BEST LUXURY JET ADVENTURES: TCS WORLD TRAVEL

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For over 30 years, this award-winning travel operator has taken private jet journeys to the next level with expertly curated, all-inclusive adventures in the world’s most iconic destinations. From signature Around the World tours to group expeditions to places like Antarctica, South America and Africa, TCS excels thanks to exceptional service, world-class guides and meaningful experiences. tcsworldtravel.com

BEST LUXURY DESTINATION, CARIBBEAN: BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

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The BVI captivates with pristine beaches, turquoise waters and ultraluxe resorts. From private island retreats to world-class sailing, this of-the-moment archipelago is a Caribbean gem that offers an exclusive escape where natural beauty meets unparalleled indulgence. bvitourism.com

BEST CUSTOM AIRCRAFT: CIRRUS

Cirrus is a global leader in personal aviation; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

This leading personal aviation brand takes flying private to another level with models like the SR Series piston aircraft and the Vision Jet, the world’s first single-engine personal jet. Offering comprehensive Cirrus Approach flight training, advanced safety features like Safe Return Emergency Autoland, and luxurious interiors with large windows and comfortable seating, it all adds up to the ultimate sky-high status symbol. cirrusaircraft.com

BEST CALIFORNIA GETAWAY: MONTEREY

Monterey, Calif., beckons with dreamy destinations like nearby Alila Ventana Big Sur PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Nestled along California’s rugged central coast, Monterey offers an appealing blend of natural beauty and luxury. From the iconic 17-Mile Drive to world-class golf, fresh seafood and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, this charming destination is an idyllic escape for relaxation and adventure alike. seemonterey.com

BEST GOLF RESORT: MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF, SOUTH CAROLINA

Crossroads at Montage Palmetto Bluff is a striking nine-hole golf course built into nature. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Set amid South Carolina’s Lowcountry between Hilton Head and Savannah, Montage Palmetto Bluff is a golfer’s paradise. Featuring a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course and nine-hole Crossroads course, the property also boasts posh accommodations and a spa with 14 treatment rooms, making it ideal for golf enthusiasts and their families. montage.com/palmettobluff

BEST DAY SPA, U.S.: THE SPA AT SÉC-HE, PALM SPRINGS

The Spa at Séc-he boasts 22 private mineral baths. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Nestled in the heart of Palm Springs, The Spa at Séc-he offers a luxurious escape rooted in the healing waters of the Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring. The 73,000-square-foot sanctuary is centered around 22 private mineral baths that are sacred to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Expect an extensive menu of state-of-the-art therapies ranging from facials, massages and scrubs to IV treatments and vitamin therapy, redefining relaxation in a tranquil desert setting. thespaatseche.com

BEST ADULTS-ONLY CRUISING: VIRGIN VOYAGES

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Sir Richard Branson’s high-energy cruising line elevates the scene with adults-only voyages that blend luxury vibes and vibrant atmosphere. Featuring Michelin-inspired dining, boutique-style ships and curated entertainment—plus stops at private beach clubs and a focus on wellness—every detail is designed for sophisticated fun. virginvoyages.com

BEST NEW CABO GETAWAY: PARK HYATT CABO DEL SOL

Park Hyatt Cabo Del Sol is elevating the Los Cabos hotel scene. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Set along the stunning Baja coastline, this recently opened luxury escape offers oceanfront suites (many with plunge pools) as well as stunning regional dining and a justopened 59,000-square-foot fitness and wellness center, home to Saria Spa. Nestled between desert and sea, the resort is the perfect blend of modern elegance and natural beauty. parkhyattloscabos.com

BEST SCANDINAVIAN ESCAPE: ARCTIC BATH, SWEDEN

Arctic Bath is a stunning hotel set on Sweden’s Lule River; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Floating on the Lule River in summer and frozen in place in winter, Arctic Bath offers a oneof- a-kind wellness retreat in the heart of Swedish Lapland. With its striking design, open-air cold baths and Nordic-inspired spa treatments, this serene escape fully immerses guests in the beauty of the Arctic. arcticbath.se

BEST NEW SUPERYACHT: LUMINARA, THE RITZ-CARLTON YACHT COLLECTION

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With its third vessel, The Ritz- Carlton Yacht Collection has cemented its status as a power player in the world of five-star cruising. The 794-foot stunner dazzles with light-filled suites, dining from Michelin-starred chefs, and a hypercurated art collection featuring Matisse and Hockney. Add in indulgent spa treatments and bespoke adventures in port, and Luminara feels less like a cruise and more like a floating five-star resort. ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com

BEST COMMERCIAL AIRLINE EXPERIENCE: DELTA ONE

From dedicated check-in and exclusive airport lounges to deluxe onboard amenities like lie-flat seats, chef-curated meals and personalized service, Delta One transforms long-haul and international flights into the most luxurious of journeys. delta.com

BEST LUXURY IN THE JUNGLE: NEKAJUI PENINSULA PAPAGAYO, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE, COSTA RICA

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Set within a 1,400-acre protected paradise on Costa Rica’s Papagayo Peninsula, this ultraluxe retreat immerses guests in lush forest and oceanfront beauty. Biophilic design, treetop accommodations and expansive indoor-outdoor living blur the line between resort and wilderness, while curated adventures and holistic wellness experiences create an elevated, nature-driven escape. ritzcarlton.com

BEST LONGEVITY PROGRAM: ADLER SPA RESORT BALANCE, ITALY

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In the heart of the Dolomites, this adults-only retreat elevates wellness with its comprehensive longevity program, blending preventive medicine, detox therapies and personalized fitness with a 3,500-square-meter spa. Expert-led diagnostics, nutrition and holistic treatments work in harmony to promote vitality, optimize health and support long-term well-being in a serene Alpine setting. adler-resorts.com

BEST NEW SAFARI CAMP: MAPITO SAFARI CAMP, SERENGETI, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION, TANZANIA

Marriott’s first safari camp in the region debuts in the Serengeti, with just 15 tented suites that blend polished design with immersive wilderness. Positioned along the Great Migration route, it offers front-row wildlife encounters, from Big Five safaris to hot air balloon rides, alongside elevated comforts like retractable stargazing roofs, spa treatments and locally inspired dining. marriott.com

BEST WOMEN’S WELLNESS DESTINATION: SIX SENSES KANUHURA, MALDIVES

Restore balance and reconnect to your body at Six Senses Kanuhura. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Set across three pristine islands, this Maldivian retreat redefines women’s wellness with tailored programs focused on hormonal health, nutrition, sleep and stress. Expert-led diagnostics, biohacking therapies and holistic treatments— from yoga to energy work—create a personalized journey, empowering guests to restore balance, embrace longevity and reconnect with their bodies in a serene, nature-immersed setting. sixsenses.com

MOST STYLISH DESIGNER COLLAB: MISSONI X OKU IBIZA, SPAIN

Italian fashion house Missoni brings its signature kaleidoscopic aesthetic to OKU Ibiza, transforming the hotel’s iconic 50-meter pool into a vibrant, design-forward resort club. Custom furnishings, bold Mediterranean hues and immersive branding blur the lines between fashion and hospitality, creating one of the summer’s most coveted, style-driven beach club experiences. okuhotels.com

BEST BOUTIQUE LUXURY HOTEL, AFRICA: MBANO MANOR HOTEL VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE

Tucked within an ancient teak forest just minutes from Victoria Falls, this intimate, 19-suite retreat blends eco-conscious design with five-star sophistication. Privately spaced villas, locally inspired cuisine and curated safari experiences create a serene, nature-immersed escape, while its female-founded ethos and bespoke service elevate it as one of Africa’s most distinctive boutique stays. mbanomanorhotel.com

BEST YOGA RETREAT: HOTEL BELMAR, COSTA RICA

Surrounded by the energy of the cloud forest, Hotel Belmar in Costa Rica offers yoga for all levels; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Set high in Monteverde’s lush cloud forest, this eco-luxury hideaway offers an immersive yoga experience, with classes held in a dedicated studio overlooking misty treetops. Guided by nature’s rhythms, sessions pair movement and meditation with birdsong and fresh mountain air, creating a restorative, sensory-rich practice rooted in sustainability and holistic well-being. hotelbelmar.net

BEST SAFARI LODGE RENOVATION: BAINES’ LODGE, AN A&K SANCTUARY, BOTSWANA

Completely rebuilt in 2025, this ultra-intimate Okavango Delta retreat features just six stilted suites overlooking the Boro River, blending elevated “pavilion-style” design with a light environmental footprint. Expansive decks, open-plan interiors and romantic star baths immerse guests in the landscape, while private-concession safaris and water excursions deliver an exclusive, connected wilderness experience. abercrombiekent.com

BEST CULINARY PROGRAM: BVLGARI RESORT DUBAI, UAE

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This Jumeirah Bay Island retreat sets a gold standard for destination dining, anchored by Michelin-starred concepts including Il Ristorante–Niko Romito (two stars) and the intimate omakase counter Hōseki (one star). A diverse portfolio of venues—from refined Italian to Japanese precision— creates a cohesive, world-class culinary experience defined by artistry and global gastronomic acclaim. bulgarihotels.com

BEST HOTEL RENOVATION: PARK HYATT TOKYO, JAPAN

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Following a meticulous 19-month transformation, this iconic Shinjuku landmark reemerges with reimagined guest rooms, elevated dining and thoughtfully restored public spaces that honor its cinematic legacy while embracing contemporary luxury. The redesign balances heritage and innovation, preserving its serene, residential feel while introducing refined materials, expanded views and a renewed sense of understated sophistication. hyatt.com

BEST BUCKET-LIST TRAVEL EXPERIENCES: SCOTT DUNN

Want to take a hot air balloon ride in Morocco? Scott Dunn can make it happen. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Scott Dunn curates extraordinary journeys and experiences tailored to every client’s dreams. From private safaris and Arctic expeditions to bespoke cultural immersions, this expert team crafts unforgettable adventures that turn a travel bucket list into reality with seamless service and insider access. scottdunn.com/us

BEST BAREFOOT LUXURY: THE FLORIDA KEYS

The Florida Keys boast the ultimate in laid-back luxury. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Stretching 125 miles into the turquoise waters of the Atlantic, The Florida Keys take laid-back luxury to the next level. From the world-class diving paradise that is Key Largo to the rich history and eclectic culture of Key West, this tropical paradise offers effortless charm, world-class dining and endless adventure, making it the ultimate toes-in-the-sand escape. visitfloridakeys.com

BEST WELLNESS DESTINATION, U.S.: THE RANCH, MALIBU, CALIF.

Daily massage is part of the program at The Ranch Malibu. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Set on 200 rugged acres in the Santa Monica Mountains, this results-driven retreat delivers a transformative, highly structured program limited to just 25 guests. Days are anchored by scenic hikes, strength training, yoga and daily massage, complemented by plant-forward cuisine and advanced wellness therapies—creating an immersive reset for body and mind. theranchlife.com

BEST HOTEL RENOVATION, HAWAI‘I: WAILEA BEACH RESORT, MAUI

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Commanding 22 oceanfront acres, the redesigned Wailea Beach Resort draws inspiration from its island surroundings—hibiscus-inspired pinks, lava-flow grays, ‘ōhi‘a lehua greens, and the warm tones of koa and bamboo. Highlights include four Signature Oceanfront Villas, configurable as one- to four-bedroom retreats with gourmet kitchens and lanais above the ocean, and 51 suites, including the Sundeck Collection with expanded outdoor spaces and the Sundeck Garden Oasis, featuring outdoor tubs and fire pits. marriott.com

BEST ADVENTURE LODGE: EXPLORA PATAGONIA TORRES DEL PAINE LODGE, CHILE

Explora Patagonia Torres del Paine Lodge in Chile offers expertly guided expeditions across glaciers and granite towers; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Nestled within the breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park— designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve—this legendary 49-room lodge delivers Patagonia at its most cinematic: floor-to-ceiling views of Lake Pehoé, expertly guided expeditions across glaciers and granite towers, and restorative evenings of Chilean wine and spa rituals after days spent traversing one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. explora.com

BEST VIEW IN PARIS: HÔTEL DE SERS PANORAMIC SUITE, FRANCE

The Panoramic Suite at Hôtel de Sers offers a sweeping terrace that spans the city; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Perched high above the Golden Triangle, the Panoramic Suite at Hôtel de Sers frames one of Paris’ most enchanting vistas, with a sweeping terrace that spans the city skyline—from the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre—revealing the capital’s layered rooftops in cinematic fashion. From the private terrace or the hotel’s glass-roofed salon below, guests can savor the panorama as if from their own Parisian pied-à-terre, all just steps from the ChampsÉlysées. hoteldesers.com

BEST BIOHACKING RETREAT: CHENOT PALACE WEGGIS, SWITZERLAND

Overlooking Lake Lucerne, Chenot Palace Weggis in Switzerland blends advanced diagnostics, detox therapies and cutting-edge biohacking protocols with Swiss medical expertise. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Overlooking the serene waters of Lake Lucerne, Chenot Palace Weggis has become the gold standard of modern longevity retreats, blending advanced diagnostics, detox therapies, and cutting-edge biohacking protocols with Swiss medical expertise and the tranquility of an Alpine wellness sanctuary. chenotpalaceweggis.com

BEST LUXURY RANCH: SAN YSIDRO RANCH, CALIFORNIA

A favorite of Hollywood stars and political figureheads, this lush property in the foothills of Santa Barbara was the honeymoon destination of Jacqueline and President John F. Kennedy. With 38 bungalow-style cottages, each individually decorated, this 550- acre estate dazzles with a blooming rose garden, lavender fields, jasmine and magnolias—plus the beloved Stonehouse Restaurant, set within a 19th-century citrus packing house. sanysidroranch.com

BEST ECO LODGE: PENINSULA HOT SPRINGS, AUSTRALIA

Located on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, Peninsula Hot Springs offers more than 50 different bathing experiences; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Located an hour south of Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula, the beautiful Peninsula Hot Springs is a 42-acre property featuring fresh Eco Lodges, each equipped with its own hot spring or outdoor mineral bath. Designed for optimal sleep and relaxation, the well-appointed accommodations perfectly complement the property’s more than 70 bathing and wellness experiences. peninsulahotsprings.com

BEST “SET-JETTING” DESTINATION: BANYAN TREE KRABI, THAILAND

With Krabi having served as the primary filming location for recent box office smash Jurassic World Rebirth, this seaside luxury resort is the ideal setting for soaking up the area’s wild natural beauty. Each of the property’s 72 suites and villas has its own private pool and is set among the lush tropical rainforest; adventures on offer include sailing across the Andaman Sea on the resort’s traditional long-tail boat, The White Pearl, or unwinding at Krabi’s first hydrotherapy spa, The Rainforest. banyantree.com

BEST NEW HOTEL, ITALY: ORIENT EXPRESS LA MINERVA, ROME

As the first hotel in the world for the Orient Express brand, this exquisite property debuted in spring 2025, capturing the hearts of adventurers in the Eternal City. Located just steps from the Pantheon, the hotel is housed within a meticulously restored 17th-century palazzo redesigned by artist-architect Hugo Toro, offering travelers a deeply immersive experience reflective of the legendary train service—from the same Rivolta Carmignani-crafted linens to the newly opened Mimi Kakushi Japanese restaurant. orient-express.com

MOST STYLISH NEW HOTEL, ITALY: THE CARLTON, MILAN

Set in the heart of Italy’s fashion capital, The Carlton, Milan is a refined new address for the Rocco Forte family, blending Milanese elegance with contemporary luxury. The hotel pairs sophisticated interiors with an intimate, residential feel, offering a quieter alternative to the city’s larger grand hotels. Its prime location near Via della Spiga and the Quadrilatero della Moda places guests steps from Milan’s most exclusive shopping, dining and cultural landmarks. roccofortehotels.com

BEST NEW COOLCATION: OCTOLA II, FINLAND

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Building on the global acclaim of Octola Private Wilderness, the debut of Octola II ushers in a new pinnacle of Arctic luxury. Hidden deep within the boreal wilderness of Finnish Lapland, the off-grid estate offers total seclusion with front-row views of the northern lights, creating one of the rarest wellness environments on earth. With expansive private lodges, spa rituals rooted in Nordic tradition and access granted only through invitation, Octola II defines a new era of quiet, science-backed luxury designed for those seeking absolute privacy and restorative escape. octola.com

BEST EXPEDITION CRUISE SHIP: PONANT’S LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT

Guests aboard Le Commandant Charcot get access to some of the world’s most dramatic polar territories. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

The world’s only Polar Class 2 cruise ship, Ponant’s hybrid electric icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot invites passengers to explore the Arctic and Antarctica in unparalleled luxury. With gourmet dining by Alain Ducasse, a heated outdoor pool, and expert-led adventures like kayaking fjords and visiting Inuit villages, it’s where exploration meets five-star luxury. us.ponant.com

BEST MULTIGENERATIONAL FAMILY DESTINATION: SOUTH WALTON, FLA.

From SUP outings to beach strolls, South Walton, Fla., offers something for everyone. PHOTO COURTESY OF WALTON COUNTY TOURISM

With 16 unique beach neighborhoods, this northwest Florida nook offers something for every generation. From sugar-white sand beaches to state parks, local art galleries and fresh Gulf-totable dining, it’s a destination that’s tailor-made for creating lasting family memories together. visitsouthwalton.com

BEST LUXURY EXPEDITION: MINARET STATION, NEW ZEALAND

Accessible only by helicopter, Minaret Station Alpine Lodge is tucked within a remote glacial valley in New Zealand; PHOTO: COURTESY OF MINARET STATION

Accessible solely by helicopter, Minaret Station boasts the first premium Alpine chalets in New Zealand, breathtakingly located in a glacial valley in the Southern Alps. This is glamping at its finest, with luxurious tented suites outfitted with wall-to-wall sheepskin carpets and possum fur throw blankets. By day, you’ll navigate magnificent fjords; hike untouched glaciers; and indulge in hearty meals of beef, lamb and venison—all with the snowcapped mountains as your backdrop. minaretstation.com

BEST NEW MINDFULNESS RETREAT: SIX SENSES KRABEY ISLAND, CAMBODIA

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From 40 freestanding pool villas to a dazzling spa featuring traditional Khmer massages and Cambodian healing treatments, this wellness-focused retreat is where stress disappears. Nestled 3 miles off the coast of Ream National Park in the Gulf of Thailand, in southern Cambodia, this 30-acre private island resort maximizes the guest experience with an organic farm, an herb garden, and activities ranging from secluded picnics at Koh Ta Kiev to cooking classes and aerial yoga. sixsenses.com

BEST PLACE TO UNPLUG: KERLINGARFJÖLL HIGHLAND BASE, ICELAND

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Venture off the beaten path—via a 4x4 super Jeep driven by a professional—to discover this secluded spot that’s ideal for unplugging and reconnecting with nature. Extraordinary trail runs through Iceland’s exquisite highlands, geothermal bathing, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling and more will keep adventurers occupied from sunup to sundown— when you may catch a glimpse of the spellbinding northern lights. highlandbase.is

BEST HOTEL, EGYPT: AL MOUDIRA HOTEL

A look inside Al Moudira Hotel’s Luxury Suite; BY MARK ANTHONY FOX;

With close proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of ancient Thebes and the Valley of the Kings, this Arabian-style palace sits on the west bank of the Nile in Luxor. A Relais & Châteaux-designated property, this Middle Eastern escape enchants its lucky visitors with shaded gardens full of towering palms, lemon trees and colorful hibiscus, which lead to the marble-clad swimming pool and hammam. Ingredients from Al Moudira’s private farm ensure meals at its on-site dining destinations are at peak freshness. moudira.com

BEST SAUDI ARABIAN ESCAPE: OUR HABITAS ALULA

Set within the sandstone canyons of Ashar Valley, Our Habitas AlUla places guests minutes from the UNESCO-listed site of Hegra, allowing visitors to explore 2,000-yearold Nabataean tombs by day and return to a low-impact villa retreat built directly into the desert landscape. The resort limits its footprint through modular construction and sustainable programming, while still offering activities ranging from canyon hikes and astronomy sessions to sound-healing rituals at Thuraya Wellness. Here, urban distractions fall away, leaving behind just 96 villas, open desert and curated cultural excursions tied specifically to AlUla’s archaeology, art and Bedouin heritage. ourhabitas.com/alula

BEST NEW HOTEL, JAPAN: IMPERIAL HOTEL, KYOTO

Set within the historic Yasaka Kaikan, this luxury retreat blends Gion’s traditional charm with refined hospitality. Across 55 rooms, including heritage spaces and tatami suites, guests experience authentic Japanese aesthetics and floor-to-ceiling city views. This Tangible Cultural Property offers a serene, culturally immersive stay in Kyoto. imperialhotel.co.jp/en/kyoto

BEST SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATION: SIX SENSES VANA, INDIA

Cradled within a sal forest in the Himalayan foothills near Dehradun, Six Senses Vana is an immersive wellness retreat rooted in Ayurveda, Sowa Rigpa and yoga, offering personalized programs; guided nutrition; and serene, minimalist surroundings designed to restore balance across body, mind and spirit. sixsenses.com

MOST ANTICIPATED CRUISE LINE: ORIENT EXPRESS

Orient Express Cruises showcase suites designed by Maxime d’Angeac; COURTESY OF ORIENT EXPRESS

Measuring 220 meters with three majestic sails, the Corinthian (setting sail in June to the Mediterranean and in October in the Caribbean) is a sustainable floating palace crafted in France. Featuring 54 panoramic suites designed by Maxime d’Angeac, the yacht blends vintage-inspired artisanal luxury with a sensorial Guerlain sanctuary, reimagining high-sea travel as a refined, conscious philosophy. orientexpress.com

BEST REMOTE LUXURY: MIAVANA BY TIME + TIDE, MADAGASCAR

Miavana by Time + Tide, Madagascar, features 14 private villas and countless bespoke experiences; PHOTO: BY OLIVER FLY PHOTOGRAPHY

Set on a remote island in Madagascar, the property pairs white-sand beaches and coral reefs with an inimitable sense of place. Fourteen villas feature private pools, ocean views and indooroutdoor design, while experiences range from wildlife encounters to conservation-focused exploration across land and sea. miavana.com

BEST CALMCATION DESTINATION: ROUND HILL HOTEL AND VILLAS, JAMAICA

Round Hill Hotel and Villas, Jamaica, boasts private villas and Michelin-level dining. COURTESY OF ROUND HILL HOTEL AND VILLAS

Round Hill Hotel and Villas delivers a unique vision of Caribbean luxury on Jamaica’s north coast. Private villas with dedicated staff, Ralph Laurendesigned interiors and a calm beachfront setting anchor the experience, while Michelin-level dining, serious sport programming and impressive wellness offerings sustain long-stay appeal. roundhill.com

BEST WINE COUNTRY ESCAPE: THE YEATMAN, PORTUGAL

The Yeatman brings disciplined luxury to Porto, defined by its wine focus and commanding Douro views. A Relais & Châteaux member with a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, it pairs hillside seclusion with Port-lodge heritage, a Wine Spa and indoor-outdoor infinity pools across 7 landscaped acres. theyeatman-hotel.com

BEST ANTARCTIC ADVENTURE: ALE THREE GLACIERS RETREAT, ANTARCTICA

Three Glaciers operates as an ultra-remote Antarctic outpost at the base of Mount Sporli, where three ice fields converge. Set within the Heritage Range, it offers serious access to snowmobiling, ski touring, climbing and polar trekking in a stark, high-Alpine environment defined by scale, silence and logistical precision. antarctic-logistics.com

BEST FAMILY RESORT: BAHA MAR, BAHAMAS

Baha Mar offers countless activities for families, from a massive water park to communing with the resident flamingos. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND

Spanning 1,000 beachfront acres on Nassau’s Cable Beach, Baha Mar is a glam sanctuary featuring three iconic hotels (Grand Hyatt, SLS, Rosewood), the Caribbean’s largest casino and a Jack Nicklausdesigned golf course. Families adore the luxury water park, flamingo sanctuary and worldclass dining overlooking pristine turquoise waters. bahamar.com

BEST LUXURY CRUISE, FRENCH POLYNESIA: PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES

Immerse yourself in French Polynesia aboard the 330-guest Paul Gauguin. PHOTO BY TIM MCKENNA/PONANT

Sailing through the idyllic waters of Tahiti, Bora Bora and beyond, this luxury line offers an intimate, all-inclusive luxury experience aboard the 330-guest m/s Paul Gauguin. Guests enjoy expert-led cultural excursions, water sports from an onboard marina and authentic Polynesian hospitality, making every voyage a seamless blend of adventure and indulgence. pgcruises.com

BEST TIMELESS EUROPEAN LUXURY: HOTEL PALACE PORTOROŽ, SLOVENIA

A century-old landmark in Portorož, this grand hotel balances secession, Bauhaus and art deco architecture with a considered modern restoration. Set within a historic park in Istria, it provides access to Slovenia’s cultural highlights while maintaining a composed, heritage-led atmosphere suited to deliberate, unhurried stays. minorhotels.com

BEST NEW HOTEL, DUBAI: MANDARIN ORIENTAL DOWNTOWN 

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The property (christened last fall) sits within Wasl Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road, blending Asian heritage with local character. The 259-room hotel, 224 residences and 10 dining venues crown a sculptural tower featuring a rooftop helipad, sustainable design and a new standard for contemporary urban luxury. mandarinoriental.com

BEST HOTEL RENOVATION, EUROPE: HÔTEL MÉTROPOLE, MONTE CARLO, MONACO

Hôtel Métropole Monte-Carlo has unveiled 45 rooms and suites reimagined by Jacques Garcia. Mediterranean tones and bespoke furnishings evoke timeless elegance, and Spa Métropole by Guerlain complements the design with exceptional treatments, including the Heat Experience, a ritual of alternating warmth and cold for revitalization. metropole.com/en

BEST NEW WINE COUNTRY PROPERTY, U.S.: APPELLATION HEALDSBURG, CALIFORNIA

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With 108 rooms, suites, expansive balconies and curated culinary touches, guests enjoy two Charlie Palmer restaurants, Terroir Spa, pools, walking trails and immersive workshops. Bonus: It’s set within 8.5 acres of vineyards, gardens and scenic landscapes reflecting the heart of Sonoma wine country. appellationhotels.com

MOST ANTICIPATED OPENINGS OF 2026

BVLGARI RESORT RANFUSHI, MALDIVES

The newest jewel in Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio brings the Roman house’s unmistakable glamour to a private Maldivian island, pairing Italian design, overwater villas and signature Bvlgari hospitality with crystalline lagoons and one of the most anticipated resort debuts in the Indian Ocean. bulgarihotels.com

LA RÉSERVE FIRENZE, ITALY

La Réserve Firenze will transform a historic riverside 15th-century palazzo in Florence into an intimate sanctuary. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

Poised to bring Michel Reybier’s refined sensibility to Florence, La Réserve Firenze will transform a historic riverside 15th-century palazzo into an intimate urban sanctuary, blending Renaissance grandeur with the brand’s signature emphasis on privacy, impeccable service and quietly luxurious design. lareserve.com/firenze

NIHI ROTE, INDONESIA

A new sister property to the cult-favorite NIHI Sumba is set to make a splash on the remote island of Rote; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRANDS

From the team behind the cult-favorite NIHI Sumba comes this new frontier of barefoot luxury on the remote island of Rote, where a handful of oceanfront villas, world-class surf breaks and immersive cultural programming promise a deeply restorative escape thoughtfully shaped by nature and local tradition. nihi.com

THE RITZ-CARLTON BELLAGIO, ITALY

Poised to debut later this year, The Ritz-Carlton Bellagio is set to bring timeless luxury to the shores of Lake Como. Expect opulent suites, exquisite dining and breathtaking views in an unforgettable Italian escape. ritzcarlton.com

WYNN AL MARJAN ISLAND, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Rising on Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Marjan Island, this ambitious beachfront resort marks Wynn’s first Middle Eastern property, bringing the brand’s signature theatrical luxury—towering architecture, world-class dining and a vibrant entertainment scene—to the shores of the Arabian Gulf. wynnresorts.com