Like your favorite airlines, choosing your favorite hotel also comes down to your personal preferences and criteria. For luxury travelers, there are factors equally important to the price. Here are some of the major criteria when it comes to choosing your favorite hotels:
The number one factor even beyond price is the cleanliness of the hotel. In fact, the state of the lobby is the first impression and sign that the rooms may be potentially clean. Tidy and well-maintained rooms make the entire stay comfortable and provide that “at-home” environment.
Whether you travel for business or leisure, location is what makes the stay enjoyable. Walking distance to the central parts of the city and ease of access to public transportation are ideal. The best hotels are located in the premiere parts of the city to have the finest shops, restaurants, and markets mere steps away.
These days, you can easily view real photos of hotels on TripAdvisor. Traveller photos are the best way to see the state of the rooms and bathrooms. The reviewers do not hold back with compliments and with critiques.
Luxury and boutique hotels typically hold 4 or 5 stars. The stars are granted based on the facilities and services offered. While 4 and 5 stars do not guarantee the quality accommodation, the addition of complimentary amenities and a better-trained staff help to satisfy guests.
Aside from all the factors above, genuine hospitality and service create memories. There are those posh, 5-star hotels that think snobby and snooty service equates to luxury. Please no – that’s for the new rich. A proper hotel oozes with warmth and sincerity. Genuine, friendly hospitality adds to the feeling of being at home even at the most luxurious hotels.
My number one favorite hotel in the world. The hotel’s last major renovation was in 2009, and in spite of that, this is one of the cleanest and best-maintained hotels – thank you, housekeeping. The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong excels in all the criteria: so clean and comfortable, perfectly located in Central, one the best ratings and high satisfaction from all its guests, a well-deserved 5 stars, and the most friendly service that always warmly welcomes back their loyal guests.
TripAdvisor Reviews
My favorite hotel in Tokyo is not the cheapest. When rates are crazy high, I typically look for alternatives. But, when the price right, The Peninsula Tokyo has an amazing location in Marunouchi and Ginza with that classic Peninsula attention-to-detail standard.
TripAdvisor Reviews
My favorite hotel in Bangkok with affordable rates, especially for being a luxury hotel along the Chao Phraya River. The hotel’s location along the river is an escape from the bustle and chaos of Bangkok. Plus, like The Peninsula Tokyo, the classic Peninsula hospitality, service, and attention-to-detail happily satisfy new and loyal guests.
TripAdvisor Reviews
Away from the Times Square-like crowds in Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, the InterContinental Osaka offers a central location next to the Osaka Station within the Grand Front Osaka mall. The spacious rooms are a standout in Japan and the location within the mall next to major department stores allow guests to live like a local.
TripAdvisor Reviews
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