{"id":8699290,"date":"2022-12-27T11:12:04","date_gmt":"2022-12-27T19:12:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.eastbaytimes.com\/?p=8699290&preview=true&preview_id=8699290"},"modified":"2023-01-07T11:38:57","modified_gmt":"2023-01-07T19:38:57","slug":"the-best-hotels-to-book-in-2023","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.eastbaytimes.com\/2022\/12\/27\/the-best-hotels-to-book-in-2023\/","title":{"rendered":"The best hotels to book in 2023"},"content":{"rendered":"
By Kris Fordham | CNN<\/strong><\/div>\n

The coming year is looking to be a promising one for travel, with restrictions disappearing in many countries, new flight routes launching, and the hotel industry bringing its A game after two years of uncertainty.<\/p>\n

From next-level luxury escapes in Dubai, Mozambique and the Maldives to hip urban hideaways in Paris, Sydney and Palm Springs, this year\u2019s exciting array of new hotels has something for every traveler (and budget!).<\/p>\n

We\u2019ve handpicked 20 incredible hotels with openings in 2022 and 2023 for you to stay at \u2014 or dream of \u2014 in the new year.<\/p>\n

Starting rates are included where available.<\/p>\n

\"Luxury
Luxury travel company andBeyond will be launching its first lodge in Asia with this opening in September 2023.(andbeyond.com) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

andBeyond Punakha River Lodge, Bhutan<\/h3>\n

Known for its beautiful African safaris, the luxury travel company andBeyond will be launching its first lodge in Asia with the opening of Punakha River Lodge in Bhutan in September 2023.<\/p>\n

The lodge will feature just six safari-style tented suites, plus two villas with private plunge pools and hot tubs (depending on the season). With its spectacular location on the banks of the Mo Chhu River deep in the Punakha Valley, each suite boasts stunning 360-degree views over the surrounding Eastern Himalayas.<\/p>\n

Other diversions include nature hikes, temple visits, paddy field lunches and traditional Bhutanese hot stone baths.<\/p>\n

andBeyond Punakha River Lodge<\/em><\/a>, Punakha Valley, Bhutan<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Guests
Guests can choose from 38 castaway-chic beach villas or 42 equally luxurious overwater villas.(Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa, Maldives<\/h3>\n

Situated on a lush tropical island on a glittering turquoise lagoon in the Raa Atoll, Emerald Faarufushi is the literal definition of paradise. Here, guests can choose from 38 castaway-chic beach villas, or 42 equally luxe overwater villas, perched on stilts above the ocean, each with its own private plunge pool.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s also a sprawling spa, a dive center, one of the biggest kids\u2019 clubs in the Maldives and five restaurants (which you\u2019ll enjoy even more knowing the resort is all-inclusive). Emerald Faarufushi, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, opened in October 2022.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $1,378 all-inclusive.<\/p>\n

Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa<\/em><\/a>, Faarufushi Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives<\/em><\/p>\n

\"This
This hot spring ryokan is nestled between Mount Yufu and the rice fields of Oita.(Hoshino Resorts) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hoshino Resort KAI Yufuin, Japan<\/h3>\n

It doesn\u2019t get much more scenic than KAI Yufuin, a luxurious hot spring ryokan nestled between Mount Yufu and the famous rice fields of Oita. The stunning property \u2014 opened in August 2022 \u2014 was designed by Kengo Kuma (named the world\u2019s most influential architect in 2021 by TIME) and features just 45 rooms hidden amidst cascading rice terraces.<\/p>\n

What you\u2019re really here for, though, are the onsen (hot springs) \u2014 there are three on site for guests to enjoy. But for the ultimate relaxation, book yourself a suite with its own outdoor onsen, so you can soak in the healing, mineral-rich waters in total privacy.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $250.<\/p>\n

Hoshino Resort KAI Yufuin<\/em><\/a>, 879-5102 398 Kawakami, Yufuincho, Yufu-shi, Oita<\/em><\/p>\n

\"The
The Frank Gehry-designed Conrad features 305 plush rooms framed by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the City of Angels.(Conrad Hotels) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Conrad Los Angeles, California<\/h3>\n

When luxury hotel group Conrad made its first foray into California, it spared no expense: the Frank Gehry-designed Conrad Los Angeles opened in summer 2022 and features 305 plush rooms framed by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the City of Angels.<\/p>\n

Highlights include not one, but two signature restaurants from celebrity chef Jos\u00e9 Andr\u00e9s: San Laurel, an upscale Spanish-Californian eatery and the rooftop Agua Viva, which serves up cocktails and Latin-Asian bites.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s also a luxurious, 7,000-square-foot spa that offers guests the latest in wellness technology \u2014 think circulation-boosting compression boots and wearable bio-hacking discs that deepen relaxation. Next-level stuff.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $490.<\/p>\n

Conrad Los Angeles<\/em><\/a>, 100 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, California<\/em><\/p>\n

The St. Regis Kanai Resort, Riviera Maya, Mexico<\/h3>\n

The St. Regis Kanai stuns from the outset with its otherworldly design, drawing inspiration from the geometry of local mangroves and the constellation Pleiades, a star cluster with significance to Mayan culture. The resort, hidden in a 620-acre nature reserve along Mexico\u2019s Yucat\u00e1n Peninsula, is split into intersecting circles, built from white concrete and reflective crystal.<\/p>\n

All 124 guestrooms and 20 suites will have ocean views; there are 32 additional villas with private plunge pools. There\u2019s also a spa, two golf courses and five restaurants (including a tequila and mezcal bar, naturally). The St. Regis Kanai is slated to open in May 2023.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $1,015.<\/p>\n

The St. Regis Kanai Resort<\/em><\/a>, Paseo Kanai 15, Solidaridad, Playa Del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico<\/em><\/p>\n

\"A
A heated infinity pool framed by floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooks the city at The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne.(The Ritz-Carlton) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne, Australia<\/h3>\n

With a high-speed elevator that whisks guests straight up to the 80th floor lobby, The Ritz-Carlton is set to be Australia\u2019s tallest hotel when it opens in March 2023. The \u201csky lobby\u201d \u2014 and the hotel\u2019s 257 rooms and suites \u2014 will boast unparalleled views of the Yarra River, Marvel Stadium and the city skyline.<\/p>\n

Other hotel highlights include an infinity pool framed by floor-to-ceiling glass windows (indoors and heated, of course, in a nod to Melbourne\u2019s notoriously erratic weather) and a sprawling wellness center featuring a yoga studio, a sauna, two vitality pools and six treatment rooms.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $450.<\/p>\n

The Ritz-Carlton Melbourne<\/em><\/a>, 650 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Victoria<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Tucked
Tucked in the heart of the wildlife-rich Nambiti Private Game Reserve, the Homestead features 12 suites and infinity pool.(The Homestead) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Homestead, Nambiti, South Africa<\/h3>\n

This new eco-conscious luxury safari lodge is what bucket list dreams are made of: it\u2019s tucked in the heart of the wildlife-rich Nambiti Private Game Reserve and features 12 suites that are as sustainable as they are plush.<\/p>\n

While many safaris focus solely on game drives, The Homestead will offer a range of experiences, such as animal photography classes, biking excursions, cooking with local ingredients and taking part in sustainable initiatives. For the more relaxation-inclined, there\u2019s also an infinity pool with views out onto the savannah, perfect for lounging with a G&T in hand. The Homestead is slated to open in late 2023.<\/p>\n

The Homestead<\/em><\/a>, Nambiti Private Game Reserve, Ladysmith, 3370, South Africa<\/em><\/p>\n

\"1
1 Hotels are bringing their distinct brand of sustainable luxury to Hawaii with the opening of their Kauai outpost in February 2023. (1 Hotel Hanalei Bay) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, Hawaii<\/h3>\n

1 Hotels is bringing its distinct brand of sustainable luxury to Hawaii with the opening of its Kauai outpost in February 2023. Its 252 rooms will feature reclaimed wood furnishings, beds dressed with organic cotton linens and plenty of native greenery.<\/p>\n

Like all 1 Hotels, the resort is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certified and carbon neutral, and will limit single-use plastics and work closely with local farmers and fishermen to provide ingredients for their restaurants.<\/p>\n

Sustainability aside, the hotel\u2019s biggest draw is its location. Nestled on the shore of Hanalei Bay beneath the lush, soaring cliffs of Makana Mountain, it offers some of the most breathtaking views in Hawaii from the hotel\u2019s sweeping Sunset Terrace.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $1,164.<\/p>\n

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay<\/em><\/a>, 5520 Ka Haku Road, Princeville, Kauai<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Ace
Ace Hotels\u2019 latest outpost in Sydney might just be its coolest property yet.(Anson Smart) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Ace Hotel Sydney, Australia<\/h3>\n

Known for its chic boutique hotels in Brooklyn, Palm Springs and Kyoto, Ace Hotels\u2019 latest outpost in Sydney (its first and only hotel south of the equator) might just be its coolest one yet.<\/p>\n

The sleek 264-room property sits at the heart of hip Surry Hills, flanked by cafes, bars and art galleries. In a nod to its eclectic address, its rooms feature exposed brick walls, handwoven wool blankets, vintage record players and acoustic guitars.<\/p>\n

Hotel highlights include a killer Australian art collection scattered throughout the property and rooftop restaurant Kiln, which serves up thrilling contemporary Aussie fare \u2014 with views to match.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $350.<\/p>\n

Ace Hotel Sydney<\/em><\/a>, 47\/53 Wentworth Ave, Sydney<\/em><\/p>\n

\"This
This 76-room hotel is flanked by miles of citrus groves, small farms and quaint cobblestone villages.(Viceroy Hotels & Resorts) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Viceroy at Ombria Resort Algarve, Portugal<\/h3>\n

Though Viceroy Hotels is best known for their sleek oceanfront hideouts in Saint Lucia, Los Cabos and Santa Monica, its newest outpost in Portugal will be nestled amidst 150 acres of lush, hilly countryside.<\/p>\n

The 76-room hotel makes for the perfect country escape, flanked by miles of citrus groves, small farms and quaint cobblestone villages. But don\u2019t let its pastoral surroundings fool you: in signature Viceroy style, the property is as plush as any resort in Capri or St. Tropez \u2014 complete with infinity pools, a sprawling spa and an 18-hole golf course.<\/p>\n

Viceroy at Ombria Resort Algarve<\/em><\/a>, Rua Miguel Bombarda, Nr 3, 8100-746 Loul\u00e9, Algarve, Portugal<\/em><\/p>\n

\"This
This jaw-dropping feat of architecture boasts 795 lavish rooms, 44 suites with infinity pools, 17 restaurants and bars and a massive Skypool.(Francois Nel\/Getty Images) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Atlantis The Royal, Dubai<\/h3>\n

There\u2019s luxury, and then there\u2019s Atlantis The Royal: a jaw-dropping feat of architecture that boasts 795 lavish rooms, 44 suites with infinity pools, 17 restaurants and bars (including eight helmed by celebrity chefs like Heston Blumenthal, Nobu Matsuhisa and Jos\u00e9 Andr\u00e9s) and a 295-foot-long Skypool on the 22nd floor that will have guests feel like they\u2019re swimming in the clouds.<\/p>\n

In case all of that weren\u2019t enough to make it stand out, the extravagant hotel is also home to the world\u2019s largest jellyfish aquarium, a water fountain that \u201cbreathes fire\u201d and its own private beach. It\u2019s slated to open in early 2023.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $1,443.<\/p>\n

Atlantis The Royal<\/em><\/a>, Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Naviva
Naviva is Four Seasons\u2019 first tented resort in the Americas and one of its smallest resorts in the world, with only 15 tents.(Naviva via CNN) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort, Mexico<\/h3>\n

If it\u2019s a far-flung nature escape you\u2019re after, you can\u2019t beat Naviva, an unspoiled nature retreat hidden amid 48 acres of lush forest in Riviera Nayarit. The retreat, which opened on December 1, 2022, is Four Seasons\u2019 first tented resort in the Americas and one of its smallest resorts in the world, with only 15 tents.<\/p>\n

Of course, each tent has its own pool and deck with a hammock and outdoor shower \u2014 this is a Four Seasons, after all. But what sets this resort apart is its exploratory nature.<\/p>\n

From discovering fire pits hidden by the edge of the ocean to experiences like moonlit forest bathing, everything at Naviva was created to help guests connect more deeply with their natural surroundings.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $3,950 all-inclusive.<\/p>\n

Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort<\/em><\/a>, Lote H-2, M\u00e9xico 200 Km 19.5, 63734 Punta Mita, Nayarit, Mexico<\/em><\/p>\n

\"This
This charming new boutique hotel on California\u2019s Central Coast has 65 loft-style rooms, including 14 suites.(Hotel Cerro) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hotel Cerro, San Luis Obispo, California<\/h3>\n

Nestled in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, Hotel Cerro is the most charming new boutique hotel on California\u2019s Central Coast. It\u2019s got just 65 loft-style rooms, including 14 suites with soaking tubs, fireplaces and private terraces outfitted with firepits.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s sustainable to boot: the LEED-certified hotel has limited single-use plastics and offers complimentary water bottles to guests, with filtered refill stations positioned on every floor. The hotel also has its own edible organic gardens that grow seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs that are used daily in the hotel\u2019s restaurant, SLO Brasserie.<\/p>\n

Other highlights include a spa that incorporates herbs and botanicals from the hotel gardens in its treatments, and a luxe rooftop pool deck that boasts dramatic 360-degree views of the city, surrounding hills and countryside.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $305.<\/p>\n

Hotel Cerro<\/em><\/a>, 1125 Garden Street, San Luis Obispo, California<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

The Rome EDITION, Italy<\/h3>\n

The luxury lifestyle brand EDITION Hotels is set to open five new properties across the globe in 2023, but we\u2019ve got our eye on its first Italian outpost, built within a beautiful historic building just steps from Via Veneto and Bernini\u2019s Tritone Fountain.<\/p>\n

The hotel will feature 93 modern, design-centric rooms and suites, including two penthouses, each with a private terrace. Other highlights include a craft cocktail bar, an al fresco restaurant and a scenic rooftop pool and terrace with sweeping views over the Eternal City.<\/p>\n

The Rome EDITION<\/em><\/a>, official address not yet available<\/em><\/p>\n

\"This
This Banyan Tree property features 40 thatched-roof villas scattered on an island off the coast of Mozambique.(Grant Pitcher\/Banyan Tree Group) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique<\/h3>\n

With just 40 thatched-roof villas scattered about a tiny tropical island off the coast of Mozambique, Banyan Tree\u2019s newest resort might have you feeling like a castaway marooned on a remote island \u2014 albeit one with private plunge pools.<\/p>\n

Besides soaking and sunbathing, the resort will offer activities like kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving in the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, Africa\u2019s largest marine reserve, of which Ilha Caldeira is part. In an effort to conserve its pristine environment, the resort is entirely solar powered, with all water desalinized on site. It\u2019s slated to open in late 2023.<\/p>\n

Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira<\/em><\/a>, Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique<\/em><\/p>\n

\"A
A third of the rooms at this new boutique hotel in Paris\u2019 Latin Quarter have private terraces with views of the Eiffel Tower.(Jerome Galland via CNN) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

H\u00f4tel Dame des Arts, Paris, France<\/h3>\n

There are certainly flashier and fancier hotels in Paris, but chances are, they don\u2019t have the heart and spirit of this new boutique hotel in Paris\u2019 Latin Quarter. H\u00f4tel Dame des Arts has just 109 rooms, but they\u2019re thoughtfully decorated with bespoke furniture and bold original artwork (every room has its own unique collection). One third have private terraces with views of the Eiffel Tower.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a lobby-level French fusion restaurant helmed by Mexican chef Othoniel Alvarez Castaneda, as well as a sleek spa and gym outfitted with Pelotons. But the hotel\u2019s crowning jewel is its expansive rooftop bar, which serves up champagne, craft cocktails and 360-degree views over the City of Light. It\u2019s slated to open in February 2023.<\/p>\n

Rates from $305.<\/p>\n

H\u00f4tel Dame des Arts<\/em><\/a>, 4 Rue Danton, 75006 Paris, France<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Shinta
Shinta Mani Mustang\u2019s 29 suites are modeled after a traditional Tibetan home and offer show-stopping views over the Himalayas.(Shinta Mani Mustang via CNN) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Shinta Mani Mustang \u2013 A Bensley Collection, Nepal<\/h3>\n

Award-winning designer Bill Bensley has the vision behind this new lodge at the gateway of Mustang, a remote kingdom in Nepal that was forbidden to outsiders for centuries. Starting from May 2023, guests can book a stay in one of Shinta Mani Mustang\u2019s 29 suites, modeled after a traditional Tibetan home and offering show-stopping views over the Himalayas.<\/p>\n

Though there\u2019s lots to do at the lodge \u2014 there\u2019s a lovely spa and a Nepalese farm-to-table restaurant \u2014 guests are encouraged to spend time outside the grounds. Shinta Mani\u2019s highly personalized guest experience program honors the traditions of Sherpa hospitality and offers guests everything from guided, off-the-beaten-path treks to leisurely gourmet picnics.<\/p>\n

Rates start from $1,700 (all-inclusive).<\/p>\n

Shinta Mani Mustang<\/em><\/a>, Marpha-5, Jomsom, Mustang Nepal<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Though
Though the hotel was built in the 1920s, it has been completely transformed and relaunched in 2022 with stylish new rooms, villas and a poolside eatery.(Josh Cho via CNN) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Casa Cody, Palm Springs, California<\/h3>\n

If you\u2019re after luxury that\u2019s a little more low-key \u2014 and at a slightly more attainable price than many on this list \u2014 Casa Cody is the place to be.<\/p>\n

Though the hotel was built in the 1920s, it was purchased by boutique hotel firm Casetta in 2017 and completely transformed and relaunched in 2022 with stylish new rooms, villas and a poolside eatery serving up cocktails, beers and artisanal dishes.<\/p>\n

Its 30 rooms are scattered amongst acres of fragrant citrus trees (fruit pickers invite guests to help themselves) and intimate pools shaded by palm trees and lush bougainvillea. Added bonus: being located in always-balmy Palm Springs, Casa Cody offers travelers a summer escape all year round.<\/p>\n

Rates from $199.<\/p>\n

Casa Cody<\/em><\/a>, 175 S Cahuilla Rd, Palm Springs, California<\/em><\/p>\n

\"The
The Peninsula Istanbul sits on the banks of the Bosphorus.(The Peninsula Hotels) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Peninsula Istanbul, Turkey<\/h3>\n

With lush landscaped gardens and sweeping water views \u2014 it sits on the banks of the Bosphorus Strait \u2014 The Peninsula Istanbul is an oasis in the bustling heart of Turkey\u2019s most famous city.<\/p>\n

The property features 177 opulent guest rooms adorned with Turkish textiles, marble bathrooms and wide picture windows. It also boasts a sumptuous spa with hammam, a rooftop restaurant and two swimming pools \u2014 an outdoor pool perched on the Bosphorus waterfront, as well as a stunning indoor pool illuminated by dome skylights and flanked by Marmara columns.<\/p>\n

The Peninsula Istanbul is slated to open in February 2023. Rates start from $653.<\/p>\n

The Peninsula Istanbul<\/em><\/a>, Karak\u00f6y, Kemanke\u015f Karamustafapa\u015fa Mahallesi, Kemanke\u015f Cd. No:34, 34425 Beyo\u011flu\/\u0130stanbul, Turkey<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Hand-laid
Hand-laid mosaic tiles and cornice detailing, statues on plinths, clawfoot bathtubs and leather-bound tables feature into this new property\u2019s elegant design.(Anam Mui Ne via CNN) <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Anam Mui Ne, Vietnam<\/h3>\n