Cover Photo: Courtesy of Le Meurice, Paris

There's never been a better time to fantasize about travel and plan your future journeys

Just because our travel wings are clipped right now, doesn’t mean we’re going to stop daydreaming about the holidays we’ve had, and all the beautiful places we want to visit once all of this is over.  

One of the most enjoyable aspects of travel, of course, is staying at a great hotel. Travel lovers, it’s time to take your mind off the crisis and allow yourself to imagine the thrills of travel. From the royals’ favourite in the Maldives to the splendid palace in Paris, scroll down to discover some of the most luxurious, beautiful properties around the world to dream about now, and book for later.

See also: 7 Once In A Lifetime Travel Experiences You Can Enjoy From Home

1. Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Cheval Blanc Randheli

Best for: A truly secluded, luxurious escape 
 
Perched over the crystal-clear waters and surrounded by soft white sand in the Maldives, this majestic exclusive resort is said to have always been a playground for the royals and celebrities alike (Quick fact: the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were guests in 2014).  
 
Accessible only by private hydroplane, the property touts 45 private villas that come in a variety of sizes and features. Private infinity pools, outdoor rain showers and gardens with dining areas are just a few perks offered here.   
 
Each villa has its own appeal, but the Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island is beyond comparison. On this one-hectare isolated island, you’ll find a dedicated team of butlers to take care of your every need, and world-class amenities such as a private spa treatment room, meditation pavilions that complete with breathtaking sea views.  
 
Discover more at chevalblanc.com

See also: This Exclusive Maldives Private Island Experience Just Launched For US$250K Per Night

2. Royal Mansour, Marrakech, Morocco

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Royal Mansour

Best for: A full royal treatment 
 
Everyone needs to visit Morocco’s most magical city, Marrakech, at least once in their lifetime—and there’s no better place to soak in the area’s beauty and vibrant spirit than at the Royal Mansour. The sense of opulence is palpable as soon as you land, as a member of staff from the hotel welcomes you right off the plane and escorts you to the hotel in a Bentley.

Commissioned by King Mohammed VI of Morocco, this property is often considered as the gold standard of luxury hotels in Marrakech, with 53 private riads nestled amidst the lush gardens. Each riad is entirely unique and decorated in Moroccan mosaic tiles, premium silk and gorgeous Italian marble, which also comes with a private pool, a terrace to give you a taste of the life of a noble.

For first-time travellers to Morocco, don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the traditional hammam bathing ritual at the hotel.

Discover more at royalmansour.com

See also: The Most Anticipated Hotel Openings In Africa For 2020

3. Borgo Egnazia, Italy

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Borgo Egnazia

Best for: A tasteful stay for cultural lovers 

Famed for its unique architectural design, gorgeous natural surroundings and world-class hospitality, Borgo Egnazia certainly lives up to its name. The five-star property encapsulates the charm of Italy within every room – some of them are built with limestone to pay homage to traditional Apulian architecture, while others draw inspiration from the region’s farmhouses and villages.  
 
Also worth noting is the three-storey grand villa, which comes with a lush private garden, a fully equipped kitchen and even a spacious panoramic terrace; by day, soak up the sunshine with a drink in hand, and as night falls, it will become a perfect spot to catch the beautiful sunset.  
 
To offer you a remarkable Puglia experience, the resort’s highly-trained staff will help to create a perfectly tailored itinerary. Whether you prefer a sightseeing tour in a vintage car, try out a luxurious spa treatment or enjoy a unique cooking class, you’re bound to have a wonderful time at Borgo Egnazia. 
 
Discover more at borgoegnazia.com 

4. argos in Cappadocia, Turkey

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Above Photo: Courtesy of argos in Cappadocia

Best for: A once-in-a-lifetime stay 

Winning the crown of Cappadocia’s most Instagram-worthy hotels is none other than this heritage property, set on the hilltop village of Uçhisar. Once an ancient monastery, argos of today has been beautifully restored and transformed into a luxurious hotel with 51 suites and rooms spread across seven mansions.  
 
With unique stone interiors and living spaces adorned with traditional Turkish artefacts and modern furnishings, a stay at argos will certainly brighten up your grid. But the absolute gem of the hotel is the SEKI restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious traditional Turkish cuisine, accompanied by magical views of “fairy chimneys” (aka volcanic cones) and hot air balloons gliding over the historical region.  
 
Discover more at argosincappadocia.com

5. Le Meurice, Paris

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Le Meurice

Best for: A palatial, elegant Parisian experience 
 
While there’s no shortage of luxury hotels in Paris, one that truly stands out is Le Meurice. Recognised as the original palace hotel in the City of Lights since 1835, this property is built to resemble the grandeur of modern-day Versailles. The splendid palace is often appreciated as a living work of art, showcasing elaborate mosaic floors, paintings, hand-carved mouldings, columns and pilasters.
 
Le Meurice is not just pretty to look at, it’s also a paradise for fine dining. The hotel houses some of the city’s most elegant dining rooms that serve up a wide array of delicacies—such as the two-Michelin-starred restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse for modern cuisine, and the iconic breakfast room, where you can savour freshly-baked pastries in an opulent setting inspired by the Salon de la Paix at Versailles. 

Discover more at dorchestercollection.com

6. Katikies Hotel, Santorini, Greece

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Above Photo: Courtesy of Katikies Hotel

Best for: A dreamy Mediterranean getaway

No bucket list trip to Europe is complete without a visit to Santorini—one of the most beautiful islands in the world. There’s something otherworldly about this destination: a slower pace of life we all crave, dramatic sunsets, and of course, the famous blue-domed churches overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea. 

One of the best hotels to get an authentic Santorinian experience is the Katikies Hotel, a picturesque property that comprises 27 rooms and suites nestled on the cliff. Between lounging by the private plunge pool and soaking up the serenity in the room, there are also plenty of culinary offerings and revitalising spa treatments to look forward to. 

Discover more at katikiessantorini.com

See also: 5 Design-Driven Beach Hotels To Stay In El Nido, Philippines

7. Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort, San José del Cabo, Mexico

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: Courtesy of Las Ventanas al Paraíso

Best for: Honeymooners

The name of this Rosewood resort literally means “windows to paradise” in Spanish, and it’s true: not many hotels in Los Cabos will have you pampered in beautifully-designed beachfront, or oceanfront suites with personal butler services and all the luxurious amenities you could ever desire—think a 5,000-sqaure-foot, infinity-edge swimming pool featuring complimentary treats, golf courses and a high-end spa. 
 
The resort also boasts a team of dedicated staff to deliver you an ultimate romantic experience. From private dinners to beach cinema experience in cabanas and stargazing sessions, this resort will leave you and your S.O. holiday memories that last a lifetime. 

Discover more at rosewoodhotels.com

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