Luxury Hotels - THE Hotel not to be missed

Which one is THE Hotel not to be missed absolutely in a life time. That property that, absolutely, you MUST see at least once.

I don't mean to give rules, but It will be appreciated just ONE hotel, THE Hotel, in your eventual post.


I'll start myself: to me THE hotel not to be missed is "Il San Pietro" in Positano.
Reclamed to the rock it is a unique architecture that meld within nature. Every room is sea front view with a terrace and you get one of the most impressive view of the planet when, at sunset, Positano starts lighting on.

What about you?

should be a good thread

Villa Feltrinelli - cadogan1, Groombridge, Londonjetsetter
Amanpulo - damaxer91, Musken, ainternational, ridefar, pvdecastro, ngfan, (unofficial - 5khours)

FS golden triangle - lb8001, adamak
Amanjiwo - zigzag, Fliar

Park Hyatt Tokyo at top floors is quite a nice experience

Amanjiwo

Amanpulo.

Villa Feltrinelli

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra. View of the Taj Mahal from every room.^

Raffles Hotel in Singapore

Blanket Bay

Villa Feltrinelli

Six Senses Ninh Van Bay ^

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8X3gxdcNA0

Villa Feltrinelli for me too.

No, cannot choose just one. Impossible. I stick to my lists of best this and best that. Or if I have to choose, it must be Amanpulo.

I don't know why I have the feeling tha resorts will tend to be named much more then great city hotels.

It would be nice to hear what makes that special Hotel unique and unmissable.

I'm proud, at the moment an Italian Hotel seems to be the favourite.

@kage: thanks, I agree it will be great to comment on related topics re: what makes that special hotels so memorable and what can harm its uniqueness.

@Musken: I know it's hard to stick with one :-)! Are you sure about Amanpulo? it is not your opinion influenced by fresh memories? I read you just got back from there!

LOL and I was worried that someone had actually started a thread about THEHotel (Vegas) in this forum!

I don't qualify as an AmanJunkie yet, but my experience at at Amankila was quite wonderful. I know there are better though. I am not really qualified to add much to this discussion.

My experience at at Amankila was quite wonderful. I know there are better though.

Not necessarily.......let's just say Amankila has every right to be mentioned in this thread!

Schoenburg Castle (http://www.hotel-schoenburg.com/) - magical in its setting high above the Rhine. We add layovers at Frankfurt in order to spend a night here.

it will be interesting because this is a different question from other threads/posts on top properties.

Are you sure about Amanpulo?
i see you didnt read full report :D


The beach is the best I have seen

The best service I have ever experienced after having been at 8 Amans, 11 FS resorts (most Asia) and several other luxury hotel.

The most relaxing holiday I have ever been on.

Maya Ubud. Bali, Indonesia

@Musken: I know it's hard to stick with one :-)! Are you sure about Amanpulo? it is not your opinion influenced by fresh memories? I read you just got back from there!

For me the Amanpulo holiday was the best I ever had. If it will be for others, I cannot influence. I do not necessarily believe that it is perfect for everyone. If you do not want a rather isolated and private beach holidays, you should not go. If you like modern design or bling-bling, you should not go. If you like to dress up to see and be seen, you should not go. And I could go on. This would be the reasons that I would not want to name it as the hotel not to be missed. It is extremely personal, it is always a combination of the kind of state you are in and what the hotel can offer (if I would - like normally - have wanted to see a lot and do a lot, Amanpulo would have been wrong, for example). Finally: Of course an opinion is influenced by fresh memories: In my trip report thread, someone said that he/she started longing for Amanpulo instead of going on a Bali Aman trip. This made me think back at extremely fond memories also from the Bali Aman trip. Other things were great, other things were on offer, I loved it, too. But right now, I love Amanpulo the most. You might, too. Or not. If you are like me, you will.

Impossible to answer - it depends where I have just been to. If pushed, I would say, generically, Aman. :D

related - whats closing or losing management or at risk of same?
for example - FS provence and chinzan-so (both losing FS mgmt)
chinzano-so is also an example of a property that used to have club
besides clubs, there might be other (integral) parts of hotels that change? (not restaurants)
or specific offerings actually - elephant ride to/from amanjiwo was one of the biggest losses
edit - so for this thread, could include offerings where there has been discussion of ending

@Musken: I know it's hard to stick with one :-)! Are you sure about Amanpulo? it is not your opinion influenced by fresh memories? I read you just got back from there!

Impossible to answer - it depends where I have just been to. If pushed, I would say, generically, Aman. :D

So maybe where I have just been is most important... Maybe I will just have to agree with vuittons? Hmmmm.

At least, if we do it "my way" (rating sub-items rather than the full hotel experience), Aman's would be top of most criteria.... (will not ruin this thread with another of my "best of" votes).

the difference with this thread is its asking to pick one from best properties, best suites, best views, best excursions, best settings, best (private) beaches, history, art, design, amenities

chefs at hotels where dining is not open to public might also be considered
private skiing and golf would be others

it CAN be overall, but doesnt HAVE to be overall

Il San Pietro

Reclamed to the rock it is a unique architecture that meld within nature

Every room is sea front view with a terrace

one of the most impressive view of the planet

at sunset, Positano starts lighting on

architecture
view
base room isnt "garden view" etc

the difference with this thread is its asking to pick one from best properties, best suites, best views, best excursions, best settings, best (private) beaches, history, art, design, amenities

chefs at hotels where dining is not open to public might also be considered
private skiing and golf would be others

it CAN be overall, but doesnt HAVE to be overall



architecture, view
base room isnt "garden view" etc

That's exactly what I meant..... It does not have to be the best....I can think about many hotels that I consider from several point of view better then the hotel I named.... I wanted to ask something that belong more to a unique feeling that this certain Hotel can stimulate in a person....

For me the Amanpulo holiday was the best I ever had. If it will be for others, I cannot influence. I do not necessarily believe that it is perfect for everyone. If you do not want a rather isolated and private beach holidays, you should not go. If you like modern design or bling-bling, you should not go. If you like to dress up to see and be seen, you should not go. And I could go on. This would be the reasons that I would not want to name it as the hotel not to be missed. It is extremely personal, it is always a combination of the kind of state you are in and what the hotel can offer (if I would - like normally - have wanted to see a lot and do a lot, Amanpulo would have been wrong, for example). Finally: Of course an opinion is influenced by fresh memories: In my trip report thread, someone said that he/she started longing for Amanpulo instead of going on a Bali Aman trip. This made me think back at extremely fond memories also from the Bali Aman trip. Other things were great, other things were on offer, I loved it, too. But right now, I love Amanpulo the most. You might, too. Or not. If you are like me, you will.

Absolutely I agree, It is totally personal and that is what i meant to ask.
I must say as well that with this last addition to Amanpulo you completely got me.... I MUST go there asap. :D

That's exactly what I meant..... It does not have to be the best....I can think about many hotels that I consider from several point of view better then the hotel I named.... I wanted to ask something that belong more to a unique feeling that this certain Hotel can stimulate in a person....

Great addition to your question. If you would have written this in the first place, I would surely have said Amanpulo. It just got me, it was what my family and myself needed at this point of time. I do not put Amanpulo on top when it comes to every individual criteria (for me Amanpulo is on top for beach and for service, and not for other critiria), but the total experience was just perfect. The memories from Amanpulo will always be in my heart, many other hotel memories are on pictures.

Which one is THE Hotel not to be missed absolutely in a life time. That property that, absolutely, you MUST see at least once.

also - what would be biggest loss if closed (or offering if ended)
(im sure there are many such properties that have already, but that is for another thread)

Having thought about this for several days, I can't narrow it down to one yet so for now until I make up my mind, my candidates in alphabetical order are:

Amanpulo
Amanpuri
Cipriani
Yellowstone Club

Yellowstone Club
no hotel, and i seem to recall a min lease unless prosect
hmm, maybe changed under new owner >
http://www.goulstonstorrs.com/PracticesIndustries/HospitalityRecreation
One feature of the Yellowstone Club is a rental program administered and coordinated by the Club through which Club members may rent their home(s)/unit(s) to other Club members, guests and prospective Club members and home purchasers.

only original thing i can find >
http://mtstandard.com/lifestyles/recreation/article_a1a13a23-79c5-5cba-81c3-cd1881172b6d.html
Under club rules, the elder Long was welcome to ski as a guest for up to two weeks every year.

Having thought about this for several days, I can't narrow it down to one yet so for now until I make up my mind, my candidates in alphabetical order are:

Amanpulo
Amanpuri
Cipriani
Yellowstone Club

Since the moment i started writing this thread I had the sensation that surely someone was going to name one of the top property in Venice....
This reinforce in me the idea that to be unique and/or to be considered "special" for someone THE Hotel should be somehow perfectly integrate within the environment and reflect part of its culture/history.

I'm thinking of a fantastic hotel in Venice that might be among the favorite of many people that, but as Kage said, it is not anymore as brilliant as it deserves to be....

Impossible to answer - it depends where I have just been to. If pushed, I would say, generically, Aman. :D

Oh well....i know it's hard; but may I insist and ask for your very valuable opinion about THE Hotel? :)

as Kage said, it is not anymore as brilliant as it deserves to be
referring to >
...whats closing or losing management or at risk of same?...there might be other (integral) parts of hotels that change?...could include offerings where there has been discussion of ending
Oh well....i know it's hard; but may I insist and ask for your very valuable opinion about THE Hotel? :)
or >
what would be biggest loss if closed
i came up with one other way of wording, but i wont post it just yet

Katikies, Santorini.

Since the moment i started writing this thread I had the sensation that surely someone was going to name one of the top property in Venice....
This reinforce in me the idea that to be unique and/or to be considered "special" for someone THE Hotel should be somehow perfectly integrate within the environment and reflect part of its culture/history.

I'm thinking of a fantastic hotel in Venice that might be among the favorite of many people that, but as Kage said, it is not anymore as brilliant as it deserves to be....

Which property do you like in Venice? I've stayed at Gritti, Danieli, and Cipriani. For me Cipriani was very special, but I can see how for some people Danieli might be THE Hotel.

I like your description of perfectly integrating within the environment. In that respect, Amanpuri gets very high marks in my book. Amanpulo on the other hand has such a beautiful environment to start with, you could put tar paper shacks there and it would still be near the top of my list.

ty warner suite @ the FS NYC is ^ :D

I think this is a great thread as what is being judged is more than just the product, however amazing, but almost more the essence of a place. I choose Feltrinelli because despite visiting many many superb properties much more recently since (including several Aman's - Amanpulo twice in the last year alone) the place that immediately jumped into my head and stayed there throughout my internal thought process was Villa Feltrinelli although it was 6 or 7 years ago that we went there.

I remember a feeling of ease, relaxation, reflection and of course utter, utter comfort and beauty of surroundings during our stay there that can make me feel at peace just thinking about it now all these years later! Now it may have been circumstantial, connected to the timing of my trip there (for example my visits to Amanpulo have always been with children in tow and whilst i love holidaying with them it is never as relaxing as those pre-children trips!) so i guess i'll just have to get back there soon to test that out, but something about that property just makes it stand out amongst many jewels as THE hotel for me!

That's exactly what I meant..... It does not have to be the best....I can think about many hotels that I consider from several point of view better then the hotel I named.... I wanted to ask something that belong more to a unique feeling that this certain Hotel can stimulate in a person....

On this basis I would say Palazzo Sasso in Ravello. Not the biggest or best rooms and bathrooms I have ever seen but the staff there make it so special. Many of them seem to have been born in the village just down the hill, which I appreciated for the local quality it brought. I found the service to be absolutely world class, while still being intimate and relaxed and very much "of its place".

And the view.... We arrived there in the dead of night after long travel delays caused by Italian air traffic control strikes. I will never forget my first sight of the sun striking the water as I threw open the windows on our first morning. A meal or drink on the terrace is a wonderful experience.

Wasn't Danieli the hotel used in the movie "The Tourist" Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp. It did seem romantic

Which property do you like in Venice? I've stayed at Gritti, Danieli, and Cipriani. For me Cipriani was very special, but I can see how for some people Danieli might be THE Hotel.

I like your description of perfectly integrating within the environment. In that respect, Amanpuri gets very high marks in my book. Amanpulo on the other hand has such a beautiful environment to start with, you could put tar paper shacks there and it would still be near the top of my list.

Recently I'm staying mainly to the Bauer, but I was thinking, as you understood, about the Danieli (that as has been noted is the hotel in "The Tourist").

On this basis I would say Palazzo Sasso in Ravello. Not the biggest or best rooms and bathrooms I have ever seen but the staff there make it so special. Many of them seem to have been born in the village just down the hill, which I appreciated for the local quality it brought. I found the service to be absolutely world class, while still being intimate and relaxed and very much "of its place".

And the view.... We arrived there in the dead of night after long travel delays caused by Italian air traffic control strikes. I will never forget my first sight of the sun striking the water as I threw open the windows on our first morning. A meal or drink on the terrace is a wonderful experience.


This is one of my favourite as well and I have very special memories about it bevause it has been the first hotel where I have been as a father...my daughter was just 15 days when we went there and we had a great time. No use to say how tenderly everybody used to behave.
I have been back a few times even if ravello in general rooms tend to be on the small size even if you get suites....(not to mention their two michelin starred Rossellini's restaurant)

Staying in Ravello, if i should choose a memorabel hotel, I much probably select Villa Cimbrone....it might not be the best, but yes, it is definitively unique. I stayed once in one of their antique suites (they have just two i guess) with old ceramics hand painted on the floor (I think it is where Greta Garbo used to go for her love affair) and it is amazing...as it is to walk in their gardens at night when it is close to the pubblic....no words!

Villa Cimbrone

walk in their gardens at night when it is close to the pubblic

^ a number of properties like this but i hadnt thought about it before
(besides aman summer palace :cool:)
might be interesting when hotel at versailles opens, discussion begins here >
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/615541-most-anticipated-luxury-hotel-opening-post15565315.html#post15565315

Amanjiwo, Java

Como Shambala Estate, Bali

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Rajasthan

Since the moment i started writing this thread I had the sensation that surely someone was going to name one of the top property in Venice....
This reinforce in me the idea that to be unique and/or to be considered "special" for someone THE Hotel should be somehow perfectly integrate within the environment and reflect part of its culture/history.

I'm thinking of a fantastic hotel in Venice that might be among the favorite of many people that, but as Kage said, it is not anymore as brilliant as it deserves to be....

For me, Il Palazzo at The Bauer is by far the best in Venice. I love the terrace restaurant at night, the views and the excellent concierge.

I'll start myself: to me THE hotel not to be missed is "Il San Pietro" in Positano.
Reclamed to the rock it is a unique architecture that meld within nature. Every room is sea front view with a terrace and you get one of the most impressive view of the planet when, at sunset, Positano starts lighting on.

What about you?

Same place for me as well ;)

http://www.pbase.com/image/137664112/original.jpg

Update:

less then three days from the thread start and, without meaning to give it a sense of competition, below are the preferences expressed by 21 contributors up to now:

3 Mentions
Villa Feltrinelli (Lake Garda - Italy) cadogan1, Groombridge, Londonjetsetter

2 Mentions
Il San Pietro (Positano - Italy): The_Daddy, BLV
Amanpulo (Pamalican Islands - Philippines): damaxer91, Musken plus 1/4 of mention from 5khours that named 4 hotels

1 Mention
Park Hyatt Tokyo (Tokyo - Japan): maskelo
Amanjiwo (Java - Indonesia): zigzag plus 1/3 of Mention from deer that named 3 hotels
The Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra - India): banness
Raffles (Singapore): hailstorm
instyleprincess (Glenorchy - New Zealand): Blanket Bay
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay (Ninh Van Bay - Thailand) : A380 Flyer
Amankila (Bali - Indonesia): peter11
Schoenburg Castle (Schonburg - Germany): SanDiego1K
Maya Ubud (Bali - Indonesia): smith80678
Katikies (Santorini - Greece): justforfun
Four Seasons (New York City - USA): MCruler
Palazzo Sasso (Ravello - Italy): Baghoarder

1/3 of Mention
Como Shambala Estate (Bali - Indonesia): deer
Umaid Bhawan Palace (Rajasthan - India): deer

1/4 of Mention
Amanpuri (Phuket - Thailand): 5khours
Cipriani (Venice - Italy): 5khours
Yellowstone Club (Montana - USA): 5khours Edit (Yellowstone is by invitation only residential club and sky resort)

Italy and Indonesia are the Countries that, at the moment, have more unforgettable properties with 4 hotels each named (Il San Pietro, Villa Feltrinelli, Palazzo Sasso, Cipriani) (Amanjiwo, Amankila, Maya Ubud, Como Shambala Estate)
Surprisingly Aman is the "chain" mentioned more times (Amanpulo, Amanjiwo, Amankila, Amanpuri)

Thanks all for contributing and please continue adding contributions if you so wish.

daddy

i have to say im impressed by that summary, the way you included everything, and i will keep that style in mind in the future

besides amanjiwo and feltrinelli there is one other property i expect to see at some point, although it may not be chosen over those two

question re feltrinelli - is dining guest-only? (no)

"surprisingly" - :D :cool:

I'm surprised that nothing from the Hawaiian islands has made the list yet.

Hawaii is too boring. Everybody goes there.

I'm surprised that nothing from the Hawaiian islands has made the list yet.

hualalai service reports are as consistent as amanjiwo, but its huge comparatively speaking especially including residences, and not a top beach (and its the only well regarded property in hawaii)

i dont expect many if any city hotels to come up, even the ones with most consistent service reports

The_Daddy, you should note in your compilation that yellowstone club is not a hotel/resort

Hotel Bora Bora.

(I know it's closed for renovation and there are newer, more lavish properties nearby, but the original is still the best in my book.)

Haven't been yet, but Fregate Island has to be right there as well.

Wait, can I change my answer to Explora Patagonia? This is way to hard....

Tawaraya Ryokan in Kyoto.
Hotel du Cap Antibes.
Could not be more different, yet, each unforgettable.

Rania Experience --- Maldives

i have to say im impressed by that summary, the way you included everything, and i will keep that style in mind in the future

besides amanjiwo and feltrinelli there is one other property i expect to see at some point, although it may not be chosen over those two

question re feltrinelli - is dining guest-only?

"surprisingly" - :D :cool:

Thanks. Bizarre you say that because I actually took the idea from your post at the beginning of the thread :-)

Tawaraya Ryokan in Kyoto.
Hotel du Cap Antibes.
Could not be more different, yet, each unforgettable.

....and finally an Hotel from France made it to the list!

hualalai service reports are as consistent as amanjiwo, but its huge comparatively speaking especially including residences, and not a top beach (and its the only well regarded property in hawaii)

i dont expect many if any city hotels to come up, even the ones with most consistent service reports

The_Daddy, you should note in your compilation that yellowstone club is not a hotel/resort

I looked closely at Hualalai when planning a holiday this year. I just couldn't get excited about it, somehow. We are going to Laucala instead. Perhaps I will need to post an update to this thread after we've been thee; we'll see...:)

Rayavadee in Krabi, Thailand.
Four Seasons Golden Triangle

As both are wonderful urban resorts, I think Mandarin Oriental Bangkok and The Peninsula Bangkok both qualify.

Too many people cheating on this topic! If you can't single out one hotel, then for you, there is no hotel that is THE hotel.

We are going to Laucala instead. Perhaps I will need to post an update to this thread after we've been thee; we'll see...:)

Please do post a review of Laucala after you go. Several non-affiliated hoteliers whom I trust swear it is the best resort they have ever experienced, bar none.

So far, I also vote FS Tented Camp (although may change after upcoming Amanpulo trip)

hualalai service reports are as consistent as amanjiwo, but its huge comparatively speaking especially including residences, and not a top beach (and its the only well regarded property in hawaii)

i dont expect many if any city hotels to come up, even the ones with most consistent service reports

The_Daddy, you should note in your compilation that yellowstone club is not a hotel/resort

I disagree with your assertion that Hualalai is the "only well regarded property in hawaii." I still prefer the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. It's beach is breathtakingly beautiful. The remodeled rooms are very large and have two balconies. Gorgeous ocean view rooms. I also prefer the dining options at the MKB. Hualalai has better swimming pools and much better spa. To me: a great beach trumps a great swimming pool.

Too many people cheating on this topic! If you can't single out one hotel, then for you, there is no hotel that is THE hotel.

Indeed, it is a fact, cheaters in the house! :mad:
But as you have seen I have not passively accepted it; severe actions have been taken against those fragmenting the value of their mention(s) in proportion in order not to affect, or to affect less relevantly, the partial result reported in my "First Update" post. :D

If this custom will persist I might be forced to report it to the competent authority and strong punishment might consequently be addressed to them, including a weekend forced stay in a Hilton or similar average chain hotel!

I'm sure just the mention of this final very severe measure will prevent any further infringement, hopefully. :)

I disagree with your assertion that Hualalai is the "only well regarded property in hawaii." I still prefer the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. It's beach is breathtakingly beautiful. The remodeled rooms are very large and have two balconies. Gorgeous ocean view rooms. I also prefer the dining options at the MKB. Hualalai has better swimming pools and much better spa. To me: a great beach trumps a great swimming pool.

i only speak in terms of forum unless otherwise stated. after your posts, ive mentioned mauna kea beach a number of times. i dont remember how many other reviews there are, but its extremely few.

Please do post a review of Laucala after you go. Several non-affiliated hoteliers whom I trust swear it is the best resort they have ever experienced, bar none.

I am very much looking forward to it (going in July). Apologies for going slightly OT here, but I notice that Fiji is not well regarded in this forum, especially amongst our US friends. Partly this is because of the offerings there, of course (although frankly I don't see Hawaii as much better in the main) but what else is it? Why do Hawaii and Bora Bora seem to dominate the South Pacific for Americans?

Why do Hawaii and Bora Bora seem to dominate the South Pacific for Americans?

Access. They are much easier to reach. I have been to Hawaii many times (most islands), French Polynesia a few times including once to Bora Bora, and never to Fiji.

Access. They are much easier to reach. I have been to Hawaii many times (most islands), French Polynesia a few times including once to Bora Bora, and never to Fiji.

I thought someone might say that. It's the opposite from Australia! Hawaii is not too bad (although Qantas charges like a wounded bull for seats on that leg), but French Polymesia is a nightmare. We have to go via NZ and it takes about 18 hours. It would probably be easier to fly to LA and then double back!

I'm sure just the mention of this final very severe measure will prevent any further infringement, hopefully. :)

OK. You got me. As promised I have now made up my mind and will vote for YC.

YC is unique. It offers something you can find nowhere else. With every other property I have been to, you can find a similar (albeit not as nice) experience elsewhere. Also, to my way of thinking THE Hotel has to have outstanding service and food. The fact that YC is able to do this is in a country whose culture is so antithetical to good cuisine and good service makes it especially noteworthy.

Kage will probably ding me because it is not a resort/hotel, but since the OP refers to "hotels" and "properties" and says nothing about resorts, then I will take that as license for my vote. YC in fact does rent accommodations, but is just very selective about it.

Great thread!

It's very hard to say, there are so many hotels not to be missed. I agree one must stay in at least one Aman resort and one Singita in their life, but if I should only pick one property it has to be Glenmere Mansion.

Ratua Private Island was very special for me. It's not over the top service, but a very unique and beautiful experience.

Oh this is very hard after more than 500 high end hotels. I just said Glenmere Mansion, but probably for a once in a lifetime experience. I just stayed 7 Singita properties. 5 of them were just incredible and the last two very impressive as well. My favorite was the smallest, the 6 room Sweni Lodge in Krüger so that will win for me. No. I can't pick one.

You have to stay in 4 hotels as THE hotel:
1 Aman
1 Singita
Glenmere Mansion
Ratua Private Island.

Frégate costs probably 8 times more, but wasn't as unique as Ratua for me.

real estate rentals are not a hotel, were talking private villa rentals within community
nor are things for guests of owners (interesting a fasano like this opened up to public)
or only prospective buyers, etc
clubs with hotels might be a different story

distance isnt a big thing in this forum, even US pay to go to asia for service/culture
not to mention its flyertalk :D

its a bummer glenmere is open to public for dinner

Londolozi Tree Camp in South Africa

Love so many of the hotels mentioned - feltrinelli, Amanpuri, amanjiwa, amankila, park Hyatt Tokyo, etc. but a couple that have not been mentioned that I think are must visits are: Singita Boulders in south Africa, Wakaya Club in Fiji, and North Island, Seychelles. Hard to pick one!

real estate rentals are not a hotel, were talking private villa rentals within community
nor are things for guests of owners (interesting a fasano like this opened up to public)
or only prospective buyers, etc
clubs with hotels might be a different story

distance isnt a big thing in this forum, even US pay to go to asia for service/culture
not to mention its flyertalk :D

its a bummer glenmere is open to public for dinner

I figured you ding me on this, but if we're going to follow the OP rules... then the list has to be hotels, which Pulo, Puri, etc. are not.

my last side comment >
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hotel
Definition of HOTEL
: an establishment that provides lodging and usually meals, entertainment, and various personal services for the public :
inn

Origin of HOTEL
French hôtel, from Old French hostel hostel
First Known Use: 1765
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inn
Definition of INN
: an establishment for the lodging and entertaining of travelers

Origin of INN
Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old Norse inni dwelling, inn, Old English in, adverb
First Known Use: 12th century

thats really recent - now im curious

interesting the oldest active hotel recently changed...
Hoshi Ryokan (717AD) > Nisiyama Onsen Keiunkan (705AD)

Obviously, this whole topic is just killing time until the Ryugyong Hotel is completed, upon which it will become the unanimous choice for being THE hotel to visit. ^

The club at the top (can't remember the name) has fantastic views of the strip. Check out the bathrooms too ;-)

First a clarification: several people named more then one hotel as far as they just cannot stick with one. The way I'm handling it, to be fair with everyone, is to pick just THE first property they mentioned and adding it to the regular list, while the additional properties named will just be incorporate in another list of "generically named properties" that I'm adding at the end of the post.

Five days from the thread start and - below are the preferences expressed by 34 contributors up to now:

3 Mentions
Villa Feltrinelli (Lake Garda - Italy) cadogan1, Groombridge, Londonjetsetter

2 Mentions
Il San Pietro (Positano - Italy): The_Daddy, BLV
Amanpulo (Pamalican Islands - Philippines): damaxer91, Musken
Amanjiwo (Java - Indonesia): zigzag, deer

1 Mention
Park Hyatt Tokyo (Tokyo - Japan): maskelo
The Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra - India): banness
Raffles (Singapore): hailstorm
Blanket Bay (Glenorchy - New Zealand): instyleprincess
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay (Ninh Van Bay - Thailand) : A380 Flyer
Amankila (Bali - Indonesia): peter11
Schoenburg Castle (Schonburg - Germany): SanDiego1K
Maya Ubud (Bali - Indonesia): smith80678
Katikies (Santorini - Greece): justforfun
Four Seasons NYC (New York City - USA): MCruler
Palazzo Sasso (Ravello - Italy): Baghoarder
Yellowstone Club (Montana - USA): 5khours Edit (Yellowstone is by invitation only residential club and sky resort)
Hotel Bora Bora (Bora Bora - French Polinesia): ORDSteve
Rania Island (Faafu Atoll - Maldives): RA-wannabe
Tawaraya Ryokan (Kyoto - Japan): obscure2k
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle (Chiang Saen - Thailand) : Ib8001
Rayavadee (Krabi - Thailand): MikeFromTokyo
Glenmere Mansion (Chester - USA): henrikfromdenmark
Londolozi Tree Camp (Kruger National Park - South Africa): Jac747
Singita Boulders (Kruger National Park - South Africa): Larkin




Italy, Indonesia, USA and Thailand are the Countries that, at the moment, have more unforgettable properties with 3 hotels each named (Il San Pietro, Villa Feltrinelli, Palazzo Sasso) (Amanjiwo, Amankila, Maya Ubud)(Yellowstone Club, Four Seasons NYC, Glenmere Mansion)(Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, Rayavadee Resort, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle)
Surprisingly, still Aman is the "chain" mentioned more times (Amanpulo, Amanjiwo, Amankila, Amanpuri)


Other properties that did not make it to THE List or properties just named in the thread:

Danieli (Venice - Italy) / Four Seasons Provence (Provence - France) / Four Seasons Chinzan-So (Tokyo - Japan) / Gritti (Venice - Italy) / Como Shambala Estate (Bali - Indonesia) / Umaid Bhawan Palace (Rajasthan - India) / Amanpuri (Phuket - Thailand) / Cipriani (Venice - Italy) / Bauer (Venice - Italy) / Four Seasons Hualalai (Big Island Hawai - USA) / Fregate Island (Fregate Island - Seychelles) / Laucala Island (Laucala Island - Fiji) / Mandarin Oriental (Bangkok - Thailand) / The Peninsula Bangkok (Bangkok - Thailand) / Rayavadee (Krabi - Thailand) / Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Hawai - USA) / Hotel du Cap Antibes (Cap D'Antibes - France) / Singita Sweni Lodge (Kruger National Park - South Africa) / Ratua Private Island (Luganville - Vanuatu) / Wakaya Club (Wakaya Island- Fiji) / North Island (North Island - Seychelles)

Please feel free to comment, to name new properties or to support Your property even if already named.
Thanks

daddy

Why do you write that it Aman is surprisingly still the chain most mentioned? For me it would be surprising if it was not like this. If I had to pick my number two, three, four, five and six, it would be Amanjiwo, Amandari, Amankila, Aman Sveti Stefan and Amanjena in that order.

Why do you write that it Aman is surprisingly still the chain most mentioned? For me it would be surprising if it was not like this. If I had to pick my number two, three, four, five and six, it would be Amanjiwo, Amandari, Amankila, Aman Sveti Stefan and Amanjena in that order.

Of course it has to be like that. Sorry for that. Sometimes I try to be sarcastic and I believe everybody will get me. I did not expect anyone else then Aman to be top mentioned, that's why i said "surprisingly".

But it is giving me the idea that maybe One day we should start a thread about top non chain related properties, the reason being that frankly speaking I, and I believe many others, was already aware of all the amans,fourseasons,mo, etc earlier mentioned in this thread....while some individual owned property came as a nice surprise. Being out of the radar of the major luxury chain they are more difficult to spot...i believe such a thread, with the support of such a well travelled community, can really become a great platform for travel planning....

Why do you write that it Aman is surprisingly still the chain most mentioned? For me it would be surprising if it was not like this. If I had to pick my number two, three, four, five and six, it would be Amanjiwo, Amandari, Amankila, Aman Sveti Stefan and Amanjena in that order.

I agree: Amankora and Amankila are also in my "top 10," and Amanusa, Amangiri, Amantaka, and Amanpuri all in my "top 20." But some "non-chain" properties, too:

1. Villa Feltrinelli (Lago di Garda, Italy)
2. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers (New Zealand)
3. Amankora (Bhutan)
4. Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur, India)
5. Wolgan Valley (Australia)
6. Four Seasons Tented Camp (Golden Triangle, Thailand)
7. Four Seasons Istanbul-Bosphorus (Turkey)
8. Amankila (Bali)
9. Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace (Jodhpur, India)
10. Four Seasons Chiang Mai (Thailand)
11. Four Seasons Langkawi (Malaysia)
12. Dolder Grand (Zurich)
13. Amanusa (Bali)
14. Rosewood Mayakoba (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
15. Amangiri (Utah, USA)
16. Amantaka (Luang Prabang, Laos)
17. Amanpuri (Phuket, Thailand)
18. Dar Ahlam (Morocco)
19. Castiglion del Bosco (Tuscany)
20. Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra)

What about the Singita properties in Tanzania?

After several excruciating bouts of internal battles I decided that my choice for THE HOTEL is ... AMANPURI .

at least until I stay in the next hotel that will blow my mind even after over 20 odd years .

Twin Farms, a must when visiting the USA

i dont know why people say there is no discussion of non/small-chain here, there is plenty.

two, three, four, five and six, it would be Amanjiwo, Amandari, Amankila, Aman Sveti Stefan and Amanjena in that order


1. Villa Feltrinelli (Lago di Garda, Italy)
2. The Farm at Cape Kidnappers (New Zealand)
3. Amankora (Bhutan)
4. Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur, India)
5. Wolgan Valley (Australia)
6. Four Seasons Tented Camp (Golden Triangle, Thailand)
7. Four Seasons Istanbul-Bosphorus (Turkey)
8. Amankila (Bali)
9. Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace (Jodhpur, India)
10. Four Seasons Chiang Mai (Thailand)
11. Four Seasons Langkawi (Malaysia)
12. Dolder Grand (Zurich)
13. Amanusa (Bali)
14. Rosewood Mayakoba (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
15. Amangiri (Utah, USA)
16. Amantaka (Luang Prabang, Laos)
17. Amanpuri (Phuket, Thailand)
18. Dar Ahlam (Morocco)
19. Castiglion del Bosco (Tuscany)
20. Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra)
wow. :cool: ^^

reply to post "complaining" about lack of non/small-chain >

Twin Farms

might be reply to post "complaining" about lack of non/small-chain >
Singita properties in Tanzania

all that matters in this forum is quality/service.

What about the Singita properties in Tanzania?

They were voted number one in the world by Travel+Leisure. The main lodge Sasakwa being the best, it was very special. It's not my number one favorite as THE hotel though. It's one of many. There are so many incredible hotels in the world.. Looking forward to read more.

henrikfromdenmark, just thought of something that would be really valuable >

list of service problems you experienced by property, and therefore which properties did not have problems you experienced

you could then do groupings and other sorting

not sure if youve already taken that into account

Devi Garh, Udaipur, India.

IMO at least it would be better to categorize the hotel/resort type. You can not compare a beach resort to a city or mountain resort.

Here are my votes:
Beach resort - Amanpulo
Cultural resort - Amanjiwo
City hotel - FS Paris
Mountain / Ski property: FS Jackson hole
African safari camp: Andbeyond - Bateleur Camp (have not been to Singita)

IMO at least it would be better to categorize the hotel/resort type. You can not compare a beach resort to a city or mountain resort.

thats not the point, this is not a "best" thread or a "favorite" thread - been done before - this is a much more abstract thread. there is no comparison. its an abstract emotional personal (intangible?) choice.

Which one is THE Hotel not to be missed absolutely in a life time. That property that, absolutely, you MUST see at least once.

the difference with this thread is its asking to pick one from best properties, best suites, best views, best excursions, best settings, best (private) beaches, history, art, design, amenities

chefs at hotels where dining is not open to public might also be considered
private skiing and golf would be others

it CAN be overall, but doesnt HAVE to be overall


Reclamed to the rock it is a unique architecture that meld within nature

Every room is sea front view with a terrace

one of the most impressive view of the planet

at sunset, Positano starts lighting on

architecture
view
base room isnt "garden view" etc

That's exactly what I meant..... It does not have to be the best....I can think about many hotels that I consider from several point of view better then the hotel I named.... I wanted to ask something that belong more to a unique feeling that this certain Hotel can stimulate in a person....

Great addition to your question. If you would have written this in the first place, I would surely have said Amanpulo. It just got me, it was what my family and myself needed at this point of time...total experience was just perfect. The memories from Amanpulo will always be in my heart, many other hotel memories are on pictures.

Absolutely I agree, It is totally personal and that is what i meant to ask.

also - what would be biggest loss if closed (or offering if ended)
(im sure there are many such properties that have already, but that is for another thread)

For me the Amanpulo holiday was the best I ever had...right now, I love Amanpulo the most

THE Hotel should be somehow perfectly integrate within the environment and reflect part of its culture/history

I like your description of perfectly integrating within the environment.

more the essence of a place...the place that immediately jumped into my head and stayed there throughout my internal thought process was Villa Feltrinelli although it was 6 or 7 years ago that we went there.

I remember a feeling of ease, relaxation, reflection and of course utter, utter comfort and beauty of surroundings during our stay there that can make me feel at peace just thinking about it now all these years later! Now it may have been circumstantial, connected to the timing of my trip there (for example my visits to Amanpulo have always been with children in tow and whilst i love holidaying with them it is never as relaxing as those pre-children trips!) so i guess i'll just have to get back there soon to test that out, but something about that property just makes it stand out amongst many jewels as THE hotel for me!

AMANPURI...at least until I stay in the next hotel that will blow my mind even after over 20 odd years

henrikfromdenmark, singita vs wilderness safaris and &beyond and others?
i believe the only comparison(s) so far equate singita and wilderness safaris.
also, Larkin has done all 3 and others, and only mentioned A&K/sanctuary as a step down.

apologies in advance >
you have one week to live - what hotel?

just another attempt at framing this (although it could also be different)
(kind of like how this could also be different >)
also - what would be biggest loss if closed (or offering if ended)
(im sure there are many such properties that have already, but that is for another thread)

edit - im only trying to clarify OP question - not asking for additional different choices

I've had to think about this. I assume we are limited to hotels that we have actually stayed. My vote goes to the now closed Hotel Bora Bora, with Lizard Island and Amanpulo a close second/third.

If we are a keeping score, could you issue a negative vote to
Raffles (tourist trap extraordinaire)
Park Hyatt Tokyo (famous bar with an awkward hotel attached)

While both of these places might be cool to 'check out', they leave much to be desired as 5* hotels.

deleted

I might be wrong on this, but it seems to me that no properties from Caribbean, Center/South America and Middle East have been yet named.

Are we missing something here or they really do not deserve to be in THE list?!

apologies in advance >
you have one week to live - what hotel?

Club Lounge room at Ritz-Carlton Osaka.

Definitely Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle. And that's my vote before Londolozi. Safari is absolutley awesome, but FS Gold triangle has the magic touch.

My vote: Amanpulo

Definitely Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle. And that's my vote before Londolozi. Safari is absolutley awesome, but FS Gold triangle has the magic touch.

And that is, the magic touch, what we are asking for here! ;)

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok.

Amanjiwo

The Savoy, a Fairmount managed property in LHR.

Hoping this thread will continue with original rules i.e. no debates!

I might be wrong on this, but it seems to me that no properties from Caribbean, Center/South America and Middle East have been yet named.

Are we missing something here or they really do not deserve to be in THE list?!

Hotel Explora Patagonia def deserves a mention. I already voted for Hotel Bora Bora unfortunately tho.

I might be wrong on this, but it seems to me that no properties from Caribbean, Center/South America and Middle East have been yet named.

Are we missing something here or they really do not deserve to be in THE list?!

Service is always the most important thing and in Caribbean is not a place you go for extraordinary service, but Jade Mountain was definately a world class resort with unique touches and deserves to be mentioned. The Fasano hotels has some of the most attractive design I've seen, but service level something very different from fx Aman or Singita and that makes a difference when taking about THEhotel.

its a very hard question
I love the Moana Honolulu at sunset
the view from the GH HK whilst drinking complaimentry Moet:p( do they still have that there?)
breakfast at the Hyatt Vendome.
Grand Mauritian terrace at sunset.:cool:
and the whole of makanyane safari lodge
http://www.makanyane.com/
yes that would be my ultimate hotel:D

Park Hyatt Sydney
Grand Hyatt Bangkok - SPA Cottage

Amanjiwo
Amankila
Amanfayun

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

Burj al arab -- Dubai in combination with the Hilton Northolme -- Seychelles

The Park Hyatt Sydney.We where there the day it opened,Feb 17 2012.The best staff and fabulas hotel. All new.

Took a while until the Burj Al Arab in Dubai showed up in this thread. It gets my vote too, as it's a really exceptional place. It's the little things that make the difference, like retail size beauty products in the bath, the guy that cleans your glasses on the beach or the little presents you get in your room every day.

Tawaraya in Kyoto.

Tawaraya in Kyoto.

That was also my #1 ^

Tawaraya in Kyoto.

Hmm. Tawaraya and the other name inns in Kyoto, don't really do much for me. Be curious to know what other people like about them.

Until now we got over 50 very valuable contributors, and below you can find what they have democratically sentenced:

4 Mentions
Amanpulo (Pamalican Islands - Philippines): damaxer91, Musken, aesla11, ainternational

3 Mentions
Villa Feltrinelli (Lake Garda - Italy) cadogan1, Groombridge, Londonjetsetter
Amanjiwo (Java - Indonesia): zigzag, deer, Fliar

2 Mentions
Il San Pietro (Positano - Italy): The_Daddy, BLV
Hotel Bora Bora (Bora Bora - French Polinesia): ORDSteve, mike_la_jolla
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle (Chiang Saen - Thailand) : Ib8001, adamak,
Burj Al Arab (Dubai - UAE) - krausolany, koeche
Park Hyatt (Sidney - Australia): irwin8417, acrusa
Tawaraya Ryokan (Kyoto - Japan): obscure2k, grumbler

1 Mention
Park Hyatt Tokyo (Tokyo - Japan): maskelo
The Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra - India): banness
Raffles (Singapore): hailstorm
Blanket Bay (Glenorchy - New Zealand): instyleprincess
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay (Ninh Van Bay - Vietnam) : A380 Flyer
Amankila (Bali - Indonesia): peter11
Schoenburg Castle (Schonburg - Germany): SanDiego1K
Maya Ubud (Bali - Indonesia): smith80678
Katikies (Santorini - Greece): justforfun
Four Seasons NYC (New York City - USA): MCruler
Palazzo Sasso (Ravello - Italy): Baghoarder
Yellowstone Club (Montana - USA): 5khours Edit (Yellowstone is by invitation only residential club and sky resort)
Rania Island (Faafu Atoll - Maldives): RA-wannabe
Rayavadee (Krabi - Thailand): MikeFromTokyo
Glenmere Mansion (Chester - USA): henrikfromdenmark
Londolozi Tree Camp (Kruger National Park - South Africa): Jac747
Singita Boulders (Kruger National Park - South Africa): Larkin
Amanpuri (Phuket - Thailand): bearbrick
Singita Grumeti Reserves (Tanzania): jwurz
Devi Garh (Udaipur - India): LHR/MEL/Europe FF
Ritz-Carlton (Osaka - Japan): hailstorm
Mandarin Oriental (Bangkok - Thailand): 5mSvGlow
The Savoy (London - UK): Antonio8069
Makanyane Safari Lodge (NWP - South Africa) : tinkybelle


General Notes:

Thailand is the Country that has more unforgettable properties with 4 hotels named (Rayavadee Resort, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Mandarin Oriental bangkok and Amanpuri).

Aman is the "chain" mentioned more times (Amanpulo, Amanjiwo, Amankila, Amanpuri, Hotel Bora Bora).

Amanpulo has suddenly jumped in the first position passing Villa Feltrinelli that was leading since the beginning of this thread but has then slowed. Amanjiwo, in fact, joined it at the second position with three mentions.

THE List is very composed. There are beach resorts, numerous Game Reserve Resort that seems to be a favourite as well for FTers, cultural resorts, Mountain resorts and urban escapes.


Other properties that did not make it to THE List or properties just named in the thread:

Danieli (Venice - Italy) / Four Seasons Provence (Provence - France) / Four Seasons Chinzan-So (Tokyo - Japan) / Gritti (Venice - Italy) / Como Shambala Estate (Bali - Indonesia) / Umaid Bhawan Palace (Rajasthan - India) / Amanpuri (Phuket - Thailand) / Cipriani (Venice - Italy) / Bauer (Venice - Italy) / Four Seasons Hualalai (Big Island Hawai - USA) / Fregate Island (Fregate Island - Seychelles) / Laucala Island (Laucala Island - Fiji) / The Peninsula Bangkok (Bangkok - Thailand) / Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Hawai - USA) / Hotel du Cap Antibes (Cap D'Antibes - France) / Singita Sweni Lodge (Kruger National Park - South Africa) / Ratua Private Island (Luganville - Vanuatu) / Wakaya Club (Wakaya Island- Fiji) / North Island (North Island - Seychelles) / The Farm at Cape Kidnappers (New Zealand) / Amankora (Bhutan) / Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur, India) / Wolgan Valley (Australia) / Four Seasons Bosphorus (Istanbul - Turkey) / Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace (Jodhpur India) / Four Seasons Chiang Mai (Thailand) / Four Seasons Langkawi (Malaysia) / Dolder Grand (Zurich - Switzerland) / Amanusa (Bali - Indonesia) / Rosewood Mayakoba (Riviera Maya - Mexico) / Amangiri (Utah - USA) / Amantaka (Luang Prabang - Laos) / Dar Ahlam (Morocco) / Castiglion del Bosco (Tuscany - Italy) / Twin Farm (Barnard - USA) / Four Seasons George V (Paris - France) / Four Seasons Jacksone Hole (Teton Village - USA) / Andbeyond Bateleur Camp (Masai Sara - Kenya) / Lizard Island (The Great Barrier Reef - Australia) / Jade Mountain (Soufriere - St. Lucia) / Park Hyatt Vendome (Paris - France) / Grand Hyatt (Hong Kong) / The Grand Mauritian (Balaclava - Mauritius) / Grand Hyatt (Bangkok - Thailand) / Amanfayun (Hangzhou - China)


Thanks all for such a great contribution and please feel free to add any property or to comment already named properties.

Thanks

daddy

I always wonder how many politicians there are on his forum, someone asks a question and people say "I think the question you should have asked is...."

My choice - The Peninsula Bangkok

Great location
Great facility
Great selection of food and drink
Great Service
Resort meets city centre hotel
Its own boats!
And fantastic value for money

OK then....AMANGIRI. I can't stop thinking about it.

The Daddy

You included SS Ninh Van Bay in your list of Thailand resorts. I am sure this was an accidental omission. It is of course, Vietnamese.

I experienced

"Ocean Beach Club Resort Hotel"

and found it best place to stay with family. Its One of the newest hotels and resort in Virginia beach with almost all the accessories like fitness center and seaside pools etc.

Hmm. Tawaraya and the other name inns in Kyoto, don't really do much for me. Be curious to know what other people like about them.

I'll bite.

If the question is "THE" hotel, Tawaraya wins for me because it is a truly unique experience. With all respect to those who have noted various resort properties - most of those experiences can be replicated to various degrees.

I will admit that the nature of a ryokan stay may not be to everyone's taste - if you don't like kaiseki cuisine, or wabi sabi isn't your boat - then not for you. But if I think about one place I have stayed among all the others, it stands out, and I would run back there any time I can. I don't really say that about many of the other places I have stayed, which include a number of the other places identified in this list.

I'll bite.

If the question is "THE" hotel, it wins because it is a truly unique experience. With all respect to those who have noted various resort properties - most of those experiences can be replicated to various degrees.

I will admit that the nature of a ryokan stay may not be to everyone's taste - if you don't like kaiseki cuisine, or wabi sabi isn't your boat - then not for you. But if I think about one place I have stayed among all the others, it stands out, and I would run back there any time I can. I don't really say that about many of the other places I have stayed, which include a number of the other places identified in this list.

Tks for responding. So here's my beef. 1) I love Kaiseki. It's very run of the mill at Tawaraya. The Hotel has to have outstanding food. 2) The service is marginal. There's a lot of of it. But most of the staff make no effort to do anything more than they have to. It's not surprising to have them disappear and find they're having a drag in the back hallway. 3) They are way too commercial. If you need a car, dinner reservation, tour etc., they're not interested in what's best for you. The only thing they're interested in is trying to cull or repay favors with other people in the trade. 4) The rooms are dilapidated and sometimes tasteless, e.g. TVs in the tokonoma. IMHO, Tawaraya and the others are living on their reputation and you can find better food, better service, more aesthetic lodgings, and more tradition for a lot less money elsewhere.

Sorry for the rant. Didn't really intend to be so harsh, but the fact they don't do a better job bugs me!:o

With all respect to those who have noted various resort properties - most of those experiences can be replicated to various degrees.
although... :cool:
FS golden triangle - elephant trekking in chiang rai, 15 tents
Villa Feltrinelli - famous historic redone by bob burns on lake garda
Amanpulo - aman island
Amanjiwo - aman temple view in java

yellowstone club doesnt have a public hotel, but there are other places that have private skiing, albeit less impressive >
three forks - 1100 vertical feet via snowcat
twin farms - 500 vertical feet via "high powered snowmobile"
and there are other properties that have comparable exclusive/private amenities/offerings/features

Kaiseki...very run of the mill
service is marginal
rooms are dilapidated and sometimes tasteless
where would you recommend?
and thoughts on hiiragiya? seemed to be regarded as less formal here.
Pickles made a very positive comment on asaba at one point
id certainly love to know which is the best, regardless of location

i think the Devi Garh (udaipur) was left off the 'one mention' list! :)

for anyone who wants to look (and since it's such a 'rare' hotel): http://www.deviresorts.in/devigarh/hotel_overview.html

i think the Devi Garh (udaipur) was left off the 'one mention' list! :)

for anyone who wants to look (and since it's such a 'rare' hotel): http://www.deviresorts.in/devigarh/hotel_overview.html

its on the list, 5th from the bottom

its on the list, 5th from the bottom

sorry! my bad! (off to the optometrist as we speak!)

I would say Raffles Singapore.
It was my first 'luxury' experience when I was still a student.
Swimming in the middle of the night in the rooftop pool was such a memory!:rolleyes:

Second choice would be Oriental Bangkok and third FS George V Paris.

1 Mention
Raffles (Singapore): hailstorm
Ritz-Carlton (Osaka - Japan): hailstorm

RC Osaka was my "Hotel I'd want to go to if I've one week to live" pick, not my "THE hotel" pick.

I would say Raffles Singapore.
It was my first 'luxury' experience when I was still a student.
Swimming in the middle of the night in the rooftop pool was such a memory!:rolleyes:
I didn't get to go in the middle of the night, but I was the only one out there at 8:30pm one night. With all the high-rise buildings all around, I felt like a billionaire in my super mansion.

yellowstone club doesnt have a public hotel, but there are other places that have private skiing, albeit less impressive >
three forks - 1100 vertical feet via snowcat
twin farms - 500 vertical feet via "high powered snowmobile"
and there are other properties that have comparable exclusive/private amenities/offerings/features

Skiing at YC might be the best in North American after Whistler/Blackcomb. Not at all comparable with the other places.

where would you recommend?
and thoughts on hiiragiya? seemed to be regarded as less formal here.
Pickles made a very positive comment on asaba at one point
id certainly love to know which is the best, regardless of location

Ditto for Hiragiya and Sumiya. Haven't had time recently to look for a good place so I usually just cop out for the Miyako (Westin) or Hyatt. Finding a great inn in Kyoto is on my list of things to do. Had high hopes for an Aman in Kyoto (AZ's brother and niece are long time Japan residents), but apparently Tawaraya and friends pulled political levers and killed it.

One other data point. Giorgio Armani was once asked what he would do if he knew he only had one day left to live and he replied "Check in to the Tokyo Park Hyatt."

RC Osaka was my "Hotel I'd want to go to if I've one week to live" pick, not my "THE hotel" pick.


I didn't get to go in the middle of the night, but I was the only one out there at 8:30pm one night. With all the high-rise buildings all around, I felt like a billionaire in my super mansion.

Hail. Raffles I buy. RC Osaka ??? Just MHO.

The Daddy

You included SS Ninh Van Bay in your list of Thailand resorts. I am sure this was an accidental omission. It is of course, Vietnamese.

Thanks for noticing it. I'll correct that.
Please do not (you and everybody else) hesitate to help me to make this as accurate and "bug-free" as possible.

Thanks
daddy

OK then....AMANGIRI. I can't stop thinking about it.

Unforgettable memories that stay with you forever! This is what THE Hotel is all about.....

Hail. Raffles I buy. RC Osaka ??? Just MHO.
RC Osaka is a wholly personal opinion based on the treatment that my family and I received in the hotel/club lounge during our two week exodus from Tokyo last March. There may be other places more beautiful or with better service, but that is the place where I'd like to spend the last week of my life.

Four Seasons Hualalai.

One week to live? At home with my family. Memories for me come from people not hotels.

Saying that when I retire I aim to spend a year living in the ritz Carlton in Singapore and flying off for weekends around Asia.

One week to live? At home with my family. Memories for me come from people not hotels.

to avoid similar responses - this was not the point of my post (or "the question") as i tried to make clear in my post, nor was my point to offend

"the question" >
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/1327385-hotel-not-missed-post18273605.html#post18273605
my post >
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/1327385-hotel-not-missed-post18273736.html#post18273736

.

You've collated a great deal, but I'd be interested in your choice Kagi.

I haven't really stayed in many super luxury hotels, and doubt I'll ever be able to afford to do so. But I love London, and one of my first experiences of 'luxury' as a late teenager was dining at Claridges (I saved up months to do so). Visited friends staying there, but never spent the night myself. So perhaps a suite there for me, for nostalgia's sake.

tb

I'd be interested in your choice Kagi

considering how much ive learned here, i try to provide any information / recollection i can, since i dont have the same travel experience as the regulars. my additions certainly dont compare to trip reports.
from http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/1013110-history-ft-luxury-hotels.html
which is linked here http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/660610-luxury-hotel-links-post17122792.html#post17122792

from http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/1013110-history-ft-luxury-hotels.html
which is linked here http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/660610-luxury-hotel-links-post17122792.html#post17122792

Fair enough, but I've managed to nominate a hotel I've never actually stayed at! Good to jump off the fence once in a while -- meant in all earnestness.

tb

OK then....AMANGIRI. I can't stop thinking about it.

Love Amangiri too!!!

Tks for responding. So here's my beef. 1) I love Kaiseki. It's very run of the mill at Tawaraya. The Hotel has to have outstanding food. 2) The service is marginal. There's a lot of of it. But most of the staff make no effort to do anything more than they have to. It's not surprising to have them disappear and find they're having a drag in the back hallway. 3) They are way too commercial. If you need a car, dinner reservation, tour etc., they're not interested in what's best for you. The only thing they're interested in is trying to cull or repay favors with other people in the trade. 4) The rooms are dilapidated and sometimes tasteless, e.g. TVs in the tokonoma. IMHO, Tawaraya and the others are living on their reputation and you can find better food, better service, more aesthetic lodgings, and more tradition for a lot less money elsewhere.

Sorry for the rant. Didn't really intend to be so harsh, but the fact they don't do a better job bugs me!:o

1. Not sure I agree that the kaiseki there is "run of the mill", but that is a question of taste.

2. I quite liked the service there, and I am pretty picky about that stuff.

3. I don't understand your third point, but assume there is some sort of back story there.

4. Pretty sure that sparkling new ryokans defeat the idea - if that's what people want, there are plenty of ersatz spa ryokans which are great in their own right (I used to like the Gora Kadan, for example) but not the same deal.

On Kage's later point - the fact that they can build it doesn't make it unforgettable. I would go to Naoshima on Benesse Island before many luxe resort properties, not because it is super service or opulent, but because it is actually different. If I want neo Asian opulent beachfront, the world is swimming in those properties, and I love them at the right time, but they ain't that unique.

the fact that they can build it doesn't make it unforgettable. I would go to Naoshima on Benesse Island before many luxe resort properties, not because it is super service or opulent, but because it is actually different. If I want neo Asian opulent beachfront, the world is swimming in those properties, and I love them at the right time, but they ain't that unique.

(does this not apply to ryokans, as the old/ancient ones must have fairly extensive renovations?)

i totally recognize at least one of your points. i dont think there are a ton of properties that are truly unique, but i do think there are some things that are truly rare. the thing that made this thread itself unique was its shift to more abstract things compared to best/favorite/etc.

re building - who, how, where.

top beaches are mostly nonluxury. i started a thread on this. reminiscent of deer's thread on food at luxury hotels. (specifically, often sacrificed at resorts.)

going back >
THE Hotel should be somehow perfectly integrate within the environment and reflect part of its culture/history
more the essence of a place...the place that immediately jumped into my head and stayed there throughout my internal thought process was Villa Feltrinelli although it was 6 or 7 years ago that we went there.

I remember a feeling of ease, relaxation, reflection and of course utter, utter comfort and beauty of surroundings during our stay there that can make me feel at peace just thinking about it now all these years later...something about that property just makes it stand out amongst many jewels as THE hotel for me!
AMANPURI...at least until I stay in the next hotel that will blow my mind even after over 20 odd years
and continuing this >
With all respect to those who have noted various resort properties - most of those experiences can be replicated to various degrees.

FS golden triangle - elephant trekking in chiang rai, 15 tents
Villa Feltrinelli - famous historic redone by bob burns on lake garda
Amanpulo - aman island
Amanjiwo - aman temple view in java


another couple thoughts >
- FS golden triangle - elephant trekking by yourself (unlike africa)
- feltrinelli - owner maintains standards set by bob burns?
...
- amanpulo - even as density increases, one of aman's lowest occupancy rates? affordable compared to exclusive use
- amanjiwo - area has yet to become mainstream

not going to pull old posts, but this was just posted, and addresses setting >
There was something very magical about Amandari to us. Hard to describe. My favorite moment was trekking through the adjacent rice paddy with a flimsy flash light at night, shrieking while frogs jumped across our feet (we're city people), and then sitting down at the steps that led into the valley below. All around fireflies buzzed on and off. In the distance, the gamelan music played with the occasional gecko chirp. Absolute magic.

Also preferred the food at Amandari to Amankila. We had Suite #2 at Dari, view of the valley, and I would watch the mist rising in the evening, the sunlight growing over the canopy of the trees in the morning. When I couldn't sleep, I would open the sliding glass doors, step outside, and listen to the sounds of the jungles.

Villa Feltrinelli - cadogan1, Groombridge, Londonjetsetter
Amanpulo - damaxer91, Musken, ainternational

FS golden triangle - lb8001, adamak
Amanjiwo - zigzag, Fliar
FS hualalai - Goodmorning2U
food at feltrinelli >
10 deerpoints: 3 Michelin star creativity & quality (according to your own judgement)
9 deerpoints: 2 Michelin star creativity & quality
8 deerpoints: 1 Michelin star creativity & quality

8 Villa Feltrinelli, Lake Garda

Villa Feltrinelli: 8

at FS hualalai >
Pahui'a
Dinner, on the other hand, was spectacular. I arranged for a special tasting (not offered on the menu). Chef Jacob was happy to oblige, personally calling me to find out our preferences and restrictions. With a couple small guidelines, we let him have carte blanche, and what a wonderful job he did. Very fish centric, heavily raw/crudo, and a bit of local island beef. $160 per person. Easily 1, possibly 2 michelin star quality in both food and service.

4. Pretty sure that sparkling new ryokans defeat the idea - if that's what people want, there are plenty of ersatz spa ryokans which are great in their own right (I used to like the Gora Kadan, for example) but not the same deal.


On this point I agree. When I find the perfect place, I'll let you know.

I see no one mentioned a Malaysian hotel and my (so far) favorite hotel in the world is there (granted, I don't have the cash for Aman, so can't add any of them to the equation) - the Eastern & Oriental in Georgetown.

Reading Umberto Eco's "Serendipities" in a clawfoot tub with a view of the Strait of Malacca from the window and a butler on call ranks very highly in my list of unforgettable moments :)

We got over 50 very valuable contributors, and below you can find what they have democratically sentenced:

4 Mentions
Amanpulo (Pamalican Islands - Philippines): damaxer91, Musken, aesla11, ainternational

3 Mentions
Villa Feltrinelli (Lake Garda - Italy) cadogan1, Groombridge, Londonjetsetter
Amanjiwo (Java - Indonesia): zigzag, deer, Fliar

2 Mentions
Il San Pietro (Positano - Italy): The_Daddy, BLV
Hotel Bora Bora (Bora Bora - French Polinesia): ORDSteve, mike_la_jolla
Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle (Chiang Saen - Thailand) : Ib8001, adamak,
Burj Al Arab (Dubai - UAE) - krausolany, koeche
Park Hyatt (Sidney - Australia): irwin8417, acrusa
Tawaraya Ryokan (Kyoto - Japan): obscure2k, grumbler
Raffles (Singapore): hailstorm, Pierre&Cédric

1 Mention
Park Hyatt Tokyo (Tokyo - Japan): maskelo
The Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra - India): banness
Blanket Bay (Glenorchy - New Zealand): instyleprincess
Six Senses Ninh Van Bay (Ninh Van Bay - Vietnam) : A380 Flyer
Amankila (Bali - Indonesia): peter11
Schoenburg Castle (Schonburg - Germany): SanDiego1K
Maya Ubud (Bali - Indonesia): smith80678
Katikies (Santorini - Greece): justforfun
Four Seasons NYC (New York City - USA): MCruler
Palazzo Sasso (Ravello - Italy): Baghoarder
Yellowstone Club (Montana - USA): 5khours Edit (Yellowstone is by invitation only residential club and sky resort)
Rania Island (Faafu Atoll - Maldives): RA-wannabe
Rayavadee (Krabi - Thailand): MikeFromTokyo
Glenmere Mansion (Chester - USA): henrikfromdenmark
Londolozi Tree Camp (Kruger National Park - South Africa): Jac747
Singita Boulders (Kruger National Park - South Africa): Larkin
Amanpuri (Phuket - Thailand): bearbrick
Singita Grumeti Reserves (Tanzania): jwurz
Devi Garh (Udaipur - India): LHR/MEL/Europe FF
Mandarin Oriental (Bangkok - Thailand): 5mSvGlow
The Savoy (London - UK): Antonio8069
Makanyane Safari Lodge (NWP - South Africa): tinkybelle
The Peninsula (Bangkok - Thailand): Kettering Northants QC
Amangiri (Utah - USA): vuittonsofstyle
Four Seasons Hualalai (Hawaii - USA): Goodmorning2U
Ritz Carlton (Singapore): Barnaby100
Claridges (London - UK): trueblu

General Notes:

Thailand and USA are the Countries that have more unforgettable properties with 5 hotels named each (Rayavadee Resort, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Mandarin Oriental bangkok, Amanpuri and The Peninsula Bangkok) (Four Seasons Hualalai, Amangiri, Glenmere Mansion, Four Seasons NYC, Yellowstone Club).

Aman is the "chain" mentioned more times (Amanpulo, Amanjiwo, Amankila, Amanpuri, Hotel Bora Bora, Amangiri).

Amanpulo mantains the first position with four mentions, followed by Villa Feltrinelli and Amanjiwo at the second position with three mentions.

THE List is very composed. There are beach resorts, numerous Game Reserve Resort that seems to be a favourite as well for FTers, cultural resorts, Mountain resorts and urban escapes.


Other properties that did not make it to THE List or properties just named in the thread:

Danieli (Venice - Italy) / Four Seasons Provence (Provence - France) / Four Seasons Chinzan-So (Tokyo - Japan) / Gritti (Venice - Italy) / Como Shambala Estate (Bali - Indonesia) / Umaid Bhawan Palace (Rajasthan - India) / Cipriani (Venice - Italy) / Bauer (Venice - Italy) / Fregate Island (Fregate Island - Seychelles) / Laucala Island (Laucala Island - Fiji) / Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Hawai - USA) / Hotel du Cap Antibes (Cap D'Antibes - France) / Singita Sweni Lodge (Kruger National Park - South Africa) / Ratua Private Island (Luganville - Vanuatu) / Wakaya Club (Wakaya Island- Fiji) / North Island (North Island - Seychelles) / The Farm at Cape Kidnappers (New Zealand) / Amankora (Bhutan) / Oberoi Udaivilas (Udaipur, India) / Wolgan Valley (Australia) / Four Seasons Bosphorus (Istanbul - Turkey) / Taj Umaid Bhawan Palace (Jodhpur India) / Four Seasons Chiang Mai (Thailand) / Four Seasons Langkawi (Malaysia) / Dolder Grand (Zurich - Switzerland) / Amanusa (Bali - Indonesia) / Rosewood Mayakoba (Riviera Maya - Mexico) / Amantaka (Luang Prabang - Laos) / Dar Ahlam (Morocco) / Castiglion del Bosco (Tuscany - Italy) / Twin Farm (Barnard - USA) / Four Seasons George V (Paris - France) / Four Seasons Jacksone Hole (Teton Village - USA) / Andbeyond Bateleur Camp (Masai Sara - Kenya) / Lizard Island (The Great Barrier Reef - Australia) / Jade Mountain (Soufriere - St. Lucia) / Park Hyatt Vendome (Paris - France) / Grand Hyatt (Hong Kong) / The Grand Mauritian (Balaclava - Mauritius) / Grand Hyatt (Bangkok - Thailand) / Amanfayun (Hangzhou - China)


Thanks all for such a great contribution.

Thanks

daddy

This thread is the reason I went back to school. So hopefully one day I can afford to stay at some of these places. ^ Keep the amazing suggestions coming everyone.

THE Hotel should be somehow perfectly integrate within the environment and reflect part of its culture/history
more the essence of a place...the place that immediately jumped into my head and stayed there throughout my internal thought process was Villa Feltrinelli although it was 6 or 7 years ago that we went there.

I remember a feeling of ease, relaxation, reflection and of course utter, utter comfort and beauty of surroundings during our stay there that can make me feel at peace just thinking about it now all these years later
AMANPURI...at least until I stay in the next hotel that will blow my mind even after over 20 odd years
>
• Keeping the resorts non-institutional
• Providing guests with a luxury private home and not a mere hotel
• Offering its visitors a holistic holiday experience by combining luxury with the unique heritage and culture of the resort location
• Maintaining a very high level of exclusivity.

blending comfort, personalized service and luxury with the culture and heritage of the local place. One of the main characteristics of any Amanresorts is the fact that the location of all resorts has some historical background and importance.

Currently at FS Tented Camp Golden Triangle. A few comments.

1. Definitely the nicest FS Resort Hotel I've been too.

2. Probably goes on my top 10 list....maybe top 5.

3. Service is not up too Aman standards. Very good, but

Not much attention from management once you're here.
No complimentary Champagne
Room not immediately made up when you step out.
Restaurant understaffed.
Wine by the glass is of mediocre quality.
The overall impression is that you're treated like a guest not like family.


4. Food is quite good. Thai Food is not as good as Amanpuri. Limited restaurant options.

5. Aesthetics - Very interesting interior design. Tents are not particularly attractive from the outside. Landscaping/gardening is very nice but not wow. Overall does not have the sublime charm of some of the Aman resorts.

6. Scenery/Location - Incredibly peaceful and beautiful.

7. Activities - Elephant riding is amazing. A great experience. Spa is top notch. Great location.

8. Guests - At the risk of getting flamed not quite the refinement of the Aman crowd. I think because the FS name is well known they get a fair number of once in a lifetime types.

Overall - Great resort! Not THE hotel not to be missed but certainly A hotel not to be missed.

FS Tented Camp Golden Triangle is the only property that always been compared to Aman. I can't agree with you more, the staffs didn't treat guests as family, very SOP!. However their English is much better than most of Aman resorts.

I read your comment in other thread that you always stay at FS NYC recently, how was it and what's your TOP 5 list?

Currently at FS Tented Camp Golden Triangle. A few comments.

1. Definitely the nicest FS Resort Hotel I've been too.

2. Probably goes on my top 10 list....maybe top 5.

3. Service is not up too Aman standards. Very good, but

Not much attention from management once you're here.
No complimentary Champagne
Room not immediately made up when you step out.
Restaurant understaffed.
Wine by the glass is of mediocre quality.
The overall impression is that you're treated like a guest not like family.


4. Food is quite good. Thai Food is not as good as Amanpuri. Limited restaurant options.

5. Aesthetics - Very interesting interior design. Tents are not particularly attractive from the outside. Landscaping/gardening is very nice but not wow. Overall does not have the sublime charm of some of the Aman resorts.

6. Scenery/Location - Incredibly peaceful and beautiful.

7. Activities - Elephant riding is amazing. A great experience. Spa is top notch. Great location.

8. Guests - At the risk of getting flamed not quite the refinement of the Aman crowd. I think because the FS name is well known they get a fair number of once in a lifetime types.

Overall - Great resort! Not THE hotel not to be missed but certainly A hotel not to be missed.

I read your comment in other thread that you always stay at FS NYC recently, how was it and what's your TOP 5 list?

I usually stay at FS in big cities and I think NY is one of the nicest. Great rooms, very attentive and professional service, and I love the lobby.

Top 5 - YS, Pulo, Puri, Cipriani, Okura. (Most people probably will not agree on the last because the rooms are not great, but IMHO it still has the best service of any big city hotel in the world, Tohkalin is one my favorite restaurants, Orchid room is the best power breakfast spot in the world, and the lobby has a timeless style and serenity.)

To resurrect the thread. For me, the list is Amanpulo squarely at #1. Amanwana or Amanbagh next. Earth Lodge in South Africa. Little Kulala in Namibia--which managed to be at or very very near Aman levels of service when we were there. Adrere Amellal in Egypt (which doesnt really meet the definition of luxury in a few respects but is/was nevertheless absolutely extraordinary).

Places which I cant wait to get to (some will happen soon, some not so much so): Faru Faru in Tanzania, Kings Pool in Botswanna, Awasi, Amankora, Amangiri.

Places which I cant wait to return to: Amanpulo. :) 'Nuff said.

Next time the list should have a slip City and Resort. Safari lodge, maybe best camping experience should be added?
No real surprises on the list except some of the Aman's and Hyatt who have all seen better days. Let's see what the new Aman owners do with the brand!

Next time the list should have a slip City and Resort. Safari lodge, maybe best camping experience should be added?
No real surprises on the list except some of the Aman's and Hyatt who have all seen better days. Let's see what the new Aman owners do with the brand!

If the new owners have any sense whatsoever, they will do nothing with the brand, apart from invest money into it! And which Amans have seen better days?

If the new owners have any sense whatsoever, they will do nothing with the brand, apart from invest money into it! And which Amans have seen better days?

+1^

If the new owners have any sense whatsoever, they will do nothing with the brand, apart from invest money into it! And which Amans have seen better days?

+1^

+2^

Amanpulo

If the new owners have any sense whatsoever, they will do nothing with the brand, apart from invest money into it! And which Amans have seen better days?

All!! Need to get with the times, recently at Amapuri where cheap TV's have been added. Bathroom look worn, needs to be update to 2012. Staff with stains on uniforms, material wearing thin on furniture, and more.

New owners will want to make money and recoup they investment, does not bode well for a brand that makes very little, if any, profit.

All!! Need to get with the times, recently at Amapuri where cheap TV's have been added. Bathroom look worn, needs to be update to 2012. Staff with stains on uniforms, material wearing thin on furniture, and more.

New owners will want to make money and recoup they investment, does not bode well for a brand that makes very little, if any, profit.

Have you stayed at every Aman? Do you think that Amanruya needs to 'get with the times', or Aman Sveti Stefan, or Amangiri?

Every hotel group, from Four Seasons to Peninsula, to Mandarin Oriental, to Aman have properties that are new and fresh and properties that need investment. Aman, in my experience, have fewer properties that obviously need investment, whereas Peninsula, say, have several.

Don't forget that, on the whole, Aman do not own their properties, just as Four Seasons don't own theirs. Investment comes from the owners (or not).

I think you are being very unfair to say that Aman needs to 'get with the times'. Do you want it to become another 'W'? I think you will find that 99% of Amanjunkies would run screaming from that concept.

Virtuoso nominees for their best hotel:
Comments?
Beverly Hills Hotel (Dorchester Collection) - Beverly Hills, Calif.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia - Vancouver
Kauri Cliffs - Northland, N.Z.
One&Only Ocean Club - Paradise Island, Bahamas
Hotel Sacher Wien - Vienna

All!! Need to get with the times, recently at Amapuri where cheap TV's have been added. Bathroom look worn, needs to be update to 2012. Staff with stains on uniforms, material wearing thin on furniture, and more.

New owners will want to make money and recoup they investment, does not bode well for a brand that makes very little, if any, profit.

Amanpuri has had the TVs for a long time. Whether they are in the rooms depends on whether or not it's rainy season, but you can have them in or out at anytime depending on your preference.

Lewtrenchard Manor near Okehampton, Devon, UK....historic, old, built in the early 1600s, beautiful property and country....right next to the moor in Devon and a very easy run to the Cornish coast. Now that the Murray family have bought it back after a few years away, you will feel that you are truly a guest. And the food is delicious.

Ananda Spa in the Himalayas. Must be the most amazing place!

http://anandaspa.com/content/default.asp

Ananda Spa in the Himalayas. Must be the most amazing place!

http://anandaspa.com/content/default.asp

Was this managed by MO for a short while several years ago?

Was this managed by MO for a short while several years ago?

mgmt ended 11 years ago.
http://www.financialexpress.com/old/fe20011227/corp7.html

Top 5 - YS, Pulo, Puri, Cipriani, Okura. (Most people probably will not agree on the last because the rooms are not great, but IMHO it still has the best service of any big city hotel in the world, Tohkalin is one my favorite restaurants, Orchid room is the best power breakfast spot in the world, and the lobby has a timeless style and serenity.)

What is YS?

+2^

Depends what they want to do with the brand, if you know what I mean.

Sadly I have always stayed one level down from the real real 5 star properties that seem to top the list.
I am only in my 20s so still have time.!!!
Stayed in lovely places in Tanzania and Zanzibar - If rumours of 3 Four Seasons to be built - wow.

My choice would be between
most incredible experience - Ngorongoro Crater
most beautiful location - Intercontinental Bora Bora
Best service - GHM Club At The Legian Bali.

The villas and butler service at GHM Club At The Legian Bali. I mean everything about this hotel was incredible. Trust me i looked for faults and found one or two at the GHM Chedi in Ubud but could not find ANY at GHM Club At The Legian Bali..

So my vote so far is for GHM Club At The Legian Bali.
http://www.ghmhotels.com/en/the-club-at-the-legian/home/
however I hope to visit some from the list which will hopefully mean a new favourite!!!

bumping what is IMHO a much more interesting thread than "best/favorite"
(one of the "best/favorite" threads was bumped last month and is currently active)

bumping what is IMHO a much more interesting thread than "best/favorite"


Well, I'll play. Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island is pretty amazing. Cannot be faulted for service, style and food: the island itself is well worth a detour. I sound like a Baillie junkie I know, but they (the owners) really have faultless taste, and so their lodges have an unmistakable personality which makes them unique.

I will not write about Capella here: that place really deserves its own forum:
"What is the best place in the whole wide world?"

Well, I'll play. Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island is pretty amazing. Cannot be faulted for service, style and food: the island itself is well worth a detour. I sound like a Baillie junkie I know, but they (the owners) really have faultless taste, and so their lodges have an unmistakable personality which makes them unique.

I will not write about Capella here: that place really deserves its own forum:
"What is the best place in the whole wide world?"

Fully agree with you regarding these very high end properties. A little bit more polish and real pools would make them perfect. Perhaps they will finally also understand the need for joining Relais & Châteaux.

Makanyane Safari Lodge

www.makanyane.com

No doubt about it: Amanpulo

I think an interesting thread would be "Luxury Hotels that disappoint and are over-rated" or something like that...

I think an interesting thread would be "Luxury Hotels that disappoint and are over-rated" or something like that...

that is an every day topic with multiple threads - not thought-provoking, rich, interesting discussion in the least
not to mention EXTREMELY easy to answer with no thought whatsoever, nor positive memories

why this thread is unique and thoughtful >
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/1327385-hotel-not-missed-post18273605.html#post18273605
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/luxury-hotels/1327385-hotel-not-missed-post18351813.html#post18351813

- All Amans of Amanresorts
Especially for me :
Amankila
Amanpulo

- Ashford Castle

To be added list later