I stayed in a lot of hotels over the past 12 months. Most of them were perfectly adequate, and I wouldn’t be against checking in at them again. A select few far exceeded even my highest expectations and deserve some extra recognition.
Location, location, location plus a stunning view (and being able to at least crack a window open), these were a few of my favourite things when it came to booking a room in 2017. Here’s another list (this one very short) in my Best of 2017 series.
Please note, this list merely reflects how I chose to spend my time during the year and is comprised of well established and brand new venues as well as businesses that are somehow related to where work and play took me.
Items appear in alphabetic order, not ranked.
Best Hotels
Hotel Beau-Séjour
Rue du village 114, 1874 Champéry, Switzerland
While exploring the Val d’Illiez area of Valais, Switzerland, I kept a comfortable base at Hotel Beau-Séjour in the heart of Champéry village. Perhaps owing more to its setting than the hotel itself, what I loved best about the experience was the absolute quiet at night. I slept so well with my balcony door left open and fresh wafts of clean mountain air filling my cozy room. I had arrived at in Champéry rather late in the evening. Waking up to the stunning view of the Dents du Midi and Dents Blanches my first morning at Beau-Séjour was such a pleasant surprise! All other aspects of my stay pleased as well. Members of staff were so friendly. Continental breakfast was ample and yummy. My room was impeccably clean.
Little Polynesian Resort
Takitumu District, Rarotonga, Cook Islands
This Small Luxury Hotels of the World member and low-rise, locally owned, adults-only luxury resort on Rarotonga’s southeastern coast was an absolute delight to call home for a few days. My favourite aspects of my airy private bungalow were the outdoor shower and bath and the ocean views admired from the bed. Breakfast beside the saltwater infinity pool, pleasant and helpful staff, the beautifully appointed beachfront location. It was so quiet, serene.
Hotel New York
Koninginnenhoofd 1, 3072 AD Rotterdam
On the Rotterdam waterfront, Hotel New York is set within the former head office of the Holland America Line from which thousands of emigrants once embarked for a new life in America. My room was massive with a great view of Rem Koolhaas’ iconic De Rotterdam towers and the city’s famed Erasmus Bridge. I slept like a baby here, and enjoyed a spread of excellent options for brekkie the next morning. Only there for one night, I’d have relished a longer stay.
Honourable Mention
Three Choirs, Newent, GL18 1LS, England
More of the Best of 2017 to follow!
