Just five months after opening its doors in December 2020, Crown Sydney has been named one of the best new hotels in the world this year.
Hundreds of hotels from all over the globe were assessed by travel experts, but only 73 made it to the reputable list.
More impressively, Crown Sydney is the only hotel in Australia to be given the noteworthy accolade for 2021.
While it may seem unusual to have experienced new hotels during a global pandemic, the experts at Travel + Leisure believe it was a big 12 months.
The team travelled to 29 countries in pursuit of unforgettable experiences. From beekeeping and meditation to wellness retreats and safari lodges, nothing was off limits.
10 of the best new hotels for 2021
Crown Sydney
Australia
Quickly cementing itself as Australia’s most luxurious new destination, Crown Sydney’s shining tower boasts 349 hotel rooms and suites while offering one of most iconic views in the world – the picturesque Sydney Harbour. Not to mention the dining experiences are world class, with the first and only female chef to run a restaurant with three Michelin stars in the UK, Clare Smyth, set to call the prestigious venue home.
Kruger Shalati – Kruger National Park
Africa and the Middle East
The Leela Palace Jaipur
Asia
One&Only Desaru Coast
Asia
Situated at a pristine corner of Malaysia’s eastern coastline, the state-of-the-art hotel was one of the last projects by the late Australian architect Kerry Hill. The tropical relaxation destination is hugged by jungle, sand and sea, creating an exotic paradise waiting to be explored.
Caerula Mar Club
Caribbean
Galleria Vik Milano
Europe
At the heart of Italy’s fashion capital is one of the most opulent hotels of 2021. Among the best rooms in the hotel are suites with private balconies overlooking the historic glass dome of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – Italy’s oldest shopping mall. Not only is it enchanting for stylists, but those with a penchant for history will also revel in the true beauty and charm of 19th century architecture.
Maslina Resort
Europe
Driven by sustainability, the Croatian hotel celebrates luxury with a higher meaning through its love letters to the Mediterranean. From its “garden to skin” spa and pebble beach alcoves, it’s a vision of astonishing landscapes and natural beauty, ultimately creating a legacy for generations to come.
Camp Sarika by Amangiri
North America
Perhaps now more than ever, the world is seeking fresh air to escape the reality of the pandemic. Camp Sarika in Utah is the perfect place to catch a breath. Tucked in the dramatic desert, explore the 243-hectare landscape before retreating to the hotel’s private plunge pool and canvas-topped pavilion – it’s next-level glamping.
Hotel Sin Nombre
North America
Offering a “choose your own adventure” experience, the Mexican hotel gives guests “the walls within which to rest” – leaving a world of exploration up to each individual. A vegan restaurant, handwoven textiles, potted cacti, white limestone columns and arched entryways make for a relaxing environment in Oaxaca City.
Wander the Resort
North America
Newly opened Wander the Resort is sold out through to December 2021 and it’s easy to see why. With windows as walls, snug fireplaces, private outdoor showers, handmade linen and pottery, and heated floors, the Nordic-designed Canadian cabins in Southern Ontario are simple luxury at its finest.
Feature image: Crown Sydney, George Apostolidis