Best Hotels & Lodges

Sitting pretty in Hanoi's dapper French Quarter, Hotel de l'Opera strikes a graceful figure. Its pristine walls of white and mirror-like windows are just the beginning, concealing interiors that are theatrical, plush, and all-around gorgeous. From the gold-gilded lobby to the lantern-lit, nine-storey atrium and the jewel tones and pink velvet couches in the suites, Hotel de l'Opera is a feast for the eyes. And, with the iconic Opera House on its doorstep and the scenic Turtle Lake a short walk away, it's in prime position for enjoying the historic sights of Hanoi.

Made infamous by the dropping of the Atomic Bomb during World War II, Hiroshima has been nearly entirely rebuilt, blossoming into a beautiful city filled with tranquil shrines, parks and riverside cafes. Well-positioned right in the hub of the action, the Sheraton is a fantastic hotel that checks every box. We're talking plenty of dining options, an indoor pool and the Sheraton's signature beds that ensure a superb night's rest. But by no means will you spend every moment inside; remember the tragic loss of life at the Peace Memorial Park, take in a Samurai performance, or make a day trip to the sublime Miyajima Island.

Within just 10 minutes of an assortment of world-class wineries, Awasi Mendoza boasts one of the best locales in Mendoza. Set on a 55-acre vineyard under the gaze of the snow-capped Andes mountains - views of these spectacular peaks never elude - the lodge showcases the joys of Argentinian wine whilst also offering up some seriously idyllic accommodation. Set in gardens of weeping willows and eccentric statues, the Moorish-inspired patios ooze charm and warmth, while the team's personal service make you feel genuinely looked after. The food is exquisite, the spa is decadent and there is no shortage of activities - including some of Mendoza's 1,500 vineyards to get your fix of tastings. You won’t want to leave!

Found on the remote shores of a private concession in the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Kalahari Camp offers up a an ideal base for those looking to experience a unique area of Botswana in traditional safari camp style. The Makgadikgadi Saltpans stretch as far as the eye can see through the Kalahari Desert in the dry season, while rains in the wet season brings herds of zebra and wildebeest though the plains. Camp Kalahari nestles there, between the bush and the desert where the lack of electricity allows you to release your inner explorer.

Living up to its name (‘amanzi’ means ‘water’ in the local Tonga language), this charming camp is tucked away in the waterways of the Zambezi River on the beautiful and secluded Ngwenya channel. Whether you choose to discover the wildlife of this watery paradise by boat, canoe, vehicle or on foot, a safari from Amanzi is intimate, exclusive and highly personal. And with only 4 perfectly stylish tents, the same can be said for the camp too.

Down the road from the time-worn temples and lofty pagodas of the Old City, this hotel sits behind walls of greenery that keeps the buzz out. Named after the 200-year-old tamarind tree at its centre, a tunnel of arched bamboo leads from the outside world to fragrant foot baths, jasmine garland-making and a restaurant that draws patrons from miles away. When you're ready to extract yourself from the comforts of Tamarind Village, the head-turning sights of Chiang Mai beckon. The city's plethora of shrines, museums and markets are in walking (or cycling) distance. In the company of snazzy resorts, Tamarind is a timeless classic.