Around the World in 5 Unique Luxury Resorts

When it comes to luxury resorts, there are a few familiar names in the industry. The Four Seasons is a solid bet, no matter which continent you’re traveling to. Meanwhile, boutique brands like Nobu have created insular getaways around the world, each more unique than the last.

With so many extravagant getaways popping up in cities and rural outposts alike, knowing which trips are worth your while takes a bit of research. Much of the decision-making process is based on your goals—are you looking to explore or relax? Or are you keeping your itinerary wide open?

Regardless of whether you’re looking to drop off the map or buckle in for non-stop excitement, there’s a resort that was built and curated just for you. When looking to venture into some of the world’s most stunning natural settings, experience a brand new culture, or simply kick your feet up (and maybe get a pedicure), take a peek at our list of unforgettable resorts around the world.

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Great for: Nightlife

The Las Vegas Sands is a spectacular luxury resort chain. The group got its start in Vegas where it competed with other top spots on the Strip. But today, much of the gaming industry resides online. Even games like roulette, known for its spinning wheel of excitement, are easier to find online. Most platforms offer four varieties to explore, along with live dealer options.

This means the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore had to do more than build a casino to stand out. Instead, developers opted to create other spectacles. First and foremost, Moshe Safdie’s breathtaking architecture makes this location stand out. Second, it’s topped by the world’s most impressive (and highest) infinity pool. Third, its luxury shopping floors can’t be missed.

Likuliku Lagoon Resort, Fiji

Great for: A romantic hideaway

Stunning views aside, there are two key factors that make Likuliku stand out: it’s a couples-only getaway and it’s home to some of Fiji’s only over-water bures. If you’re looking for an exclusive vacation with your significant other, look no further. 

The entire experience is designed for privacy and exploration, which includes solo snorkeling sessions, in-room spa options, and island-hopping excursions. Here, the emphasis isn’t just on remote luxury, but also on tailored adventures.

La Mamounia, Morocco

Great for: Meeting fellow travelers

For those who enjoy exploring new cultures, nowhere else delivers on the intrigue of Marrakech’s La Mamounia. The longstanding hotel has played host to some of the world’s greatest thinkers, including Winston Churchill and Alfred Hitchcock.

But don’t let the names fool you—it's not all austere at this location. It continues to serve as a stopover for rock stars and fashion icons, who hang out at the hotel’s speak-easy and restaurants. Its décor also can’t be missed, mixing a touch of local Berber culture with Art Deco stylings.

Aman Tokyo, Japan

Great for: Staying in... or going out

The Aman Tokyo has created one of the most unforgettable experiences in modern luxury resorts—and that’s thanks to the bustling city where it’s located. Inside the Aman, all is Zen, crisp, and refined. Stays are quiet and relaxing thanks to the resort’s emphasis on all things spa, from Shinto-inspired procedures to sword-wielding lessons.

But outside the Aman, visitors are hit with the bustling, neon-heavy city of Tokyo. Visitors can study the city from the safety and quiet of the Aman, which offers sunset views over the city—or they can brave a jaunt into the urban unknown knowing they have a sanctuary to come back to.

Le Bristol, France

Great for: A quiet city stay

It isn’t hard to find luxury in Paris. It’s also not difficult to find a hotel with a long history of welcoming international guests. However, Le Bristol does things a bit differently. First and foremost, it survived a total renovation a few years back, which infused the entire hotel with a fresh décor—one that doesn’t skimp on chandeliers and Louis XVI armchairs.

In fact, this design is what helps Le Bristol stand out from its many contemporaries in Paris. The interior spa and café can’t be beaten, while the staff (which includes a father-son Burmese cat duo, Fa-raon and Socrate) embodies everything a traveler expects in La Dame de Fer.