A beautiful accommodation can enhance the destination experience in many ways, especially when you are traveling to a place known for its iconic landmarks, abundant wildlife, or gorgeous scenery. From romantic getaways to family dream vacations, the idyllic stays are worth spending extra for. These hotels boast some of the most exquisite and breathtaking views in the world, so your bucket list trip begins even before you step outside your room. Just make sure to book in advance as many of the rooms with the view sell out first.
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney; Photo courtesy of Four Seasons
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SYDNEY
If your dream is to be one of the first in the world to ring in the new year, book yourself a hotel room in Sydney, Australia. The Red Rocks and Circular Quay area in downtown are the center of celebrations, with midnight fireworks, live music, and a million merrymakers. For a premium vantage point, book a Harbour View Suite at the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney. You’ll get panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and be able to step right into the party.
The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park hotel room; Photo courtesy of Marriott International
THE RITZ-CARLTON NEW YORK, CENTRAL PARK
There’s nothing like waking up in the morning to a straight-on view of iconic Central Park. From your hotel room window, you can see busy Manhattan locals exercising and walking their dogs, while tourists trickle in to absorb the sights of nature and art around the Park. The Grand Park View rooms at The Ritz-Carlton New York are also equipped with telescopes for better people watching, and the executive chef can curate an indulgent Picnic in The Park experience.
Virunga Volcanoes chain in Uganda; Photo by Simon/stock.adobe.com
BWINDI LODGE, UGANDA
If the view of the entire Virunga Volcanoes chain from your veranda does not wow you, think about what lives within those rugged landscapes. When you stay at Bwindi Lodge, you are only a few steps away from one of the largest populations of mountain gorillas. The Lodge provides a prime access point to start a gorilla trek in the south of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Nkuringo Sector and Rushaga Sector.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney Resort; Photo courtesy of Don Riddle/Four Seasons
FOUR SEASONS RESORT ORLANDO AT WALT DISNEY RESORT
Delight younger travelers with a stay at the 26-acre sanctuary located in the heart of Disney World. The magic begins as you enter the property, with life-size characters joining you for breakfast and tea, thrilling water parks, private tours, and a Michelin-starred steakhouse. From your furnished terrace at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney Resort, you can not only see endless pools, lakes and woodlands, but can also watch the nightly spectacular fireworks display from both Magic Kingdom and EPCOT simultaneously.
View of the Grand Canal from The St. Regis Venice hotel; Photo courtesy of Marriott International
THE ST. REGIS VENICE
Imagine staying at a Venetian palace, with a private terrace (rarity in Venice) overlooking the Grand Canal and some of Venice’s dreamy landmarks! The glamourous St. Regis Venice combines historic legacy with modern luxury, and is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway or to watch the famed Carnevale di Venezia from. During your stay, you can also enjoy outdoor dining at the terrace restaurants, admire the contemporary artists in residence, and indulge in a private cooking class.
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The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands; Photo courtesy of Marriott International
RITZ-CARLTON FARI ISLAND MALDIVES
Fall asleep above crystal-clear waters, listening to the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean. The one- to three-bedroom overwater villas at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands boast a minimalist circular design with floor-to-ceiling windows, panoramic sliding doors, and spacious private decks with infinity pools from where you can dive into bright blue waters or bask in the warmth of the sun while admiring the vibrant marine life just beneath your villa.
Kruger National Park in South Africa; Photo by feel4nature/stock.adobe.com
JABULANI, SOUTH AFRICA Wake up to the sounds of elephant herds at your Relais and Chateaux accredited safari lodge in Kapama Private Game Reserve in Kruger National Park, South Africa. Stay at one of the 6 luxurious suites at Jabulani, equipped with heated plunge pool and a wooden deck that opens to a private oasis set in the African bush. During the day, you can get closer to the Big 5 on morning and evening game drives, helicopter flights, and hot air balloon rides. At night, relax at the lodge’s gym, sauna, and upscale dining room.