1. Anantara Medjumbe Island Resort & Spa, Mozambique
Located on a private island off the coast of Mozambique, the newest Anantara resort offers 12 thatched-roof villas, each with private plunge pools and hammocks, the ideal place to while away an evening after a day of snorkelling or diving – some of the best in the world. Back on dry land, the resort’s spa welcomes guests with treatments such as the Glacial Marble Massage, combining cooling stones with indigenous massage techniques. anantara.com
2. Castle Hotel, Dalian
It may look like it has been plucked from a fairytale, but this Bavarian-style hotel is the newest property in Starwood’s Luxury Collection portfolio, located in Dalian in northeast China. Overlooking Xinghai Bay and the Yellow Sea, the property boasts sprawling grounds and a 292-room, 29-suite offering. British-inspired afternoon tea is available daily and guests can enjoy cognac, whisky and cigars at the Aristocrat lounge. Some restaurants are focused on Cantonese and seafood, while the Royal Cellar celebrates the hotel’s Bavarian style with a German menu and a micro-brewery. starwoodhotels.com
3. Hotel Montreal, Christchurch
Christchurch continues to rebuild and evolve apace, with the latest addition a 25-room boutique lodging. All accommodations feature complimentary wi-fi and striking modern artworks, with private balconies overlooking large grass lawns – cocktails and croquet, anyone? The hotel’s Polo Bar, meanwhile, is inspired by the polo teams of Argentina, with the menu listing South American favourites such as ceviche and empanadas. Or, dine al fresco by outdoor fires and enjoy platters of Argentinian meats, cooked over coals. hotelmontreal.co.nz
4. Aman Tokyo
Amanresorts’ first city property, Aman Tokyo, occupies the top six floors of the Otemachi Tower. The 84 rooms and suites ring a peaceful courtyard and offer stunning views over the Imperial Palace Gardens. Kerry Hill designed the accommodations and blends Japanese traditions with contemporary flair – camphor wood, washi paper and stone are used throughout, and in-room niceties include furo (deep soaking tubs). A spa, cigar lounge and library round out the offerings. amanresorts.com
5. Ovolo Southside, Hong Kong
The newest Ovolo property stands out for its artful design and plentiful perks – think, free breakfast, laundry, wi-fi, shuttle bus and drinks at happy hour. Rooms range from the tastefully decorated mini-twins up to the spacious Long Loft. Regardless of which room you check in to you can be guaranteed a plush bed with feather duvet, rain showers and Malin+Goetz amenities. Head to the rooftop bar, Above, for creative cocktails and views over leafy Shouson Hill in Aberdeen. ovolohotels.com
