As we bid farewell to 2023, it's time to take a reflective journey through the year's most exquisite luxury hotels! And who better to recommend these properties than our GTN travel advisors? Join us as we rewind and relive the year through their discerning eyes, uncovering the crème de la crème of accommodations that captured their hearts and defined luxury in 2023.
The following list of luxury hotels are categorized alphabetically with no correspondence to numerical order they are listed in.
1. Abadia Retuerta, a Leading Hotels of the World Property 1.
Valladolid, Spain
This exquisite hotel/former twelfth-century monastery defies belief. No detail was lost from walking the candlelight halls of the cloister to exceptional dinners (including a Michelin-star restaurant) to the in-depth tour of the property and winery. The staff seemed to know where you were going before you got there and pointed out incredible art and details along the way. This property has a winery, and the wines were so spectacular that we did not need to visit any other wineries in the area. We absolutely enjoyed the peace and respite of the property to recharge and relax. All the little touches from the staff were truly the best part! - GTN Advisor Cindy Dykman of Inspired Travel Designs
2. Banyan Tree Krabi, An Accor Property
Krabi, Thailand
This property is a recent addition to the collection and I was blown away by the views from all over the resort, with none of the congestion & chaos you see in Phuket. Quintessential Thailand beaches with a luxurious touch! - GTN Advisor Julie Matheson of Travel Julia’s Way
3. Chablé Yucatan, a Leading Hotels of the World Property
Yucatan, Mexico
The service was absolutely unmatched! Everyone even held our infant while we ate our meals. I would not hesitate to send clients here - gorgeous villas all with a private pool. Very authentic Mexico. - GTN Advisor Nicole Shipper of Trips By Nic
4. Dar Ahlam, Morocco – Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Koucheït, Morocco
Where do I begin? The service, decor, peaceful and quiet! Every meal (food is fantastic) is served in a different private setting in the gorgeous restored gardens. - GTN Advisor Jackie Wammock of Travelera Partners
5. Fairmont Doha
Doha, Qatar
The Raffles/Fairmont Doha. Two hotels in one iconic architectural marvel. The opulence, extravagance, the service, afternoon tea in the Dome, the food and the view - I stayed on the Fairmont side and had a breathtaking view of the Raffles side from my terrace. I was speechless. - GTN Advisor Eysa Portugues of The Splendid Life Travel Designs
6. Hotel Sacher Vienna, a Leading Hotels of the World Property
Vienna, Austria
I knew about the delicious Sacher Torte served at the historic Sacher Cafe. I was excited to stay at the hotel. We arrived, and when they mentioned they could get us into the famous cafe despite the long line outside, we were so excited! Then they made it all happen within 10 minutes when they found out we only had a very short stay! They took us in the back way and got us in immediately. Our room was a great example of old-world elegance, and each employee was so hospitable and took pride in their work. It was a beautiful experience! - GTN Advisor Pam Smithgall, South Shore Travel
7. One & Only Portonovi, a Kerzner property
Portonovi, Montenegro
Gorgeous property, such attention to detail in the room, beautiful in every way - GTN Advisor Lisa Reich of Majestic Getaway
8. Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme
Paris, France
This gorgeous property is best described as extremely elegant with contemporary decor and in line with what you would expect from place vendôme, the heart of a haute joaillerie! - GTN Advisor Céline Swicegood of Azurom
9. San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel
Taormina, Italy
Four Seasons has transformed San Domenico, retaining its historical grandeur while being refreshed and vibrant - the perfect marriage of old and new. Infinity pool with Dolce and Gabbana-styled umbrellas and daybeds create a chic and joyful experience. Rooms are spectacular and modern in the Four Seasons style. The grounds, food, and service... all outstanding.- GTN Advisor Caroline Schupbach of The Bespoke Itinerary
10. The St. Regis Venice
Venice, Italy
I loved our stay at the St Regis in Venice in a canal view room. It is not an overly fussy or stuffy hotel like some 5-stars in Italy. You can’t beat eating breakfast overlooking the Grand Canal and it’s close to all of the great shopping. - GTN Advisor Jessica Younginer, Luxury Journeys by Jess
11. The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort
The Bahamas
Located on an endless stretch of white powdery beach on Paradise Island. The Ocean Club features newly renovated rooms, attentive yet discreet service, and six tennis courts. The resort has impeccable cuisine and Versailles-inspired gardens. Fun fact: Guests staying at this private location have the privilege of using the Atlantis waterpark and can naturally enjoy The Bahamas' 40+ shades of crystal blue waters for snorkeling and scuba diving, too. The spa is also a wonderful oasis. - GTN Advisor Sharon Strelzer of Travel Made Special
