Top 5 Must-Haves Before Booking the Best Hotels

When it comes to hotel stays, the details make all the difference. That’s why it’s worth making a list of your must-haves before scouring the internet for your next hotel. Whether you prefer striking interior design, bespoke service, or an intimate atmosphere, listing your preferences will automatically narrow your options and help you zero in on the best hotels for you.

From the upscale boutiques in New York City to the secluded retreats on the pristine islands of Cebu, these world-class hotels are ready to please. They’re packed with the latest amenities, from bespoke cocktails and spa services to sleek kitchenettes and high-speed Wi-Fi. And they all come at a range of price points, so you can choose the one that suits your budget and travel needs.

Located in an iconic Neo-Renaissance building on (you guessed it) Mercer Street, this New York City hotel has become the defacto standard for traditional luxury. It was voted a top NYC hotel in T+L’s 2023 It List and is a favorite of in-the-know locals, who can be spotted sipping martinis in the lobby bar or chowing down on steak au poivre and oysters Rockefeller at the upscale restaurant. Even the 167 rooms and suites feel utterly posh, with sophisticated weave-textured walls, vintage crystal sconces, and headboards adorned with birdie wallpaper.

Originally built as a steel structure to shuffle ferries between Brooklyn and Manhattan, this New York City hotel is now a hotspot for young travelers. It’s where celebrities and well-heeled locals stay, with a rooftop pool that’s the envy of many an Instagrammer. The onsite restaurants are also highly regarded, with the Italian eatery, Cafe Cipriani, helmed by Michelin-starred chef Mario Batali. Rooms are luxe as well, with closets bigger than most apartments in the city and innate lacquer furnishings.

If you’re in the mood for a little relaxation, the on-site spa is one of the best in town. The therapists are trained in the art of ayurveda, so you can expect a full-body treatment that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. The property’s zen-like vibe extends to the guestrooms, where Japanese design elements are in abundance. Look for the 190 rooms and suites to feature a Hinoki tub made from fragrant aromatic cypress wood, or head to the hotel’s Yamazato restaurant for sushi and private teppanyaki tables.

A cluster of over 7000 islands in the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines is home to everything from swanky resorts and bustling cities to picturesque villages. But it’s the secluded beaches, azure waters, and limestone cliffs that have locals and international visitors flocking to these top-rated hotels. From high-rise hotels in the capital of Manila to exclusive resorts on secluded isles, these hotels offer all the trappings of a tropical getaway.