A recent conversation made me realize that we might defne “boutique hotel” differently than you do.
That realization became the heartbeat of this issue. Size doesn’t determine boutique status for us—soul does. At HAP, we look for properties that feel individualistic, carry a compelling story, and deliver something exceptional. That’s exactly how we judged our Above Par Star Award winners: pure merit, zero pretense.
This issue is our love letter to that philosophy. You’ll fnd roadside motels reborn as retro sanctuaries, an interview with Palisociety’s founder, and Sri Lankan hideaways that redefne escape. Our editors and our network of acclaimed freelance journalists across the globe have crafted features that show—not tell—what boutique means to us.
But it’s not just hotels. In our 2026 issue, we’re covering destination guides, artifcial intelligence’s impact on hospitality, and the trends reshaping how we travel.
I’m particularly proud of our writer roster: different ages, backgrounds, continents, and career paths. It refects our commitment to bridging traditional and new-age media through diverse perspectives.
Our small but mighty in-house team worked tirelessly on every page. We hope you fnd wanderlust here—and maybe reconsider what makes a hotel truly special.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to another year of discovery.
BRANDONBERKSON
With Love, CEO & Editor-in-Chief Hotels Above Par
Brandon Berkson
HEAD
& PARTNERSHIPS
Brandon Scott Roye
MANAGING EDITOR (VOLUME TWO)
Lindsay Cohn
SENIOR EDITOR
Britney Eschelman
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Ruby Gregg
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Austa Somvichian-Clausen
Becca Hensley
Devorah Lev-Tov
Jordi Lippe-McGraw
Juliet Izon
Karla Walsh
Megan Shelton
Rachel Chang
Stacey Leasca
CEO & PUBLISHER, NMG NETWORK
Jason Cutinella
DESIGNER, NMG NETWORK
Arriana Veloso
DESIGNED & PUBLISHED BY
The Warren Street Bar & Restaurant in New York City’s Eccentric Decor Lightens My Workday
By Brandon Berkson
New York City is moving too fast for me (my friends would say I’m quite intense, but even I can’t always handle the full-throttle hustle). Warren Street Bar & Restaurant is my go-to workday reset. Tucked inside the Warren Street Hotel, it’s a high-defnition refuge from the gray pavement and frantic pace of Tribeca. Honestly, if you’re feeling that midweek burnout, the décor alone is enough to snap you out of it. It’s pure Kit Kemp— maximalist, bold, and packed with contemporary art that actually has personality. The mismatched fabrics are pure brilliance.
If you asked me about my favorite part, it would be the bar area’s design. The space is anchored by a wild, 20-foot-long ceiling sculpture by Gareth Devonald Smith. It looks like a jagged, prehistoric set of “gnashers,” giving the whole room a moody, avant-garde edge. It’s the perfect backdrop for a beverage program that’s far more precise and thoughtful than your standard hotel bar.
The culinary side blends French technique with great British and South American infuences. Whether I’m hiding out in the sun-drenched Orangery or savoring their Classic Beef Tartare while seated at the front of the restaurant’s iconic, colorful couch, the layered textures and electric energy always leave me feeling a bit more inspired. It’s a solid reminder that sometimes a welldesigned room is the best therapy.
Courtesy of Warren Street Bar & Restaurant
Above Par Stars
The world doesn’t need more hotels—it needs better ones. Each year, the Hotels Above Par Star Awards spotlight the boutique stays transforming what it means to check in somewhere extraordinary. From more than 400 global submissions, our editorial panel selected 35 standout properties that illustrate the spirit of boutique hospitality today—places where inspired design, personal service, and a strong sense of place create experiences that are truly unforgettable.
Avantgarde Re ned Caves of Cappadocia
Cappadocia, Turkey
At Avantgarde Refned Caves of Cappadocia, guests experience the magic of sleeping inside ancient caves while immersing themselves in the region’s natural beauty. The boutique stay supplies plush accommodations carved into the rocks, along with thrilling excursions ranging from Jeep tours across rugged terrain to horseback rides through scenic valleys. Both adventurous and restorative, the hotel merges modern comforts with Cappadocia’s distinctive culture for an unforgettable escape.
Room Count: 46 | The Vibe: When sleeping under the stars feels basic, upgrade to catching z’s inside a cave.
Above Par Element: With Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys and spires as your playground, magical adventures await.
Cape of Senses
Torri del Benaco, Italy
High above Lake Garda’s eastern shore, Cape of Senses is a serene, adults-only sanctuary designed for slow living. Every suite shares panoramic lake and mountain views, while the indoor-outdoor architecture draws in natural light and promotes stillness. At its core is the 21,000-square-foot spa, featuring transformative treatments—including the full-body Senses Pinda Ritual, performed in a glass-walled relaxation room. Expect a zero-noise policy, a cozy terrace restaurant, and a heated infnity pool seemingly suspended over the lake.
Room Count: 55 | The Vibe: Self-care comes courtesy of lakeside scenery and sensorial spa rituals.
Above Par Element: Sunset dinners at Al Tramonto hush a table—wine fowing, lake glowing, forks paused mid-bite.
Casa Loma Beach Hotel
Laguna Beach, California
Poised atop Laguna Beach’s scenic cliffs, Casa Loma Beach Hotel radiates coastal rhythm through thoughtful, artistic details. Guests savor artisanal cocktails made with Madre agave spirits while custom playlists by Uncanned fow from vintage radios. Bespoke amenities—from handcrafted Luna Zorro textiles and Joe Swec tapestries to an exclusive vinyl collaboration with Numero Group—deepen the hotel’s local narrative, highlighting a profound connection to land and sea.
Room Count: 70 | The Vibe: It’s giving beach house playlist vibes—on repeat, with cocktails. Above Par Element: Custom soundscapes, locally crafted tapestries, and exclusive vinyl records encapsulate Laguna Beach’s authentic coastal creativity.
Casa Yuma
Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Casa Yuma crafts an authentic beach retreat where oceanfront relaxation meets tailored experiences. Morning yoga and expert surf lessons energize guests, while mezcal tastings at the vibrant beach bar set a cheerful tone. Wellness is a central theme, with rejuvenating massages inspired by traditional techniques. Special moments unfold effortlessly, making this intimate hotel ideal for celebratory occasions and unforgettable vacations along Puerto Escondido’s spectacular coastline.
Casa San Agustín
Cartagena, Colombia
Set along a picturesque cobbled street in Cartagena’s historic center, Casa San Agustín is a refned respite steeped in authentic Colombian style. Tucked inside three 17th-century houses, rooms and suites honor the city’s rich past and vibrant present. Heritage details, such as wooden beamed ceilings, are complemented by personalized service that fosters warmth and a sense of belonging. There’s also a spa for rejuvenating massages and a gorgeous courtyard pool.
Room Count: 25 | The Vibe: Surf’s up, stress is down, mezcal fows—it’s peak Puerto Escondido chill.
Above Par Element: Oceanfront yoga, mezcal tastings, and surf lessons encapsulate the beachside allure of the Oaxacan coast.
Room Count: 31 | The Vibe: Cartagena’s chicest sanctum—ancient aqueducts, lush greenery, and frescos included.
Above Par Element: The palm-framed courtyard pool is an oasis from the torrid temps.
IZZA
Marrakech, Morocco
Hidden inside the medina, IZZA is a design-driven luxury hotel composed of seven interconnecting riads. From the moment you enter the greentiled courtyard to the three secluded pools, every detail feels intentional. Each of the 14 rooms pays homage to a different free thinker, from Yves Saint Laurent to Allen Ginsberg. Contemporary art from Fellowship and Studio 137 extends the creative spirit, which is underpinned by inspiration from the late aesthete Bill Willis. Take a break from gawking at the photographs and zellige to relish a hammam ritual.
Room Count: 14 | The Vibe: Equal parts riad and living art gallery—bohemian Marrakech at its best.
Above Par Element: The rooftop—whether relaxing in the sun or imbibing at their awardwinning restaurant, Noujoum—is a scene with views that outshine postcards.
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge
Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada
At Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island, safari tents give guests a front-row seat to ocean, forest, and mountain vistas. Days start with bear spotting and horseback rides beneath towering Sitka spruce and western red cedar, and end with freside cocktails and locally driven fne dining. Ecotravelers take note: the property partners with the Canadian Department of Fisheries and Ahousaht First Nations to restore salmon habitats—so your escape comes with a side of conservation.
Room Count: 25 | The Vibe: Wilderness but make it glam—Canada’s great outdoors just got a stylish upgrade.
Above Par Element: Helicopter picnics, wildlife adventures, and spa treatments join raw nature with refnement.
Gundari
Folegandros, Greece
Teetering on dramatic limestone cliffs, Gundari ushers in a new era of luxury on Folegandros, the Cyclades’ best-kept secret. Blending into copper-colored ridges, its 27 suites and villas feature plunge pools that appear to spill into the Aegean Sea. Earthy interiors by Athens-based Block722 echo the island’s wild beauty, while a subterranean spa uses native herbs for restorative rituals. At Orizon, Greece’s frst Michelin-starred chef, Lefteris Lazarou, serves seafood-forward fare—like his signature squid ink risotto with cuttlefsh.
Granger Hotel
San Diego, California
Housed in a landmark 1904 Romanesque Revival building in the Gaslamp Quarter, Granger Hotel is a guest-only sanctuary that melds historic charm with stylish privacy. Original tin ceilings and arched doors sit astride custom art, vintage rugs, and animal motifs in the lobby lounge. Keyholders can slip into the sultry, curtained-off Parlor Room lounge or pop into local artist Walter Redondo’s on-site studio to watch him at work. Upstairs, the stylish rooms show off fan-shaped headboards, peacock lamps, and custom curved armoires.
Room Count: 27 | The Vibe: Windswept, cliff-edge splendor overlooking the Aegean Sea. Above Par Element: Each suite has a private infnity pool for VIP lounging.
Room Count: 96 | The Vibe: Art Deco clubhouse—all velvet and vintage, zero FOMO. Above Par Element: Pantry cabinets loaded with snacks, coffee, and candy—they’re tiny treasure troves on every foor.
Hotel Peter & Paul
New Orleans, Louisiana
A former church, schoolhouse, convent, and rectory come together in this wildly creative, 71room stay in New Orleans’ Marigny neighborhood. Designed by Ash and local entrepreneur Nathalie Jordi, Hotel Peter & Paul preserves original details—stained-glass windows, cypress wood molding, and clawfoot tubs—alongside art fair antiques and hand-woven Indian rugs. Guests check in inside the schoolhouse and sip craft cocktails at The Elysian Bar within the former rectory. Don’t miss the mural-backed lounge where students once staged plays.
Hotel Anna & Bel
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
A love letter to Fishtown’s creative spirit, Hotel Anna & Bel spans four restored buildings, each blending heritage aesthetics with modern style. Once home for independent women, the 18th-century manse retains original exterior architecture, cypress woodwork, and preserved archways. Add velvet furnishings, curated artworks, and mid-century touches. Cap it off with a tree-shrouded courtyard pool (rare for Philly), Mediterranean-inspired sips at Caletta, and coastal Corsican and Sardinian fare at Chef-Partner Tyler Akin’s Bastia.
Room Count: 71 | The Vibe: It’s like your favorite dark comedy flm set got baptized in Southern charm.
Above Par Element: A trompe-l’oeil mural, clawfoot tubs, and cocktails in the rectory— church never looked better.
Room Count: 50 | The Vibe: Philly’s coolest history lesson wrapped in chic, vintage threads. Above Par Element: Retro décor and local art give this Fishtown newcomer soul—and serious design cred.
Hotel Manapany
Saint Barthélemy
Hotel Manapany channels barefoot living and the convivial island spirit on the secluded Anse des Cayes. The beachside boutique pairs bold colors and indoor-outdoor spaces with eco-conscious upgrades like solar power, purifed water, and zero plastic. Guests spend days bopping between holistic spa treatments, toes-in-the-sand cocktails, and sea-fresh fare that celebrates FrenchCaribbean favors. Intimate yet vibrant, it’s an escape for jetsetters who prefer St. Barths with a touch less fash and a lot more soul.
Room Count: 43 | The Vibe: Eco-friendly and effortless—St. Barths without the nouveau glitz.
Above Par Element: It’s a beacon of sustainability-minded hospitality with organic cuisine, locally sourced spa treatments, and beachside yoga.
Il San Pietro di Positano
Positano, Italy
Il San Pietro di Positano is the Amalf Coast at its most cinematic. Built into a cliffside with every room facing the sea, this legendary Relais & Châteaux property supplies effortless Italian glamour and impeccable service. The private beach is reachable by elevator. Michelin-starred Zass delivers elegant cuisine with Positano panoramas, while the family-run roots and generations of hospitality experience show in every detail. For your la dolce vita moment, book a modern Maxi Dolphin yacht ride along the coastline.
Room Count: 55 | The Vibe: A symphony of sea views and silver service.
Above Par Element: It’s a time capsule that remains eternally relevant, no matter the decade.
Le Couvent des Minimes
Provence, France
A 17th-century convent reborn as Provence’s most serene stay, Le Couvent des Minimes, a Relais & Châteaux, marries sacred calm with Provençal fnesse. Forget austere convent clichés: 49 bright, voluminous rooms present whisper-soft linens, light oak accents, and sunlit views over lavender felds. The L’Occitane fagship spa—with a sensory pool and snow shower—plus Michelin-starred dining by Chef Louis Gachet shows what the French do best. Lavender felds and olive groves wrap the postcard-perfect property. Poolside spritzes and stress-melting rituals deliver sacred relaxation—without sacrifcing serious poise.
Room Count: 49 | The Vibe: If Marie Antoinette traded Versailles for a countryside sabbatical (without the revolution).
Above Par Element: The L’Occitane fagship spa—complete with a sensory pool, salt grotto, and snow shower.
Lodge at Marconi
Tomales Bay, California
Perched on 62 acres overlooking Tomales Bay, Lodge at Marconi is a retro-rad coastal retreat with a fascinating past—from Guglielmo Marconi’s wireless lab to a cult headquarters— reborn under Oliver Hospitality and designed by Home Studios. All 46 rooms and the photoworthy A-frame cabin trade screens for serenity, while vintage radios hum in marigold lounges. With fre pits for stargazing and nearby hiking trails, it’s a peaceful place to reconnect with Northern California’s rugged side.
Room Count: 46 | The Vibe: ’70s cabin cool with a touch of cult history.
Above Par Element: The A-frame Cabin with panoramic Tomales Bay views.
Mollie Aspen
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen’s version of alpine au courant? Mollie Aspen: a contemporary Scandi-chic crash pad for ski bums and design devotees with plenty of mountain-town swagger. Expect 68 bright rooms in earthy tones (shoutout to Pantone’s Mocha Mousse) and live rooftop après-ski sets. Need a lift around town? Rent an electric Rivian vehicle and follow one of the curated itineraries through the Colorado Rockies. Artist talks and contemporary art installations nod to Aspen’s cultural cachet
Majagua Boutique Hotel
Oaxaca, Mexico
Located in Oaxaca’s historic center, Majagua is a sleek, 14-room adults-only haven that marries modern elegance with regional authenticity. Renovated to showcase contemporary art, earthy green palettes, and potted cacti, it radiates a cultivated calm. The highlight is Endémico, the rooftop restaurant and bar where mezcal-infused Micheladas and local ingredients meet sweeping views. With plush bathrobes, attentive service, and proximity to Santo Domingo and the 20 de Noviembre Market, it’s the ideal stylish base for cultural exploration.
Room Count: 68 | The Vibe: Where your ski boots and your sketchbook feel equally at home.
Above Par Element: Ever-evolving arts and wellness programming make Mollie Aspen a contemporary cultural hub.
Room Count: 14 | The Vibe: Earthy tones, mezcal, and cacti—Oaxaca in full bloom.
Above Par Element: Green-hued interiors and rooftop cocktails against the painterly skyline.
Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel
Monte-Carlo, Monaco
A timeless Riviera retreat reimagined with a dash of fashion fair, Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel merges casual sporting club heritage with fresh energy. Think well-dressed lounge areas, pebbled white façades, and striped umbrellas. A Mediterranean holiday unfolds with meals at Jondal à La Vigie Monte-Carlo, expansive sea-facing terraces, and exclusive access to a private beach with fullservice cabanas. Spa treatments, lush gardens, and a stylish pool scene complete the picture—a beautifully balanced collage of Côte d’Azur allure and playful joie de vivre.
Room Count: 40 | The Vibe: Riviera glamour with the drama of a French fashion show, fipping the catwalk for the coastline.
Above Par Element: Jacquemus-collab sunbeds and parasols make for the Riviera’s best-dressed escape.
Nayara Tented Camp
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Check into Nayara Tented Camp for eco-luxury in Costa Rica’s rainforest. Glamping tents boast spring-fed plunge pools and sweeping terrace views. Volcanic mud spa rituals and canopy cocktails (or Costa Rican coffee) fow freely under the jungle canopy. Guests enjoy access to added dining and wellness perks at sister resorts Nayara Gardens and Nayara Springs, connected via footbridges. Whether exploring nearby Arenal Volcano National Park or soaking in one of the hot springs, the experience is as immersive as it is indulgent.
Room Count: 38 | The Vibe: Jungle splendor that’s more glam than grit—Tarzan could never.
Above Par Element: Private spring-fed plunge pools and volcanic mud rituals make this Costa Rica’s ultimate rainforest refuge.
Palácio Príncipe Real
Lisbon, Portugal
This rose-pink 19th-century palace in Lisbon’s leafy Príncipe Real neighborhood charms with heritage bones and indulgent amenities. Inside, rooms mix ornate detail with contemporary design—freestanding bathtubs included. The inviting pool is fanked by lush gardens. EVOO, the on-site restaurant, serves local, plant-forward plates—all cooked exclusively in extra virgin olive oil from the owners’ groves (hence the name). Once home to the Teixeira da Mota family, this noble stay makes guests feel like modern-day aristocrats.
Room Count: 25 | The Vibe: A quintessential palace hotel, with a hint of a Wes Anderson aesthetic.
Above Par Element: Historic grandeur firts with contemporary motifs in a pink palace with lush gardens.
Parker Palm Springs
Palm Springs, California
Once Gene Autry’s Melody Ranch, the Parker Palm Springs is now a cinematic masterpiece. Spread across 13 acres of lush desert gardens and designed by Jonathan Adler, the 144 rooms— ranging from hammocks to estate suites—sport bold mid-century touches, whimsical sculptures, and clashing prints. You’ll fnd two pools shaded by palm trees, a pétanque court, a croquet lawn, and a spa with nautical fair. Brunch at Norma’s is a must for oversized pancakes and citrusy cocktails, while Mister Parker’s doles out unforgettable candlelit dinners.
Room Count: 144 | The Vibe: Like stepping into Slim Aarons’s camera lens after three martinis.
Above Par Element: Between the pools, lawn games, and glam alfresco dining, it’s giving Old Hollywood country club.
Rockhouse Hotel & Spa
Negril, Jamaica
Sitting atop Negril’s dramatic cliffs, Rockhouse Hotel & Spa pairs Caribbean conviviality with crystal-clear turquoise waters and cliff-jumping thrills. Days fow from Psilocybin sound baths to sea cave adventures, with sundowners and oceanside dinners fueling the evening fun. With its stone terraces, thatched bungalows, and endless blue views, the West End vacation hideaway hits the sweet spot between laid-back and legendary. Behind the scenes, the Rockhouse Foundation uplifts local education—so every stay feels good and does good.
Pulitzer Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Sandwiched between the trendy Jordaan district and the Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes), Pulitzer Amsterdam comprises 25 beautifully restored 17th- and 18th-century canal houses. Interiors meld Dutch heritage (spiral staircases, original beams) and playful modern touches. A seasonal fower cart greets guests at the entrance. From its expansive suites and serene inner courtyard garden, to the wellbeing space, and classic canal boat rides, the hotel proves Amsterdam has moved past partying and entered its pampering era.
Room Count: 40 | The Vibe: Good energy, good views, good deeds.
Above Par Element: Rockhouse Foundation’s work in local education makes every stay socially impactful and inspiring.
Room Count: 225 | The Vibe: A lesson in canal-side charisma—with two bars.
Above Par Element: The courtyard garden and private canal boat tour bring serene moments amid Amsterdam’s buzzing canalside core.
Short Stories Hotel
West Hollywood, California
Steps from The Grove, Short Stories is a modern hotel where Hollywood insiders crash between premieres. Inside the 66-key stay, light-flled rooms faunt terrazzo foors and local art by Kenton Nelson. Guests lounge by the foliage-wrapped pool and sip inventive cocktails at the courtyard bar. With a low-key neighborhood feel and designforward touches throughout, the 66-key boîte nails that elusive West Hollywood vibe—stylish, intimate, and just under-the-radar enough that you’ll hesitate to post it on social media.
Room Count: 66 | The Vibe: Like your friend’s house—if they were a screenwriter with immaculate taste.
Above Par Element: A lush courtyard and creative community vibe make this WeHo’s best-kept boutique secret.
Singita Lebombo Lodge
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Set on a 33,000-acre private concession in Kruger National Park, Singita Lebombo Lodge weaves its conservation-driven ethos into every luxurious detail. Inspired by eagles’ nests, the glass-walled, cliff-clinging suites and private villa teeter above the N’wanetsi River, delivering panoramic views and a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. Anticipate spa treatments, a next-level wine cellar, and stargazing. The combination of wild landscapes and polished hospitality makes this the safari lodge you’ll measure all others against.
Room Count: 13 | The Vibe: If Bond went on safari.
Above Par Element: The team radiates warmth and genuine kindness, leaving such an impression that you’ll already plot a return before checkout.
Son Sabater by Za ro
Mallorca, Spain
Skip the beach clubs—Son Sabater is your countryside Mallorcan escape. Situated on a 16th-century fnca in the Serra de Tramuntana Mountains, it pairs rustic stone walls and garden views with cloud-soft beds, French shutters, and cream-hued linens. Between the sun-soaked pool, the standout Mediterranean fare (hello, octopus over sweet potato), and the warm, personalized service, it’s a place that’s easy to love and hard to leave. With nearby secret coves and Pollença’s market scene minutes away, it’s a stylish reset from the island’s well-trodden tourist trail.
Room Count: 15 | The Vibe: A centuries-old fnca for design lovers who prefer olives to other tourists.
Above Par Element: The private villas nestled in a UNESCO-designated mountain range are rustic, luxe, and ultra quiet.
The Bowery Hotel
New York City, New York
The Bowery Hotel is a dyed-in-the-wool Manhattan haunt, marrying romance with downtown edge. Velvet settees, worn Persian rugs, and candlelit corners lend European fair to the interiors. Upstairs, 135 rooms feel crisp and timeless (white linens, cream walls, red accents), balancing the moodiness below. Creatives and celebrities post up at the atmospheric bar, where Negronis fow, conversations spark, and the scene is straight out of a classic New York flm.
Room Count: 135 | The Vibe: Where you sip red wine and pretend you’re in a Scorsese fick.
Above Par Element: The lobby bar deserves landmark status as a New York cultural institution.
LDV at The Maidstone
East Hampton, New York
Prominently placed on a pristine lawn in East Hampton, LDV at The Maidstone is a 150-year-old inn brought to life by LDV Hospitality. With just 19 rooms—plus a trio of charming cottages—this boutique gem resembles the manicured estate of the stealth wealth relative we all deserve. Airy rooms and cozy, art-flled lounges, and complimentary cruiser bikes encourage lingering by the freplace or cycling to the beach. The rotating fashion pop-ups—from Sézane to local artisans—mean less pressure on what to pack.
Room Count: 19 | The Vibe: Like crashing at your rich aunt’s Hamptons house…and she’s totally OK with it.
Above Par Element: The guest room touches—handwritten notes, plush robes, and a baby-blue retro fridge.
The Hari London
London, UK
With a posh address on the Georgian streets of Belgravia, The Hari is a swank crash pad for your next jaunt across the pond. Its modernist glass-box façade conceals a cozy lobby where doorkeepers greet guests with a smile. Plush velvet reading nooks, curated coffee-table magazines, and marble tubs set a soothing tone in the Studio King Suites. Dining spans hearty English breakfasts, elegant afternoon tea, and Italian plates at il Pampero, plus cocktails on ivy-draped garden terrace.
Room Count: 85 | The Vibe: It’s the Belgravia fat you’d actually move into—stylish, warm, and never showy.
Above Par Element: The Garden Terrace with ivy, fowers, a retractable roof, and cocktails at any hour, rain or shine.
Thyme
Cotswolds, UK
Thyme is a family-owned respite in the bucolic Cotswolds, rooted in sustainability and slow living. Caryn Hibbert and her children—daughter, Milly, the General Manager, and son, Charlie, the Chef Director—transformed a 150-acre estate into a haven of rustic refnement. Guests can explore the working farm, cookery school, spa, and the Ox Barn restaurant—all housed in beautifully restored 17th-century buildings. The on-site lifestyle brand, Bertioli, captures the property’s ethos through botanical-inspired products, while cozy rooms offer clawfoot tubs, stone walls, and countryside calm.
Room Count: 31 | The Vibe: Agritourism for aristocrats—plant-powered spa rituals, foral fabrics, and herb-infused cocktails.
Above Par Element: Bertioli candles, fragranced to evoke the cutting garden, let guests bring a piece of Thyme back home.
The Calile Hotel
Brisbane, Australia
A bold, sun-drenched landmark on James Street, The Calile Hotel sets the tone for Brisbane’s urban resort lifestyle. Wrapped in pink stone, arches, and breezy balconies, it’s a place made for poolside moments and long lunches that spill into sunset. Kailo Medispa is a wellness sanctuary that balances late nights with IV drips and recovery rituals, while signature restaurants Hellenika and SK Steak & Oyster, by legendary restaurateur Simon Gloftis, anchor a vibrant dining scene.
Room Count: 175 | The Vibe: An interior design showroom crossed with a vibrant social scene.
Above Par Element: The pool where bronzed Queenslanders and jetsetters mingle over cocktails beneath the Brisbane sun.
Trisara Phuket
Phuket, Thailand
Trisara fips Phuket’s party image on its head with secluded luxury on the island’s peaceful northwestern coast. Each of the 39 villas and suites features an infnity pool, while the 25 multi-bedroom residences come with a chef and butler. If you need a change of scenery, the pristine private beach sits steps away. Michelinstarred PRU serves innovative, ingredient-driven Thai dishes. Between the jungle-shrouded accommodations, holistic spa, and rare tranquility, it’s a top-tier paradise for when you’d rather relax than rage.
Trailborn Grand Canyon
Williams, Arizona
It’s about time North America’s most iconic natural wonder got a boutique hotel worthy of its status. Trailborn Grand Canyon combines nostalgic Wild West energy with Route 66 cool. Think vintageinspired rooms and a revamped saloon with darts, lovingly named Camp Hall. Guests can borrow binoculars for a day of scenic exploration, then return for dinner at the Southwestern steakhouse (sweet corn hush puppies—yum), s’mores, shuffeboard, and low-key hangs.
Room Count: 96 | The Vibe: Grand Canyon camp atmosphere, but with better lighting and stronger Wi-Fi.
Above Par Element: Adventure-ready coolers, board games, and movie nights make this more than a base camp.
Room Count: 64 | The Vibe: The peaceful and posh side of Phuket—leave the raucous partying for the hostels.
Above Par Element: With water sports, tennis courts, and beach cabanas, guests can choose to do it all—or do nothing at all.
Viceroy Bali
Bali, Indonesia
Nestled above the Valley of the Kings, the familyrun Viceroy Bali is a tropical paradise. Each of the 40 villas has a private infnity pool overlooking lush jungle ridges—sunrise swims are practically mandatory. Guests can arrive via private helipad and dine at the award-winning Apéritif Restaurant. There are sunrise yoga sessions, traditional Balinese massages, and cycling excursions to the Tegallalang rice terraces. Thanks to the convenient shuttle to Ubud, you get seclusion— without isolation.
Room Count: 40 | The Vibe: Laid-back Balinese luxury and valley views, just fve minutes from bustling Ubud.
Above Par Element: The VW Safari tours deliver high-altitude adventure with a laidback Bali attitude.
Villa Santa Cruz
Todos Santos, Mexico
Suspended between the desert and the Pacifc Ocean, Villa Santa Cruz is a 24-room Todos Santos hideaway with laid-back, off-the-grid energy. Its hacienda-revival buildings pop in shades of sun-warmed yellow and tangerine. Guests wake to crashing waves, ride horses along the beach, swim in saltwater pools, unwind with sound baths, and stargaze from rooftop hot tubs. Dining at The Green Room means fresh seafood with a side of whale-spotting. At Caracara, garden-to-table dishes are sourced steps away.
Room Count: 24 | The Vibe: The epitome of relaxed, sun-warmed Baja allure.
Above Par Element: Stillness or adventure— at Villa Santa Cruz, you set the rhythm.
HAP’s Guide to SICILY
Discover the sun-dappled allure of the Mediterranean’s largest island
By Lindsay Cohn
With its rich culture, culinary traditions, and beautiful scenery, Sicily is a destination that allows you to choose your own pace. History buffs can pack an itinerary with ancient temples and Baroque cathedrals, while foodies feast at market stalls, Michelin-starred restaurants, and laid-back trattorias. The beaches range from cinematic rocky outcrops to long stretches of sand. And aperitivo is a cherished nightly ritual.
WHERE TO STAY
Mazzarò Sea Palace
When you want access to Taormina but prefer chic seaside vibes over crowds, check into Mazzarò Sea Palace. Every room has a terrace with snap-worthy views of sparkling Mazzarò Bay. There’s an entire room dedicated to the gourmet breakfast spread (think: freshbaked bread, local honey, and house-made granita), a bar terrace for alfresco cocktails, and a fully serviced beach setup with guest-only loungers.
Monaci delle Terre Nere
Whether you’re drawn to its proximity to Mount Etna or the quiet charm of the countryside, Monaci delle Terre Nere is a peaceful, nature-wrapped Relais & Châteaux hideaway. Set on a 62-acre working farm, dotted with Sicilian citrus trees, undulating vineyards, and vegetable gardens, it’s a place devoted to the simple pleasures of local food and wine.
WHERE TO EAT
Cortile Arabo
Situated in Marzamemi, one of Sicily’s most picturesque coastal villages, Cortile Arabo is an osteria di mare (a Sicilian seafood restaurant) with a contemporary lens. The breezy, sea-view veranda is a dreamy spot for savoring fresh bread with artisanal butter, marinated red shrimp, and sea urchin spaghetti.
La Salumeria - Fratelli Burgio
After browsing Mercato di Ortigia, grab a shaded outdoor table at La Salumeria - Fratelli Burgio. Order a smoked
Courtesy of Cortile Verga
fsh board, a few paninis, and a side of caponata to share and soak in the vibrant atmosphere as shoppers and spritz sippers buzz past. Be sure to stop by to pick up some gourmet souvenirs—cured meats, sun-dried tomatoes, arrabbiata sauce, and tuna in olive oil.
WHERE TO DRINK
Igiea Terrazza Bar
No trip to Palermo is complete without enjoying aperitivo at Igiea Terrazza Bar at Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel. As evening approaches, well-dressed Sicilians and holiday-goers fll the terrace tables, sipping drinks created by mixology maestro Salvatore Calabrese, soaking in the sophisticated atmosphere, and watching the sunset over the sparkling Gulf of Palermo.
Cortile Verga Ortigia
Tucked away on the island of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, Cortile Verga Ortigia invites a mix of sightseeing-weary visitors and locals. Surrounded by Sicilian Baroque charm, the courtyard setting is the perfect spot to sip a Negroni or local wine and nibble on bruschetta while tapping your toes to rhythmic music.
WHERE TO VISIT
Mount Etna
Rising from the center of the island as if to greet the sky with its periodic plumes of smoke, Mount Etna might just be Sicily’s defning feature. Europe’s most active volcano is a pilgrimage-worthy destination for climbers and photographers. If an uphill trek isn’t part of the plan, rest assured, the gondola offers plenty of high-altitude excitement and sweeping views.
Scopello
There are many reasons to visit the coastal village of Scopello on Sicily’s northwestern coast. But the
biggest—and most photogenic draw—is the craggy coastline that juts out above the clear waters. After sunning and swimming, stop by Tonnara di Scopello to learn about the area’s rich tuna fshing history.
Taormina
The White Lotus may have put Taormina on the map for the masses, but the Pearl of the Ionian Sea was a chic, seaside resort long before the show. On the itinerary? Shop along Corso Umberto I, linger over a cappuccino on a café terrace, visit Teatro Antico di Taormina, stroll around lush Villa Comunale di Taormina, and snap some photos from Piazza IX Aprile, Taormina’s picturesque main square.
Agrigento
Time travel might not be possible, but visitors can walk through the remarkably well-preserved past in Agrigento. This hilltop city, originally founded by the Greeks, is renowned for its vast archaeological ruins. The Valley of the Temples dates back to the 6th century BCE and remains an enduring example of ancient ingenuity.
Noto
Sicily is home to several Baroque cities. Noto, in the island’s southeast, might just be the most beautiful. From the grand Cattedrale di San Nicolò to the balconied Palazzo Nicolaci, its ornate, honey-hued stone façades make it a sightseeing gem—and an unmatched backdrop for souvenir photos.
Courtesy of Monaci delle Terre Nere
Courtesy of Cortile Verga
How AI is Shaping Hospitality
The travel industry is leaning into high-tech innovation, with the goal of delivering a more personalized guest experience
By Rachel Chang
I pulled up to The Dylin, a 55-key apartment-style boutique property on a residential block in Madison, Wisconsin, late one afternoon. After punching a code into the keypad, the subterranean garage door opened. A few minutes (and a few more digits entered) later, I was kicking back in my cozy room.
Throughout my stay, everything was automated. Even when I accidentally locked myself out of my unit with a deadbolt, help was at the other end of a text, troubleshooting remotely. Despite never actually seeing a staffer, I felt completely taken care of—a sign of how boutique hotels, like this one, are using AI to elevate the guest experience, becoming more intuitive and offering prompt, personalized service
“AI is reshaping the travel experience—from the moment you get inspired to the moment you leave a review,” Expedia Group’s chief commercial offcer, Greg Schulze, tells Hotels Above Par.
Streamlining Hotel Searches
Expedia introduced one of the most innovative AI hotel search functions when it debuted Trip Matching in June. Data suggests that 61% of travelers go to social media for trip inspiration. So the company launched a feature that allows any Instagram user to DM a public Reels to @ expedia, and it will immediately generate an itinerary based on the content of the video—including hotels to book on the spot.
“AI IS RESHAPING THE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE”
— GregExpediaSchulzeGroup, COO
As someone who spent weeks flling out a tedious chart to compare my hotel options for a Bali vacation years ago, automation is a massive time saver. And that’s not the only platform helping travelers cut down on travel research. For my trip to Bangkok, I used Mindtrip to hone in on properties in a vibrant location to explore that’s safe for a solo female traveler—and it instantly generated a chart more comprehensive than my own. Similarly, Layla neatly provided options on a map, some with POV videos from reviews playing on loop. Loyalty program enthusiasts and novices alike will be impressed with Gondola, which strategizes points and miles bookings. Similar functions are also generated in Kayak’s integration with ChatGPT and Google Gemini.
Customizing the InRoom Experience
When Otonomus Hotel (not boutique, but an industry pioneer) opened in Las Vegas this past summer, it billed itself as the “frst AI-powered hotel.” In addition to questions about room preference, its systems search the internet and social media for details to make each stay as personalized as possible.
While Otonomus Hotel aims to specialize in hyper-personalization, smart room technology is becoming commonplace—from keyless entry to concierge service via texting. During a stay at Hotel Marcel in New Haven, Connecticut, my niece reveled in the ability to switch the room’s mood with the touch of a button, adjusting the lighting and motorized blackout curtains.
For boutique properties, adapting to new tech requires a
bigger leap; it’s all about baking the features into the DNA. When Olivia Bryne’s family bought the 39-room Eccleston Square Hotel in London in 2011, the historic building was beyond repair. That meant building systems from the ground up and setting the bar high by putting an iPad concierge in every room, installing SmartGlass bathroom walls to maximize space and lighting, and providing Hästens beds with adjustable settings, including massage.
Personalizing Service at Its Best
Where AI comes in the handiest is in quickly tending to the unexpected needs that come up. Byrne says that with their chatbot answering predictive guest questions, it doesn’t just “enhance the guest experience, but also frees our team to focus entirely on meeting—and exceeding— guests’ needs in real life.”
The irony is that when the smart tech works best, it should almost be invisible. “Ideally, our guests are not aware of a difference between when we are using AI and when a team member is responding,” Sandy Wieber, owner of the 17room Bayfront Marin House in St. Augustine, Florida, says. Since implementing automated responses, they’ve had nearly 15,000 reservations and an overwhelmingly positive response.
According to Wieber, hotels should also have options for people to opt out of technology. Adding that “it’s essential to have an intuitive way to turn off the devices for guests who are comfortable with an electronic concierge listening.” While the increase of AI could equate to less human interaction, hoteliers know no amount of automation can truly replace people in the hospitality business.
The capability of boutique hotels to keep up with the growth of AI in the same way as major chains may be impossible. “But it’s like next-day delivery…once customers get used to it, they expect it at properties both large and small,” Wieber adds. As an anonymous Michelin chief hotel inspector says, “Traveling is tiring and stressful enough— and technology is helping hotels make guests’ stays more relaxed and enjoyable.”
Avi Brosh’s Los Angeles
The Palisociety CEO shares his favorite places in his hometown
By Juliet Izon
Few people are more plugged into Los Angeles’ buzzing social scene than Avi Brosh, CEO and cofounder of Palisociety, the boutique hospitality brand that includes Palihouse, Palihotel, ARRIVE by Palisociety, and Le Petit Pali, as well as a collection of independently branded properties. A resident of Malibu, Brosh has worked in both real estate development and hospitality in Los Angeles for over three decades, with a special focus at Palisociety on concept innovation and design direction. All this is to say, if you need a suggestion for where to go in the City of Angels, he has plenty of advice. Below, he shares some of his favorite spots in his hometown.
“LOS ANGELES IS VERY DYNAMIC, WITH A BROAD RANGE OF RESOURCES FOR DESIGN INSPIRATION.”
Where do you go for design inspiration?
Los Angeles is very dynamic, with a broad range of resources for design inspiration. I always like to browse Obsolete in Culver City for its unique curation of antiques and statement pieces. I also love Tropics in Hollywood for its contemporary take on potted plants and special fnds. Nicky Kehoe on Beverly Blvd has a sophisticated yet approachable style. All these places bring a distinct perspective and collectively help me keep my projects creatively relevant.
Where do you go when your most stylish friend is in town?
I’m a big advocate for doing the quintessential Los Angeles circuit: dinner at the Polo Lounge or Tower Bar, a late bite at Musso & Frank. All of these spots are nostalgic, iconic, and feel like you’re in Los Angeles in the best way—less trendy, more about a timeless scene.
Where do you go when you don’t want to see anyone?
For me, it’s Malibu, always. My wife and I have a home there. It feels like a reset: close enough to the city, but just far enough away to disappear.
Where do you go when you want to be seen?
I’m not usually looking to be seen, but if that’s the agenda, I like Little Beach House Malibu. It’s always full of interesting people, and it’s relaxed, while also full of energy with the ocean as the backdrop. The light somehow makes everyone look low-key like a celebrity.
Courtesy of Dorchester Collection
Hotels De ning the New Era of Hotel Dining
Forget bland bu ets and soggy room service
By Stacey Leasca
Hotel dining used to be a punchline. Travelers long understood that they shouldn’t expect much beyond mushy scrambled eggs at the meager breakfast buffet or a limp room service salad. But those days are over, because across the world, hotels are not only perfecting their culinary offerings, they’re redefning what a sense of place can taste like.
From Hotel Yellowstone at Jackson Hole, where Wild West favors like elk saltimbocca are on the menu along with a side of Teton views, to Hotel Fiescherblick in Switzerland, which offers guests a taste of the seasonal terroir, including same-day-foraged mushroom cones and locally sourced wild game, boutique hotels are serving up the best bites in town. Kitchens are now the soul of the property, drawing as much acclaim as the design and amenities.
Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel
Oxfordshire, England
At Le Manoir aux Quat’Saison in the Cotswolds, dining has been the main event since chef Raymond Blanc opened the doors in 1984. Its ability to retain two Michelin stars for the last four decades is a rare consistency that speaks to its meticulous standards. Its gardens and orchards supply the kitchen with vegetables, herbs, and fruit that show up on every plate, underscoring its reputation as the “original garden-to-table” hotel. Guests can also venture beyond the dining room, with hands-on cooking classes and visits to the gardening school to learn how to cultivate ingredients.
SingleThread
Healdsburg, California
SingleThread may only have a handful of rooms, but its culinary artistry has made it a hospitality powerhouse. The pint-sized property holds three Michelin stars, and each evening, guests can sit down to a 10-course tasting menu that highlights California’s bounty. Though the menu changes daily, it’s known to spotlight tomatoes so fresh they are still warm from the sun alongside braised sea eel. Each dish honors the inn’s nearby farm, where rows of produce and fowers are grown with pride and precision. This attention to detail extends to the rooms, featuring Japanese soaking tubs that add to the zen experience.
TOP: Courtesy of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel; BOTTOM: John Troxell
Courtesy of Kurulu Bay
White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection
Kennebunk, Maine
For the White Barn Inn, cooking up excellent food is nothing new. It’s been dishing out delicious fare for fve decades. At the on-site restaurant, which sits inside a restored 1860s barn, classic New England favors are reimagined for today’s tastes. Given that it’s in Maine, lobster is the pride and joy of the menu. You can enjoy the crustacean in the form of bisque, alongside squid ink bucatini, or poached in butter. After a memorable meal, tuck yourself in for a restful sleep in a cozy cabin and await the forest light to gently wake you in the morning.
SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites
Mendoza, Argentina
SB Winemaker’s House proves that pairings have their place. The boutique property in Mendoza, helmed by trailblazing winemaker Susana Balbo, is a sleek ode to Argentina’s terroir. The deliberately small restaurant menu ensures diners get just the right bites of items like smoky cuts of Argentinian beef alongside Andean root vegetables, each paired with wines selected from Balbo’s acclaimed portfolio. Guests can also indulge in regional cooking classes to learn how to make the perfect empanada and asada, to bring the favors of vacation back home as the ultimate souvenir.
Kurulu Bay
Koggala Lake, Sri Lanka
Meals are every bit as impressive as the view at Kurulu Bay. The sleek, open-air restaurant—aptly called The Kitchen—looks out over scenic Koggala Lake, a ftting backdrop for sea-to-table menus. The fresh daily catch shows up on the plate in vibrant Sri Lankan dishes like its prawn curry layered with coconut sambal and basmati rice or pan-grilled mahi-mahi served alongside hand-picked local vegetables, as well as fresh tuna sashimi. After dinner, guests can retire to one of the greenery-shrouded treehouses or cottages, each styled with its own character and favor.
The Bushcamp Company
South Luangwa, Zambia
Even in the most remote corners of the vast South Luangwa National Park, the gastronomy at The Bushcamp Company is something to remember. Meals are powered by the massive private garden that supplies fresh greens and vegetables to each of its camps, where on-site chefs create masterpieces that surprise and delight with every bite. Breakfast includes just-baked bread and eggs served as the sun rises over the plains, while dinners arrive with a side of the distant call of hyenas. The food isn’t fussy, but it is favorful, nourishing, and deeply tied to the land.
Courtesy of Auberge Collection
Courtesy of SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites
Is Sound Healing Wellness Travel’s Next Big Trend?
From aquaboard singing bowls in Mexico to aerial gong baths in Utah, sonic experiences are rede ning how travelers tune out stress—and tune into themselves
By Karla Walsh
In the not-too-distant past, hotel spa programs focused on touch (massages and facials), smell (aromatherapy), and, if we were lucky, taste (a pineapple-turmeric shot or calming chamomile tea after your treatment).
But on the heels of mounting research that suggests sound can provide spiritual and mental health benefts, boutique hotels and resorts are asking guests to listen up. Sound healing treatments geared toward alleviating tension, boosting mood, and decreasing fatigue are becoming one of the buzziest wellbeing amenities across the globe.
The Edge Spa at The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection, 35 minutes outside Park City, Utah, offers a Soaring Sound treatment to ditch stress while weightlessly relaxing in a cocoon-like aerial hammock immersed in vibrations from bowls and gongs.
If water helps you zen out, consider the Floating Sound Bath at Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico. During this treatment, spa-goers lie on an aquaboard and foat on the pool as powerful vibrations from the crystal and Tibetan singing bowls fll the air.
The Crystal Alchemy Soundbath at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa in Rancho Santa Fe, California, involves singing bowls infused with gemstones and precious metals to promote peace and tranquility on a cellular level.
At Sol, The Spa at Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection in Los Cabos, Mexico, guests can step inside a giant sound bowl to experience grounding vibrational resonance at healing frequencies. This is the frst step in the attunement circuit, which also includes a steam room, ice bar, salt room, and cold plunge.
TOP: Courtesy of The Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection BOTTOM: Courtesy of Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
Courtesy of Rancho La Puerta
Inside the Cinematic World of Ash Hotels
How CEO Ari
S. Heckman and Creative Director Xavier Donnelly turn hotels into escapism,
one interior and relic at a time
By Britney Eschelman
Ash Hotels might just be the most captivating boutique hotel group in America. With properties in cities like Detroit, Baltimore, Providence, New Orleans, and soon Richmond, the brand transforms forgotten buildings into immersive worlds that are more like richly detailed flm sets than ordinary getaways.
Behind the cinematic curtain? CEO Ari S. Heckman and Creative Director Xavier Donnelly, whose partnership has elevated Ash into something bigger than hospitality. “Our defnition of hotelier is totally holistic,” says Heckman. “We aren’t just making an individual place to sleep but trying to conjure a feeling that’s palpable just by being on the property.”
The guest experience is carefully crafted through curiosity and curation. Donnelly describes the process as a kind of historical fction. “We start each project with an immense amount of research on the history of the place itself, but also on the culture of the city and region. From there, we try to imagine our own story of the property— who lived there, how the building evolved, and how that story lives in every design detail.”
Like a meticulously crafted production, each Ash outpost is designed with obsessive attention to detail, layered with relics, textures, and history to sell the immersive, multisensory fantasy. The Ash universe reaches far beyond the physical; it’s a dreamlike world you want to step into. “I’m especially proud of our scent—it’s consistent across all properties and a key part of the memory of the experience,” says Donnelly. Through Ash Souvenirs, the brand offers objects that bring its warm, offbeat hospitality sensibility home.
For all their precision and intentionality, the team remains refreshingly self-aware, designing with a subtle nod and wink. When asked what genre the Ash world might belong to, Donnelly doesn’t hesitate: “A thriller.”
Credit: Michal Rzepecki for Design Hotels
Credit: ASH
Credit: Christian Harder
Hotels Where Maximalism Makes a Statement
Glamour, opulence, and over-thetop impact are back in fashion at these punchy properties around the globe
By Becca Hensley
Maximalism never goes out of style—possibly because it refuses to be homogenous, barren, spare, or milktoasty. It’s a kind of all-out design motif fueled by artistic expression—ever underscored by a more-is-more philosophy. Full of harmony despite the vastness of its moving parts, it’s art without boundaries. Bold, dramatic, opulent, chromatic, and glamorous, maximalism isn’t new. Its roots can be seen in the Baroque era. Look also to Victorian excesses, as well as Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and, of course, to the grand epoch of Hollywood Regency, a mid-century modern trend that mirrored the heady lifestyle of silver screen stars.
Having a moment again—especially in hospitality—maximalism stands out as the opposite of stark minimalism, a movement meant to impart blank canvas vibes. While calm and uncluttered, its spartan approach can end up feeling cold and impersonal. By contrast, maximalism, especially in a hotel, invites dreamlike whimsy. It embraces a cornucopia of patterns, vintage items, slick and rough textures, vivid hues, and layers galore. Created from the designer’s own highly curated viewpoint, decorative excess has no rules. There’s not a whiff of Marie Kondo in its abundance, though there’s nothing chaotic in its largesse.
In maximalist hotels, location is interpreted and expressed through a lens that draws heavily on historical and theatrical infuences. Head to St. Lucia to see the colorfully reimagined East Winds, a beloved 30-room boutique resort where designer and collector Andria Mitsakos restored decades-old mainstays, adding more works from local artisans, all with eccentric, pleasing fair. “This project is a tribute to my experiences in the
Courtsesy of the Swexan
Credit: Brandon Barre
Caribbean—full of color, confdence, and a nod to the locally made crafts my mother helped export in those days,” she tells Hotels Above Par.
The Marie-Anne Oudejans-designed ruby jewel box Villa Palladio, just outside of Jaipur, refects the gem-toned saris and regal ambiance of Rajasthan. Tucked inside a Colonial Revival mansion, the Lafayette Hotel San Diego pulls a cacophony of checkerboard foors, funky lighting, and animal prints into a cinematic backdrop that recalls its Hollywood revelry roots. Violino d’Oro by Collezione EM, a member of Leading Hotels of the World, in Venice, evokes the city’s relationship with artists and craftspeople through rich fabrics, Murano glass, and statement headboards by Rubelli. In New York, maximalist master Martin Brudnizki looks to the Gilded Age to impart a global, well-traveled aesthetic with mise-en-scène allure at the Fifth Avenue Hotel. Nestled in the heart of Chelsea, Beaverbrook Town House offers 14 plush suites, each named for a renowned London playhouse and dripping in velvet-adorned beds and vintage posters, while common areas reverberate with dramatic Oliver Messel appeal.
Despite the wonders of dusty game drives, it’s a joy to return to the technicolor haven of Royal Malewane, a boutique safari lodge in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. Liz Biden adds her passion for punch and eye for ornamentation and bric-à-brac to each sanctuary. “Some people love the minimalist look, but I love color so much. It’s in the birds and the landscape and exudes vibrancy and joy,” she says. Suites are a sublime extravaganza of walls splashed in turquoise, orange, yellow, or pink, handcarved headboards, velvet-upholstered furniture, bright
“MAXIMALISM IS A WAY OF TELLING STORIES THAT ARE LAYERED, COLORFUL, AND FULL OF SOUL.”
— Diana Kessler
local art, captivating artifacts, handwoven rugs, and ornate chandeliers. It’s particularly astonishing in the bush, and guaranteed to transform any besotted animal spotter into a regent of the wild.
Maximalism at Guatemala’s Casa Palopó means telling a story in every corner. “From vivid Mayan textiles to hand-painted walls, each space is a celebration of color, culture, and craftsmanship,” says designer Kay Jay. The rooms invite guests into different worlds and are meant to spark wonder and create lasting memories.
Fashion, art, interiors, and literature collide at Hôtel Swexan, a vivacious Dallas hotel that manifests striking aesthetics at every turn with eclectic artworks, contemporary fourishes, and internationally collected objets d’art, all curated by Melinda Clark, Design Director of the Harwood District. Imagined to invoke that distinctive Glaswegian humor, charm, and energy into a 19th-century Victorian mansion, the 53-room Mar Hall Golf and Spa “moves guests through a series of contrasting moods—dark and light, softness and structure—each space offering a fresh moment or memory,” according to Creative Director, Jim Hamilton. “The result is a journey through variety and character, with no two rooms feeling the same.”
Grand Bohemian Charlotte, part of The Kessler Collection, takes inspiration from the city’s creative energy, peppering in both European and Argentinian infuences with one-of-akind pieces, velvet banquettes, and eloquent murals. Maximalism, for us, is a way of telling stories that are layered, colorful, and full of soul,” says Diana Kessler, Creative Director of The Kessler Collection.
The Luxury of Getting Away from It All QUIET TRAVEL
Silence is golden at these hotels that embrace solitude as the
By Megan Shelton
ultimate luxury
As the world grows noisier and devices keep us constantly connected, travelers are looking for something softer and slower. The quiet travel trend favors nature over nightlife, wellness over WiFi, and thoughtful immersion over itinerary overload. From remote islands to mountaintop hideaways, these boutique retreats offer a powerful alternative to the digital ding.
Fogo Island Inn
Newfoundland, Canada
On the edge of the North Atlantic, Fogo Island Inn doesn’t just promote peace—it preserves it. An architectural icon featuring foor-to-ceiling ocean views and handcrafted interiors, it’s a place to soak in Newfoundland culture and calm.
Villa Petriolo
Tuscany, Italy
Step off the grid and into rolling Tuscan hills at Villa Petriolo, a restored eco-estate with vineyard views from the infnity pool, terracotta-hued suites, and yoga among olive groves. Guests can meander cypress-lined trails or connect with the land through hands-on experiences such as truffe hunting, painting, and cooking classes.
Pemako Punakha Punakha Valley, Bhutan
Deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture and the untrammeled landscape, Pemako Punakha is a serene entry into sacred stillness. Visitors reach this Himalayan hideaway via a prayer-fag bridge and fnd tented villas with private plunge pools overlooking river-carved valleys.
Courtesy of Paradero Todos Santos
Les Bassans
Brittany, France
On a wild stretch of cliff along France’s rugged, lessfocked-to Pink Granite Coast, Les Bassans serves up a front-row seat to tide and light. Watch the sea from a bowwindowed room, wander windblown cliffs, or bask in the restorative power of sea-inspired spa rituals.
Sailrock Resort
South Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Between the bay and the ocean lies a stretch of beach where breezy villas meet deserted sands. Sailrock Resort invites guests to go conch-diving, explore starfsh-dotted shallows, and relish massages with the soundtrack of lapping waves. Every moment feels untouched, unrushed, and entirely your own.
Fasano Boa Vista
Fazenda Boa Vista, Brazil
A Brazilian countryside escape with metropolitan polish, Fasano Boa Vista doles out lakefront stillness just an hour from the city of São Paulo. Ride horses in the morning, hit the 18-hole golf course, and take an afternoon nap in a duplex suite. End each evening freside, with cachaça in hand under a sky full of stars.
91 Athens Riviera
Athens, Greece
Glamping goes glam on the Athenian Riviera. Luxe cabanas provide a hush-hush alternative to overcrowded Greek islands. Between seaside yoga and rejuvenating facials, tennis, and sunrise yoga on the sand, guests get to unplug from urban life a short drive from Greece’s capital city.
Trailborn Highlands
Highlands, North Carolina
Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, Trailborn Highlands is a woodland respite that blends modern mountain charm with quiet Appalachian pleasures. Expect forest bathing, Nordic spa rituals, waterfall hikes, and leafy hikes.
Few & Far Luvhondo
Limpopo, South Africa
Deep in South Africa’s Soutpansberg Mountains, Few & Far Luvhondo—a six-suite, solar-powered eco-lodge— embodies wild luxury. Meditate beneath baobabs, safari in silence, or dine by candlelight in the bush. The real thrill lies in the stargazing sleepout, where leopards and other native wildlife roam.
The Cove Eleuthera
Eleuthera, Bahamas
On an island that mens “freedom,” The Cove Eleuthera supplies exactly that. Minimalist villas perch above two private beaches, while boat tours, snorkeling adventures, nature walks, and a pineapple farm a short bike ride away reveal Eleuthera’s soulful serenity.
Courtesy of Daniel Pinheiro
Credit: Kort Havens, Courtesy of Trailborn Hotels & Resorts
Retro Motels Return With Boutique Flair
A motel-to-hotel renaissance is sweeping
the country
By Devorah Lev-Tov
“THE VISION BECAME ABOUT PRESERVATION AND QUIET ELEVATION”
— Alexander Perros
Some of today’s trendiest hotels have had past lives as motels. Honoring their pasts, these properties salvage vintage details while bringing aging structures into the present.
The ultimate expression of functionality, the original motor courts and motels of the United States served a need for the new age of driving travelers who were exploring the country in the early 20th century.
“They weren’t built to impress with grandeur, but to connect you to a place,” says Anna Perros, brand creative director and strategist at Silver Sands in Greenport, on Long Island’s North Fork. Most offered little in the way of interior design, even as some of them used unique and kitschy signs to attract roadside customers.
Motels reached their peak in 1964 when there were 61,000 of them across the United States. As the years wore on, travelers’ needs changed. New interstates bypassed old routes, and once-loved motels fell out of fashion, with many closing or being abandoned.
Although many fell into disrepair, a recent trend has emerged to rescue and revitalize them. A new generation of hospitality visionaries is transforming these bygone bases that operated during the golden age of road travel into stylish, design-forward boutique hotels—which, it turns out, works exceedingly well.
“Motels make good bones for new boutique hotels, for the number of keys and their use of outdoor and public space,” says Elizabeth Novit, partner of The Maidstone New Orleans. “These properties had a large, transitional lobby space that lends itself well for dining, bar, and other communal areas.”
The original exterior hallways allowed guests to drive right up to the front door. The pandemic suddenly made outdoor corridors and direct room access more attractive.
Whitley Esteban, co-founder of Studio Tre, the brains behind the reimagining of The Maidstone New Orleans from a mid-century motor lodge to a modern boutique hotel, notes that “there’s an effciency to the motel typology that actually creates parameters that good design needs and thrives on.” Adding that “hopefully, the revamped grounds and pool end up feeling like outdoor living rooms for guests, and exterior entrances mark that connection.”
Many refurbishments preserve retro details for nostalgic purposes, while others simply utilize a structure’s layout and foundation to avoid waste—often, it’s both.
Past visitors and locals often have strong connections to the previous incarnations of these historic properties. “After longtime guests began stopping by, I realized my role wasn’t to reinvent Silver Sands, but to be its steward. The vision became about preservation and quiet elevation,” says Alexander Perros, proprietor and developer of Silver Sands.
He kept the building’s footprint and exterior wall, the boathouse, and the original blue-and-red neon seahorse sign. Some details were reused and reinvented. Period foor tiles became the countertop at Eddie’s Oyster Bar, and the iconic scallop-shell room numbers are now found in the lobby.
At The Longleaf Hotel in Raleigh, North Carolina, a mid-century gem got a modern makeover. During the renovation, the original breeze blocks and unique dimensional cinder blocks that had been hidden by stucco were discovered and restored. Rehabbed rooms are decorated with retro light fxtures, custom photography, and wallpaper inspired by the hotel’s namesake, the North Carolina longleaf pine.
When High Country Motor Lodge, a former Howard Johnson, reopened in 2023 in Flagstaff, Arizona, following a $13 million overhaul, it returned a classic auto court to the legendary Route 66—a stretch of pavement that was once lined with hundreds of motels during the 1960s family road trip boom. The contemporary iteration has a general store with a bar and snacks, a game room, and Arizona’s frst Nordic spa experience, with private saunas, a plunge pool, cold showers, a hot tub, and an outdoor fre pit—this isn’t just a place to crash after a long drive.
Many motel reimaginings offer impressive food and beverage programs that focus on local sourcing—not something
you’d see at the motor lodges of yesteryear. Cuyama Buckhorn, near Santa Barbara, California, frst opened as a motel in 1952, and now has a coffee shop, bar, and restaurant that showcase the bounty of local farms, ranches, and wineries. It also won a 2024 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and hosts wine dinners.
Set inside a converted 1960s adobe motor lodge, the newly opened Hotel Willa, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is home to Juliette, an already acclaimed seasonal restaurant by celebrated chef Johnny Ortiz-Concha, a Taos Puebla native who spent time at Saison and Alinea before returning home. He and partner Maida Branch supply criollo cattle from their farm and work with area growers to deliver produce to the earth-toned eatery.
Credit: John Musnicki
Credit: Patrick Chin
Forget standard suiting—these properties showcase uniforms as custom, fashionforward extensions
of their design DNA
By Britney Eschelman
In the world of high-design hospitality, even what the staff wears becomes part of the mise en scène. From Italian villas to reimagined urban icons, these hotels prove that uniforms aren’t merely attire. Each ensemble refects a philosophy—sustainability stitched into tailoring, local tradition woven into fabric, or art itself reimagined as a dress code.
Courtesy of The Dylan Amsterdam
ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND
Badrutt’s
Palace Hotel
Few uniforms in hospitality carry the same sartorial gravitas as the doormen of Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St. Moritz. Instantly recognizable in burgundy and navy ensembles, trimmed with gold detailing, these ensembles embody the hotel’s Swiss heritage and the grandeur of classic Alpine style. Every element—from the tailored cape to the polished buttons—evokes warmth, refnement, and ceremony. Since 1896, this Leading Hotels of the World landmark has defned high-altitude elegance, and its garments continue that legacy—refned and forever linked to the birthplace of winter glamour.
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
The Dylan Amsterdam
The Dylan’s collaboration with cult label Bonne Suits transforms uniformity into a design philosophy. Founder Bonne Reijn, who grew up on a fower nursery, sees uniforms as both practical and poetic—a balance between individuality and shared identity. His cropped jackets and tailored trousers reinterpret Dutch workwear through a modern, democratic lens. “Practicality is key,” he says. “Our oversized side pockets now feature a hidden compartment for a waiter’s knife, while two curved seams at the back ensure a sharp, comfortable ft.” The result mirrors the hotel itself: rooted in heritage, styled for now, and effortlessly cool.
BIG SKY, MONTANA
Lone Mountain Ranch
In the cinematic sweep of Montana, Lone Mountain Ranch blurs the line between attire and culture. Emmy Award–winning costume designer Janie Bryant—best known for Yellowstone prequels 1883 and 1923—crafted the custom uniforms for the real-life guest ranch as a nod to frontier nostalgia, rendered with modern polish. Worn inside the members-only Auric Room 1915—a sultry saloon of cowhide booths, wooded walls, and antler chandeliers—the looks fuse Western grit with quiet luxury, echoing both the club’s turn-ofthe-century spirit and Big Sky’s enduring mythos of the American West.
BELLAGIO, ITALY
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
Hospitality as theatre fnds its purest form at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. The uniforms are heirlooms in motion. Bartenders in crisp white jackets, sommeliers in deep burgundy, and maîtres d’hôtel in Neapolitan-tailored tuxedos personify 150 years of Lake Como sophistication. Each garment—some lined with archival photos of the hotel—is sewn with heritage and pride. In an age of casual aesthetics, this commitment to formality feels refreshingly rare and timeless.
SOMERSET, UNITED KINGDOM
The Newt
At The Newt, workwear doubles as philosophy. The estate’s garden and hospitality teams don olive jumpsuits embroidered with the phrase “Grow Slowly”—a gentle reminder of the property’s devotion to patience, craftsmanship, and care. Inspired by traditional farm attire
but tailored for refnement, the look bridges fashion and function. Worn for special events and daily tending alike, it embodies The Newt’s ethos: nurturing the land and each other, one thoughtful detail at a time.
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA
The Georgian Hotel
Old Hollywood glamour meets oceanfront cool at The Georgian Hotel. The uniforms feel like a direct line to cinema’s Golden Age. Styled by Creative Director Amber Arbucci, the sky-hued ensemble revives the vintage bellman look of the early 20th century—structured jacket, polished buttons, and a dark-brimmed military hat trimmed in gold. The design nods to the days when celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Bugsy Siegel descended to The Georgian Bar—then known as The Red Griffn—for martinis and a little mischief.
MELBOURNE, PERTH, AND SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
QT Hotels & Resorts
For “Directors of Chaos,” QT Hotels & Resorts partnered with Australian fashion house Romance Was Born on a collection that’s as bold as the properties across Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. The capsule includes paisley-print blouses, monogrammed blazers, and feathered brooches. As frequent guests, designers Anna Plunkett and Luke Sales drew inspiration from each city’s quirks and the brand’s famboyant interiors to create wearable art. The result? Check-ins that feel more like catwalk cameos than front desk formalities.
DOLOMITES, ITALY Forestis
At Forestis, uniforms breathe the same stillness as the towering Dolomites. Designed in-house by Adrian Messner, the bespoke VALLAZZA collection matches the palette of pale woods and soft light that carries through the tranquil mountain retreat, from the panoramic suites to the wellness spa. Tailored boleros, unisex trousers, and minimalist aprons are rendered in sustainable fabrics and gentle shades, inviting calm rather than commanding it. In this alpine sanctuary, even the attire whispers serenity.
Written in the Stars: Hotels with In-House Astrologers
A new wave of properties is courting spiritually curious travelers
By Austa Somvichian-Clausen
All signs are pointing to a new hospitality trend rooted in ancient beliefs: astrology services. Around the world, hotels and resorts are offering guests the chance to unwind in ways that align with their sun sign. From agendas based on your zodiac’s natural element to programs only available by the light of the full moon, these experiences are well worth manifesting.
StolenTime
St. Lucia
Wellness takes a celestial turn at this adults-only, allinclusive retreat on Saint Lucia’s northwest coast. At the start of 2025, StolenTime partnered with the AstroTwins (ELLE’s resident astrologers) to create zodiac-inspired itineraries that combine spa rituals, mindful movement, and recharging activities with each sign’s ideal vacation vibe. Aries might paddleboard at sunrise before a Pitons climb, while Cancers move at a gentler pace with cultural discovery and a sunset sail. With three restaurants, a Champagne bar, and nightly themed dining, the resort complements these star-aligned journeys with gastronomy.
Paradero Todos Santos
Todos Santos, Mexico
Industrial chic getaway Paradero Todos Santos invites guests to tap into the power of the moon with a unique and highly immersive astrology offering that’s available only during a full moon. Each month, participants board the property’s sail-powered catamaran for an overnight voyage through the Sea of Cortez. Under the moonlight, the inhouse astrologer performs bespoke readings, analyzing planetary and lunar alignments. The next day, soul searchers join a manifestation and meditation workshop and receive locally sourced crystals to charge.
Courtesy of StolenTime
CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa
Scottsdale, Arizona
Journey to the Sonoran Desert to experience an elemental journey at CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa, a wellness-focused resort just outside of Scottsdale. The aptly named “Your Element, Your Journey” program helps guests align their vacation plans with the qualities of their zodiac element.” Fire signs get the chance to recharge with desert bathing and a medicine garden scrub, while water signs embrace a healing ritual and an aromatherapy massage. Wellness-seekers can enhance the experience by sipping zodiac-inspired cocktails at the on-site restaurant and bar, Terras.
Troutbeck
Amenia, New York
Set on 250 acres near the New York-Connecticut border, Troutbeck is a bucolic refuge for the curious and romantic. At The Barns, the property’s holistic wellness hub, astrologically-inclined guests can book a 60-minute “Soul Pattern” personal chart reading. The “Cosmic Connections” is great for couples, friends, and families. Groups may also opt for a longer 90-minute collective session.
Courtesy of CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa
You Won’t Want to Leave These Small Sri Lanka Stays
Ceylon escapes, from mountain hideaways to urban hotels
By Brandon Berkson
Sri Lanka’s stardom continues to rise, drawing everyone from wave-chasing surfers to travelers seeking those tea-draped, picture-perfect vistas. For us, the real treasures lie in its boutique hotels, where design, heritage, and nature blend beautifully.
Tri Lanka is a standout on serene Koggala Lake. Designed by architect Raefer Wallis and photographer Rob Drummond, the retreat takes inspiration from the Fibonacci Sequence—nature’s own blueprint. With just 11 keys—including cinnamon-wrapped water tower suites with sweeping 360-degree views, the atmosphere is peaceful. Days unfold between the infnity pool, breezy terraces, cocktails, and a spa offering treetop yoga and a steam cavern.
In the Kalutara Highlands, Glenross Living feels wonderfully removed. Set across a 98-acre rubber, tea, and cinnamon estate, this Sri Lankan-owned hideaway features only 10 suites. Verdant hills and a slow-living ethos are the name of the game.
For a taste of Ceylonese heritage and colonial provenance, Maniumpathy in the country’s capital, Colombo, is an urban refuge. Housed in a stately mansion passed down through fve generations of the Hallock family, its eight unique suites encircle a tranquil courtyard and petite pool.
Boutique Hotels You’d Never Expect Are Family-Friendly
These premium properties go the extra mile for travelers of all ages
By Jordi Lippe-McGraw
Design hotels rarely put out the welcome mat for young children. But a few master a delicate trick: keeping the palette refned, the architecture photogenic, and still managing to welcome sippy cups and bedtime toys without a hint of condescension.
Gyp Sea Saint-Barth
Saint Barthélemy
The colorful Gyp Sea Beach Houses are textbook barefoot luxury: sun-bleached timber, raffa light fxtures, and sea-worn textures. We stayed in Coco Mango House, where my son hopped between our plunge pool and the beach, just fve steps away. The butler brought him nuggets while we sipped ti’ punch under palm fronds. It’s relaxed, but still distinctly Saint Barthélemy.
Credit: Emily Lab
Courtesy of Castelfalf
Courtesy of Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle
County Mayo, Ireland
This 800-year-old castle leans fully into the fantasy with grand stone halls, velvet sofas, carved oak, and turrets. My son received pajamas embroidered with his name, Wilder, a visit from the LEGO butler, and a ride on a pony named Sparkles. Meanwhile, the estate doubles as scholarly travel—falconry lessons, fshing, archery, and a junior golf academy with age-scaled instruction.
Castelfal
Tuscany, Italy
A medieval hilltop village turned resort, Castelfalf is all terracotta, vineyard views, and winding lanes. My son refused to leave the kids’ club, which boasts a pizza oven. While he made dough creatures, we enjoyed the RAKxa spa. Wine tastings included a spice fight just for our underage travel companion. Afternoons meant gelato, quiet walks, and a pool with a front-row seat to the Tuscan hills.
Time + Tide Chinzombo
South Luangwa, Zambia
Is a safari with small kids realistic? Yes, at Time + Tide, where all ages are welcome and catered to. Adults get expert guiding, riverbank sundowners, and canvas-and-timber villas set to a soundtrack of honking hippos. Crews will appreciate spacious family tents, cribs, children’s menus, and car seats clipped into the jeeps. Drives are intentionally short. Days include crafts and juicefueled golden hours.
