Best Hotels & Lodges

Rome doesn't lack grand hotels, but few have earned the kind of devotion that the Hotel de Russie inspires. Designed in 1818 by Giuseppe Valadier, the same architect responsible for the neighbouring Piazza del Popolo, it has welcome Russian royalty, Picasso and Cocteau through its doors (the latter famously declaring it "paradise on earth"). Restored by Rocco Forte in 2000, the hotel sits on Via del Babuino between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, with the Tiber, Trevi Fountain and Villa Borghese all within easy walking distance. The real showstopper, though, is the terraced Secret Garden — 2,800 square metres of orange trees, roses and trickling fountains climbing the Pincian Hill, which makes it genuinely hard to believe you're in central Rome.

A unique blend of cosy hospitality and a rich literary atmosphere. Its distinctive library-themed concept, combined with its prime location in the heart of Tokyo, makes it an ideal retreat for both book lovers and urban explorers.

It could be said that Patagonia is the home of adventure in Chile and no one would agree more than the folk at Cascada Expediciones, who have spent the last two decades pioneering bucket list trips in the Torres del Paine. Built by hand in the centre of the reserve, their EcoCamp is an innovative collection of geodesic domes with views of the famous Towers. The camp has been recognised across the globe for its environmentally-conscious ethos with their own micro-hydro turbines, solar panels and carbon neutral projects. The camp offers multi-day treks across the Torres del Paine, taking in the ethereal scenery and sights.

Having won the title of Vietnam's most cosmopolitan metro, Ho Chi Minh City is a seamless melange of art, enterprise and history with timeless Saigon at the centre. With its imperial facade and whimsical interiors, punctuated by over-sized oil paintings, the Park Hyatt fits right in. Bringing a touch of glamor to everything it does, the hotel hosts cocktail evenings beneath crystal chandeliers and butler service at the poolside cabanas. From one of its many balconies, the hotel boasts a view of Saigon's illustrious Opera House and just down the boulevard, you'll find art galleries and powerful war monuments.

Back in the 1970s, this shady spot on the banks of the Luangwa was Norman Carr’s green season base. Today, the ultra sleek and very stylish Chinzombo Camp has replaced the tents of old and given the area a new lease of life. Peaceful and tranquil and offering a good dose of luxury, the camp is a good option for some pre or post safari relaxation. But with 60 acres of private land on offer, a river teeming with wildlife and direct access to the National Park via boat, the game drives are exclusive, breath-taking and not to be missed.

A fantastic melange of 18th-century Spanish cathedrals and Inca relics, Quito is every inch a UNESCO World Heritage city. And if you're looking for somewhere to stay that does the city justice, try Casa Gangotena. A cream-hued mansion in the centre of Old Town, the house was once home to one of Quito's most prominent families and has retained this heritage in its intricate frescos and original features. The views from the terrace are especially lovely, gazing over the Iglesia de San Francisco and snow-capped Cayambe volcano beyond. Discover the city's deep and fascinating history on strolls through Independence Square, past churches and monasteries, and on a private tour of the mansion.

Etosha National Park is one of Africa's great game parks but it can get busy and facilities here cater to the masses. Ongava, which is a sizable private reserve on its southern border, capitalizes on its proximity and provides what the park cannot: exclusivity, luxury and flexibility. Little Ongava provides these in great measure - it combines the best of Etosha with top class service and a personalized guided experience in a much less restrictive environment. Here you can combine world class accommodation with great game viewing and a visit to Etosha Pan and its springs that attract vast amounts of wildlife in the dry season.

This luxurious resort in the sought after northern corner of Mahe, is set within 120 hectares of lush private jungle. Situated on a promontory, the hotel is flanked to the south and north by picture-postcard beaches, where you can snorkel within the National Marine Park of Port Launay. Despite having over 180 guest rooms and over 40 different private villas, amenities at the hotel have been carefully spread out so you never feel you’re in a busy hotel. A bonus for parents is the complimentary kids club for children age 4-11 years. The U Spa is immense with over 10 treatment rooms - head in this direction for ultimate relaxation.

Down a snaking lane in the Medina, not far from the steaming food stalls of Djeema El Fna and the Bahia Palace, Riad Farnatchi has all the makings of a home-away-from-home. One of the first riads to be turned into a hotel, you'll find all the staples of a Moroccan home. The dining room is elegant with a smattering of black and white photos on the wall, there are cushioned bhous (lounges) to recline in, and the rooftop terrace is just the place for relaxed drinks. And when we say the staff are impeccable, we mean it - Riad Farnatchi is a finalist for hotels that go above and beyond.