
Over the last 12 months, many incredible hotels have opened around the world and HotelsCombined recently shared its favorites based on factors such as location, uniqueness of amenities and quality of service.
The end result is a phenomenal group of castles, beach retreats and architectural wonders; including one in Bali.
The Castle Hotel, Dalian, China
Perched atop Lianhua Mountain and overlooking the Yellow Sea, this imposing chateau conveniently provides 292 guest rooms, a spa, fitness center, indoor pool, several restaurants and a “royal cellar” with a micro-brewery.
For those really looking to splash out, the 6,674 square foot Presidential Suite has a marble entrance, a dining room for 10, a full-service pantry and a waterfront balcony.
Shangri-La at the Shard, London
Opened in May, this first UK property of Shangri-La is housed within the 34th to 52nd floors of London’s iconic Shard skyscraper - the tallest building in Europe - and thus offers spectacular city views.
Other highlights include a champagne bar, an infinity sky pool on the 52nd floor and an enviable location in the heart of the London Bridge Quarter.
citizenM Times Square, New York City
Trendy and colorful, this US debut of the citizenM hotel chain is perfectly situated within walking distance of many famous New York sites, including the Rockefeller Centre, the theater district and Central Park.
Other perks include the rooftop bar and free in-room screening of the latest movies.
With starting price at US$199 per night, it is also a real bargain for Midtown Manhattan.
Pikaia Lodge, Galapagos Islands
Located on Santa Cruz Island, in the center of the Galapagos archipelago, Pikaia Lodge is an eco-friendly retreat set on top of an extinct volcano crater.
Close to a number of major wildlife sites and pristine beaches, the property offers a range of guided excursions and its own private Tortoise Reserve, with facilities including a spa and an infinity pool.
Cromlix House, Scotland
Owned by tennis superstar Andy Murray, this elegant Victorian mansion provides a peaceful countryside escape.
Evoking the grand estates of yesteryear, the manor is furnished in Scottish antiques and onsite activities in the sprawling grounds include tennis (naturally), clay pigeon shooting, fishing, falconry and archery.
Sofitel So Singapore
Housed in a heritage building near Raffles Place, the Sofitel So’s décor - which includes elements designed by Karl Lagerfield himself – features a 19th century French style with a contemporary twist.
Special touches here include in-room iPad minis, a gold-tiled rooftop infinity pool and complimentary mini bar drinks.
Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman
Nestled within the Al Hajar mountain range, this serene retreat is surrounded by a stunning natural landscape teeming with caves, valleys, flowers, fruit trees and heritage sites (including the UNESCO-protected Bahla Fort).
Guests can take a dip in the heated outdoor infinity pool overlooking the breathtaking gorge below or, for those who prefer, the villas have private terraces with plunge pools.
Ace Hotel, Los Angeles
This funky new LA abode plays an important part in the city’s cultural legend – housed within the historic United Artists building, the tower was once a movie studio and theater hub for independent artists.
Today, it’s a stylishly renovated getaway where an in-room extra perk might include an acoustic guitar.
Yemaya Island Hideaway, Nicaragua
A tropical getaway, Yemaya offers up to 16 eco-friendly cabanas.
Visitors to this retreat on Little Corn Island are encouraged to laze about in a hammock, enjoy a relaxing yoga session, sip on a cocktail at the beachside bar, partake in a variety of water sports, tuck into an organic meal at the onsite restaurant, or simply enjoy indulgent spa treatment.
The Sarasvati Luxury Collection Resort, Bali
Located in the exotic Seminyak and vibrant Legian areas, this resort offers guests direct access to the beach and upscale retail shops.
The sunsets are gorgeous and there are activities for everybody; try a round of golf, mountain biking, go skydiving or relax with some fishing.
For first-time visitors, the sacred Sangeh Monkey Forest and the famous scenic drive to Lake Bratan are great options.
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