We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
15 Of The Most Over-The-Top Hotels Around The World
You're going to want to add these to your bucket list.
Most of us venture to a new destination to explore the location—but with these jaw-dropping resorts, you may never want to leave your hotel. Check out 15 of the most unique hotels around the globe that will make for a once-in-a-lifetime stay.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai
Stay at the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeriah, one of the world’s most luxurious and 7-star hotels (yes, you read that right), located in the heart of Dubai. The distinct sail-shaped structure encompasses opulent interiors with an underwater aquarium restaurant, a $23,000 a night royal suite, and the iconic Skyview bar that has one of the most expensive drinks in the world.
Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Sure, it’s common to meet new friends while traveling, but it’s not everyday you brunch and bond with Rothschild giraffes. Enjoy an intimate stay at the Giraffe Manor in Kenya where these wild animals regularly greet guests during morning and evening meals. There are only 12 quaint yet luxurious suites within the wilderness mansion surrounded by 140 acres of indigenous forest in Nairobi.
Azulik, Tulum
Reconnect with Mother Nature at Tulum’s mesmerising eco-hotel, Azulik. The out-of-this-world jungle architecture will put you in a dream-like state as the light-free rooms (candles are used at night) will keep you grounded throughout your stay. Each jungle villa embodies a unique handcrafted design, but all exude a raw, artisanal elegance.
Hotel Costa Verde, Costa Rica
Fuel your adventurous side with a trip to Hotel Costa Verde, home of the one-of-a-kind Boeing 727 suite that was meticulously refurbished into a two bedroom jungle bungalow, perched on a 50-foot pedestal. The suite is quite sizeable with two queen-sized beds, each with private bath, a kitchenette, dining area, and ocean-view terrace.
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort East Village, Finland
Stay in your very own snow globe at the Kakslauttanen Artic Resort, at the edge of the Arctic Circle, where you’ll sleep, not only under the stars, but under the mystical mint-coloured Northern Lights. These cozy glass igloos come in all shapes, and sizes — some with attached log-chalets and -lodges fit for a romantic wilderness getaway or an unforgettable family vacation.
Icehotel, Sweden
Built in 1989, this year-round Swedish ice hotel is just as cool as it looks. Rebuilt every winter using local water from the Torne River, new suites are designed and constructed from different artists every year. Don’t worry, if you don’t want to chill in an ice room for the night, there is a separate hotel that has plenty of warm rooms and accommodations.
The Muraka, Maldives
Slumber under the sea at The Muraka, opening November 2018 at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. The two-level villa is immersed within the natural landscape of the Indian Ocean, where a bedroom, living space, and bathroom sits at five meters beneath the surface with underwater coral views and fish company, of course.
Palacio de Sal, Bolivia
Take salt cave therapy to the next level with an overnight stay at the first ever salt hotel, Palacio de Sal. With a structural foundation comprised of 100% salt blocks, held together by wood, and accessorised with (you guessed it) salt furnishings, you can escape to this unique hotel in Uyuni, Bolivia for a recuperative trip filled with salty solitude.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Live like a 16th-century Indian aristocrat at this secluded architectural marvel, located in the middle of Lake Pichola on the island of Jag Niwas. Sure, the majestic exterior and lavish interior make for a remarkable retreat, but the fact that you need speed boat transportation to get to and from the hotel is what makes this lake palace a rare find.
TreeHotel, Sweden
Channel your inner-tween with a trip to the Treehotel, a destination with “tree rooms” that are suspended 13-20 feet above the ground and are accessible by ramp, bridge, or electric stairs. Each treeroom’s exterior is wildly unique, ranging from a futuristic UFO home to a twig camouflage bird’s nest.
V8 Hotel, Germany
Rev up your engines and head to the motor-inspired V8 Hotel, where retro, racing-themed rooms incorporate auto-architecture to create a one-of-a-kind pieces like this upcycled Mercedes car bed that every man dreams of. The hotel has 34 rooms with a variety of car designs and is surrounded by plenty of things to do like museum tours, golfing, indoor parks, and more.
The Caves Hotel, Jamaica
Nestled within a cliff side and above some of the most spectacular sea caves in the world sits this vibrant and tropical oasis. In addition to the jaw-dropping mountain views, the coveted cave dining and exclusive rum bar are the stand-out qualities of this hotel.
Sheraton Huzhou Hot Springs Resort, China
Nicknamed the “Horseshoe Hotel,” you’d be lucky to stay at this 27-story geometrical wonder. With swarovski-embellished ceilings and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, the views of Lake Taihu from this eye-catching arched masterpiece are one-of-a-kind.
El Cosmico, Texas
Rustic has never looked so good. Head to Marfa’s artistic El Cosmico for a dose of the boho-chic lifestyle. You can stay in a variety of spaces, like inside sleek retro trailers or the Brite Building or go glamping in their safari tents or tepees — whichever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.
Amangiri, Utah
Desert all of your worries with a stay at Amangiri, a remote Aman resort surrounded by sand in Canyon Point Utah. The ultra-luxe contemporary suites are over-the-top in and of themselves, but the adventure and wellness experiences is what puts this hotel a step above the rest—think hot air balloon rides and Navajo healing sessions. "No request is too great and no detail too small" when it comes to Aman properties.
The Magic Of Marseille
24 Of The Best Restaurants In London
A First-Timers Guide To Visiting Jamaica
The Best Romantic Staycations To Visit