The World’s Best Hotels and Resorts, According to Travel + Leisure’s Readers: T+L 500

An extraordinary setting. Design that feels both unexpected and of-the-moment. Service that goes above and beyond. When a hotel feels truly exceptional, our readers are slow to forget. 

In the T+L 500, we present the highest-scoring hotels from our previous year’s World’s Best Awards survey. The honorees are grouped into eight geographic regions: Africa and the Middle East; Asia; Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific; Canada; the Caribbean; Europe; Mexico, Central America, and South America; and the United States.

You’ll find a spot for every type of traveler, from the beaches of Hawaii, to the vineyards of Portugal, to the lively streets of Hong Kong. Below, we spotlight 10 properties that truly embody what it takes to land on the most-loved list. You can read the full T+L 500 list in Travel + Leisure‘s May 2025 issue, on newsstands today, or digitally on Apple News+. 

Hotel Peter and Paul: New Orleans

A former Catholic school and church in New Orleans’ Marigny neighborhood, this boutique hotel is made up of four main buildings: The School House; The Rectory; The Church; and The Convent—each charming in its own right. If you’re looking for a European-style guestroom with a clawfoot tub or an expertly crafted cocktail at an award-winning bar, Hotel Peter and Paul is bound to become your new favorite place in NOLA.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection: Island of Hawaii

Along the Kohala coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, you’ll find Mauna Lani, a 333-room resort (plus private residences) spread across 32 acres of pristine, swimmable beaches. It’s perfect for families or couples: Savor fish tacos at the Surf Shack, catch a golden sunset over dinner at CanoeHouse, or watch whales on a 42-foot sporting yacht during their winter migration. 

Rosewood São Paolo: Brazil

Step into the heart of Brazil with a stay at Rosewood São Paolo, a stunning hotel housed in one of the area’s few remaining landmark buildings from the early 20th century. Developed by architect Jean Nouvel, with interiors by designer Philippe Starck, the property boasts two outdoor pools, a jazz bar, and three incredible restaurants.

Kalesma Mykonos: Greece 

For an elevated Mykonian experience, head to Kalesma Mykonos, a hideaway on the Cycladic island’s southwest corner. Kalesma means “inviting” in Greek, and that is exactly what this property is. You’ll feel that most from the comfort of your private villa, with a heated pool and spectacular sea and sunset views. 

Six Senses Douro Valley: Portugal

It’s an oenophile’s dream: a stay in a 19th-century manor in the world’s oldest demarcated wine region—which sits just above the Douro River in northern Portugal. At Six Senses Duoro Valley, you’ll find secret gardens, sprawling vineyards, and traditional cuisine made with herbs and vegetables sourced right on the estate. 

Rockhouse Hotel & Spa: Jamaica

Catch a glimpse of Negril, Jamaica’s star-studded history at Rockhouse Hotel & Spa. The iconic hotel has served as the backdrop of multiple Academy Award-nominated pictures, and it’s hosted Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, and the Rolling Stones over the years. With 40 rooms, access to 800 feet of Pristine Cove, and cliff-edge cabanas, it’s no wonder this property continues to stand the test of time. 

Mfuwe Lodge, The Bushcamp Company: Zambia

Located in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia, Mfuwe Lodge offers the trip of a lifetime for animal-obsessed, adventure-seeking, conservation-focused travelers. With 18 chalets, a photography studio, and local elephants who walk straight through the lobby, this lodge couldn’t better accommodate those looking to converge a luxury getaway and epic game drives. 

La Mamounia: Marrakech

You can’t get more opulent than a stay in one of La Mamounia’s riads, with suites that have a private entrance, traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, and 24-hour butler service. Plan to spend hours in the hammams, traditional bath houses with a luxury spin—unwinding in steam rooms, indulging in massages, and applying black soap with neroli and eucalyptus followed by a scrub. You may just want to stay in Marrakech forever.

Regent Hong Kong

Regent Hong Kong has stunning views of Hong Kong Island from its lobby lounge, 497 guestrooms and suites, and the ideal location on the edge of Victoria Harbour in Kowloon. Its calming atmosphere and high level of service will take you from the bustling streets to a haven of peace in a matter of minutes. 

Aman Kyoto

Steps from Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji Temple and 16 other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this tranquil forest escape combines minimalist, Japanese design, seasonal dining options, and traditional onsen bathing facilities all under one roof. Our readers believe there’s no better place to soak in the privacy, tranquility, and healing powers of Japan than at Aman Kyoto.