More than 400 hotels in 80 countries belong to Leading Hotels of the World 's sublime selection. Founded in 1928 by 38 hoteliers, the collection is now one of the most prestigious in the world. Only carefully selected and distinctive hotels, resorts, inns, chalets, villas and safari camps are admitted into the extraordinary circle. The destinations range from the snow-covered Alps of Europe to the African steppes. Just in time for the start of fall, the Leading Hotels of the World now introduce seven new members.

 

The Orient Jakarta, Jakarta/Indonesia

Ideal for: gourmets and design lovers

The intricate design and use of bold colors reveal Bill Bensley's signature. © LHW

Why book: The Orient Jakarta opened its doors in October of last year and welcomes guests with Balinese-Javanese inspired decor. Responsible for the design is none other than hotel legend Bill Bensley, who used centuries-old batik techniques to design the 72 rooms. Antiques and maximalist details complete the new opening's aesthetic. Three restaurants cater to gourmets. They serve Spanish and Japanese cuisine as well as high tea in the afternoon. The semi-open infinity pool with a view of the skyline is the ideal place to sit back and relax.

The Orient Jakarta
Jl. Jend. Sudirman No.36, RT.14/RW.1, Bend. Hilir, Jakarta 10210, Indonesia
Web: theorienthoteljakarta.com
Tel.: +62 21 39707777
Price: doubles incl. breakfast from €170 per night

 

Villa Mara Carmel, California/USA

Ideal for: a romantic getaway on the coast

Residing in style in sophisticated Carmel-by-the-Sea on the U.S. West Coast. © LHW

Why book: The villa received a complete update from designer Lisa Koch this year. Natural tones and original artwork now dominate the interior. Enjoy fine Californian wines at Jesena's bar or take a stroll to the select boutiques and restaurants of the world-famous village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Trips to Monterey County's legendary wineries or Point Lobos State Natural Reserve are worthwhile as well.

Villa Mara Carmel
2408 Bay View Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, United States.
Web: villamaracarmel.com
Tel.: +1 831-624-6433
Price: doubles from €575 per night

 

Dan Tel Aviv, Tel Aviv/Israel

Ideal for: a city break by the beach

The hotel goes back to the guesthouse Kaete Dan, founded in 1947 by two brothers. © LHW

Why book: Located right on the famous seafront, the Dan Tel Aviv is an excellent base to explore the best of the city from. First-class restaurants, luxury boutiques, art galleries, and exciting nightlife are all within reach. But there's also plenty to experience at the hotel itself. The elegant house scores with modern design. In addition to an indoor and outdoor pool with seawater, the breakfast and brasserie are also worth mentioning.

Dan Tel Aviv
HaYarkon St 99, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
Web: danhotels.com
Tel.: +972 3-520-2525
Price: doubles from €360 per night

 

Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa, Zanzibar/Tanzania

Ideal for: a carefree beach vacation

All-inclusive can be quite the luxurious affair. © LHW

Why book: The resort on Matemwe's Muyuni Beach will open in December 2022, offering guests a sprawling resort experience overlooking Mnemba Island. Guests are bound to enjoy all-inclusive dining at five restaurants and three bars. During the day, they'll be busy snorkeling in the colorful reefs, swimming in the pool or relaxing at the spa. The wellness oasis pampers guests with first-class treatments that combine elements from Thailand and Bali.

Emerald Zanzibar Resort & Spa
Muyuni, Matemwe, Zanzibar, Tanzania
Web: themora.com
Tel.: +39 06 45481670
Price: doubles from €346 per night

 

The Lido Palace, Lake Garda/Italy

Ideal for: an elegant timeout by the lake

Vacation like royals at the Lido Palace Hotel. © LHW

Why book: Lake Garda has always been considered a dream destination in Europe. Not least because of the beautiful villas that line its shores. One of them is the Lido Palace. Opened back in 1899, it has now received an all-around renovation, as splendid Belle Époque style meets contemporary materials and modern designs. Not just in the 42 rooms and suites, but at the two restaurants and the spa as well. The view falls on the lake and the mountains and the historic center of Riva is just a stroll away.

The Lido Palace
Viale Giosuè Carducci, 10, 38066 Riva del Garda TN, Italy
Web: lido-palace.it
Tel.: +39 0464 021899
Price: doubles from €315 per night

 

Nayara Gardens, La Fortuna/Costa Rica

Ideal for: a trip with a good conscience

Villas with private pools, community pools, bars and restaurants: who said the jungle couldn't be luxurious?. © LHW

Why book: The eco-resort is located in the middle of the tropical rainforest in northwestern Costa Rica. And offers great views of the silhouette of the Arenal Volcano. Lush greenery stretches around the 50 rooms and villas, punctuated by the sparkle of the whirlpools, which are part of the suites. As are balconies. Private gardens with outdoor showers complete the ensemble. Memorable experiences in the jungle include bird watching, horseback riding and hiking. And afterwards? You get to relax at the spa. Or dine at the three restaurants.

Nayara Gardens
702 Road 21007, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Web: nayaragardens.com
Tel.: +1 844-865-2002
Price: doubles from approx. €270 per night

 

Villa Le Blanc, a Grand Melia Hotel, Menorca/Spain

Ideal for: those seeking tranquility

The quiet side of the Balearic islands: Menorca is the right place for guests looking for nature and outdoor experiences. © LHW

Why book: This pearl on the beach of Santo Tomás opened its doors in July of this year. Villa Le Blanc scores with its simple natural features. And with the tranquility that surrounds it. Nestled in the landscape on the south coast of Menorca and surrounded by a fragrant pine forest, it offers breathtaking views of the sea. The clean design and white stone architecture are typical for the region. Guests have the chance to immerse themselves in the environment and the local culture. They can also enjoy the authentic gastronomy of Joan Canals.

Villa Le Blanc, a Grand Melia Hotel
Urbanització Santo Tomàs Playa, H2, 07749 Sant Tomas, Illes Balears, Spain
Web: melia.com
Tel.: +34 971 37 00 50
Price: doubles from approx. €290 per night