The best (and worst) new luxury hotels of 2018
1 KUDADOO MALDIVES PRIVATE ISLAND
Kudadoo is a truly special private island, with just 15 overwater ocean residences. Everything is included, from fine dining to in-, on- and above-water adventures, as well as luxury spa treatments.
2 JOALI MALDIVES
The epitome of sustainable glamour, this ultra-luxe resort has been designed with families in mind. There are 70 elegant one- to four-bedroom villas and residences, four exceptional restaurants, a beachside bar and a spa.
3 AMANYANGYUN, SHANGHAI
This stunning, light-filled resort on the outskirts of Shanghai has the look of a centuries-old forested village, but in fact, the ancient camphor trees and Ming and Qing dynasty buildings have been relocated from 640 kilometres away.
4 SHINTA MANI WILD, CAMBODIA
Designer Bill Bensley’s very own property is a remote and radical new concept for a sophisticated tented camp experience, set in a wildlife reserve in the Cardamom Mountains.
5 ZURI ZANZIBAR, TANZANIA
This exciting, and surprisingly affordable, luxe resort is set on a beautiful beach. With 55 thatched-roof villas and second-to-none wellness facilities, this is a real find in an increasingly popular exotic destination.
6 CHABLÉ MAROMA, MEXICO
The ultimate escapist resort, this is a dream property that comprises 70 private pool villas, a 1,580-square metre spa with eight treatment rooms, a beautiful beach and a selection of world-class dining options.
7 ROSEWOOD LUANG PRABANG, LAOS
All praise to Rosewood for undertaking a passionate project with just 23 rooms, yet again linked to Bill Bensley. He has created spacious and unique spaces, including six luxury tents.
8 CAPELLA UBUD, BALI
In-demand designer Bill Bensley scores another home run with this 22-tent retreat. Each is accessed by its own mini suspension bridge, and boasts its own saltwater pool and private deck. The decor is intriguing and extraordinary.
9 ROYAL CHAMPAGNE HOTEL & SPA, CHAMPILLON, FRANCE
With just 49 rooms, an excellent restaurant and an exceptional spa that overlooks the vines, this hotel’s location is exceptional. The corner rooms offer panoramic views and extra privacy.
THE WORST
NoMad Las Vegas
A poor renovation of the old Monte Carlo hotel has left this NYC brand with real problems. Nonetheless, there are some smart minds behind the venture and many of the issues with this ‘hotel within a hotel’ could be resolved over time.
The Setai Tel Aviv
While the building itself is attractive, following a well-executed renovation, the location is poor and the service is definitely lacking. There is lots to do before this property can be considered a worthy option for the luxury traveller.
This article was produced in partnership with LTI – Luxury Travel Intelligence. ■
