Five thumb hotels by region
Take a look at the hotels that have consistently delivered to the highest levels. These hotel are not necessarily selected for their star rating but more for "getting it right"!
Argentina
Awasi Iguazu
Awasi Iguazu is a new, luxury option, in and around the Iguazu Falls on the Argentine side of the border. Owned and operated by the Awasi chain (who operate a couple of the best properties in Chile, the Awasi Atacama and the Awasi Patagonia) this is a very classy new option and has shaken up the... More... Our rating:
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Chile
Explora Rapa Nui
For a number of years, Explora Rapa Nui stood head and shoulders above the competition on Rapa Nui, almost like one of the giant Moai statues to which visitors flock to see. More recently, other luxury hotels have opened on the island; yet Explora arguably remains the top pick. We believe that... More... Our rating:
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Hotel AWA
Hotel Awa is an architectural marvel with breathtaking view of the Osorno volcano from its secluded position on the shoreline of Lake Llanquihue. After 2 ½ years of construction, Awa opened its doors in November 2016 and has become the place to stay for those looking to treat themselves whilst... More... Our rating:
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Ecuador
Hotel del Parque
This opulent hotel resides in Guayaquil’s Parque Histórico (Historic Park). Built on the bank of the Rio Daule and surrounded by the botanical gardens of the park, Hotel del Parque is a tranquil haven in Ecuador’s most populous city. The hotel has a fascinating history: Originally built in 1890,... More... Our rating:
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Sacha Lodge
Located in the largest private reserve in the Ecuadorian Amazon, Sacha Lodge now owns nearly 5,000 acres of pristine rainforest. Not only does this provide a vast conservation area, free from mining, drilling, hunting and logging; it offers guests an incredible and authentic Amazon experience.... More... Our rating:
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Mashpi Lodge
Mashpi lodge must be seen to be believed. Built on the site of a former timber mill, this architectural marvel is surrounded by 2,500 acres of pristine Cloud forest reserve. Incredibly, not a single tree was felled in creating the property or the single access road. The visionary owner – former... More... Our rating:
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Napo Wildlife Center Ecolodge
Napo Wildlife Ecolodge offers a luxurious stay in the privileged, Amazonian setting of the Yasuni National Park – Ecuador’s largest protected area. Since 2003, the property has been run by and for the local Kichwa Añangu inhabitants; balancing an authentic, exclusive experience for guests and... More... Our rating:
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Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel
Our pick of the hotels on Isla Isabela. The Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel is the newest property in Puerto Villamil and, for us, delivers on all fronts. Located on a beautiful beach, you really can sit and watch iguanas crossing the golden sand dunes; all from the comfort of the picturesque... More... Our rating:
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Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel
The luxurious Finch Bay Hotel is rightfully listed on the prestigious National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, and is certainly one of our favourite properties found in the Galapagos. There are countless reasons choose this hotel for your stay in the Enchanted Islands, especially for... More... Our rating:
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Illa Experience Hotel
A beautifully restored 10-bedroom property that dates back over 300 years, the Illa Experience Hotel flawlessly blends colonial history and contemporary design. The hotel embraces its San Marcos neighbourhood location, famous for the artistic community that has thrived in this part of the city’s... More... Our rating:
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Casa Gangotena
This lavish hotel have prime location on Plaza de San Francisco, overlooking the bustling square and imposing Baroque church of the same name. Whilst most the original colonial mansion was destroyed in a fire in 1914, the property was gloriously rebuilt over the next decade by Quito’s esteemed... More... Our rating:
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M/C Endemic
What sets this luxury yacht apart from its competitors is the staggeringly size of the cabins – over 340sq. ft. of your own space. At times, it is easy to forget you are on a boat! The best way to remind yourself that you are, is to step out onto the cabin’s equally roomy, private balcony and take... More... Our rating:
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Galapagos Safari Camp
The Galapagos Safari Camp goes far beyond just impressive tents to deliver an extraordinary experience. Set in the heart of Santa Cruz’s highlands on a 120-acre former farm, the property excels in responsible luxury and responsible travel. The camp is respectfully designed to have a minimal... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Plaza Grande
This majestic, opulent hotel surely wins the ‘best location’ accolade, sitting, as it does, on one corner of Quito’s main square – Plaza de la Independencia (also known as Plaza Grande). Sharing the square is the Presidential palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, Archbishop’s palace and City Hall; very... More... Our rating:
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Pikaia Lodge
The location, design and execution of Pikaia Lodge is nothing short of spectacular. Set atop an extinct volcano crater, carpeted in lush vegetation, the views over Santa Cruz island and across to Santa Fe Island really are captivating…especially from the comfort of the infinity pool! With two... More... Our rating:
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The M/C Elite
Since its maiden voyage in June 2019, the Elite has set the bar for luxury travel with eco-credentials in the Galapagos. Like her sister ship – the Endemic – the Elite is owned, operated and built by an Ecuadorian team boasting decades of experience in the tourism, conservation and maritime... More... Our rating:
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Golden Bay Galapagos Hotel
Apart from the risk of losing your sunlounger to a sea lion, the Golden Bay Galapagos hotel is the ideal place to stay and enjoy the charms of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The property overlooks Playa de Oro (Golden Beach); and it is hard to find a more enjoyable experience in town than sitting in the... More... Our rating:
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The M/Y Grace
The Grace is steeped in history and offers Old World charm combined with modern-day technology. The yacht was built back in the 1920’s and boasts a remarkable sequence of chapters in her life; from a party-boat for the super wealthy to being utilised by the British Navy during WWII (Churchill’s... More... Our rating:
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M/V Origin
The Origin and her identical sister ship (The Theory) are the only luxury yachts operating in the Galapagos with the famed Relais & Châteaux affiliation. Therefore passengers are assured a high standard of comfort and service, with exceptional cuisine to boot. All the social areas, as well as... More... Our rating:
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M/V Theory
The Theory and her identical sister ship (The Origin) are the only luxury yachts operating in the Galapagos with the famed Relais & Châteaux affiliation. Therefore passengers are assured a high standard of comfort and service, with exceptional cuisine to boot. All the social areas, as well as... More... Our rating:
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Colombia
Hacienda Bambusa
When it comes to immersing oneself in Colombia’s premium coffee region, Hacienda Bambusa really does have it all. This beautiful, 8-bedroom property’s tranquil setting is a private estate bursting with cacao, banana, plantain & lemon trees and an abundance of birdlife. There are plenty of... More... Our rating:
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Hotel de la Opera
Hotel de la Opera consists of two separates houses: One from the Colonial period of the 1800s; and the other built during the Art Deco movement in the 1940s. The result is a fascinating hybrid with centuries of history. Indeed, it is claimed that the original colonial house accommodated the... More... Our rating:
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Four Seasons Casa Medina
The Four Seasons Casa Medina offers the perfect blend of historic architecture with contemporary design. Built in 1945 and converted into a hotel in 1988, Casa Medina has the distinction of being declared a monument of culture by the Colombian Ministry of Culture. From the imposing façade that... More... Our rating:
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Casa Legado
Casa Legado feels like home. Not your actual home, but the home you wish you had! Tucked away in the peaceful, quirky district of Quinta Camacho, Casa Legado offers 7 uniquely luxurious rooms (the owner Helena, is an interior designer) all inspired by the core theme of the property – family.... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Cosmos Ananda
Hotel Cosmos Ananda is a beautifully restored 16th-century townhouse in the heart of Cartagena’s picturesque walled city. Featuring just 23 spacious rooms and suites, the property is a peaceful sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Cartagena’s mesmerising cobbled streets. With a spa and two... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Las Islas
Hotel Las Islas is an enchanting, beachfront property in the forest of Isla Baru, which can only be accessed via boat or helicopter. This oasis of Caribbean serenity can leave you somewhat speechless – an incredible design where you can chose to live and dine in the treetops or down at beach... More... Our rating:
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Brazil
Fasano Rio de Janeiro
The modern and luxurious Hotel Fasano has one of the best locations in Rio, right in Ipanema. Designed by the architect Philippe Starck, everything in the hotel speaks comfort and luxury, making it one of the most sought-after places to stay in the city. The pièce de résistance, however, is... More... Our rating:
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Belmond Hotel das Cataratas
Owned and managed by the superb Belmond chain, Hotel das Cataratas is the only alternative to the Melia Hotel that has views to the falls themselves. Being on the Brazilian side means that, arguably, the views themselves are even better than from the Argentine side and so, it is logical, that the... More... Our rating:
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Caiman Ecological Refuge
A model for ecotourism and conservation projects, and set within the boundaries of a 53 000-hectare ranch, the Caiman Ecological Refuge offers some of the best opportunities to view wildlife and, of course, the elusive Jaguar, in the Southern Pantanal. Comfortable accommodation, delicious home-... More... Our rating:
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Ponta dos Ganchos
The Ponta dos Ganchos resort near Florianópolis is one of Brazil’s most exclusive beach resorts. The perfect getaway for couples and honeymooners, it guarantees complete intimacy and privacy. Our rating:
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Uxua Casa Hotel
With probably the best location of all of the hotels in Trancoso, right on the Quadrado, and with beautifully designed private ‘casas’, Uxua Casa Hotel is the height of laid-back luxury. Uxua aims to make its guests feel as if they are in their own home while offering all of the amenities of a 5*... More... Our rating:
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Pestana Convento do Carmo
The Convento do Carmo is Salvador’s most luxurious and exclusive hotel. Set within a restored convent the hotel is a haven of calm and tranquility from the busy and humid city outside. Boasting a long list of famous names on its guest books, there’s no doubt that this is the place to stay in... More... Our rating:
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Cristalino Lodge
Considered to be the best lodge in the Brazilian Amazon for wildlife enthusiasts, and voted one of the best ecolodges in the world, Cristalino Lodge is a very special property! With expert specialist guides from all over the world, comfortable accommodation designed to integrate with its... More... Our rating:
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Hotel Santa Teresa MGallery by Sofitel
The Hotel Santa Teresa, now owned by Sofitel, is a luxurious boutique hotel in the hilltop district of Santa Teresa. Set within a restored colonial mansion, this hotel has character and style in abundance, with beautifully decorated rooms, an intimate bar and restaurant and a peaceful pool area... More... Our rating:
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The Belmond Copacabana Palace
Without a doubt, Rio’s most famous hotel, the Copacabana Palace has a long history of attracting guests with deep pockets due to its impeccable service and lavish facilities. With one of its restaurants having just been awarded a Michelin star, there’s no doubt that this hotel is still at the top... More... Our rating:
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Anavilhanas Lodge
One of the most luxurious and comfortable lodges in the Amazon, Anavilhanas sits at the edge of the largest inland archipelago in the world and the Anavilhanas National Park. Located at the banks of the River Negro the lodge provides a variety of excursions exploring the flora and fauna of the... More... Our rating:
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The Miramar by Windsor
The Hotel Miramar is a modern five star hotel just steps from Copacabana beach. With innovative features including a rooftop infinity-edge swimming pool, sound-proofed floors and solar panels, a lot of attention has been paid to the design and feel of this hotel, making it one of our favourites. Our rating:
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Villa Bahia
Villa Bahia is an excellent choice for anyone looking to stay in the heart of Salvador’s historic Pelourinho district; Salvador’s UNESCO World Heritage listed quarter. With beautifully decorated rooms, welcoming and attentive staff, delicious food and, of course, a great location, Villa Bahia... More... Our rating:
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Casa Mosquito
The Casa Mosquito is an open and airy boutique hotel on a hillside overlooking Copacabana and Ipanema, with views up to the pacified favela of Canto de Galho. For those looking for an alternative to the large beachfront hotels of Copacabana and Ipanema, this French-owned hotel with its arty design... More... Our rating:
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Tierra del Fuego
Arakur Ushuaia Resort & Spa
There is no doubt that when the Arakur Hotel was conceived, it was to ruffle the feathers of the other high end properties of the region and to try and challenge the Alpine style of the competition. The imposing granite and copper structure sits atop the hills at the edge of town, looking down... More... Our rating:
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