If you’re lucky enough to be planning a hotel stay, you have lots of choices. But deciding which property is right for you can be challenging. And while cost and location are likely to be top drivers, there are other factors worth considering.
For instance, if you’re looking for a place that offers a bit of luxury (think spa services, butler-drawn baths or even rooftop pools), try a boutique hotel in a hip neighborhood. Or if you want to enjoy the amenities of a chain but aren’t interested in paying a premium, consider an extended-stay brand like a Residence Inn. These hotels offer a range of room options, ranging from standard rooms to suites and studios with kitchenettes. And many of them have improved customer service in the past several years, a trend we see across all price ranges.
Regardless of whether you’re planning a business trip or a romantic getaway, you want your hotel to make you feel comfortable and welcome. And that’s especially true in the cities and regions where these properties are located. For example, New York City has some of the best hotels in the world, from sleek boutiques that cater to millennials and other affluent travelers in trendy neighborhoods to opulent luxury stays near the Big Apple’s top attractions. The same holds true for Central and South America, where hotels run the gamut from luxury to budget.
These best hotels are a testament to the fact that hospitality has never been more widely appreciated. And with new trends such as room service, restaurants in hotels and extended-stay brands, you’re sure to find a hotel that suits your needs and desires.
The hotel industry is booming, and it’s not just the chains that are getting into the act. Independents are delivering great experiences, too. For example, in a recent survey of readers, the Robert De Niro-owned Greenwich Hotel ranked as one of the best hotels because it’s swanky yet secretive. It’s also a good choice for those who want to stay in Manhattan but prefer a residential feel over the pulsing energy of the borough’s touristy areas.
This year’s Readers’ Choice Awards included a number of newcomers, but the winners reflected the staying power of perennial favorites. In addition, there was an emphasis on Asia, with properties in the region claiming 21 of the top 50 spots. And while branded properties still dominate the list, the burgeoning independent sector made its mark as well, with the Maybourne Group and Oetker Collection earning three nods each.