The essence of a remarkable hotel can transform your holiday experience—whether you’re seeking a peaceful sanctuary following a weary day of exploring museums through a fog of jet lag, or a luxurious resort where you can indulge in a week’s stay surrounded by breathtaking vistas, delectable dining, and immersive activities without stepping foot off the property.
Increasingly, travelers are seeking accommodations that infuse their journeys with vibrancy, taste, convenience, and thrill, rather than settling for a monotonous beige setting and mere lodging. Expedia’s 2025 travel trends report indicates that a third of travelers are basing their hotel choices on the in-house dining options. Reflecting this trend, we highlight the Waldorf Astoria Osaka, an impressive new establishment where the restaurants are already competing with the city’s renowned Michelin-starred cuisine. This issue also features the rise of museum hotels, starting with an artistic Japanese gem that pioneered the concept, to the upcoming Climate Museum in New York City, which will include a 455-room hotel by 2029. Delve deeper to discover more hotels that are intrinsic to the cultural tapestry of their locations.