Hotel Experiences

Ready to Roam? Plan Your Stay at the World’s Hottest New Hotels

by Holly Kapherr

Photograph by Holly Kapherr

the view from a pool at AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank

AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank is one of the top new hotels in the world. (Photo: Marriott International)

It’s a new year, which means embracing new ways to see the places you love. There’s just something about that new-hotel feeling, whether it embodies the hustle of a big city or incorporates the tranquility of nature into its design and decor. Staying at a fantastic new hotel can help you make the most of a place you’ve never been to before, or it can revitalize your perspective on a favorite city.  

Check out these exciting additions and freshly renovated properties — who knows, you might just add one or two to your must-visit list for the year. As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip. 

AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank in Australia 

AC Hotel by Marriott Melbourne Southbank puts modern design front and center while keeping the focus on warm and friendly Aussie hospitality. If you’re visiting Melbourne for business, you’ll find every aspect of your stay attuned to your needs, from a top-of-the-line fitness center to start your day energized to a cocktail bar by the infinity pool to wind down.  

For leisure, this hotel is a perfect post for visiting south Australia’s Port Phillip Bay with its fabulous food scene and nonstop cultural events.  

The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa in French Polynesia 

aerial view of The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa
Elevate your vacation by booking an overwater bungalow at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa. (Photo: Marriott International) 

Whether you’re looking to escape on a revitalizing Tahitian vacation or are planning a perfect destination to say “I do,” The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa has all you’ve dreamed of for this bucket-list locale.  

The hotel’s view of iconic Mount Otemanu is unrivaled, and with the most overwater bungalows on the island (some with private plunge pools for extra luxury), availability is on your side.  

Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico 

aerial view of Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort
Kick back and relax at Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort. (Photo: Marriott International) 

As one of Marriott’s all-inclusive options, the popular Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort is fresh from a renovation project that’s taken the property to a new level. A water park and multiple pools keep guests refreshed and exhilarated.  

When you’re feeling peckish, Hana Polynesian Grill — one of 13 dining options — offers a modern, vibrant atmosphere with a full list of classic Tiki drinks to always have in hand.  

Nobis Hotel Palma, a Member of Design Hotels in Mallorca, Spain 

a pool area at Nobis Hotel Palma, a Member of Design Hotels
Nobis Hotel Palma, a Member of Design Hotels is a stunning property. (Photo: Marriott International)

You want to stay in a historic hotel but still have all the creature comforts of today? You’ve got it with Nobis Hotel Palma, a Member of Design Hotels in Mallorca, Spain.  

This transformed 12th-century Moorish palace is now one of the most thoughtfully designed accommodations on the island. Taking cues from Islamic art and architecture, the luxurious space exudes the traditions and culture of Spain’s storied past. 

Imperial Riding School, Autograph Collection in Vienna, Austria 

Elstar restaurant at Imperial Riding School, Autograph Collection
Imperial Riding School, Autograph Collection is a dreamy place for a getaway. (Photo: Marriott International) 

Imperial Riding School, Autograph Collection is a majestic hotel that showcases its history as the famous military equestrian school founded by Emperor Franz Joseph I. Situated in Vienna’s artistic Landstrasse district, contemporary comfort and regal decor meld with a horse-lover’s dream: Grand archways, stable-inspired floors and apple accents abound. Your visit to Austria’s capital city just leveled up. 

Hotel 850 SVB, a Member of Design Hotels in Los Angeles, California 

a seating area with a fireplace at Hotel 850 SVB, a Member of Design Hotels
 The vibes are impeccable at Hotel 850 SVB, a Member of Design Hotels. (Photo: Marriott International) 

Don those horn-rimmed sunnies and a silk headscarf and make like Rita Hayworth in this cozy, vintage-inspired boutique hotel that feels like a Hollywood escape from the hustle of West L.A.

With original artwork, built-in bookcases and custom fireplaces in some rooms, Hotel 850 SVB, a Member of Design Hotels is perfect for a solo writing retreat or romantic weekend getaway. Its alfresco rooftop dining terrace lets guests take in the city and its signature sunshine above the fray. 

The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Dubai, UAE 

Sante Ria Bar & Restaurant at The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Enjoy a meal at Sante Ria Bar & Restaurant, located at The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel. (Photo: Marriott International)

High above the iconic Palm Jumeirah and located in the posh Jumeirah Village Circle, The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel encapsulates the city-chic of Dubai, skyscraper views and the relaxation of a beach vacation all in one.  

Spend the morning at Soluna Restaurants & Beach Club soaking up the sun on the Aegean Sea, and then head back to the hotel for shopping and nightlife with a pisco sour nightcap at the award-winning Sante Ria Bar & Restaurant

Sheraton Lanzhou Anning in China 

aerial view of Sheraton Lanzhou Anning
Sheraton Lanzhou Anning boasts a super sleek design. (Photo: Marriott International)

The gateway to an epic Chinese getaway, Sheraton Lanzhou Anning is smack-dab in the middle of the transportation hub that is Lanzhou, where the eastern and western parts of the country connect by rail. The high-rise hotel features design elements that recall China’s cultural history, as well as dining options that showcase the city’s famous hand-pulled noodles. 

The St. Regis New York 

a guest suite at The St. Regis New York
Lean into luxury at The St. Regis New York. (Photo: Marriott International) 

On opening in 1904, The St. Regis New York was praised for its luxurious design — and its recent renovation proves that’s still the case. Founded by John Jacob Astor IV, the hotel remains one of Manhattan’s most splendorous addresses. All the lavish Gilded Age luxury still abides, now accented by sumptuous jewel-toned fabrics, chandeliers heavy with crystal, and timeless design accents.  

Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa in Hawaii 

view of the ocean from Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa
Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa has lovely water and city views. (Photo: Marriott International) 

At Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa, choices abound. Pick a classic hotel room with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head or Honolulu’s city lights. Or opt for a residence-style stay in a spacious studio or one-bedroom apartment.  

Either way, you’ll have access to all the amenities this hotel offers, including the Japanese-style NAMI spa, fitness center and two pools (with cabanas!) on the eighth floor Sky Deck overlooking Hawaii’s capital. 

Casa Costera, Isla Verde Beach, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy in Puerto Rico 

an apartment at Casa Costera, Isla Verde Beach, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy
Casa Costera, Isla Verde Beach, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy serves as a comfortable retreat near San Juan. (Photo: Marriott International) 

Family-friendly, beautifully designed and located near the beach — you couldn’t want more for a relaxing vacation near San Juan, Puerto Rico. And you can bring your favorite travel buddies, too. Casa Costera, Isla Verde Beach, Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy offers studio, one- and two-bedroom apartment layouts to meet your travel gang’s needs.  

Isla Verde Beach is just 10 minutes from Old San Juan, the historic hub of the island, and Casa Costera is a quick 15-minute ride to and from the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport. ¡Vaya, amigos!