo and her daughter Ana Balbo decided to open a small hotel inside Ana’s former home in Mendoza, Argentina, they knew their winemaking backgrounds would play a

part—but not be the entire focus. Susana is the most renowned female winemaker in Argentina. She is credited with revolutionizing Argentina’s white wine and bringing Argentinian wines beyond Malbec to the world.

The SB Winemakers House & Spa Suites is a romantic art and wellness haven with a side of delicious wine. The seven spacious spa suites include fully integrated in-room spa features like a dry sauna, steam room, deep soaking tub, and one-of-a-kind art. Sculptures, woodwork, and mixed media by twenty local artists are found around the property, curated by Ana. Restaurant LaVidA, a lounge bar, a wine cellar with top Argentine and global wines, a heated swimming pool, and a shop with local artisanal products complete the experience. The pair will open SB Mountain Eco Lodge

& Spa in the Uco Valley next year.

The design immediately stands out when guests enter the Inn of the Five Graces in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Rich, colorful textiles with bold patterns used for rugs, wall hangings, and canopies; intricate tile mosaics; carved wooden furniture; and hanging glass lanterns call to mind Central and South Asia.

When you learn that husbandand-wife team Ira and Sylvia Seret started importing fabrics from that part of the world more than 25 years ago after living in Afghanistan in the ‘70s, it all makes sense. They first opened their store Seret & Sons in 1979, selling imported fabrics and furnishings, and then the beloved hotel in 1996. Initially called “Serets’ 1001 Nights,” the 24-suite hotel is an enchanting retreat in the heart of

In 2020, Fresh brand beauty co-founders Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg opened the Maker, an 11-room hotel spread across three restored historical buildings in Hudson, New York. The distinct rooms feature decor sourced by Glazman from around the world, drawing from the Belle Epoque, Art Deco, and mid-century modern periods. Bathrooms are spacious, some with deep soaking tubs, and all with full-size Fresh bath products.

The hotel also has a European-style café, a full-service restaurant inside a plant-filled glass conservatory, and a cocktail lounge in an old carriage house near the pool. The fragrance room is hidden in an alcove on the second floor, featuring over 500 perfumes from Glazman’s personal collection.

The mansion of Casa Gangotena, a Relais & Chateaux member hotel in Quito, Ecuador, is situated on the stunning Plaza San Francisco and dates back to 1600. Through the years, it was owned by several wealthy families, including the Gangotenas, who took it over in the 1800s until it was sold in severe disrepair to a foundation. In 2007, Roque Sevilla, the former mayor of Quito, purchased the building, which he had visited for tea parties as a child, with the aim of turning it into a hotel.

He carefully restored it to its former glory, opening Casa Gangotena as a luxury hotel in 2010. Today, it has 31 lavish rooms, a restaurant, and a third-

floor terrace with panoramic city and mountain views. Details like a spiral staircase, ornate columns, and original frescoes depicting the Gangotena family communicate the fascinating history of this iconic building.

San Canzian Hotel & Residences is nestled in a picturesque olive grove in Croatia’s Istria region. This is part of why co-owner Leopold Botteri, an olive oil producer, was attracted to the 14th-century estate. Originally, it was meant to be a vacation home for Botteri and co-owner Sinisa Sare and their friends.

Sare is a serial entrepreneur with a career in marketing and public relations. Botteri is most well-known for his involvement in Uje, a chain of shops around the country selling traditional Croatian food products like jams, wine, truffle products, salt, and olive oil. Botteri and Sare have turned the ancient stone houses of San Canzian into 24 luxurious rooms and suites, plus an excellent restaurant and plush spa. The outdoor pool is surrounded by olive and other fruit trees, and the nightly sunsets are divine.

Courtesy of The Maker
the city, with a gorgeous spa and restaurant.
Courtesy of Casa Gangotena hotel
Founder of Casa Gangotena hotel
Courtesy of SB Winemakers hotel
Courtesy of Inn at the Five Graces hotel

What It Truly Means to Be Green

From adaptive reuse buildings to electric kitchens and even climate wake-up calls, here’s what hotels are doing to fold sustainability into their ethos.

restoration projects, like planting trees and wetland grasses. California’s 143-room Rush Creek Lodge awards volunteers who help with Yosemite National Park clean-up through its Trash for Spa Treatment program.

While every initiative is a step forward, it will take a collective effort even to make a dent. Just last year, the hotel industry emitted 374 million tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere—the energy equivalent of powering 48.8 million homes annually.

When architect and developer Bruce Becker set out to design a zero-emission hotel, he started by searching abandoned buildings. After all, construction accounts for 37% of global emissions, according to the United Nations. So by snatching up New Haven, Connecticut’s former Pirelli Tire building, which had been empty for nearly 20 years, he gave it a second life as the 165-room Hotel Marcel New Haven, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, which opened in 2022—and set a new bar for sustainable hospitality.

“We created Hotel Marcel as a blueprint to show other hoteliers and brands how the entire indus-

try can quickly and cost-effectively eliminate 100% of fossil fuel emissions from hotel operations,” Becker told Hotels Above Par.

That includes its BLDG restaurant sourcing from pesticides-free suppliers within a 250-mile radius for its electric kitchen, where food scraps are composted into dog treats, plus a 1.5 megawatt-hour microgrid powering the property. Its latest amenity: a Climate Wake-Up Call. “We hope guests will..have an ‘awakening’ to the realities of this climate crisis and ultimately implement new sustainable practices—big or small—into their everyday lives,” he added.

Across the globe, Indonesia’s 36-room Bawah Reserve also built its “Earth first” mantra from the ground up, starting with a “strict requirement that no heavy machinery be used,” said Kristen Graff, the property’s global head of branding, marketing, and sales. “The construction process was designed to work in harmony with the existing landscape, using minimal land and creating structures that seamlessly integrate with the natural topography.”

Now, the Anambas archipelago resort is powered by a micro grid from its floating solar farm from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and its environmental responsibility can be seen from coral reef restoration and mangrove reforestation programs to the introduction of stingless Trigona bees to pollinate the local flora. “We believe that sustain-

ability isn’t just a feature, “ Graff said. “It’s a fundamental ethos that can transform every aspect of how a resort operates.”

While brands like Banyan Tree, 1 Hotels, Six Senses, Sensei, and &Beyond have made eco-conscious commitments across its operations, individual hotels are also getting creative. Canada’s 29-room Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland pioneered an ecological wastewater treatment system and operates as a community enterprise, while Santorini’s 53room Canaves Oia Epitome uses leading-edge techniques to turn its volcanic soil into a biodiverse microcosm of local plants.

Hotels are also getting guests involved. Virginia’s 105-room Tides Inn is launching a voluntourism program for Chesapeake Bay

Christopher Baran of family-run luxury resort Nemacolin in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands said cooperation is key to starting to cut back. First, that requires standardized sustainability by “adopting shared guidelines for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and responsible sourcing to drive collective progress. “ He highlights Nemacolin’s initiatives like hydroponic greenhouses for ingredients for meals and spa treatments and creating an associate-only community of 38 homes to cut back on carbon footprints.

But no progress will be made without across-the-board investment in all aspects, especially in sustainable sourcing, renewable energy, waste reduction, eco-friendly guest engagement, and community investment, Baran said, adding: “By joining forces, the hotel industry can lead the way in reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable travel.”

Courtesy of Bawah Reserve hotel
Courtesy of Nemacolin

From Ruins to Riches: The Transformation of Historic Sites into Luxury Hotels

It’s clear someone has been here before me—not yesterday, or the day before, or even the weeks and months leading to my arrival, but lifetimes ago. It’s not a heavy sense of ghoulishness or spirits; rather, it’s a sense of belonging, a sense of home, and the one sense all hotels strive to achieve—a sense of place.

In early spring, just as the tulips burst through the ground all over the Netherlands, I checked into the Pulitzer Amsterdam, a property that overlooks the historic central canal belt, giving instant access to the city’s top sites. However, the best way to get to know Amsterdam was spending every second I could inside the hotel, which is actually 25 connecting canal houses, built in the 17th and 18th centuries, that have lovingly been turned into the ultimate home away from home. While it looked as seamless as could

be, creating this authentic Dutch oasis while preserving its past was no easy feat.

“The age and fabric of our fourhundred-year-old buildings meant that the renovation of Pulitzer Amsterdam was about balancing the required modern luxury with the preservation of the historical integrity,” the creative director at the Lore Group, which owns the Pulitzer Amsterdam, explained. “We started with a detailed feasibility study and involved experts from the beginning, including those with strong connections to local authorities, such as the Amsterdam municipality and heritage commission. This way, we could combine our unique and eclectic design, modern in-room amenities, and hotel facilities within buildings dating back to the Dutch Golden Age—giving our guests the very best of both worlds

in terms of history and modernity.”

Historic touches like the original Italian marble flooring throughout, hand-selected vintage furnishings, the original wood paneling, and a distinct wall color in each of the canal houses allow guests to easily identify where one building ends and another begins.

“The hotel has become a collection of years of history, with a blend of traditional and modern Dutch craftsmanship,” Strauss said. “There’s a romantic feel about the history of the building and how it gradually grew to become the Pulitzer Amsterdam.”

However, the Pulitzer is far from alone as the only historic destination turned must-stay boutique hotel.

“Zahn’s Boardroom is an ode to the former department store that once occupied the space, and guests can see photos of the building’s construction from the 1920s displayed throughout,” said Michael O’Connor, the founder and chairman of Dominion Properties, which oversaw the redevelopment of Hotel Verdant, a hotel in Racine, Wisconsin that boldly marries its old-school past as the one-time

Looking for more perfectly preserved hotels? Here are five more historic locations turned into boutique properties that deserve a stay around the world.

Le Collateral: Arles, France

The one-time Medieval church has been transformed into a four-bedroom boutique hotel that’s become a haven for creative types. Go for the rooms, stay for the local, organic breakfasts. lecollateral.com

Palace:

home of the 19th-century Zahn’s Department Store with modern flare.

“We embraced the large department store window heights in guest rooms; the main ballroom’s large windows are a nod to the leaded glass transom windows of Zahn’s; and the Bar 108 cart replicates the original refreshment stand that Zahn’s had for visitors.”

The Ned NoMad, a reimagined hotel inside the historic, 1903-built Johnston Building in New York City, is magical because of its preserved Beaux-Arts features and the glamor of the building’s heyday in the mid-20th century.

“We were thoughtful with the design, paying attention to every detail from the sconces to the paint selection, vintage pieces peppered throughout, and lighting,” Peter Nicolosi, the senior associate at Stonehill Taylor, which oversaw the redesign of The Ned Nomad, said.

“Experiencing a historic property that’s been revitalized to meet the needs of travelers presents an opportunity to see first-hand the melding of past and present,” adding that guests “are taken on a journey of discovery and are fully immersed into the hotel’s history.”

Sleep inside the former mansion of the Campos Navarro family, which has been turned into a love letter to Portugal’s most renowned writers and poets. Each of the hotel’s 24 rooms is named after a writer. torelpalaceporto.com

Bradford House: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Feel absolutely at home at Bradford House, a boutique property built from a 1912 Victorian-style abode. While the rooms are spectacular, guests should also grab a cup of coffee and a treat from the on-site pâtisserie. bradfordhouseokc.com

Town Hall Hotel: London, England

Just as the name describes, this hotel used to be a town hall. The building dates back to 1910, when it served as a gathering place for locals, and remains as welcoming a destination as ever. townhallhotel.com

Kimpton Santo: San Antonio, Texas

Kimpton lovingly restored an 1850s German-English schoolhouse and turned it into the hottest destination in all of Texas. Here, guests can unwind in the perfectly appointed rooms, sit under century-old oak trees in the courtyard, or head to the rooftop for an unforgettable city view. santohotelsanantonio.com

Torel
Porto, Portugal
Courtesy of Pulitzer Amsterdam hotel
Courtesy of Pulitzer Amsterdam hotel
Courtesy of Pulitzer Amsterdam hotel
Courtesy of The Ned Nomad hotel

Relaxation Redefined: 5 Spa Escapes That Break the Mold

Forget everything you know about spa days—these global spots are redefining relaxation. Think beyond the standard massage and cucumber slices. We’re talking about experiences that immerse you in local culture, nature, and innovation. These are the world’s most unique spa escapes, where pampering meets adventure and relaxation takes on a whole new meaning.

Iceland

Retreat at Blue Lagoon

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon isn’t just a social media hotspot, it’s home to one of the most surreal spa treatments. The Signature Massage takes advantage of the lagoon’s mineral-rich waters, combining them with a floating massage that makes you feel weightless. Wrapped in a silica or algae cocoon, you float on a mat in the warm water, melting away stress in an experience that feels both grounding and otherworldly.

Japan

Hot Sand Baths at Ibusuki Hakusuikan

At Ibusuki Hakusuikan, luxury comes in the form of hot sand. For over 350 years, this Japanese town has offered sand baths—a detox ritual in which guests are buried in volcanically heated sand. The heat increases circulation and detoxifies the body, while the soothing sound of waves adds to the deeply calming experience. It’s a mix of relaxation and rejuvenation rooted in ancient tradition.

of Lake Jerisjärvi. Each sauna is named after a Nordic god, adding a mythological touch. If you’re lucky, you can sweat it out while watching the Northern Lights through panoramic windows.

Bermuda

Natura Spa at Grotto Bay

For a spa experience rooted in nature, Natura Spa in Bermuda offers treatments inside a limestone cave. The Serenity Cave Experience is a minimalist escape where the natural sounds of dripping water and the murmur of the sea set the tone. With organic products and natural elements, this rustic retreat offers a peaceful connection to the Earth you won’t find in a typical spa.

Finland

Arctic Sauna World

Head to Finnish Lapland for an experience that blends sauna traditions with Arctic extremes. Arctic Sauna World lets you switch between the intense heat of Nordic saunas and the icy plunge

Arizona Natura Spa at Grotto Bay

Castle Hot Springs in Arizona presents a distinctive spa experience centered around its renowned natural hot springs, which are celebrated for having therapeutic benefits. Guests can immerse themselves in the mineral-rich waters while indulging in an array of holistic treatments. One standout option is the Prickly Pear & Shea Butter Wrap, a luxurious massage treatment that envelops the body in a rich, natural butter infused with the essence of Arizona prickly pear and pomegranate extracts, harmoniously blended with soothing shea butter, jojoba, and aloe vera for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

Shop Above Par at The Pink Closet at Palazzo

Avino in Ravello:

Where Beauty Meets Fun

If Carrie Bradshow were Italian, this would be her closet. Situated within an escapist’s royal dream at Palazzo Avino, The Pink Closet marries personal style with artistry, as a fashion haven for creativity, color, and eclectic design. In the heart of Ravello, it also infuses charm into couture and sets the standard for independent boutiques across the globe.

Born in 2019, The Pink Closet is the creative laboratory of Palazzo Avino. Mariella Avino, the boutique’s trendsetter and curator notes, “It is the space where beauty meets fun.” Every piece is uniquely suited for the space and perfectly complemented by its surroundings. It’s like an expert-curated art gallery of fun fashion. Think: striped loafers adorned with Palazzo Avino’s lion emblem, satin heeled sandals embellished with crystals in an array of rich hues, and colorful raffia handbags. Every design is eye-catching on its own but the curation as a whole seamlessly flows together.

The Pink Closet has two curated rooms–one for RTW in a standalone boutique and another for homeware located within a picture-worthy

display ajar to the lobby at the Palazzo Avino hotel. The fashion room showcases an interplay of color and craftsmanship that come in the form of embellished t-shirts, sparkled handbags, mesh-adorned corsets, and unexpectedly fun fashion jewelry. The boutique also features local Independent Italian designers like Amotea, Cormio, House of Mua Mua, Raptus and Rose, Exilia, Rosantica, Piferi, and more.

Whether you’re looking for an evening gown that will turn heads, the ceramics you enjoyed amuse bouche on at sunset at the Michelin-star awarded restaurant, Rosselini’s, the night before, or a vacation-worthy pop of pink matte lipstick that you’d never find in Sephora, you must shop at The Pink Closet in Ravello.

Where to

Shop in Paris from the SaintGermain-des-Prés to the Triangle d’Or:

Yvonne Léon

Yvonne Léon breaks all of the rules. Like everything we love about Paris, her designs feature exquisite detailing and edgy elegance. From sophisticated signet rings to whimsical textures, her collections prove it’s possible to make a statement with fine jewelry alone.

Yvonne’s first boutique opened in February 2017 in the Saint-Germaindes-Prés quarter, in the heart of Paris’s 6th arrondissement. Her second boutique, on the Rive Droite, then opened on rue François 1er, in the 8th

arrondissement, in the heart of the famous Triangle d’Or.

Like her designs, Yvonne’s boutiques surprise and delight locals and travelers alike alongside haute couture brands and charming, classical Parisian bohemian backdrops. Here, the designer tells us in her own words why you must stop at Yvonne Léon in Paris.

Tell us about your boutiques.

“Working in collaboration with the

Where to Shop in Bali: Beauty is a Love Language in Carina Hardy’s Balinese Studio

In Carina Hardy’s designs, love, beauty, femininity, and form connect. Her designs are infused with Balinese heritage and nature, capturing the duality of life in Bali. Here, eroticism redefines boundaries in both public customs and private life. Organic, intimate shapes bridge the natural world with the material ones. Think: 18k gold sleeping venus ensembles, a silver bust-inspired ring, and large lilypad studs.

We spoke with Carina Hardy to learn more about her studio, design inspirations, and the love language that fuels her work.

What sets Carina Hardy apart?

Everything we do is in the name of love. Beauty is our love language. It’s at the core of everything we do. Sensuous jewelry is the expression of this fascination. We are meticulous and detail-oriented—our pieces are a love letter to beauty and hand craftsmanship.

How does Bali influence your designs?

I was born and raised in Bali, but I didn’t plan on living here forever until I met Tavish. He visited for two weeks, and that was five years ago. With him, I fell in love with Bali in a new way. The island is lush, with river valleys, banyan trees, and rice fields.

Necchi Architecture studio, our shops are distinguished by their delicately powdered decor, creating a refined atmosphere. The furniture, with its rounded curves, evokes a contemporary femininity, blending elegance and modernity to create a welcoming and sophisticated setting.”

Are any of your pieces inspired by Paris?

“The city, with its rich cultural heritage, timeless elegance, and creative spirit, infuses every one of our designs. From architecture to fashion, art to everyday life, Paris remains an endless source of inspiration.

For example, our ‘Amour’ collection is directly inspired by Paris’s nickname, “The City of Love.” Our textures, such

Our collections take inspiration from Bali, where invocations of love and prayer to deities are daily rituals. The figurative, non-figurative, and seen and unseen all collide here, making it a wealth of design inspiration.

When did you open the studio? What’s it like?

We opened in March 2023 in a frangipani-lined village called Nyuh Kuning. We wanted a design space, a jewelry showroom, and an art space by night. The studio features a twenty-foot wall of busts I cast of individual women, each one unique. The studio feels like our living room, even though we don’t technically live here. Every piece we make is carved by hand in the studio. We’re open by appointment only, with no sign—just a gong.

How does femininity and spirituality play into your work?

Human relationships with beauty and love

as Berlingot, Cannage, Gaufrette, and Torsadé, evoke the characteristic moldings of Haussmann flats. Finally, Damiers is reminiscent of the typical

cobbled floors of Paris.

have always been deeply intertwined with women. At 15, I witnessed the birth and the power of the female body, which shaped me in ways I couldn’t even comprehend. Nature is immensely feminine, and much of our bodies are reflected in it. This inspired the Lilypad Collection—stretch marks, veins, wrinkles, all that makes us naturally human. Reverence for femininity is deeply imbued in everything we make together.

Tell us a bit about the influences for your designs.

“I take my inspiration mainly from vintage, through family jewelry boxes, second-hand goods, and flea markets, and I bring these finds of yesteryear up to date. The creations pay tribute to the past and reflect its quirky side. I also want to deliver a fresh, alternative vision of jewelry. I innovate with unique shapes and ways of wearing jewelry, under the ear, in mismatched pairs, minimal or radical.”

Many of your designs make a fashion statement

from exquisite, fine materials. In a way, they sit at the intersection of luxury and fun. Tell us a bit about that.

“We love to work with exquisite materials and precious stones, not only for their quality but also for their beauty, but we are also keen to give pleasure by creating jewelry that evokes joy, happiness, and escape while retaining the precious side of jewelry.

Respecting the strictest traditions, I allow myself some transgressions. I want to be the brand that women choose when they give themselves jewelry—strong, unexpected, playful, or tender pieces that sound like mantras.”

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Mariella Avino’s 3 Favorite Picks for the Season
Courtesy of The Pink Closet
Courtesy of The Pink Closet Courtesy of The Pink Closet
Courtesy of Carina Hardy
Courtesy of Yvonne Léon

How Train Travel Is Becoming Chicer by the Minute

High design hits the rails with new routes, renovations, and creative collaborations.

Imagine it: You ascend from the platform at Roma Ostiense, slide into a velvet banquette, and order a spritz as your train eases out of the station. Soon, the hills and fields of Campania are rolling by. As the Amalfi Coast comes into view outside your window, you head to the ristorante for a white-tablecloth dinner curated by one of Italy’s top chefs, who has taken time from his duties at his Michelin three-starred restaurant to oversee the menu.

This could be you. When the French hospitality company Accor debuts its first train under the newly acquired Orient Express brand—the La Dolce Vita Orient Express—in spring 2025, it will introduce travelers to Italy in unparalleled style. Six trains will journey to destinations like Matera, Portofino, Taormina, and Venice, offering one- and two-night all-inclusive itineraries. On board, guests will find chic cabins with ensuite bathrooms, a lively bar car with live music, an all-Italian wine list, and culinary experiences crafted by renowned chef Heinz Beck.

Accor enlisted Milan-based Dimorestudio to dream up the interiors and breathe visual, textural life into the ambitious project. The firm, founded by architects Britt Moran and Emiliano Salci, had plenty of hospitality credits under its belt: Dubrovnik’s Villa Sheherezade, Guadalajara’s Casa Habita, Hôtel Saint-Marc in Paris. But a train? Well, there’s a first time for everything. Inspired by the design boom of 1960s Italy—Moran and Salci cite giants like Giò Ponti and Nanda Vigo among their influences—Dimorestudio’s vision was a fantasy of lacquered wood, leather, and brass, geometric textiles, and curvy furniture, all very textural, wavy, and warm. You can almost hear the bossa nova playing in the background. And La Dolce Vita is far from the only new train project with big-name designers attached—in fact, it’s almost difficult to keep up.

In Vietnam, Anantara recently launched a second carriage for The Vietage, its private railcar service shuttling guests between its properties in Hội An and Quy Nhon. Vietnamese architect Hoang Le Ha, director of Ho Chi Minh City’s ShapeUs Studio, outfitted the space with distinctive rattan screens from locally sourced palms. Meanwhile, staff uniforms were the work of Tom Trandt Minh Đạo, the designer behind Vietnamese ready-towear brand Môi Điên.

In Australia, The Ghan, The Indian Pacific, and The Great Southern will soon get floor-to-ceiling updates from Woods Bagot, the firm behind high-profile projects like the Perth International Airport and Adelaide’s Tarrkarri Centre for First Nations Cultures. And French architect Maxime d’Angeac is the design mind behind Accor’s next big train project: the return of none other than the Orient Express, which will follow the same route as its historical namesake, between Paris and Istanbul, beginning around 2027.

Much of this train travel transformation can be traced back to Belmond, the hospitality brand now owned by the luxury conglomerate LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. Belmond founder James Sherwood began acquiring and restoring vintage train carriages in the late 1970s, and the first fruit of that labor—the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express—has been an icon since operations began in 1982. But the company isn’t resting on its laurels. Its flagship train continues to introduce fresh itineraries, including a Paris-to-Portofino route along Italy’s stunning Ligurian Coast. Collabora-

Architectural Airports Around the World

tions are also in motion, like L’Observatoire, a new, exclusive-use sleeper car designed by French street artist JR. This unique carriage debuted at this year’s Venice Biennale and will be available for booking in 2025.

Other trains in the Belmond universe have also gotten notable updates in recent years. This past spring, the Royal Scotsman debuted a pair of new “grand suites” decked out by designer Tristan Auer in plenty of handmade Scottish textiles and dark wood. A few years earlier, its sister UK train, the British Pullman, commissioned Wes Anderson to re-envision its vintage Cygnus carriage in his unmistakable style. After a yearslong pandemic pause, Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express returned to its Singapore and Malaysia service at the beginning of 2024, this time with a new Dior spa. With this groundswell of new high-profile projects, well-established tourist trains worldwide are also stepping up their style game. Al Ándalus, operating in southern Spain for over 40 years, debuted a new livery for the most recent season. And India’s Deccan Odyssey unveiled a welcome refresh in late 2023.

Following a restoration in collaboration with Portugal’s National Railway Museum, the former Portuguese Royal Train relaunched this spring as the Comboio Presidencial by Chakall, offering day trips from Porto into the Douro Valley, complete with meals by the mononymous Lisbon-based chef. It’s €750 for 12 hours of wine tastings, vineyard visits, and a multi-course fine-dining meal—perhaps a small price to pay for a glimpse at luxury rail travel’s new golden age.

Since the Jet Age, cities have sought top architects to design airports that create stunning first impressions and reflect the character of their locations. Here are five of the world’s most impressively designed airports.

Denver International Airport’s tented roof, designed by Fentress Architects, mimics the snowcapped Rockies. Opened in 1995, DEN boasts North America’s longest public-use runway at 16,000 feet and is the largest airport by land area in the Western Hemisphere. The tent-like structure evokes Colorado’s natural beauty and gives the airport a spacious, airy feel.

China

Mumbai’s Terminal 2, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, features a sweeping roof canopy inspired by Indian pavilions. The design incorporates geometric patterns, blending modern functionality with traditional Indian architectural references. The 450,000-square-meter terminal, completed in 2014, showcases intricate detailing and offers travelers a seamless, culturally rich experience.

Beijing Daxing International Airport

Beijing Daxing International Airport, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, opened in 2019. Its radial “starfish” design creates a central hub surrounded by six flowing spokes, maximizing efficiency while filling the space with natural light from skylights. The futuristic layout reflects traditional Chinese architectural principles, blending beauty with functionality.

Jewel Changi Airport is an immersive experience. Visitors are greeted with over 120 plant species and lush indoor gardens. The centerpiece is the HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s largest indoor waterfall, dropping 131 feet from a glass-domed roof. Jewel not only has shopping and dining but also mazes, bouncing nets, and a luxurious hotel, blending nature with modern convenience.

Eero Saarinen’s TWA Flight Center at JFK is a midcentury masterpiece. Opened in 1962, it features a wing-shaped roof supported by Y-shaped piers, evoking the thrill of flight. Reopened in 2017 as part of the TWA Hotel, the terminal still offers visitors a glimpse into the Space Age, complete with 1960s lounges and sunken seating areas.

Colorado
Denver International Airport
Mumbai
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
Singapore
Jewel Changi Airport
New York
TWA Flight Center at JFK
Courtesy of Beijing Daxing International Airport
Courtesy of TWA Flight Center at JFK
Courtesy of Jewel Changi Airport
Courtesy of Denver International Airport
Courtesy of La Dolce Vita
Courtesy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport

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