Travelers in 2025 are seeking more than just a place to stay—they’re looking for experiences that combine comfort, design, and a sense of escape. From secluded island getaways to refined urban retreats, these resorts have captured attention for their distinctive offerings. Whether you’re planning a long-haul vacation or a weekend recharge, these destinations reflect what modern travelers value most in a stay.

1. Nujuma, A Ritz‑Carlton Reserve

Nujuma is a flagship Ritz‑Carlton Reserve resort located on the Ummahat Islands, part of the Red Sea Project. Opened in May 2024, it features 63 sea‑view villas with private pools designed by Foster + Partners.

It was named the Best New Hotel of 2025 by Forbes, recognised for its architectural design and premier service standards.

Pros:

• Private‑pool sea‑view villas
• Stunning architectural design
• Very exclusive atmosphere
• High service standards
• Forbes Best New Hotel

Cons:

• Extremely high nightly rate
• Remote access only by boat/seaplane
• Limited large‑group facilities
• Weather dependent travel
• Not budget‑friendly

2. NIHI Sumba

NIHI Sumba is a luxury eco‑resort on Sumba Island, Indonesia, spread across 567 acres of jungle and coastline. The 27-villa property combines sustainability with wellness, offering horseback therapy, surfing, and curated local experiences.

The resort frequently appears on top global hotel lists and is praised for its commitment to community and nature-based travel.

Pros:

• Private villa with infinity pool
• Unique horse‑therapy wellness
• Strong sustainability focus
• Remote peaceful setting
• Award‑winning global recognition

Cons:

• Very remote location
• Expensive transfers required
• Limited nightlife
• Small property scale
• Not ideal for city exploration

3. Viceroy Bali

Viceroy Bali is located in Ubud, Indonesia, overlooking a lush river gorge and offering 40 private villas with infinity pools. The resort blends traditional Balinese architecture with modern amenities and a strong focus on wellness.

The recently enhanced Akoya Spa and personalized experiences make it ideal for romantic getaways and luxury wellness escapes.

Pros:

• Ubud cultural access
• Private‑pool villa design
• High‑end spa offerings
• Cooking classes & yoga
• Scenic river gorge views

Cons:

• Premium pricing tier
• Not beachfront
• Smaller size (40 villas)
• Less suitable for families
• Few on‑site event spaces

4. Hoshinoya Taketomi Island

This small-scale retreat on Taketomi Island, Japan, features 48 wooden villas built in the traditional Ryukyu style. The resort recreates an authentic village atmosphere while offering modern amenities.

Ideal for guests seeking tranquility, cultural immersion, and architectural harmony, it delivers a boutique experience far removed from tourist crowds.

Pros:

• Authentic island architecture
• Intimate 48‑villa setting
• Village‑style design layout
• Quiet cultural immersion
• Recognised romantic retreat

Cons:

• Remote island access
• Very limited nightlife
• Small‑scale facilities
• Higher seasonal rates
• Less varied activity options

5. Sinclairs Retreat Ooty

Set at an altitude of 8,000 ft in Ooty, India, this hillside resort offers panoramic valley views and cool temperatures year-round. The property includes landscaped gardens, a spa, and event facilities.

Sinclairs Retreat is ideal for couples and families seeking a peaceful mountain setting with access to nature walks and local excursions.

Pros:

• Cool hill‑station climate
• Multiple dining restaurants
• Scenic garden surroundings
• Award‑winning service rating
• Event‑spaces available

Cons:

• Limited luxury spa facilities
• Less international ambience
• Higher rainfall seasons
• Less coastal access
• Modest villa design

The Cloister at Sea Island

Located off Georgia’s coast, The Cloister is a historic, family-friendly resort featuring golf, spa services, and Southern-style hospitality. Treehouse suites with private hot tubs add to its unique coastal charm.

With access to Sea Island’s full amenities, it offers a refined but relaxed environment ideal for multigenerational groups and quiet getaways.

Pros:

• Treehouse suites with hot tubs
• Coastal golf & beach access
• Historic Southern charm
• Multi‑generational family appeal
• Highly rated for comfort

Cons:

• Seasonal peak pricing
• Exclusive setting
• Limited walk‑in beach access
• Less exotic locale
• Non‑tropical climate

7. One&Only Aesthesis

Pros:

• Cinematic modern design
• Beachfront location
• Curated dining experiences
• Upscale One&Only service
• Emerging trendy destination

Cons:

• Premium room rates
• Exclusive clientele appeal
• No beach for non‑guests
• Limited local village integration
• New‑property service setup

8. Cheval Blanc Seychelles

Situated on Mahé Island’s Anse Intendance beach, this LVMH-owned resort offers 52 private villas inspired by Creole design. With Guerlain spa services and tropical landscaping, the resort emphasizes luxury and intimacy.

Cheval Blanc Seychelles brings the brand’s French elegance to the Indian Ocean, appealing to honeymooners and wellness travelers alike.

Pros:

• Private‑pool Creole villas
• Iconic Indian Ocean beach
• Guerlain spa luxury
• LVMH design pedigree
• High service recognition

Cons:

• Very high nightly cost
• Remote island travel required
• Limited local community access
• Exclusive rather than social vibe
• Seasonal rainfall periods

9. Waldorf Astoria Platte Island

Located in Seychelles, this ultra-luxury resort sits on its own private island with white-sand beaches, spacious villas, and an emphasis on privacy. As part of the Waldorf Astoria brand, it features signature service and refined design.

It’s ideal for travelers seeking total seclusion with world-class facilities, though access requires careful travel coordination.

Pros:

• Private island resort
• Waldorf Astoria quality
• Idyllic beach surroundings
• High privacy guarantee
• Exclusive luxury service

Cons:

• Hard to access remote island
• Very limited facilities
• High environmental sensitivity
• Minimal local culture
• Not budget‑oriented

10. Delano Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay

A non-gaming, all-suite tower adjacent to Mandalay Bay, Delano delivers minimalist luxury with a more tranquil atmosphere.

Guests have access to all of Mandalay Bay’s amenities including the beach pool and casino, while enjoying quieter accommodations and separate check-in areas. It’s well-suited for business travelers and couples seeking calm.

Pros:

• Non-casino property

• Large, stylish suites

• Private check-in area

• Access to Mandalay pool

• Quiet atmosphere

Cons:

• Far from mid-Strip

• Limited nightlife options

• Few on-site restaurants

• In-tower services limited

• Longer elevator waits