1. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
Dubai, UAE
Designed by architect Shaun Killa, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab’s architecture draws inspiration from the sleek lines of a superyacht. The resort features 387 sea-facing rooms and suites, each with expansive terraces and interiors that pay homage to the elegance of 1960s Italian Riva yachts. Culinary experiences abound with 11 restaurants and bars, including a transformative dining venue that evolves throughout the day and a patisserie by celebrated pastry chef Pierre Hermé. The resort also boasts a three-story Talise Spa, offering a range of wellness treatments, and an 82-berth marina accommodating yachts, enhancing the nautical theme. Positioned on a private peninsula, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab offers direct beach access, multiple swimming pools and lush landscaped gardens, providing guests with a serene oasis in the heart of Dubai.
2. The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao’an
Guangdong Province, China
The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao’an brings a blend of heritage and modern luxury to Shenzhen’s western waterfront. The hotel offers 195 guest rooms and suites, each with views over Qianhai Bay or the Pearl River estuary. Interiors draw from the brand’s New York roots while incorporating Chinese design elements, including local artwork and materials. The lobby is home to a modern interpretation of the traditional Chinese garden and a grand staircase inspired by the original St. Regis in Manhattan. Dining venues include Yan Ting, offering Cantonese cuisine; Social, an all-day dining space; and a Japanese restaurant, HARMONY, with a dedicated sushi bar and omakase experience. The property also includes an outdoor infinity pool and a spa with six treatment rooms.
Marriott.com/stregis
3. Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard
Bucharest, Romania
Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard Bucharest sits at the intersection of Calea Victoriei and Regina Elisabeta Boulevard; a restored Belle Époque landmark balancing 19th-century elegance with contemporary design. Originally opened in 1873 and now recognised as a national monument, the building has undergone a major renovation. The result is an intimate, residential-style hotel with 30 suites featuring bespoke furnishings, curated artwork and expansive city views. The cultural programme includes partnerships with local artists and performers, plus off-site excursions such as heli-trips into the Carpathian Mountains. Dining options include modern French-Romanian cuisine at Boulevard 73, an outpost of Monaco’s Sass’ Restaurant & Lounge and Heritage Bar.
Corinthia.com/bucharest
4. Kanai
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Kanai, an expansive development along Mexico’s Riviera Maya coast, is positioning itself as a leading destination for sustainable luxury travel. Located on 680 acres of protected coastline and mangrove forest, the site currently hosts three high-end resorts—Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection (opened 2021); The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai (opened 2024); and The St. Regis Kanai Resort (opened 2023)—with Mandarin Oriental Kanai set to open in 2027. Each resort occupies part of a master-planned layout that preserves 90 per cent of the surrounding land. The result is a secluded coastal luxury enclave that integrates wellness, design and cultural experiences with low-impact development.
Kanai’s programming spans from culinary offerings by renowned chefs to eco-conscious excursions and wellness rituals rooted in Mayan traditions. Rotating brand partnerships add to the lifestyle mix, with 2025 highlights including the launch of a pop-up from Hamptons-based seafood restaurant Duryea’s, and a collaboration with British menswear label Orlebar Brown. The destination also features high-end retail, private residences and cultural programming designed to reflect the natural and spiritual heritage of the Yucatán Peninsula. With direct access to white sand beaches and inland jungle trails, the site offers both seclusion and variety for travellers seeking privacy without compromise.
Kanai.mx
