Our Top Luxury Hotel Picks Outside the US
/Ananemu | Ise-Shima National Park, Japan
Due to open in March, Aman will be able to safely add the new Ananmenu venue, inside the surrounding Ise-Shima National Park, to it's luxury profile. As the second Japanese resort to be welcomed to the brand, the boutique hotel comprises of suites and villas 185 miles southwest of Tokyo. The national park is known for it's natural beauty and stunning surrounding landscapes of both mountain and sea. The resort occupies the tip of the Osaki Peninsula, offering 24 ryokan-style suites and three two-bedroom villas, each featuring panoramic views of the Ago Bay. The accomodation will also come complete with onsen hot-springs, the ancient Japanese bathing tradition that uses nutrient-rich thermal springs to provide a contemplative and restorative treatment.
In true Japanese style, the food offered by the restaurant will focus on local cuisine from surrounding area. The Mie Prefecture is renowned for it's varied microclimates so suppliers are able to provide goods ranging from delicate fruits such as Nabari melons, to an array of vegetables, as well as the renowned Matsusaka beef and a variety of fresh seafood.
The St Regis | Langkawi, Malaysia
The St. Regis Langkawi is nestled on the southern tip of Langkawi, the first UNESCO Global Geopark designated in Southeast Asia. Situated on an exclusive cove, the discreet address of 83 suites and three water villas overlooks a sparkling white-sand beach, and the glistening turquoise Andaman Sea. Langkawi International Airport (LGK) can be reached by car in 30 minutes.
The intimate resort offers the ideal departure point for exploring the Jewel of Kedah. On the archipelago’s largest island, picturesque villages, paddy fields, craggy mountain peaks, and lush tropical jungles filled with remarkable caves and waterfalls contribute to Langkawi’s dramatic natural beauty. The translucent waters also invite guests to charter a yacht or sailboat to enjoy isolated islands, and endless ocean activities include fishing, snorkeling, diving, sunset cruises, and more.
Additional outdoor destinations include crocodile farms and Underwater World Langkawi, home to more than 5,000 aquatic species. Guests can also enjoy a recess from nature in Kuah, Langkawi’s premier commercial center. Previously a fishing village, it is filled with duty-free shops, retail malls, shopping emporiums, and small boutiques offering everything from modern fashion to elegant batik and other handcrafted items.
The Ritz Paris | Paris, France
The landmark hotel that was opened in 1898 by Swiss hotelier César Ritz, will be re-opening its doors this spring after nearly three and a half years of closing. Known at the time for its innovative and cutting-edge facilities, a lot has changed since the days of electric lights and telephone booths. The lengthy renovation has made way for more suites, by way of fewer rooms, a new restaurant and an École Ritz Escoffier cooking school.
Expected to offer an even more luxurious experience behind its infamous its wrought-iron gates, its discerning clients will come complete with new spa and shopping experiences. With its design being kept to the similar lavish style as before, guests won't be disappointed to find the classic, original golden adornings on every last fitting and fixture. Changes however include discreet tunnel access under the Place Vendôme, a retractable roof has been installed on the roof garden, to transform it into a year-long patio area, as well as the new shopping gallery which houses Cartier, Chanel and Prada, among other big names.
L’Amandier Hotel | Marrakesh, Morocco
As the boutique hotel at L’Amandier moves towards completion, the hotel is in the process of creating a unique vision for Marrakesh that will be a truly special place to stay and unwind, surrounded by the beauty of the Atlas Mountains; somewhere you will want to return to again and again. Located just an hour from Marrakech, the tranquil hotel includes an infinity pool, sculptured gardens and a tennis court, with a whole plethora of nearby activities such as water skiing, zip lining and horse riding.
Set atop a plateau at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, the new L’Amandier hotel will enjoy 360 degree views over the surrounding Toubkal National Park. With accomodation ranging from suites, luxurious rooftop penthouses, as well as standard rooms, all will have their own terrace and views over the stunning landscape.
The design concept tells a story of the local area and arab influence by working with inspirational artisans and manufacturers in Marrakech. You can expect the interior decor to consist of simple yet elegant design with the inspiration for the colours being drawn from the surrounding landscape. This will be clear to see as all the bedrooms look out over the terrace, the infinity pool and further to the red earth foothills of the Atlas Mountains beyond.