As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, travelers have more choice than ever when it comes to where to stay. But a hotel that might be considered luxurious in one part of the country may be seen as more of an everyday affair in another. To help guide travellers, the annual Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards honors hotels for offering enhanced hospitality experiences.
Among this year’s winners, which span the globe from Vietnam to the Maldives, are luxe properties that provide unique, personalized touches and go above and beyond for their guests. Some offer in-room wellness amenities like a personal fitness trainer and spa treatments; others have a dedicated concierge for booking the best local excursions and dining spots. And many are family-friendly, while others are geared toward couples and singles.
Some of the best hotels can be found in major cities and cosmopolitan destinations, where the range of luxury options is wide. New York City, for example, has no shortage of luxury hotels. Some are grand, historic addresses that are practically a part of the city’s identity like The Plaza (of Eloise fame) and the Ritz-Carlton near Central Park; others are hip new openings with amazing skyline views, such as 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge.
Other luxury hotels are more discreet and understated, but still provide the best in modern hospitality. The Mercer in NYC, for example, is a chic property that’s “known for its impeccable service and its pristine design—it’s really a hotel for the modern traveler,” says Mizrahi. Meanwhile, the ultra-luxe Hotel Barriere Fouquet’s New York is a “fantastic luxury option for those looking to enjoy the quintessential Manhattan experience.” Designed by Martin Brudnizki, the hotel offers 97 residential-style rooms and suites that “feel like you are staying in a Parisian townhouse,” she adds.
As a small hotelier, you only have so many hours in the day and managing an online reputation can be a time-consuming effort. But it’s worth the effort because when it comes to attracting travellers, reputation is everything. Unlike big chains, which are often viewed as gimmicky or formulaic, a hotel with a good reputation backed by authentic reviews is far more appealing to today’s travellers. That’s why it pays to prioritize time and resources on hotel review sites such as TripAdvisor. It’s a great way to stand out from the competition.